5-Day Albanian Riviera Getaway

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.