Best Tirana Day Trips

Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, is perfectly positioned for several exciting day trips that showcase the country's diverse landscape and rich history. In this article, I will share with you the best day trips from Tirana.

Short on time? Here is a list of the best day trips from Tirana:

• Half a day trip: Krujë

• Half a day trip: Cable car ride with Dajti Express

• One of the most popular day trips: Berat

• For some beach time: Durrës

• One of the oldest and most historic places in Albania: Shkodër

• An ancient Greek city: Apollonia

• Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid: Pogradec

• A refreshing break from urban life: Bovilla Lake

• A tranquil escape with unspoiled natural beauty: Shala River

• A perfect hiking trip: Hike from Theth to Valbona (requires at least 2 days)

Krujë & Cable Car Ride with Dajti Express

These 2 places do not require more than half of a day so you can combine them as one day trip!

Just a short drive from Tirana, Krujë is known for its historic castle, the Skanderbeg Museum, and the old bazaar. The town offers a glimpse into Albania’s Ottoman past and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The centerpiece of Krujë is its castle, which dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries, although most of the current structure is from the 15th century. The castle is famed for being the site where Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, Albania's national hero, successfully defended the region against Ottoman invasions in the 15th century. He has played a very significant role in Albania and even the capital's main square is called after him! Inside the castle's walls, you'll find the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to the hero's life and his resistance against the Ottoman Empire.

Just below the castle, the Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjetër) is another highlight of Krujë. This market street, dating back to the Ottoman era, retains a traditional charm. It's lined with small shops and stalls selling a variety of handcrafted items, antiques, and souvenirs.

Visiting Krujë provides a fascinating glimpse into Albania's rich history, from the enduring legacy of Skanderbeg to the vibrant traditions of the Old Bazaar. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the soul of Albanian culture and history.

Just a 15-minute drive away from Tirana's center (still in Tirana) is the Dajti Express Cable Car Line - the longest one in the Balkans! is not just a mode of transportation but an experience in itself, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty. During a 15-minute ride, the cable car takes visitors to the National Park of Mount Dajti. The journey covers a distance of approximately 4.7 kilometers (about 2.9 miles), making it one of the longest cable car rides in the Balkans. You can not only enjoy panoramic views of the city of Tirana from the top but also, play minigolf, have a picnic, or go hiking on one of the trails. Be aware, the Dajti Express Cable Car is closed on Tuesdays and opening hours vary depending on the season, so if you are planning to visit, make sure to check out their schedule!

Berat

Berat is one of the most popular day trips from Tirana known as the "City of a Thousand Windows" and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Berat is remarkable for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. The city's layout, with houses built on the hillside, leading up to the castle, gives it a distinct and picturesque appearance. Berat Castle, perched on a rocky hill, is not just a historical monument but also a living, breathing neighborhood. It dates back to the 13th century and offers panoramic views of the city and the Osum River. The nickname "City of a Thousand Windows" comes from the many large windows on the white Ottoman houses in Berat, which look like they are piled one above the other.

You can explore the city with a tour but also a free walking tour is available in Beret!

Interestingly, Berat has been continuously inhabited for over 2,400 years. Its various occupants, including the Romans, Byzantines, Bulgarians, and Ottomans, have all left their mark. Berat is known for its religious tolerance, with Islamic, Orthodox, and Christian communities coexisting peacefully for centuries. This is reflected in the city's mosques and churches.

The regions around Berat offer great opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking in the Tomorr Mountains, rafting on the Osum River, or doing river hiking in the Osumi Canyons.

The area around Berat is also known for its vineyards and wineries, offering visitors a chance to taste local Albanian wine varieties. This is quite a popular tour to attend so here are some of the best ones:

• Alpha Winery

• Nurellari Winery

• Cobo Winery

Durrës

If you are traveling during the summer season and do not want to miss out on a beach day by Albanian Rivera, Durrës will be your best choice as it is only an hour drive away from Tirana. The coastline offers a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. The city's promenade is a lively area, filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops, ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying the local cuisine with views of the Adriatic Sea.

Durrës beach is great, but if you wish to visit some of the most amazing beaches in Albania, you will need to take a bit longer drive down to Albanian Rivera, where you will find incredible beaches like Gijipe Beach. So Durrës will be a great convenient beach escape for a day if your base is in Tirana!

Interestingly, Durrës is one of the oldest cities in Albania. Durrës has one of the largest ports in Albania, playing a crucial role in the country's trade and commerce. Its strategic location has historically made it a pivotal maritime and trading hub.

If you do wish to explore the city then, there are two places I would recommend:

• Roman Amphitheater: Built in the 2nd century AD, it is one of the largest in the Balkan region and could once seat around 15,000 spectators. The amphitheater is not only an architectural marvel but also offers insights into the Roman period in the region.

• Archaeological Museum: One of the largest in Albania, showcases artifacts from the city’s long history, including Roman and Greek antiquities, giving visitors a deep dive into the ancient past of the city and its surrounding areas.

Shkodër

One of the oldest and most historic places in Albania, Shkodër is known for the Rozafa Castle with its impressive views and the nearby Lake Shkodra.

Rozafa Castle is a must-visit landmark in the city. It's perched on a hill and has a long history that goes back to the times of the Illyrians. When you're up at the castle, you get amazing views all around – you can see the city, the beautiful Lake Shkodra, and the Buna River. The castle is not just old and interesting to look at; it's also full of stories and legends. The most famous one is about Rozafa, a woman who, according to legend, was trapped in the castle's walls to keep the castle standing strong. You will definitely not miss the castle as it is the first thing you see when approaching Shkodër from Tirana!

Europe’s largest bird reserve and an important wetland ecosystem, Lake Shkodra, lies near the city. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering serene vistas and a variety of outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and cycling around the lake. You can rent a bike in the city center.

Shkodër is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and museums, including the Marubi National Museum of Photography, which holds a significant collection of historical photographs documenting Albanian life. The city’s streets are lined with charming cafes and restaurants where visitors can savor traditional Albanian cuisine, influenced by Mediterranean flavors. To find the wonderful pedestrian street with cafes and restaurants, insert in navigation 'Ebu Bekër Mosque', from there the street starts.

Apollonia

It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts, offering insight into Albania's ancient past.

Founded in 588 BCE by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth, Apollonia was one of the most important Greek colonies in the Adriatic region. It played a significant role in the trade and politics of the classical world. Apollonia flourished further under Roman rule. Today, visitors can explore the ruins that include a theater, a library, the Odeon, several temples, and an agora (marketplace). The on-site museum, housed in a 14th-century monastery, displays an array of artifacts, sculptures, and mosaics unearthed from the site, offering insights into the daily life and art of the ancient city. The site presents a blend of Greek and Roman architectural styles, reflective of its historical transition and significance in both civilizations.

You can either spend a whole day exploring Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery or combine a visit together with a tour to Berat!

Pogradec & Lake Ohrid

Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, Pogradec is known for its serene beauty, unique ecosystem, and the nearby Drilon Park.

Pogradec is a charming city situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid in southeastern Albania. Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's deepest and oldest lakes, shares its shores between Albania and North Macedonia and is known for its crystal-clear waters and rich biodiversity. Lake Ohrid is known for its extraordinary biodiversity, with numerous unique species that are not found anywhere else in the world. The lake and its surroundings are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for both natural and cultural heritage, highlighting its global importance.

Surrounding Attractions:

• Drilon National Park: Near Pogradec, this park is famous for its springs, streams, and diverse bird life, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers.

• Galichica National Park: On the Macedonian side, you will find an iconic Byzantine church on a cliff offering a picturesque view. This park offers a lot of hiking trails with amazing views!

So a trip to Pogradec and Lake Ohrid could offer an opportunity to also check out Macedonia!

Bovilla Lake

This is a great day trip for those who want to enjoy the beautiful nature of Albania but do not want to spend too much time commuting as Bovilla Lake is just a short drive away from Tirana!

Bovilla Lake is nestled in the mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors. The clear, blue waters of the lake contrast beautifully with the rugged landscape, making it a photographer's paradise. The area around the lake offers several hiking trails, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. These trails not only provide exercise and fresh air but also offer some of the best views of the lake and its surroundings. The lake and its surroundings are suitable for visitors of all ages, making it an excellent destination for families.

Shala River

The Shala River, often referred to as the "Thames of Albania," is a hidden gem nestled in the Albanian Alps and is swiftly gaining popularity as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking unspoiled natural beauty and a tranquil escape.

The Shala River is renowned for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, set against the backdrop of rugged mountains and lush greenery. It's a part of the Koman Lake system and offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in Albania. This area is relatively untouched by mass tourism, making it an ideal spot for those looking to experience nature in its purest form.

One of the best ways to experience the Shala River is by boat. You can embark on boat tours that navigate through the heart of the scenic river, offering stunning views of the canyon and surrounding nature. You can also swim in the several spots! You can also enjoy some of the many hiking trails, providing an opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Albanian Alps.

The only note regarding this trip is that the actual boat departure will be from Shkodër, so you either need to make your way early to Shkodër or arrive the night before.

The Shala River offers a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to find in more crowded tourist spots. It's a haven for those seeking to unwind and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embark on more authentic travels!

Hike from Theth to Valbona

For all my fellow hiking enthusiasts, I recommend the hike from Theth to Valbona. Only this trip might require at least 2 days due to commuting to the starting point! But I really want to add this trip to this list as it is a wonderful hike and trip to do in Albania!

When I was researching about this trip, I came across this guide that I believe is a great starting point!

Here are some of the best-rated tours on Tripadvisor:

• Full Day tour of Theth & Blue Eye from Tirana or Shkoder

• Tour of Valbona and Theth in 3 Days from Tirana

• Albanian Alps and Theth Village Day Tour

• Day tour of Theth from Tirana

• Hiking tour of Theth & Blue Eye in 2 days

If you are looking for more things to see and do in Tirana, make sure to check out my Tirana Travel Guide!