5-Day Albanian Riviera Getaway
Sun, beaches, turquoise bays, and iconic coastal towns.
📍 Day 1: Tirana → Vlora – Gateway to the Riviera
Morning:
Depart from Tirana to Vlora (approx. 2 hrs).
Stop at the place where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea.
Afternoon:
Explore the Independence Square and Vlora promenade.
Visit Zvernec Monastery, located on a small island in the Narta Lagoon.
Evening:
Enjoy seafood dinner by the sea.
Sunset walk on Lungomare.
Overnight: Vlora.
📍 Day 2: Vlora → Llogara Pass → Dhermi
Morning:
Drive through the stunning Llogara Pass — one of Albania’s most scenic roads.
Optional stop at Llogara National Park for short hikes or viewpoint photos.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Dhermi, one of Albania’s most beautiful coastal villages.
Relax on Dhermi Beach or visit Drymades Beach.
Evening:
Dinner in the old village or a beachside restaurant.
Enjoy Dhermi’s lively summer nightlife.
Overnight: Dhermi.
📍 Day 3: Dhermi → Gjipe Canyon → Himara
Morning:
Hike or take a boat to the famous Gjipe Canyon Beach, a stunning cove between towering cliffs.
Swim, sunbathe, or explore the canyon.
Afternoon:
Continue to Himara.
Visit Himara Castle and explore the old stone village.
Evening:
Seaside dinner on Spille Beach.
Peaceful evening walk along the promenade.
Overnight: Himara.
📍 Day 4: Himara → Porto Palermo → Saranda → Blue Eye
Morning:
Drive to Porto Palermo Castle, a unique triangular fortress by the sea.
Quick swim at nearby Porto Palermo Bay.
Afternoon:
Continue to Saranda.
Visit the magical Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) with its cold, crystal-blue spring.
Evening:
Dinner overlooking Saranda Bay.
Optional nightlife — Saranda is lively in summer.
Overnight: Saranda.
📍 Day 5: Saranda → Butrint → Ksamil → Return
Morning:
Explore Butrint National Park — Albania’s most impressive UNESCO archaeological site.
Walk through Greek, Roman, and Venetian ruins.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a relaxing beach day in Ksamil, famous for its turquoise water and small islands.
Optional boat ride or paddleboarding.
Evening:
Return toward Tirana (approx. 5–6 hrs) or continue travels from Saranda.
Tour Ends.
✨ Travel Tips
Best Time: May–October (July–August = busiest).
Transport: A car is the easiest way to travel the Riviera.
Beaches: Many are pebbly — bring water shoes.
Food to Try: Fresh seafood, byrek, grilled vegetables, and southern specialties like petulla and qifqi.
Activities: Boat trips, snorkeling, hiking, kayaking.
