Day Trips From Tirana: 13 Of The Best Trips
Are you visiting Albania’s capital and wondering about the best day trips from Tirana?
As Albania’s capital, Tirana is a bustling location for visitors to the Balkan countries. It’s located in the country’s center, making taking day trips from Tirana to explore the rest of Albania easy.
Tirana is full of color and charm, has no shortage of cafés, and has a lively nightlife. This was a great first stop on my trip to Albania. In addition, Tirana is a hub for most of Albania’s culture, economics, and politics.
In this post, we’ll cover how to see some of the best Tirana day trips.
Going On A Trip To Tirana? Check Out These Resources!
🛌 Accommodations: I always use Booking.com for my lodging.
🚘 Car Rentals: To find the best prices, I use Discover Cars!
✈️ Flights: To find great flight prices, I check on Skyscanner.
📍Tours: I use Viator to find memorable experiences.
13 Best Day Trips from Tirana
There are many great day trips from Tirana to see Albania’s beautiful country that isn’t far from its capital. Whether it’s to relax on the beach, visit historical sites, or have outdoor adventures, there are endless options.
You can also take a few day trips outside of Albania to neighboring Balkan countries that are worth visiting. Next, we’ll look at some of the best options that you can add to your Albania vacation.
Tirana Day Trips Within Albania
The options regarding the best cities to visit in Albania from Tiran are endless. Whether you’re looking to explore a historical site, relax on the beach, or enjoy nature, there’s something for anyone. Next, I’ll give some of the highest recommendations for locations within Albania.
1. Berat
One of the best Tirana day trips is to Berat. Berat is located just off the Lumi i Osumit River shores in southern Albania. It’s well known for its historical architecture in addition to the “city of thousand windows.”
One of the most popular attractions is the Berat Castle or Berat Kala. The remains of this fortress overlook the city and are situated on a hill above the river. The castle’s views are unbeatable and truly make Albania worth visiting.
Also, be sure to stop at the breathtaking Holy Trinity Church. The church is located within the walls of the castle.
The center of Berat has two small historic areas of town, known as Gorica and Mangalem, which are UNESCO heritage sites.
Gorica is across the River Osum from the castle, which is connected to Mangalem via the Gorica Bridge. The architecture here is fascinating, and the view of Gorica from the castle is just as marvelous.
How to get to Berat from Tirana
The most popular mode of transport is the bus. It’s the cheapest and easiest way to get into the city. The ride is around 2 ½ hours and the bus leaves from the South and North Albania Bus Terminal. You can also rent a car or take a tour.
➡️I highly recommend this Berat Full Day Trip from Tirana.
Hotel pickup and drop-off. Private transportation to Berat.
2. Durres
Durres is located west of Tirana, on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. As the oldest city in Albania, Durres is an excellent option.
A visit to Durres wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Durres Amphitheater. Built nearly 2,000 years ago in 100 AD, this amphitheater was rediscovered about 60 years ago in the 1960s. It could hold up to 20,000 people in those times.
Additionally, plan to spend some time on the water at Durres Beach, which is nearly 10 kilometers long on the sea. During the summer season, you’ll be able to lounge on the sunbeds or go for a swim.
You can also learn about the city’s history by visiting the Durres Castle or the Archaeological Museum of Durres.
How to get to Durres from Tirana
The most cost-effective and easiest way to get to Durres is to take the bus. The ride is about one hour and departs from the South and North Albania Bus Terminal.
➡️For an excellent bang for your buck, book this Private Full-Day Trip to Durres and Berat from Tirana.
Hotel pickup. Private transportation to Berat and Durres.
3. Shkodra
Shkodra is a beautiful city located on the shores of Shkodra Lake, the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula. The lake cuts right through the border of Albania and Montenegro.
With the lake being such a large aspect of the city, spending some time on it during your visit is a great option. You can either rent a kayak, swim in the cool waters or hike around the perimeter. Be sure to enjoy the beautiful views of the Albanian Alps that surround the area of the lake and town.
Not far from the lake, situated on a hill overlooking the Buna River, is the Rozafa Castle. It was built in the 4th century and has an interesting legend.
Moreover, be sure to visit the Shkodra Historical Museum to learn about the history of this beautiful city.
Another popular activity is taking a tour from Shkodra on the Lake Koman Ferry to the Shala River. You’ll experience beautiful teal waters surrounded by green gorges and cliffs.
How to get to Shkodra from Tirana
Either take a tour, the 2-hour bus ride to Shkodra or rent a car and save some time. This comes in handy for visiting the lake.
➡️You can visit Shkodra on this Day Tour of Shkodra from Tirana.
Hotel pickup and drop-off. Private transportation to Shkodra.
4. Kruja
Most widely known for the fascinating Kruja Castle is the city of Kruja. At one time, this was the site for Skangerbeg’s (an Albanian hero) rebellion against the Ottoman Empire.
Today, you can see the beautiful views from the castle and enjoy walking around the grounds, taking in all of the history. You can also visit the National Museum of Gjergj Kastriogi Skanderbeg inside the castle.
During your visit to Kruja, also be sure to visit the Bazaar. The Bazaar is home to a marketplace filled with handmade souvenirs, jewelry, crafts, and more. It’s one of the oldest markets in Albania.
How to get to Kruja from Tirana
There is no train from Tirana to Kruja, but you can always take a bus. The ride is under one hour and departs from the South and North Albania Bus Terminal.
➡️Explore Kruja on this Day Tour of Kruja Castle & Durres from Tirana.
Hotel pickup and drop-off. Private transportation to Kruja and Durres.
5. Vlora
Out of the day trips from Tirana, visiting Vora is a bit longer drive, but it is so worth it! This destination has incredible views and hugs the Albanian coast.
It sits right on the shoreline of both the Adriatic and the Ionian Seas and has fantastic beaches and plenty of sunny days throughout the year.
Be sure to see the Independence Monument, which marks Albania’s independence from the Ottoman Empire in the 20th century.
Furthermore, make sure to spend time relaxing on the beaches, which are some of the best in Albania. A few popular ones are Livadi and Dhermi, although they are a bit further south.
The city is also just one hour from the coastal Llogara National Park. This park features great hiking trails for those who love the outdoors.
How to get to Vlora from Tirana
While the cheapest way to arrive in Vlora from Tirana is by bus, it certainly isn’t the fastest, at 3 hours long. Driving in a rental car will only take about 2 hours.
6. Apollonia Archaeological Site
This preserved archaeological site is located in southern Albania, just under two hours southwest of Tirana.
At this site, you’ll be able to see the ruins of the ancient city of Apollonia. This used to be a very important Greek and Roman City that the Greeks founded. With this in mind, Apollonia is a great day trip option if you’re into that historical period.
The ruins were rediscovered in the 19th century after being built long ago, around 588 BC. Since then, visitors have been able to see the ruins that once were of such importance to the country. One great way to see the city of ruins is to take a day tour from Tirana.
The city is also on Albania’s tentative list of additions to the UNESCO Heritage Sites listing.
How to get to Apollonia from Tirana
The most common way to get to Apollonia from Tirana is to take the bus, which is just over a 2-hour ride. The bus is the most cost-effective option, as you could also rent a car.
7. Ardenica Monastery
The Ardenica Monastery is not too far from the Apollonia Archaeological site, which makes for a fantastic pairing to take on your Tirana day trip.
The monastery is located over 200 meters above sea level, overlooking a vast forest of trees and rolling hills. You’ll have views of the Adriatic Sea, Mount Tomorr, and Dajiti Mountain from the monastery.
Also, enjoy the beautiful murals on the walls, and stroll through the courtyards outside.
Perhaps the most important event that took place here was the marriage of Skanderbeg. He is known as Albania’s National Hero and married his wife in the mid-1400s.
How to get to Ardenica from Tirana
To reach Ardenica, you may rent a car and drive it; this way, you could pair it with the city of Apollonia.
➡️See both Ardenica and Apollonia on this Day Trip from Tirana.
Hotel pickup and drop-off. Private transportation to Ardenica and Apollonia.
8. Petrele Castle
As one of the closest day ventures from Tirana on this list, a visit to Petrele is a perfect choice for those who may not have a full day.
The Petrele Castle sits high atop a hill and overlooks the village below. Additionally, two observation towers on the triangular castle were built in ancient times.
Today, you can enjoy a meal at the restaurant in the castle and take in the views, as it isn’t far from Tirana.
How to get to Petrele from Tirana
The easiest way to reach the castle is by car since it is relatively close and won’t cost much fuel.
9. Erzeni Canyon
Erzeni Canyon will be one of the perfect day trips from Tirana for you if you’re a nature lover. Here, you’ll get to experience the fascinating Erzen River and Canyon.
This 108-kilometer river has created beautiful gorges on either side of it and is a great place to swim in the summer months.
Waterfalls flow into the river during certain times of the year, and the crystal-clear water is incredible. Despite if you don’t want to swim, this is a beautiful area that shouldn’t be missed during your visit to Albania!
Many tours will take you to the canyon, and you may also stop at Pellumbas Cave, which is reached via a 1-hour hike.
How to get to Erzeni Canyon from Tirana
Taking a tour from Tirana to Erzeni Canyon is the best option, as the guides can show you the way.
➡️Experience Erzeni Canyon on this Hiking day tour of Pellumbas Cave and Erzeni Canyon from Tirana.
Hotel pickup and drop-off. Private transportation to Pellumbas Cave and Erzeni Canyon.
10. Lake Bovilla
You’ll reach the incredible Lake Bovilla, just a one-hour drive from Tirana. This bright-colored lake is stunning and is surrounded by rocky cliffs and tree-covered hills.
Here, you can look around and see the beautiful mountains in the distance, including Mount Datji and Gamti Mountain.
The lake is fantastic, and the hike to see it is great! Significantly, it’s interesting to note that nearly 50% of Tirana’s drinking water comes from the lake!
How to get to Lake Bovilla from Tirana
There are no buses or taxis that drive to Lake Bovilla. While you can drive, the road is very rough. It’s best to book a day tour and have an experienced guide.
➡️This is the Lake Bovilla tour I recommend
Private Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain Hiking Tour!
Tirana Day Trips to Neighboring Balkan Countries
One of the best parts about Albania is its location in neighboring countries. You can easily take a quick trip to other Balkan cities I’ve outlined below.
11. Prizren
If you’re looking into day trips that are not in Albania, Prizren is a great option! The large city of Prizren is found in southern Kosova, to the northeast of Tirana, by just under 3 hours. As a result of how far this city is from Tirana, you should plan to spend a full day in Prizren.
During your visit, it’s a must to see the Prizren Fortress, which sits high on a hill above the city, offering some of the best views.
Additionally, the Sinan Pasha Mosque is one of the most beautiful sites in town. The mosque has a large dome with an incredible interior. Visitors can tour the inside when the church is not in session.
Lastly, be sure to spend some time just wandering through the Old Town, as it showcases some beautiful architecture.
How to get to Prizren from Tirana
The best way to reach Prizren from Tirana is by bus or by renting your own car and traveling to the city alone. Taxis will be fairly expensive to travel this long distance.
➡️Check out this Private Day Tour of Pristina & Prizren from Tirana, including UNESCO Sites.
Hotel pickup and drop-off. Private transportation to Pristina and Prizren.
12. Ohrid
Just over the border of North Macedonia, past the beautiful and expansive Lake Ohrid, is the town of Ohrid.
Although it’s one of the largest cities in North Macedonia, it doesn’t feel that way because of its small city feel and natural beauty.
Of course, one of the top activities for your visit is to see Lake Ohrid, which has been placed on the list of UNESCO Heritage Sites. In addition, it’s one of the deepest lakes in Europe!
Other activities include wandering through the Old Town and seeing the ancient buildings, shopping at the small Old Bazaar, and visiting the Church of Saint Sophia.
How to get to Ohrid from Tirana
To reach Ohrid from Tirana, take one of the two direct buses on Eurobus, departing from the Tirana International Bus Station. You can also look into booking a tour.
➡️Enjoy the beautiful Lake Ohrid on this Private One Day Tour of Ohrid from Tirana.
Hotel pickup and drop-off. Private transportation to Ohrid.
13. Ulcinj
Located just over the border of Albania into Montenegro, the city of Ulcinj is found on the coastline of the Adriatic Sea. If you’re looking for one of the more scenic Tirana day trips, then this is the place for you.
Ulcinj is most famous for its beautiful beaches and castles. This small town in southern Montenegro has become a popular destination for visitors worldwide.
During your trip, spend some time on Velika Plaza, a 12-kilometer-long beach along the teal waters of the sea. “Velika Plaza” in Albanian translates to “Long Beach” in English.
Also found in Ulcinj is the Ulcinj Castle, otherwise known as Ulcinj Old Town. This historical castle sits right on the sea’s shore and has picturesque architecture to marvel at. Uniquely, the city itself was built around the castle.
How to get to Ulcinj from Tirana
There is no direct bus from Tirana to Ulcinj, but you can hop on the bus to Schkodra and then make your way to Ulcinj from there. Or, choose to rent your own car and travel to the Montenegrin city in your own time.
How Many Days Do You Need in Tirana?
While you could see the top sights of Tirana in just one day, it’s really recommended to have two or three days in Albania’s capital city to experience it all truly.
This amount of time will allow you to do extra exploring, see all of the best sights, take an Albania day trip, and spend some time relaxing.
Anything less than this amount of time may feel more rushed than what you may enjoy.
What to See in Tirana in One Day
While just one day in Tirana isn’t ideal, it is still possible to experience the beautiful city quickly. Here are the best activities for just one day.
✅Skanderbeg Square
Located right in the center of Tirana, Skanderbeg Square is a lively pedestrian area surrounded by a few important and beautiful buildings in Albania.
The National Museum of History is perhaps Albania’s most recognizable and largest museum.
Other structural landmarks worth a visit include the Clock Tower, the Skanderbeg Statue, and the Et’Hem Bey Mosque.
✅Bunk’Art 2
What was once a secret nuclear bunker is a museum right in the center of the city of Tirana.
The bunker was built back in the 1980s to shelter police and ministry staff in case there was a nuclear attack. In the present day, you can visit the museum and see historical photos and equipment from the persecution of many Albanians in the mid to late 1900s.
✅Clock Tower
The monumental Clock Tower, built in the early 1800s, is high above Skanderbeg Square.
Today, you can climb the 90 stairs to the top of the tower, look out into the square, and see everything from above.
✅Blloku for Nightlife
This area of Tirana is popular amongst locals for having lively nightlife, great bars, and endless cafés. Before going to a few nightclubs, grab a drink and a quick bite to eat at one of the bars or cafés.
Whether you’re looking to dance or want to enjoy the music, the area around Blloku has it all!
To Sum Up: Day Trips from Tirana
Whether you’re looking to spend a full day or just a few hours exploring Albania, there are many great cities to visit as day trips from Tirana, the capital city. In addition to venturing around other cities and sites in Albania, you can visit another country!
Spend time admiring skillfully designed architecture, lounging on a beach, or wandering the streets of a Bazaar.
No matter how you like to spend your day, Tirana is the perfect hub for everything. With this in mind, you should take advantage of the capital’s prime location!
