7 Best Day Trips from Tirana by Car

Tirana is a lively capital, but some of Albania's best sights are just an hour or two away. With a rental car you can leave after breakfast and be back for dinner. These are the 7 best day trips from Tirana by car, from mountain castles to Roman ruins and lakes.

1. Kruja – castle and old bazaar (about 45 minutes)

Perched on a mountainside north of Tirana, Kruja is the town of Albania's national hero, Skanderbeg. Visit the castle and the Skanderbeg Museum, then stroll through the old bazaar with its cobbled lane, carpets and handicrafts. The drive is short, making it ideal for a half day.

2. Durrës – amphitheatre and beach (about 40 minutes)

Albania's main port city has a large Roman amphitheatre right in the centre, a Venetian tower and a long seafront promenade. In summer, combine sightseeing with an afternoon on the beach. Arriving by ferry? We also offer a Meet & Greet pick-up in Durrës.

3. Berat – the city of a thousand windows (about 2 hours)

Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage town famous for its white Ottoman houses stacked on the hillside. Walk up to the inhabited castle, visit the Onufri Museum with its icons, and cross the old bridge to the Gorica quarter. It is a long but very rewarding day.

4. Shkodër and Rozafa Castle (about 1 hour 45 minutes)

Head north to Shkodër, a relaxed city of cyclists and colourful streets beside Lake Shkodër. Climb to Rozafa Castle for wide views over the lake and rivers, then have lunch on the pedestrian street Rruga Kolë Idromeno. Shkodër is also the gateway to the Albanian Alps.

5. Lake Ohrid and Pogradec (about 2 hours 30 minutes)

Drive east through Elbasan to Pogradec on the shore of Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest lakes in Europe. Walk the lakeside promenade, try the local fish and visit the springs at Drilon. It is a long day, so start early.

6. Bovilla Lake (about 1 hour)

This emerald reservoir in the mountains supplies Tirana with drinking water and has become a favourite for hikers and photographers. A short hike to the viewpoint above the lake gives the best views. The final part of the road is narrow and partly unpaved, so drive slowly; a car with more ground clearance makes it easier.

7. Mount Dajti (about 45 minutes)

Tirana's own mountain rises right behind the city. You can drive up the mountain road to Dajti National Park for fresh air, walks in the forest and restaurants with panoramic views over the capital. It is the perfect quick escape on a hot summer day.

Tips for day trips from Tirana

• Leave early to avoid city traffic and summer heat.
• Park outside old centres in Kruja, Berat and Gjirokastër, where streets are narrow and steep.
• Choose the right car: a compact car is fine for most trips; for Bovilla or mountain roads consider an SUV.
• Read our tips for driving in Albania before your first trip.

Where to pick up your car

Collect your car at Tirana Airport, available 24/7, or at our Tirana Downtown location. See all locations on the Find Us map.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best day trip from Tirana?

For a short trip, Kruja is hard to beat. If you have a full day, Berat is the most memorable.

Can I visit Berat and Durrës in one day?

It is possible but tiring. It is better to see Durrës in the morning and return to Tirana, and give Berat its own day.

Do I need a 4x4 for these trips?

No. All these places can be reached with a normal car. Only the last part of the road to Bovilla Lake is rougher, where more ground clearance helps.

Ready to explore? Choose your car and plan your first day trip.