Between the idyllic beaches of the famous Albanian Riviera, picturesque mountains and villages, and archaeological sites dating back to antiquity, Southern Albania holds many surprises for travelers. So, where should you head in southern Albania? To make sure you don't miss anything essential, we've put together a 9-day itinerary to discover the gems of Southern Albania.

Day 1: Tirana

As the main gateway to the country, the city of Tirana is a must-visit stop on any Albanian trip. Once isolated and marked by a turbulent past, the capital today pulses with energy and vibrant life. This is where you'll pick up your rental car before starting your road trip through southern Albania. The capital makes for a perfect introduction to the country's history and local culture.

Among the must-see sites to discover in Tirana, we recommend:

• The National History Museum of Tirana: the museum's collections allow you to delve into the heart of Albania's history, from the era of ancient Illyria to the post-communist period ;
• Bunk Art 1 and 2: these former bunkers once used as nuclear shelters have been repurposed as museums, allowing you to understand how the country lived through World War II and the siege of Benito Mussolini, fascism, and then dictatorial communism ;
• Skanderbeg Square: considered the nerve center of the capital, this square is lined with buildings featuring multiple architectural influences (original Ottoman structures, fascist style, or Soviet-era constructions) ;
• The New Bazar market in Tirana: this is the city's main market where you can shop, sample local specialties, and meet the locals ;
• Mount Dajti: located on the city's outskirts, it's the perfect place for a hike. You can also reach the summit of the mountain (1,611 m altitude) from the city center via the Dajti Express cable car to enjoy breathtaking views over the city.

Day 2: Berat

For this second day, we recommend heading toward Berat. Nestled in a hilly region and crossed by the Osam River, the city of Berat is one of Albania's oldest cities. With its distinctive Ottoman-era architecture, the city is often nicknamed the "City of a Thousand Windows." Built on a mountainside, its fortress dominates the landscape.

Within its citadel, you'll be surprised to find both Catholic and Orthodox churches alongside Ottoman mosques, all testifying to the exemplary tolerance between different religious communities.

Among the must-see sites in Berat, we recommend:

• Berat Castle: more than 2,500 years old, the castle is surrounded by a citadel where cobblestone alleyways invite leisurely strolls ;
• The Sultan's Mosque of Berat: built in the 16th century, it is among the oldest Muslim buildings in all of Albania ;
• The Ethnographic Museum of Berat: housed in a beautifully preserved 18th-century Ottoman building, the museum offers a collection of objects showcasing the lifestyle of inhabitants ;
• The Onufri Iconography Museum: this museum provides insights into Byzantine art. Most of the objects on display come from monasteries and churches in Berat ;

Day 3: Vlora

You can continue your journey by heading down to the city of Vlora (also called Vlorë). Albania's second port and third most populated city, Vlora was the first capital of the independent Albanian state. Indeed, it was here that Albanian independence was proclaimed in 1912 by national hero Ismaïl Qemali. Today, it is a city brimming with activity: many projects are underway to modernize the city. Its position as gateway to the Albanian Riviera makes it an essential stop for visitors.

Among the must-see sites to discover in Vlora, you'll find:

• The Monument of Independence: erected at the center of Flag Square, the monument pays tribute to the country's independence ;
• The Independence Museum: as the name suggests, it is dedicated to the history of Albania's independence ;
• The Historical Museum of Vlora: it houses an extensive collection of objects dating from antiquity, such as amphorae and Greek and Roman stelae ;
• The Ethnographic Museum of Vlora: the museum's collections highlight national folklore to learn more about cultural traditions ;
• The Muradiye Mosque: built in 1542 under Ottoman Empire rule, it is the only remaining structure from the great architect Sinan in Albania ;
• Sazan Island: located in the bay, it was used as a submarine base in the 1950s. You'll find numerous bunkers and vestiges there.

Day 4: Dhermi

Your road trip continues to the village of Dhermi. This small seaside town, situated along the Albanian Riviera, offers an idyllic landscape with dream-like beaches and the Ceraunian Mountains as a backdrop. Renowned for its sublime pebble beaches, the town is appreciated for its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. Stone lovers will also find plenty to discover in the old village of Dhermi. Located on a hilltop, you'll find charming cobblestone streets, old stone houses, and ancient monasteries.

Among the must-see sites to discover in Dhermi, don't miss:

• The old village of Dhermi: the historic quarter where you can walk and discover old stone houses offering a journey into the past ;
• The Monastery of Saint Mary Panajia: situated at the top of the historic quarter, this Orthodox monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary houses magnificent frescoes dating from 1576. From the monastery, you can enjoy sweeping views over the city and coastline ;
• The Gjipe Canyon: nicknamed the "Garden of the Gods," this canyon is best explored via a boat excursion departing from Dhermi's port ;
• Dhermi's beaches: considered among the most beautiful beaches in Albania ;
• The Llogara National Park: this park harbors numerous hiking trails between peaks and forests. It's also the ideal place to enjoy the most stunning panoramas of the Ceraunian Mountains and the Albanian Riviera.

Day 5: Himarë

After Dhermi, discover another charming town nestled between mountains and the Ionian Sea: the delightful town of Himarë. A peaceful family-friendly destination, the town is divided into two parts: the historic center perched on a hilltop where you'll find the ruins of ancient fortifications, and the lower part of town, situated by the sea where you'll find more modern and touristy infrastructure. Something to satisfy all desires!

Among the must-see sites to discover in Himarë, you can mention:

• Himarë Castle: built in the 3rd century BCE, the castle stands in ruins today. In addition to traveling through time via the remains of fortifications, you can enjoy panoramic views of the region ;
• Himarë's beaches: whether you love long sandy stretches or small coves, you'll find your perfect spot around the town ;
• Scuba diving: the Porto Palermo Bay and Jale Reef constitute excellent diving and snorkeling spots ;
• Hiking: numerous trails allow you to discover the wild beauty of the coastline. For example, you can connect Spile Beach and Livadhi Beach.

Day 6: Saranda

Just a few kilometers south of Himarë, the city of Saranda is one of the emblematic stages of the Albanian Riviera. In fact, it's one of the most sought-after destinations by locals and tourists for enjoying the Ionian Sea's beach pleasures. While nature and beaches are the city's main attractions, you'll also find some historic treasures. Saranda is also known for its lively nightlife.

Among the must-see sites to discover in Saranda, we recommend:

• The Archaeology Museum of Saranda: containing rare vestiges and objects, the museum recounts the history of the city and region ;
• Lekures Castle: proudly perched on the heights of the city, this 16th-century castle, now in ruins, offers magnificent panoramas of the city and sea ;
• Enjoy the beaches: with their crystal-clear waters, the beaches around Saranda (such as Pulëbardha) are among the most beautiful in the country ;
• Take excursions to nearby islands: from Saranda, you can discover the Greek island of Corfu or the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos ;
• Blue Eye Spring lagoon: this natural jewel, located about 30 minutes from Saranda, is an underground spring that gushes from a cavity over 50 m deep. Swimming is not permitted, but it's worth the trip just for the sight!

Day 7: Ksamil and Butrint

Located 15 km from Saranda, the town of Ksamil is your next stop. Once again, it's a beach resort highly favored by both locals and visitors for its paradisiacal beaches. However, unlike the previous ones, nightlife is less prevalent here. Instead, you'll find a family-friendly atmosphere. In addition to its shoreline, you'll find magnificent beaches on the Three Islands (Tre Ishujt) which you can reach by boat or kayak.

The small town of Ksamil is also known for being just 5 km from one of Albania's most emblematic historic sites: the archaeological site of Butrint. This ancient Greco-Roman city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses ancient treasures including Roman pools, a theater, a 5th-century chapel, and a 6th-century basilica. In addition to its archaeological treasures, the city of Butrint is worth visiting for its national park landscape, lake, and Ali Pasha's castle.

Day 8: Gjirokastër

For this final leg of your journey, we suggest heading slightly north to the medieval citadel of Gjirokastër. The town is dominated by a citadel that crowns the slopes of the Gjerë Mountains while agricultural lands blanket the landscape at its feet. Nicknamed the "City of Stone," it stands out for its ancient houses in Ottoman style.

Among the must-see sites to discover in Gjirokastër, you can mention:

• Gjirokastër Castle: overlooking the city at 336 m altitude, the castle and citadel once served as a prison and shelter for political prisoners of the communist regime. Today, it houses a military museum. From the fortress walls, you'll also discover a panoramic view of the city and surroundings ;
• House museums: several Ottoman houses dating from the 18th century are open to the public. Meticulously preserved, these period homes offer insight into the interiors of homes from that era. Among the most well-known are the Skenduli House and the Zekate House ;
• The Gjirokastër Bazaar: located at the heart of the city, at the crossroads of 5 streets called Qafë e Pazarit ("neck of the bazaar"), this is the place not to miss to buy souvenirs from your Albanian trip ;
• The Bazaar Mosque: near the bazaar, don't miss this mosque built in 1757, recognizable by its distinctive slate roof ;
• Ali Pasha's Bridge: located about 45 minutes' walk from the city center, Ali Pasha's Bridge is a remaining section of an ancient Ottoman aqueduct ;

Day 9: Return to Tirana

On your final day, return to Tirana where you can catch your flight. Depending on how much time you have left, you can still make the most of your day visiting the capital.

Florine Dergelet