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07 · Days·975 km·20–22 hours

North → South express.

Beaches, mountains & history in a week.

Albanian AlpsUNESCO townsHidden beachesCoastal drivesHistoric castles
7 nights
Duration
975 km
Distance
20–22 hours
Driving
8
Stops
The route, day by day

7 mornings.

  1. 01
    TiranaShkodër~2 hours
    Head north.

    Pick up your camper in Tirana Airport and begin your adventure by driving north to Shkodër, one of Albania’s oldest and most charming cities. Nestled between the shores of Lake Shkodra and the dramatic Albanian Alps, it’s the perfect place to experience Albania’s rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s landmarks before ending the day with a stunning sunset over the lake.

    Do
    • Marubi Photography Museum
    • Rozafa Castle
    • Shkodër Lake Swimming
    • Pedestrian streets
    • Sunset views
    See
    • * Rozafa Castle
    • * Marubi National Museum of Photography
    • * Ebu Bekr Mosque
    • * Pedonalja Kolë Idromeno
    • * Shkodër Lake
    • * Mesi Bridge
    • * Shiroka – a picturesque lakeside village perfect for dinner and sunset
    Sleep
    • Wild camping near Lake Shkodra
    • Camping Legjenda
    Shkodër100 km
    Head north.
  2. 02
    ShkodërTheth~2 hours
    Into the Alps.

    Leave the city behind and drive into the heart of the Albanian Alps on one of the country’s most scenic mountain roads. The journey to Theth National Park is filled with breathtaking viewpoints, winding mountain passes, and traditional alpine villages. Once you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and untouched nature—making Theth one of Albania’s most unforgettable destinations.

    Do
    • * Hike to the Blue Eye of Theth (Syri i Kaltër)
    • * Visit the Grunas Waterfall
    • * Explore scenic hiking trails through Theth National Park
    • * Relax by the Shala River
    • * Enjoy local Albanian cuisine at a traditional guesthouse
    • * Go mountain biking or trail running
    • * Stargaze under the clear alpine sky
    See
    • * Theth National Park
    • * Blue Eye of Theth
    • * Grunas Waterfall
    • * Lock-in Tower
    • * Theth Church
    • * Grunas Canyon
    • * Qafa e Thores – one of the most spectacular viewpoints on the drive to Theth.
    Sleep
    • Free public parking by the river
    • Camping Freskia Theth
    Theth76 km
    Into the Alps.
  3. 03
    ThethBerat5–6 hours
    South to Berat.

    Leave the rugged peaks of the Albanian Alps behind and journey south to Berat, Albania’s UNESCO-listed “City of a Thousand Windows.” The drive offers a beautiful contrast, taking you from dramatic mountain landscapes to rolling hills, olive groves, and historic towns. Once in Berat, wander through its charming cobbled streets, admire the iconic Ottoman architecture, and soak in the city’s rich history and timeless atmosphere.

    Do
    • * Wander through the historic Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods
    • * Visit Berat Castle and explore its ancient streets
    • * Enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine at a local restaurant
    • * Watch the sunset from the castle overlooking the Osum Valley
    • * Stroll along the Osum River promenade
    • * Sample local wines at a nearby winery
    • * Browse handmade crafts and souvenirs in the Old Town
    See
    • Must-see attractions
    • * Berat Castle
    • * Mangalem Quarter
    • * Gorica Quarter
    • * Gorica Bridge
    • * Onufri National Museum
    • * King Mosque
    • * Bachelor’s Mosque
    • * Osum River
    Sleep
    • Wild camping by the river
    • River Side camping
    Berat270 km
    South to Berat.
  4. 04
    BeratGjirokastër~2.5 hours
    Stone city.

    Continue your journey south to Gjirokastër, another of Albania’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, known as the “Stone City.” Surrounded by rolling mountains, this beautifully preserved Ottoman town is famous for its distinctive stone-roofed houses, narrow cobbled streets, and impressive hilltop castle. Spend the day exploring its rich history, local craftsmanship, and authentic Albanian charm.

    Do
    • * Wander through the Old Bazaar and shop for handmade souvenirs
    • * Explore the historic stone streets and traditional Ottoman houses
    • * Visit Gjirokastër Castle and enjoy panoramic city views
    • * Discover local museums and cultural landmarks
    • * Try authentic southern Albanian cuisine at a traditional restaurant
    • * Enjoy coffee with a view over the Old Town
    • * Watch the sunset from the castle walls
    See
    • * Gjirokastër Castle
    • * Old Bazaar of Gjirokastër
    • * Skenduli House
    • * Zekate House
    • * Ethnographic Museum of Gjirokastër
    • * Cold War Tunnel
    • * Obelisk of Education
    Sleep
    • Wild camping near Çerçiz Topulli Square
    • Camping "Family" Gjirokastër
    Gjirokastër180 km
    Stone city.
  5. 05
    GjirokastërBunec~1.5 hours
    Down to the Riviera.

    Leave the historic streets of Gjirokastër behind and head to Bunec, a peaceful stretch of Albania’s Ionian Coast known for its crystal-clear waters, quiet beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying one of the country’s most tranquil seaside escapes.

    Do
    • * Swim in the turquoise Ionian Sea
    • * Relax on Bunec Beach
    • * Enjoy fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant
    • * Paddleboard or kayak along the coast
    • * Watch the sunset by the sea
    See
    • Lukova Beach
    • Buneci Beach
    • Kokome Bay
    Sleep
    • Wild camping across from Bunec beach
    • Camping Parknight
    Bunec75 km
    Down to the Riviera.
  6. 06
    BunecGjipe~1.5 hours
    Hidden coves.

    Day 6: Bunec → Gjipe (via Vuno) Follow the breathtaking Albanian Riviera north to Gjipe Beach, one of Albania’s most spectacular hidden gems. On the way, stop in the charming stone village of Vuno for a coffee before continuing to the trail leading to Gjipe. After a short hike, you’ll be rewarded with a secluded beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

    Do
    • Himara Castle climb
    • Coffee in Vuno
    • 20-min hike to Gjipe
    • Canyon exploration
    See
    • Porto Palermo
    • Himara
    Sleep
    • Gjipe beach camping (small fee)
    • Olive Camping Himara
    Gjipe45 km
    Hidden coves.
  7. 07
    GjipeTirana~4.5 hours
    Return.

    Enjoy one last morning by the sea before beginning the scenic drive back to Tirana International Airport. Along the way, take in the final views of the Albanian Riviera, making a stop for lunch or coffee before returning your camper and bringing your Albanian adventure to an end.

    Do
    • Last swim
    • Sunset over the Adriatic
    See
    • * Llogara National Park
    • * Llogara Pass
    • * Vlorë Promenade
    • * Narta Lagoon
    • *Golem
    Sleep
    • Kamping Pa Emer
    —230 km
    Return.