The Ultimate Albanian Riviera Itinerary: 7 or 10 Days
If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, sun-drenched beaches, and coastal towns—without the crowds and price tags of Europe’s more famous coastlines—it’s time to put the Albanian Riviera on your radar. Tucked along the country’s southwestern coast, this stunning stretch of the Ionian Sea is worth a visit.
The term Albanian Riviera refers to the coastal region that runs from the city of Vlorë down to the border town of Sarandë, just across from Corfu, Greece. With rugged mountains meeting crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, olive groves, and a series of laid-back beach towns, the Riviera earns its name thanks to its resemblance to more famous Mediterranean coastlines like the French and Italian Rivieras—just without the luxury price tags.
This 7-10 day itinerary will ensure you experience the best of southern Albania. And, once you visit the Albanian Riviera, you’ll wonder why you didn’t go sooner.
Albanian Riviera Itinerary
7-Day Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Arrival in Corfu – transfer to Ksamil
Day 2-3: Ksamil
Day 4: Ksamil – Himare
Day 5-6: Himare
Day 7: Departure
Day 1: Arrival in Corfu & Ferry to Ksamil
Your adventure begins in Corfu, Greece, where you’ll land at Corfu International Airport (CFU).
Take a taxi or shuttle to the Port of Corfu and board a ferry to Sarandë, Albania. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the service you choose. Look up ferry schedules and book your tickets here.
Albania is not part of the EU so you will need to go through immigration when you arrive in Sarande.
From Sarande, it’s a 20-30 minute taxi or bus ride south to Ksamil, a stunning beach town with crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches.
Enjoy a beach club for the afternoon or evening!
- Black Pearl: A trendy, upbeat spot with stylish sunbeds, cocktails, and DJ sets in the evenings.
- Ohana Beach Bar: A boho-chic beach club with a laid-back vibe and great cocktails.
- Pema e Thatë Beach Club: A bit further out of town, this beach club is more secluded and exclusive, offering high-end sunbeds, gourmet seafood, and an intimate setting.
- The Last Bay Ksamil: More of a hidden gem on a quieter beach.
- Principote Beach Club: Luxury meets party vibes, similar to its Mykonos namesake.
Where to Stay in Ksamil:
📍Hotel Olive: In the heart of Ksamil, Hotel Olive offers nice modern rooms and warm hospitality just a short walk from the beach.
📍Sunlight Hotel: Bright, airy, and true to its name, Sunlight Hotel features sea-view balconies, a peaceful atmosphere, and easy access to Ksamil’s iconic turquoise waters.
📍Poda Boutique Hotel Ksamil: Set right on the waterfront, Poda Boutique Hotel combines chic design with unbeatable beach views—perfect for a relaxed, upscale escape by the Ionian Sea.
Day 2: Ksamil & Blue Eye Spring
Start your day with a sunrise paddle board session. (Not a morning person? you can opt for a sunset paddle board session instead.
Spend your morning relaxing at Ksamil Beach.
In the afternoon, drive 40 minutes inland to visit the Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër), a deep natural spring with mesmerizing turquoise waters. You can take a short hike around the area or dip your feet in the freezing cold spring.
If you are not renting a car, you can take a day trip tour to the Blue Eye.
Return to Ksamil in the evening and enjoy dinner by the sea.
Day 3: Ksamil
In the morning, visit Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient ruins. It’s a 15-minute drive from Ksamil. Entrance fee of ~$11 (1000 LEK). Plan to spend about 1.5-2 hours here plus the time waiting for a bus.
- Bus: Local buses run approximately every 30-60 minutes from Ksamil to Butrint between 6:30 AM and 7:00 PM. The journey takes about 10 minutes and costs around 100 LEK (approximately 0.95 EUR).
- Taxi: A taxi ride costs between 1,000-1,500 LEK (10-15 EUR) and takes about 10 minutes.
You can spend up 2-3 hours here, if you want. Explore the ancient ruins, including a Roman theater, Venetian tower, and the Temple of Asclepius.
In the afternoon, check out one of these nearby beaches:
- Pulebardha Beach: a hidden gem that offers a more peaceful beach experience
- Mirror Beach (Plazhi i Pasqyrave): Mirror beach gets its name from its crystal clear water that reflects off of the sun.
Day 4: Ksamil to Himarë
Check out of your Ksamil accommodation and head north towards Sarandë.
- You can rent a car and drive yourself or hire a taxi (make sure you agree upon the fare before you start the drive).
- There is no direct bus from Ksamil to Himarë. First, take a bus from Ksamil to Sarandë (~15 minutes ride). From Sarandë, buses to Himarë depart a couple times per day and take about 1.5 hours.
Optional Stop: While in Sarandë, visit Lekursi Castle for breathtaking panoramic views and grab a coffee at one of the seaside cafes.
Continue your journey along the stunning coastal road towards Himarë, about a 2-hour drive away.
Where To Stay In Himare:
📍 Miamar Luxury Hotel & Spa: A sleek beachfront escape on Livadhi Beach, Miamar offers luxury comforts, a full-service spa, and stunning sea views just north of Himarë town.
📍Soñar en el mar: Charming and centrally located, Soñar en el mar puts you steps from the beach, restaurants, and all the laid-back vibes of Himarë’s seaside promenade.
📍ARXONTIKO: Right in the heart of town, ARXONTIKO blends traditional stone architecture with modern touches—ideal for travelers who want local character and walkable convenience
Day 5: Exploring Himarë & Nearby Beaches
Book a boat tour to explore the hidden gems of Himarë’s coastline. Several operators offer excursions to secluded beaches and caves. These tours typically last 4 to 4.5 hours, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
Highlights of the boat tour may include visits to:
- Pigeon’s Cave: A fascinating sea cave accessible only by boat.
- Gjipe Beach: A secluded beach nestled between towering cliffs, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Pirate’s Cave: An intriguing cave with historical significance and unique rock formations.
Day 6: Exploring Himarë & Nearby Beaches
Take a day to relax and explore the surrounding beaches.
- Filikuri Beach – Accessible by boat or a short but steep hike.
- Jali Beach – A stunning beach with a mix of relaxation and lively bars.
- Gjipe Beach – Hike through the canyon for an off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Livadhi Beach – Known for its clear waters and pebbled shore
Spend your evening strolling along Himarë’s promenade and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
Day 7: Departure
Drive back to Sarandë in the morning
Catch the ferry from Sarande port to Corfu.
Depending on your departure time, you can spend your last few hours wandering around Corfu Old Town before heading to the airport.
10-Day Albania Itinerary
10-Day Itinerary Overview:
Day 1: Arrival in Corfu – transfer to Ksamil
Day 2-3: Ksamil
Day 4: Ksamil – Himare
Day 5-6: Himare
Day 7: Himare – Dhermi
Day 8: Dhermi
Day 9: Stay in Dhermi or optional day in Gjirokastër
Day 10: Departure
Days 1-6: Ksamil & Himare
Follow Days 1-6 from the above itinerary.
Day 7: Himarë to Dhërmi
Leave Himarë and drive north towards Dhërmi, another beautiful coastal town about 45 minutes away
Along the way, stop at Llogara Pass, a breathtaking mountain pass with panoramic views of the Albanian Riviera.
Where To Stay In Dhermi:
📍La Brisa Boutique Hotel: Beachfront retreat with a rooftop infinity pool and beachside dining.
📍Hotel Sarajet e Pashait: This charming boutique hotel showcases traditional Albanian design and offers a peaceful, garden-filled retreat just a short drive from the beach.
Day 8: Exploring Dhërmi & Relaxing at the Beach
Spend a full day enjoying Drymades Beach and discovering more hidden beaches around Dhërmi.
You can also take a paragliding tour over Llogara Pass for an unforgettable experience.
Day 9: Dhermi to Gjirokastër
If you’re a beach lover, you can spend another day in Dhermi. Or if you’re a history lover, consider heading inland to the historic city of Gjirokastër for the day; it’s a UNESCO-listed town known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
Explore the cobbled streets, visit Gjirokastër Castle, and check out the Ethnographic Museum.
You can stay the night in Gjirokaster or make the drive back to Sarande (~1 hour) in the evening and stay there so you’re in town to catch the ferry back tomorrow.
Where To Stay In Gjirokastër:
📍Hotel Kalemi 2: Stay in a beautifully restored Ottoman-style house with authentic charm, panoramic views, and a short walk to Gjirokastër Castle.
Where To Stay in Sarandë:
📍Demi Hotel: Right on the beachfront promenade, Demi Hotel offers sea-facing rooms and an excellent restaurant—perfect for travelers who want comfort and convenience.
📍Buzë Boutique Hotel: This serene hotel sits just outside the main town center with panoramic views, a pool overlooking the sea, and a peaceful vibe.
Day 10: Return to Corfu & Departure
Drive back to Sarandë in the morning (~1 hour) and catch the ferry to Corfu.
Depending on your departure time, you can spend your last few hours wandering around Corfu Old Town before heading to the airport.
Best Towns To Visit In The Albanian Riviera
When planning your ideal South Albania itinerary, these are the main towns you should consider adding into your plans. Here’s what makes each place special.
Ksamil
Ksamil is perhaps the most famous beach town in Albania, drawing visitors with its postcard-perfect beaches and clear blue waters. This also makes it the most traditionally “touristy” and developed.
Located within the Butrint National Park, Ksamil is known for its pristine beaches and offshore islands that you can reach by kayak or boat. The soft white sand and shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and relaxing.
However, Ksamil’s popularity comes at a cost—during peak season, the beaches can be extremely crowded, and prices tend to be higher than in other parts of Albania. If you want to experience its beauty without the masses, visiting in the shoulder seasons (May–June or September) is a great idea.
Himare
Himarë is a more laid-back coastal town with a mix of stunning beaches and a charming old town. Unlike Ksamil, Himarë has a more relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking to escape the crowds. The town itself is small but has a lovely promenade lined with seafood restaurants and cafes.
Some of the best beaches in the area include Livadhi Beach and Gjipe Beach, the latter of which requires a short hike but rewards visitors with a secluded paradise. Himarë also has a rich history, with a beautiful castle perched on a hill offering panoramic views over the coast.
The only downside to Himarë is that public transport can be limited, so renting a car is highly recommended if you are staying for a while and want to explore the surrounding beaches and mountains.
Sarandë
Sarandë is the main gateway to the Albanian Riviera and the busiest coastal city in the south. While it doesn’t have the pristine beaches of Ksamil or the peaceful charm of Himarë, it offers plenty in terms of nightlife, restaurants, and accessibility.
Sarandë is a great base for visiting nearby attractions like Butrint, the Blue Eye spring, and Ksamil. The town itself has a long waterfront promenade with vibrant bars and restaurants, making it a fun place to stay if you’re looking for an energetic atmosphere.
However, during the summer months, it can feel overcrowded and somewhat commercialized compared to other spots on the Riviera. Still, for convenience and entertainment, Sarandë is hard to beat.
Dhermi
Dhermi is another coastal town worth mentioning. It is known for its breathtaking beaches with crystal-clear water and fine white pebbles.
Dhermi Beach and Drymades Beach are among the best in the country, attracting both locals and international visitors. The town also has a small but picturesque old village perched on the hills, offering a more traditional Albanian experience.
While Dhermi is a beautiful place to relax, it can be expensive compared to other towns in southern Albania, especially in peak season.
Gjirokastër
Gjirokastër is a must-visit for history lovers. Unlike the coastal destinations, Gjirokastër offers a glimpse into Albania’s Ottoman past with its well-preserved stone architecture and cobbled streets.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the imposing Gjirokastër Castle, which provides stunning views of the Drino Valley. The town is also famous for its traditional houses, many of which have been turned into museums, such as the Skenduli House.
Additionally, Gjirokastër is known for its delicious local cuisine, especially dishes like qifqi (herb-infused rice balls).
Be aware that visiting Gjirokastër does require some uphill walking, as the town is built on a steep hillside, but the views and historic ambiance make the effort worthwhile.
Vlorë
Vlorë serves as the northern gateway to the Albanian Riviera and could be a good starting point for a southern Albania trip. It is a larger city with a mix of history, culture, and beach life.
While its beaches are not as spectacular as those further south, it has an important place in Albanian history as the city where Albania declared independence in 1912. The city’s Lungomare promenade is a pleasant place for an evening walk, and it offers ferry connections to Italy, making it a practical entry or exit point for travelers.
How To Get Around The Albanian Riviera
If you want to visit a lot of towns and/or plan on staying 7+ days then renting a car will be your best bet. If you’re only going for 5-7 days and stay in 1 or 2 locations, you don’t need a car. You can do the 7-Day itinerary I have listed in this post (staying in Ksamil and Himare) without renting a car.
Renting a Car – The Best Option for Flexibility
The Albanian Riviera is best explored by car if you want to visit multiple beaches, small villages, and hidden gems without relying on public transport schedules. Many of the best beaches are located off the main road and require some driving on dirt paths.
Car rental companies operate out of Tirana, Vlora, and Saranda. If you’re flying into Albania, renting a car at Tirana International Airport is the most convenient option. You can also rent from major providers in larger cities.
Gas stations are available in larger towns, but they can be scarce in more remote areas—fill up when you can!
Book taxis or car rentals in advance during peak season. Summer months (June-August) see high demand, and prices may be higher.
Taxis – Convenient but Pricey for Long Distances
Taxis are available in major towns like Saranda, Himara, and Vlora, and they can be a good option for shorter trips or if you don’t want to drive yourself.
Important notes:
- Cash is king in Albania, and most taxis do not accept credit cards.
- Prices should be negotiated before starting your trip, as meters are often not used. If you plan to use taxis frequently, have plenty of small-denomination Lek on hand, as drivers may not always have change for larger bills.
- In Saranda, you can use ride-hailing apps like Speed Taxi to call for a ride
Buses and Furgons – Budget-Friendly but Infrequent
This option is best if you are on a budget and flexible with your schedule.
Public buses:
- The Riviera is served by a network of intercity buses connecting major towns like Vlora, Dhermi, Himara, and Saranda.
- Bus schedules are inconsistent, and many routes only run a few times a day.
- Expect to pay between 300-700 Lek (€3-€7) depending on distance.
Furgons (minibuses):
- These shared vans are a common way for locals to travel between towns.
- Unlike buses, furgons don’t follow a strict schedule—they leave when full.
- Furgons can be flagged down along the roadside, but finding one in remote areas can be challenging.
The Best Time To Visit The Albanian Riviera
The tourist season stretches from late spring to early fall because you’ll get the best weather from May through September.
In May to early June it’ll be warm enough to swim but still not crowded.
Mid-June through August is the peak of summer tourist season.
September is another good month to go when the weather is still nice but the high season chaos has died down a bit.
October to April is the off season and some hotels, beach bars, and restaurants shut down.
Map Of South Albania Itinerary
Here are the key locations of where to visit as well as restaurant and sightseeing recommendations.
TLDR; The Ultimate Albanian Riviera Itinerary
These 7-day & 10-day itineraries ensure you experience the best of the Albanian Riviera, from stunning beaches to historic sites and hidden gems. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, this coastal paradise has it all.
Got your beach bag packed? The Albanian Riviera is waiting! 🌊