20+ Day Trips From Tirana You’ll Want to Try

Day trips are one of the best (and most fun) ways to experience a new country. Sure, fully exploring a place probably takes months…or even years, but with a bit of planning, you can still see and enjoy so much in just a few days. One of the best ways to do that, especially if you want to visit more than just a couple of cities, is by organising day trips.

Now, while you can definitely manage this by doing a bit of online research and navigating Albania by bus, from my personal experience, joining a guided tour is often the better option, and here’s why:

• You learn so much more about the places you’re visiting. Tour guides are full of valuable info and stories.
• Prices are usually very reasonable, especially for destinations near Tirana.
• Sometimes it’s more fun to explore with a group of people who are just as curious and excited as you are.

Nota: Some of these places are remote or not super well-marked, so it’s best to go with a guide, especially if you’re not familiar with the terrain. A few spots can be tricky (or even a bit risky) to explore without a guide.

When it comes to buses, you can check the schedules at the Terminal degli autobus sud e nord or the East Bus Terminal, depending on where you’re heading. If you’re not on a tight budget, you could also take a taxi, though it will be pricier. Some electric taxi options in Tirana include:

• Taxi Lux
• Taxi intelligente
• DOTaxi
• Taxi verde

Just search their number online, and you can call or message them on WhatsApp.

Lastly, renting a car is always an option if you prefer having full control over your route and timing.

Save These 20+ Day Trips From Tirana

Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain Hike

If you’re an active traveller who loves challenging yourself in a new country while being surrounded by breathtaking nature, this is one activity you should definitely try when in Albania.

Lake Bovilla, also known as Bovilla Reservoir, is located within Dajti Mountain National Park (about 1 hour and 7 minutes from Tirana) and is a popular spot for activities like hiking and climbing. The views are so dreamy, you’ll want to capture every bit of nature on your screen. The turquoise lake takes centre stage, surrounded by green hills and stunning mountain peaks that don’t disappoint.

Add this to your bucket list, it’s so worth it! 😉

This guided tour costs €20.

Kruja Castle, Old Bazaar & Sari Salltik View

Kruja is the birthplace of our National Hero, Gjergj Kastriot Skënderbeu, and as such, it holds a very special place in Albania’s history, particularly for its resistance against the Ottoman Empire. It’s a destination I highly suggest visiting if you’re planning to spend some time in Albania. Located about a 1 hour and 17 minute drive from Tirana, it makes for a perfect day trip getaway.

In Kruja, you can wander through the traditional Old Bazaar, filled with local products and handmade items, each crafted with care to reflect even the smallest of details. You can also hike up Sarisalltik Mountain and visit Sari Salltik’s Shrine, a religious site located at the top of the mountain where you’ll find a cave with a sacred fountain, and a small mosque believed to be the first ever built in Albania.

This guided tour costs €25.

Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Tour

Berat, also known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Albania and definitely a must-visit while exploring the country. It’s located around 2 hours from Tirana, making it an easy day trip or a great option for a longer stay.

Its unique Ottoman-era architecture is a defining feature, with windows layered one above the other, creating that famous postcard-perfect view. Exploring the city means wandering its cobbled streets, visiting the well-preserved castle, and discovering the churches and mosques that reflect Berat’s deep-rooted religious harmony; something that characterises Albania as a whole. You’ll also find charming local shops, traditional food to try, and even more things to explore.

And if you want to make the most of your day (with a guided tour), you can enjoy a scenic stop at Belsh Lake on this fun and relaxed outing.

This guided tour costs €23.

Gjirokastra UNESCO City & Blue Eye

Gjirokastra is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Albania and one of my favourite cities in the country! There’s something about its stunning architecture, culture, and layered history that not only attracts thousands of tourists but also makes you want to stay longer than just a day or two.

And since it’s along the way, you can also stop at the Blue Eye near Saranda, one of Albania’s most popular natural attractions. It’s a natural spring with stunningly clear, blue water where unique color and depth of the spring resemble a giant blue eye.

The only downside to this day trip is the longer distance from Tirana, which can make it a bit tiring to go there and back in a single day.

This guided tour costs €58.

Kallmi Guided ATV Quad Bike Tour with Helmet

Kallmi is a beautiful beach, slightly off the beaten track, located in Durrës. While a day trip to Durrës is always convenient and easy to plan from Tirana, if you’re someone who loves an adrenaline rush you might be craving something a bit more adventurous. Like a guided ATV quad bike tour!

What better way to explore Durrës than this? In my opinion, it’s a must. Ride through the untouched landscapes of Kallmi in a way that’ll get your blood pumping and your heart wanting more!

This guided tour costs €35.

Ohrid & St Naum Day Tour

Do you want to visit a new country in just one day?

This is your sign to explore the charming city of Ohrid, known for its 365 churches that reflect cultures from the Roman Empire to the Ottoman period and beyond. On your journey, you’ll also have the chance to visit the Saint Naum Monastery, famous for its striking Byzantine architecture and beautiful central church. And the best surprise is that the monastery is home to stunning peacocks, adding a magical touch to the experience.

Fonte dell'immagine: Pexels White Swan and Cygnets on Lake in Albania

On your way back into Albania, you’ll stop at Drilon Park, a peaceful spot in Pogradec, renowned for its lush ecosystem, flowing river, ducks, swans, and tranquil natural surroundings.

This guided tour costs €78.

Day Tour of Montenegro Budva, Kotor & S.Stefan

Here’s another option that makes for a great trip just within a day. It takes only a few hours to fully explore the iconic Sveti Stefan island, the charming Budva Old Town, the UNESCO-listed Kotor Old Town, and other main attractions in the area.

As part of the adventure, you can even relax on the beautiful Mogren Beach and take a refreshing swim in the sea, dip your feet in the water, or just enjoy the views, it’s a great way to end the day.

Each place has its own charm and history, and they’re all easy to see in one trip.

This guided tour costs €73.

Prishtina and Prizren from Tirana

Is Kosovo on your bucket list too? The best way to experience both Albania and Kosovo in one trip is by taking a day tour from Tirana (in case you’re staying here). This guided tour is one of the best you can get to see both the capital, Prishtina, and the charming city of Prizren in just one day.

The vibes are quite different. In my opinion, Prishtina feels more urban and fast-paced, while Prizren is more laid-back and full of character, with its cobbled streets and beautiful old architecture.

This guided tour costs €51.

Vlora City and Zvërnec Island Tour

A day trip to Vlorë is always a good idea… but what if you could add a visit to Zvërnec Island, the St. Mary’s Monastery, and the beautiful Narta Lagoon?! It turns a simple day out into something you’ll truly remember.

Once you arrive in Vlorë, your first stop will be Zvërnec. The area is surrounded by salt marshes and untouched landscapes. Just north of the village lies Narta Lagoon, a unique ecosystem filled with all kinds of birdlife, including pelicans, redshanks, and yes, flamingos. A wooden bridge connects the mainland to Zvërnec Island, where you’ll find a peaceful Byzantine monastery dedicated to the Dormition of the Mother of God. It’s a quiet, magical spot tucked away in nature.

This guided tour costs €67.

Shëngjergj Day Trip with Waterfall Visit

The Waterfall of Shëngjergj is one of those hidden gems that not many tourists know about. It’s only about a one-hour drive from Tirana, and one of those trips where the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination itself!

Start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Shëngjergj Waterfall, a natural spectacle where water gracefully spills over the rocks, creating a cool haven and a calming soundtrack for your visit. It’s a great spot to take souvenir photos or simply soak in the peaceful power of nature.

Then, head into the heart of the village, where time seems to slow down. Here, you’ll discover traditions that have been passed down through generations. The locals, proud keepers of these customs, may even share a few stories from the past and give you a glimpse into their way of life.

This guided tour costs €40.

Dajti Mountain by Cable Car

Dajti Mountain is often referred to as the “Balcony of Tirana”, and it’s simple to understand why after looking at the panoramic views of the entire city from above. It’s an oasis of calm, natural beauty, and fresh air, but it’s also a destination that suits all types of travellers. You can enjoy a traditional lunch or a coffee with a view, but if you’re after a bit more excitement, you can try quad biking, horse riding, or even golfing.

Getting to Dajti Mountain is easy it’s a short drive from Tirana. But for the full experience, you might want to take the cable car instead. Just head to the ticket station (accessible by bus or taxi), and hop on for a scenic ride up the mountain. Or, if you prefer convenience, try the Dajti Mountain guided tour and get picked up directly from your accommodation.

This guided tour costs €45.

Komani Lake and Shala River Day Trip

The Shala River, nicknamed the “Thailand of Albania,” is a natural haven with turquoise waters, forested cliffs, and mountains surrounding Lake Koman, reminiscent of the landscapes found in Thailand.

Your adventure begins with a scenic boat ride across Komani Lake, which is an experience in itself. The lake winds through narrow canyons and between towering cliffs, offering views you won’t soon forget. Once you arrive at the Shala River, you’ll have time to relax, explore the area, or take a refreshing swim in the cold, clear water.

This guided tour costs €59.

Durrës Beach, Sun, and History Day Trip

Just an hour from Tirana, Durrës is the kind of place where you can mix history, beach time, and good seafood, all in one day. It’s one of Albania’s oldest cities, and you really feel that as you walk around.

Start your visit with a stop at King Zog’s Royal Villa, perched on a hill with a view of the Adriatic. Then, stroll past ancient ruins and landmarks like the Venetian Tower and the Durrës Amphitheatre, one of the largest of its kind in the Balkans.

In summer (June to September), the second half of the day is all about beach time. You’ll have a few hours to relax, swim, and enjoy fresh seafood by the coast. Outside of summer, you’ll explore the lively promenade instead, perfect for a seaside coffee and a walk.

It’s an easy, no-stress trip that gives you a little bit of everything: history, sunshine, sea breeze, and a slice of real local life.

This guided tour costs €18.

Saranda, Ksamil & Blue Eye Day Trip

You haven’t really visited Albania if you haven’t been to Saranda and Ksamil at least once. If you’re not planning a full trip down south to explore the Riviera, a day trip from Tirana is still totally worth it.

Now, if you ask me… sure, one day isn’t enough and yes, it can be a bit tiring to squeeze it all in. But if you’ve got that adventurous spirit and want to make the most of your time, then go for it. You can either book a guided tour (so you don’t have to think about logistics), or just hop on a bus from Tirana that takes you straight to Saranda.

This guided tour costs €45.

Albanian Alps and Theth Village Day Tour

A day tour to Northern Albania? Yes, please!

Even if you’re more into beaches, Northern Albania is a nature lover’s dream and honestly, something you shouldn’t miss. The mountains, rivers, and remote villages offer a completely different side of Albania that feels peaceful, wild, and untouched.

Theth is one of those places that feels like a step back in time. You’ll explore the little village surrounded by the Albanian Alps, visit its famous church and the Tower of Reconciliation, and enjoy a traditional lunch with local flavours.

Then comes the real adventure: hiking to the Blue Eye of Theth. It takes about an hour each way, and the views along the trail are totally worth it. The water is freezing, but taking a dip in the Blue Eye is one of those experiences you’ll talk about for ages.

It’s a long day, but if you love nature and want something totally different from the usual beach trip, this one’s for you.

This guided tour costs €52.

Përmet & Thermal Bath

If you’re up for a longer trip and want something completely different from beaches or big cities, Përmet is one of the best places to escape to. Known as the “City of Roses” and set along the wild Vjosa River, Përmet is peaceful, local, and full of natural beauty.

The tour usually starts early in the morning with a few breaks along the way, including a stop by the river and Këlcyrë Gorge. Once in Përmet, you’ll explore the town centre and get a taste of local life, literally.

The highlight of the trip, though, is the Bënja Thermal Baths. These natural hot springs are loved by locals and hidden in a scenic area surrounded by mountains and old Ottoman bridges. The water is warm, mineral-rich, and said to have healing properties. You’ll also get to explore the nearby Langarica Canyon if time allows, bonus!

It’s a long day (around 12 hours total), but if you want a relaxing, off-the-beaten-path experience with a bit of culture, history, and great food, this one’s a gem.

This guided tour costs €106.

Boat Tour to the Islands of Sazan and Karaburun

This full-day trip from Tirana or Durrës takes you to Sazan Island, a former military zone that’s now open to visitors. It’s raw, quiet, and still full of Cold War-era bunkers and tunnels that give it a mysterious feel. After exploring, you’ll cruise over to the Karaburun Peninsula, where you’ll spend the day relaxing on wild beaches that haven’t been overly developed.

This guided tour costs €49.

Lëpushë, Tamarë & Vermosh

If you’re up for a road trip through winding mountain roads, untouched landscapes, and tiny villages that feel frozen in time add this escape to your list.

This is one of those trips where the journey itself is the best part. The views are unreal. You won’t find big tourist crowds here, but you’ll find plenty of chances to connect with nature.

For such trips, it’s worth checking pages like @beautifulalbania on Instagram. They often post guided trips, weekend packages, and updated routes you can join if you don’t feel like driving yourself.

This guided tour costs €19.

Shtegu i Ngjyrave

If you’re into hikes with actual views, Shtegu i Ngjyrave is one to add to your list. The name means “Trail of Colours,” and it really delivers, especially in spring or early summer.

The trail is up in the Kukës area, close to the border with Kosovo. Expect a full day of walking, with a lot of uphill. But the views are totally worth it. You’ll pass through open meadows, small streams, and get some unreal panoramas from the top.

Check out: myalbanianatureexplorers on Instagram.

This guided tour costs around €31.

Kanioni i Holtës Canyon w/ Hiking & Swimming!

It is best to go with a guide unless you are familiar with the area!

If you’re looking for a day trip that mixes adventure, nature, and a bit of chill time Kanioni i Holtës is a solid choice. It’s about 1.5 hours from Tirana, tucked in the Elbasan region, and still feels pretty wild and untouched.

The hike through the canyon is about 3 km and includes walking through water (sometimes up to your knees), so you’ll need sturdy sandals and a swimsuit. What makes it extra special is the natural sulfur pool right inside the canyon, perfect for relaxing your muscles after the walk.

You’ll also pass by Lake Banjës on the way, which is worth a stop for photos.

This guided tour costs €53.

Eye of the Cyclops Day Tour with Hiking

If you’re looking for a chill half-day escape that still feels like an adventure, this one’s for you. Just outside Tirana, in the hills near Krrabë, you’ll find a rocky natural pool known as Syri i Ciklopit, or the Eye of the Cyclops.

It takes around 70 minutes of hiking to get there, but the trail is peaceful and not too difficult if you’re used to walking. At the end of the hike, you’ll reach a circular rock formation with clear water surrounded by forest. It’s quiet, beautiful, and a great place to cool off with a swim if the weather allows.

This guided tour costs €45.

Ready to Escape City Life for a Day?

Tirana has a lot to offer, but sometimes you just need a little change of scenery. A short drive or guided tour can take you to mountains, beaches, rivers, and small towns that feel like a whole different world.

Pick a spot that feels right, grab someone to go with, or just head out on your own, and make a day of it. You won’t regret it.

Which one are you thinking of trying first?