An 8-day journey to discover Albania, starting from the capital Tirana and heading south, passing through traditional villages and enchanted nature, all the way to the beaches of Saranda to enjoy the sea.

Is this trip for me?

Party and nightlife
Relax
Nature and adventure
City and cultures
Monuments and history
Physical effort
Trip type

Itinerary

Discover the captivating allure of Albania—a country that seamlessly combines romance, wilderness, rural charm, and modernity. After years in the shadows, Albania eagerly welcomes travelers from around the globe, and we are thrilled to embark on an unforgettable journey through its breathtaking landscapes, delectable cuisine, and charming city streets. Our group trip begins in Tirana, the vibrant capital, and takes us southward to explore traditional villages, enchanting beaches, and the timeless wonder of Butrint. As we complete the circle back in Tirana, we'll have uncovered the hidden gems of this extraordinary destination. Get ready to be captivated by Albania's authentic beauty!

A map of a travel route through Albania, starting and ending in Tirana. The itinerary loops through the country with several stops marked.
A bronze equestrian statue on a stone base in a grassy square, with a large Albanian flag and historic buildings in the background.
Day 1

Welcome to Albania

1 night: Tirana

City and cultures
A bronze equestrian statue on a stone base in a grassy square, with a large Albanian flag and historic buildings in the background.
Check-in: our adventure starts in Tirana

Roundtrip flights or transportation to reach the destination are not included in the package, so you can decide from where and when you want to leave! This gives you complete freedom of choice to adjust your travel itinerary to your needs.

Upon arrival in Tirana, we'll check-in at the hotel and dive into exploring the colourful city. Let's find a delightful spot to taste our first Albanian dinner, perhaps trying the mouthwatering Tavë Kosi, a lamb, egg, and yogurt quiche. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey in Albania!

A small boat moves across turquoise water in a canyon surrounded by steep, rocky mountains with green slopes under a blue sky with white clouds.
Day 2

Lake Koman and the Albanian fjords

1 night: Tirana

Nature and adventure
Monuments and history
Relax
A small boat moves across turquoise water in a canyon surrounded by steep, rocky mountains with green slopes under a blue sky with white clouds.
Kayaking or relaxing?

Let the second day of our Albanian adventure begin! Today, we'll kick off the day by picking up our rental cars and hitting the road. Our destination? The Albanian fjords! Okay, they may not be Norway's fjords, but the breathtaking views along Lake Koman will make you believe otherwise. This narrow and winding lake, surrounded by sheer cliffs and occasional cascading waterfalls, will leave you in awe. Despite being artificial, the beauty of Lake Koman is truly astounding. Interestingly, the three hydroelectric plants built here supply around 70% of Albania's electricity needs. Impressive, isn't it?

We have the entire day to explore this hidden gem, perhaps even by kayak if we're up for it. On our way back to Tirana, we can even decide to treat ourselves to a delightful dinner at a nearby farmhouse. It'll be the perfect ending to an exhilarating day. Get ready for unforgettable experiences and surprises around every corner!

A collection of historic white houses with tiled roofs clustered on a green hillside overlooking a river, with a fortress on the peak.
Day 3

Southbound: on the road to Berat

1 night: Himarë or Dhermi

Monuments and history
City and cultures
A collection of historic white houses with tiled roofs clustered on a green hillside overlooking a river, with a fortress on the peak.
To Hirama through Berat

No time for rest! Today, we hit the road again and head south towards our final destination, Himara. But first, we can't miss the charming town of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along the way. As we drive through rural Albania, we witness the authentic and simple way of life. In Berat, we explore the ancient castle, with its inhabited houses, restaurants, and remnants of churches and mosques. We then wander through the historic districts of Gorica and Mangalemi. From there, we continue our journey to Himara, where we're greeted by the incredible sight of the sea. Get ready for a perfect blend of nature, history, and beach time!

An elevated view of a crowded beach with many straw umbrellas, clear turquoise water, and a forested mountain coastline.
Day 4

On the boat: we sail to the Pirate's Cave!

1 night: Himarë or Dhermi

Nature and adventure
Relax
An elevated view of a crowded beach with many straw umbrellas, clear turquoise water, and a forested mountain coastline.
Finally at the sea: let's discover the Pirate's Cave

Oh, the sea at last! And what a sea it is! Himara is renowned for its stunning beaches, often regarded as some of the most beautiful in Albania. Today, it's time to put that reputation to the test. Are you ready for the first dip of our trip? But lazing around on the beach isn't really our style—though we wouldn't mind it either, there's just so much to see! So, without wasting a moment, we hop on our private boat and set sail to discover the Pirate's Cave. Get ready, crew, for an exciting adventure on the open seas!

Ancient stone ruins of an amphitheater nestled into a hillside covered with green trees under a blue sky.
Day 5

Butrint and Ali Pasha's Castle

1 night: Sarandë

Monuments and history
City and cultures
Party and nightlife
Ancient stone ruins of an amphitheater nestled into a hillside covered with green trees under a blue sky.
History and culture

Today, our journey takes us further south, all the way to Butrint—an extraordinary archaeological site dating back to the Greek era. Prepare to immerse yourself in the ancient history of this country that shares borders with Greece. You'll be amazed at how close we are to Corfu, as if we could reach out and touch it! Here, the traditions of Albania seamlessly blend with those of its neighboring countries. Before making our way back north, we'll have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Ali Pasha Castle, overlooking the sparkling sea. Our final destination for the next two nights is the vibrant coastal town of Saranda. Get ready for some exciting nightlife experiences tonight!

An aerial view of a small, tree-covered island in turquoise waters, with several yellow pedal boats floating nearby.
Day 6

Beaches and party in Saranda

1 night: Sarandë

Relax
Party and nightlife
An aerial view of a small, tree-covered island in turquoise waters, with several yellow pedal boats floating nearby.
Among the most beautiful beaches

Get ready for a day of pure bliss as we soak up the sun and dive into the crystal-clear waters of Saranda. This vibrant coastal town is a beloved destination along the Albanian coast, especially adored by young people— and guess what? We've arrived! Saranda derived its name from the ancient monastery perched atop the "40 Saints" hill and has always been a hub of energy and excitement in Albania. From June to September, the city comes alive with a plethora of restaurants, bars, and clubs, offering an unforgettable nightlife experience.

Of course, the real gem of Saranda lies in its stunning beaches, and we won't miss a single one. We can either spend a leisurely day aboard a boat, exploring the coastline, or simply relax and unwind on the shore. Today is all about embracing a laid-back pace to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of this coastal paradise.

And tonight, get ready to party like never before!

A WeRoad group trip poses on a dirt path framed by trees, overlooking a volcanic landscape and the ocean.
Day 7

Back to Tirana

1 night: Tirana

City and cultures
Relax
Party and nightlife
A WeRoad group trip poses on a dirt path framed by trees, overlooking a volcanic landscape and the ocean.
Returning to Tirana

On our last day in Albania, we bid farewell to the stunning beaches of Saranda and hit the road back to where it all began, the capital city. As it's our final stretch on the road, let's soak in the captivating Albanian landscapes along the way.

On route we might make a cultural stop at Apollonia, where we can step back in time and explore the fascinating archaeological site near the Vjosa River. Alternatively if we're up for one final dose of adrenaline we can opt for an exhilarating rafting excursion through Albania's luscious landscapes. 

Depending on the activities on route, we'll arrive into Tirana, and if time allows head out and explore the capital city known as the "Land of Eagles." Today, the city blends both modern and historical influences, showcased in its diverse architectural styles. We can also squeeze in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs to share with friends and family back home. As the evening approaches, we'll gather for our final dinner together—a perfect moment to reminisce about the incredible days we've spent traveling side by side.

An illuminated clock tower and a mosque's minaret stand in a city square at dusk, with people walking in the foreground.
Day 8

Goodbye Albania

An illuminated clock tower and a mosque's minaret stand in a city square at dusk, with people walking in the foreground.
Check-out and goodbyes

We say goodbye and look forward to the next WeRoad adventure!

What's included

What's not included

Roundtrip flight to/from destination

  • Meals and drinks unless specified

  • Any extras you would like to bring back home with you :)

  • Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section

Money pot

The Money Pot is approximately £120/€150 for this trip and is collected on-site by the Travel Coordinator on the first day. The amount of the Money Pot will vary based on the number of activities and extras that the group decides to do.

  • Entrance fees to sites/museums

  • Kayak (optional) at Koman lake

  • Full day boat tour (optional) in Saranda

  • Rafting (optional) on the Vjosa river

  • An amount that we believe is sufficient to cover the cost of petrol, any tolls and parking

  • All the extra activities that ALL members of the group agree on doing and the coordinator's fee for doing them as well

  • Coordinators money pot share

Additional info

Learn more about accommodation, transport, and other useful travel information.
  • Accommodation

    Hotels and B&Bs.

  • Transportation

    Rental car and any necessary local transport

  • Staff

    Our trips are led by a Travel Coordinator who has been specifically trained by us to lead group travels to ensure you have the best time. A WhatsApp group with all travel participants will be created two weeks prior to departure by your Travel Coordinator.

  • Luggage

    Backpacks are mandatory to allow easy transfers - we recommend a 45L backpack for our trips.

  • Private Room Option Show all details

Why WeRoad

  • Small groups, on average 11 people

  • Free cancellation with 100% refund up to 31 days before departure

  • Book with a £/€100 deposit

The travel coordinators

Our travel coordinators are chosen because they are people like you. Not only are they the best travel buddy you could hope for, but they're trained professionals guaranteed to show you a travel experience like never before

Find your flight

For this trip, we recommend arriving and departing from these airports.

Arrival Tirana International Airport Mother Teresa
Return Tirana International Airport Mother Teresa

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

About this trip

What are the meeting and departure details for this trip?

This journey begins at Tirana. On the first day, we meet at 18:00.

Your Coordinator will add you to the WhatsApp group for your trip about 15 days before departure.
 It’s a great way to start getting to know your travel mates, receive more details about the first day’s meeting point, and ask any pre-departure questions you might have.

This journey ends at Tirana. On the last day, you are free to leave at any time, so whether you need to book a flight, a train, or wish to continue the journey on your own, you can organize your return as you prefer.

What kind of luggage can I bring with me on this trip?

For this itinerary, you can choose the type of luggage you prefer – we always recommend a backpack, but you can also travel with a duffel bag, a holdall, or (it breaks our heart to say it) a cabin trolley case or a checked suitcase, as long as it’s moderate in size. Our Travel Coordinator will suggest the ideal luggage before departure in the WhatsApp group!

About Albania

What are the entry requirements for Albania?

If you are a UK citizen, to find out the entry requirements for Albania, you can check this informational page from our partner Sherpa. If you need a visa, you can apply for it through Sherpa. If you are not a UK citizen, you can still use Sherpa by changing the nationality in the 'Passport' section.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Albania – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

What's the time zone in Albania?

Albania is in the Central European Time (CET) time zone. During daylight saving time, usually from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, Albania switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST). Albania is one hour ahead of the UK.

Which currency is used in Albania?

The currency used in Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. It's a good idea to check the exchange rates before you go to get the best deal. Credit cards are accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but it's handy to have some cash for smaller towns and markets.

How can I pay in Albania?

You can pay in Albania using cash or cards. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in larger cities. 

However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller towns or local markets. ATMs are available in urban areas, where you can withdraw the local currency, the Albanian Lek.

Do I need to tip in Albania?

In Albania, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. It's common to leave a tip of around 5 to 10 percent of the bill in restaurants if you're happy with the service. In cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving some small change is a nice gesture. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is generally appreciated. 

If you're staying in a hotel, you might want to tip porters and housekeeping staff a small amount for their services. Remember, tipping is always at your discretion, so there's no pressure if you don't feel it's necessary.

What's the internet like in Albania? Should I buy a SIM card? How available is Wi-Fi?

Albania has decent internet coverage in urban areas, but it can be spotty in rural regions. If you're planning to stay connected while traveling, buying a local SIM card could be a smart move. You can find SIM cards at airports, mobile shops, and kiosks in cities. 

If you're traveling from another European country, you might be able to use your existing mobile plan without extra roaming charges thanks to the EU roaming regulations, but it's always a good idea to double-check with your provider.

What language do they speak in Albania?

In Albania, the official language is Albanian. Here are some useful colloquial expressions you might hear or use:

  • Hello: Përshëndetje
  • Thank you: Faleminderit
  • Please: Ju lutem
  • Yes: Po
  • No: Jo

Most young people speak English, especially in urban areas, so you should find it relatively easy to communicate.

What kind of plugs are used in Albania?

In Albania, the power plugs and sockets are of type C and F. These are the same types commonly used across Europe, so you might not need an adapter if you're traveling from a nearby European country. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. Just double-check your devices to ensure they can handle this voltage, and you're good to go!

What’s the main religion in Albania?

In Albania, the main religion is Islam, with a majority of the population identifying as Muslim. It's important to note that Albania is known for its religious tolerance and secularism, so you'll find a mix of other religions and non-religious people as well. Significant religious holidays include Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr for Muslims. Keep in mind that while Albania is generally relaxed about religious practices, modest dressing is appreciated when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

What should I pack for Albania?

When traveling to Albania, you'll want to be ready for various weather conditions and activities. Here's a handy list of what to pack in your backpack:

  • Clothing:
    Lightweight T-shirts
    Long-sleeve shirts
    Shorts
    Lightweight pants
    A light jacket or sweater
  • Shoes:
    Comfortable walking shoes
    Sandals
    Hiking boots if you plan on trekking
  • Accessories and Technology:
    - Sunglasses
    - Hat or cap
    - Smartphone with a charger
    - Portable power bank
    - Camera for capturing the beautiful landscapes
  • Toiletries and Medication:
    - Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
    - Toothbrush and toothpaste
    - Sunscreen
    - Insect repellent
    - Basic first aid kit including band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medication

Albania offers diverse landscapes and activities, so pack accordingly to enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer.

What’s the weather like in Albania?

Albania's weather varies quite a bit depending on the region. Here's a quick breakdown:

  • Coastal areas: Expect a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit is late spring or early autumn for pleasant temperatures.
  • Inland and mountainous areas: Experience a more continental climate with colder winters and warm summers. Snow is common in winter, especially in the mountains, making it ideal for winter sports.

Overall, the best time to visit Albania is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny.

About WeRoad

Are flights included?

Return international flights are not included on our trips because we want to give you full autonomy and flexibility. You can choose your preferred airline, fly from the airport that works best for you, and decide how many stopovers you want to make along the way.

As flights are not included, you also have more flexibility with your travel dates: you could arrive at your destination a few days early or return home a bit later – or even continue independently to a nearby destination!

What does the "Available" status mean?

to-confirm.svg

An "Available" departure means that the trip isn’t confirmed yet and we’re waiting for a few more travellers to sign up… which could be you!

If you book the trip please wait for it to be confirmed before booking your international flights.

What is the Money Pot and how does it work?

The question of all questions! Here’s some more information: 

  • The Money Pot is a common fund collected in local currency from all travellers on the trip and managed by your Travel Coordinator. 
  • It is used to streamline payments for extra activities, goods and services that the whole group decides to do. This guarantees flexibility in choosing activities and excursions at the destination in line with the mood of the group. 
  • It is typically collected on the first day of the trip in local currency, although at times, the Travel Coordinator may ask for it to be paid before departure.
  • You’ll find the Money Pot amount on the website under the section ‘What’s included in the Money Pot’. To find this look for ‘What’s included’, scroll down to ‘Money Pot? Click here’ and you’ll find the details.
  • The amount varies depending on the destination chosen.
  • It is usually used for group expenses that all travellers decide to take part in, but sometimes if you opt out of an activity it might make more sense for it to come out of the Money Pot. In these cases the Coordinator will return the amount for this activity back to you at the end of the trip. 
  • It is estimated based on the experience of other groups but can vary depending on what activities your group is keen for. As such, the Travel Coordinator may need to increase the amount during the trip.
  • If not all of the Money Pot is spent, the difference will be returned to all travellers at the end of the trip. 
  • The Money Pot also covers the Travel Coordinator’s share of the activities included in the Money Pot, except for those activities that are free for the Travel Coordinator.
  • If you pay in advance for part of the Money Pot before the trip for certain non-refundable optional activities, unfortunately, the amount cannot be refunded if the trip is cancelled. 
What payment methods can I use?

We offer several payment methods to fit every need:

1. Credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express);
2. Instalment payment with Klarna (you’ll pay for the trip in three equal amounts);
3. PayPal (for selected destinations);
4. Revolut Pay to pay even faster straight from your Revolut account.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?

Anyone who books a WeRoad trip has the option to cancel or modify the trip – including both the dates and the destination – free of charge up to 31 days before departure. In case of cancellation up to 31 days before departure, you will receive a 100% refund of the WeRoad trip price. If you make a change, a price adjustment will be applied to the new trip chosen – meaning, if the new trip is cheaper, we will refund the difference; if it’s more expensive, you will need to pay the difference.

If you’ve purchased the Flexible Cancellation Option (which you can add in the first step of the booking process), you can request a cancellation or trip change until 8 days before departure. In case of cancellation, you’ll receive a 100% refund of the WeRoad trip price, minus the cost of the Flexible Cancellation option. 

You can do it directly from your personal MyWeRoad account!
 
Within your booking you will find the "Change Your Trip" section at the bottom right, just underneath your booking details. You will be able to select a different date for the same trip, or a different trip entirely. Whether you are able to change the trip depends on the cancellation terms of your booking. For your original booking if you selected the Private Room, Flexible Cancellation or entered any discount code, gift card or voucher, before confirming the change we will let you know if anything isn't applicable to the new trip and you can decide whether to proceed or not. If you have any issues please do get in touch with the WeRoad team and we'll be able to help. 
 
It's not possible to move to a 'sold out' trip and with any trips that are 'on request' we will need to check availability with our local partners so please do get in touch if you want to move to an 'on request' trip. Please bear in mind that if the trip has the 'final spots' status, there may be no places left in either the male or female room.

How to request a cancellation or change to your trip? Send us an email at [email protected] or a WhatsApp on +447716573700. Please share the booking reference for the trip you want to cancel or change, and, in case of a change, the new trip you would like to join.

What type of accommodation should I expect on your trips?

For our trips we usually use locally owned accommodation instead of big hotel chains. It’s our favourite way to really experience the local culture and, whenever we can, support the local economy. Typically, you’ll stay in hotels, apartments, guesthouses and hostels with the same standard maintained across all trips in the same destination.

The list of accommodation for your trip will be shared with you by your Travel Coordinator 2-5 days before departure, along with other useful details for your adventure!

Can I find out my travel groups' flights?

Yes! We might not know the flights for everyone else in the group, but there are ways to find out which flights your fellow WeRoaders will be taking. 

1. All travellers can share their flight details after booking on their My WeRoad account so that other travellers on the same trip can see these details anonymously. 

2. Alternatively you can join our Facebook group: Solo Travellers | WeRoad Community – (here is the extended link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/963298767843213 ) Look for a post about the trip you’re interested in or ask the group admin for help in getting in touch with your future travel companions!

3. If the Coordinator has already been assigned to the trip you’re keen for, you can easily find their Facebook post on the website. Click 'Ask the Coordinator' and follow the link here. 

 



 

How is a group made up in average?

Our groups usually consist of 8–12 travellers, with a minimum of 3–4 and a maximum of 15. 
Everyone on our trips speaks English, and travellers join us from across the UK, Europe and beyond. Our trips are open to people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, with an average age of 34 across all trips.

Each group will be joined and led by one of our experienced Travel Coordinators, who’s there to ensure everything runs smoothly and the group feels well-supported. 

If you’d like to know more about our typical WeRoad groups do reach out to us on WhatsApp on +44 7716573700. 

Can I see who’s in the group before I book the trip?

Yes! If you're curious, you can take a sneak peek at the group before booking. 
You’ll find the info in the ‘Group’ section for each trip on the departures page, showing how many WeRoaders have already booked. 

Click the little arrow and you’ll even see their gender and ages – but hey, that’s exclusive info, so we’ll ask you to log in or sign up to see that!

If a location is mentioned, is it guaranteed that we’ll spend the night there?

For some trips, in the itinerary section, you’ll find the number of nights and the location (not the hotel) where you’ll be spending the night(s). The location shown is the one we usually go for on most trips, but in some cases, you might stay in a nearby town. This will depend on logistics or availability of accommodation. 

The list of accommodation for your trip (and therefore also the exact locations) will be shared by your Travel Coordinator 2-5 days before departure, along with other useful information for your adventure!

Who is the Travel Coordinator and what is their role on the trip?

The WeRoad Travel Coordinator is an experienced and skilled traveller who will be the perfect companion for your trip. They will manage all the logistical aspects of the itinerary like transport, timings, accommodation, restaurant bookings and meeting points, so that you can enjoy the trip without this hassle. They’re there to support the group, ensure everything runs smoothly and will no doubt make the trip a lot of fun along the way too! 

The Coordinator will set up a WhatsApp group approximately 2 weeks before departure. This will be the moment to ask any pre-departure questions and get to know the rest of the group! If the trip you are interested in already has a Travel Coordinator assigned, you can contact them before booking. Their details will be on the trip page, or you can search for their name here. After booking, you will find their contact details in your My WeRoad account, under ‘Bookings and Trips’ > ‘Your Upcoming Trips’ > ‘Trip Details’.

Will I be sharing a room?

Yes, on all our trips you will share a room with other WeRoaders in your group. By default this will be people of the same gender, unless you tick ‘I'm OK with a mixed gender room’ when you book. The bathroom will either be private or shared only with other travellers on the trip. The rooms might be twins, triples, quadruples or multi-share (up to 8 people in exceptional cases), depending on the destination and availability.

You will never share with people from outside of the WeRoad group, except in certain cases for local experiences, which are specifically mentioned in the itinerary or communicated before booking. These typically involve specific nights in unique accommodation like tents, homestays, or camping, offering a more adventurous travel experience in exchange for some comfort.

On some of our trips we can offer a private room for an additional cost. Just tick the ‘Private Room’ option at checkout to get this added. For some of our trips if you book as two travellers together you can add this private room free of charge. Look out for this option at checkout. 

Please note that if you do book a private room with a friend/partner this could be either a double or a twin room so please email [email protected] if you have a preference on this. 

How can I be part of the WeRoad community?

When you set off on a WeRoad trip, you’re officially a WeRoader – and as we often say, 'once a WeRoader, always a WeRoader'. This means that once you’re part of the community, a little piece of WeRoad will always stay with you.

But you’re not just a WeRoader during your trips, far from it! The community is alive and active all year round: you can stay in touch by following and interacting on our social media channels, like the Facebook group or the Instagram profile. You can also come along to one of our many events that we run in different cities worldwide. Check out and sign up to our events by downloading the WeMeet app here

From $ 877