Day Trips from Albania: Exploring Beyond the Capital
Day Trips from Albania: Exploring Beyond the Capital
Albania's capital, Tirana, is an exciting city rich in history, culture, and life. But beyond the excitement-filled boulevards are more things Albania has to offer. Beyond the dynamic streets of Tirana is a country filled with breathtaking views, ancient ruins, and sleepy villages waiting to be explored. For dramatic mountain scenery, rugged beaches, or ancient monuments, Albania's diversified landscapes provide unforgettably memorable day excursions within convenient car distance of Tirana.
Albanian public transport is less reliable, so the simplest way to move on your own schedule is through car rental. Points like Localrent Albania, which consolidates Albanian car rental companies, provide convenient and affordable choices for travelers who want the flexibility of driving Albania's side roads and off-the-tourist-trail places without the inconvenience of bus timetables. With a car, you can go anywhere you please, to remote locations, country roads, and rural areas that not everybody has the opportunity to visit.
Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
Berat, the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, is Albania's prettiest and oldest town. Only two hours' drive from the capital city, Tirana, this wonder city has Ottoman-style houses stacked on top of each other, earning its nickname "The City of a Thousand Windows."
Things to Do in Berat
Visit Berat Castle – While European castles remained in ruin for centuries, Berat Castle has families residing within its walls. Wander along its cobblestone streets, visit historic churches, and admire views over the Osum River.
Visit the Onufri Museum – Within the Dormition of St. Mary Church is this museum, which contains lovely religious iconography by the nation's most renowned medieval artist, Onufri.
Wander around Mangalem and Gorica – The two historic neighborhoods, one on each side of the river, are the city's unique architectural charm. The stone bridge that connects them is a great photo stop.
Taste Local Wine – Berat is renowned for its vineyards, and a visit to a local winery is not to be missed for wine lovers. Taste local wines like Puls and Shesh i Bardhë.
Krujë: Albania's National Hero Castle
Only an hour outside of Tirana, the medieval town of Krujë can't be missed by anyone interested in the history of Albania. This tiny hilltop town was a major stronghold against the Ottoman Empire, and its castle served as the residence of Albania's national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg.
Things to Do in Krujë
Stop by Krujë Castle – The Skanderbeg Museum, which resides within the castle walls, documents the life of Albania's legendary warrior and struggle against the Ottomans.
Shop at the Old Bazaar – This quaint old bazaar is one of Albania's best shopping districts for authentic hand woven rugs, copper works of art, and mementos.
Sari Saltik Hike – Scenic hike to a holy Bektashi shrine with Adriatic Sea views if clouds are not there.
Shkodër: Albania's Cultural Capital
Shkodër, two hours north of the capital, is one of Albania's oldest cities and gateway to the Accursed Mountains. It is a treasure trove of history, culture, and stunning natural scenery.
Things to Do in Shkodër
Hike to Rozafa Castle – The medieval castle sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Lake Shkodër, the River Buna, and nearby mountains.
Walk along the Pedestrian Street – Marubi National Museum of Photography features interesting pictures documenting Albanian life throughout the past century.
Visit Lake Shkodër – Balkans' largest lake is perfect for kayaking, birding, and eating fresh seafood at lakefront eateries.
Theth: A Trek into the Albanian Alps
Adventure enthusiasts, this is a wake-up call. Situated deep within the Accursed Mountains, this remote village is the ultimate dream list of every outdoor adventure aficionado with its craggy peaks, waterfalls, and rock shelters.
Things to Do in Theth
Hike to The Blue Eye – Two hours' walking distance from the village, this crystal blue colour water spring makes a great relief for the thrill-seekers who are happy to take the plunge in ice-cold water.
Visit Lock-in Tower – Learn about Albania's ancient history of blood feuds at this minute but significant site.
Visit Grunas Waterfall – A walking distance of minutes from the village, this waterfall 30-meters high is one of the most stunning sites in Albania.
Getting to Theth requires driving on mountain roads, so a quality rental car from Localrent can make the journey more pleasant and convenient.
Durrës: Beach Vacation with Historic Ruins
If you're seeking a combination of history and beach vacationing, Durrës, Albania's second-largest city, is just 40 minutes outside Tirana.
Durrës Activities
Visit the Durrës Amphitheater – Built during the 2nd century AD, it is the largest Roman amphitheater in the Balkan region.
Beach Time – Durrës features wide sandy beaches perfect for a brief respite from the city.
Walk on Venetian Tower – Part of the remains of the ancient town walls, the medieval tower now houses a café with marvelous views of the sea.
Lake Ohrid: A Cross-Border Adventure
Looking for a day trip overseas, travel two hours to Lake Ohrid, a stunning UNESCO-listed lake shared on the borders of Albania and the Republic of North Macedonia. On the Albanian shore of the lake, the town of Pogradec lies an hour outside Tirana.
Things to do at Lake Ohrid
Go to Drilon Park – A serene park with canals containing swans, perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Explore the Monastery of St. Naum – On the Macedonian side of the border lies this centuries-old monastery, a spiritual and architectural jewel.
Take a Dip in the Crystal-Clear Water – The crystal-clear water of the lake provides perfect swimming, kayaking, and fishing conditions.
Explore Albania Your Way
Albania is not only beautiful in its capital, but also in its stunning roads, ancient cities, and natural wonders scattered all over the country. With Localrent in Albania, exploring these incredible places is easy, and you are given the freedom to enjoy Albania's beauty without the pressure of time.
No matter if you walk through old castles, hike in the Alps, or just relax on the Ionian Sea, there's something in Albania for everyone — and the best adventures begin when you get out of Tirana.