What's the easiest way to reach these destinations from Tirana?

Guided tours with round-trip transportation are the most convenient option. They include comfortable air-conditioned transfers, and many also offer hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing you to visit multiple attractions without worrying about driving, parking, or public transport connections.

Do I need to book my day trip in advance?

Yes. Booking **1-2 weeks in advance** is recommended, particularly between **May and September** when tours are in high demand. Small-group experiences, such as the **Bovilla Lake hiking tour**, and popular summer trips to **Ksamil** and the **Blue Eye** often sell out first.

Are guided tours worth it for day trips from Tirana?

Absolutely. Guided tours take care of transportation, route planning, and logistics while providing valuable insights into Albania's history, culture, and natural landscapes. Many also include attraction tickets, such as **Berat Castle**, **Blue Eye Spring**, or **Lekursi Castle**, offering excellent value and a hassle-free experience.

What's the best time of year to take a day trip from Tirana?

**April to June** and **September to October** offer the best weather for sightseeing and hiking. If you're planning to visit **Ksamil** or **Saranda** for the beaches, **June through August** is ideal, although these months are also the busiest.

Can I visit more than one destination in a single day?

Yes. Several tours are designed to combine multiple attractions in one itinerary. Popular combinations include **Berat with Belshi Lake**, **Blue Eye, Saranda & Ksamil**, and **Gjirokastër, Saranda & Ksamil**, making it easy to experience both cultural landmarks and natural scenery in a single day.

Are entrance tickets included in the tours?

It depends on the experience you choose. Many tours include entry to attractions such as **Berat Castle**, **Blue Eye Spring**, or **Lekursi Castle**, while others focus on guided sightseeing or outdoor activities. Always check the inclusions for your selected tour before booking.

Which Tirana day trip is best for nature lovers?

If you enjoy hiking and mountain scenery, the **Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain** tour is an excellent choice. For natural springs and coastal landscapes, tours to the **Blue Eye**, **Ksamil**, and **Saranda** are among the most popular options.

Tirana Day Trips

Q: How long does a typical day trip from Tirana take?

Most day trips last **6 to 14 hours**, depending on the destination. Nearby excursions like **Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain** take around **6-7 hours**, while tours to **Berat**, **Blue Eye**, **Ksamil**, **Saranda**, and **Gjirokastër** are typically full-day experiences lasting **10-14 hours**.

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Day Trips

From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Day Trip

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 1 year are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
Hotel transfers are applicable to all hotels in Tirana city only. Make sure to specify the name and address of your hotel.
Ensure you arrive at your hotel lobby 10–15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure on the day of the tour.
Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 30 participants for a more comfortable experience.

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9 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

From Tirana: Kruja Castle, Old Bazaar & Sari Salltik Day Trip

Explore Krujë’s historic landmarks on a guided day trip from Tirana that blends medieval history, local culture, and scenic landscapes.

Day out to: Krujë Castle, the Old Bazaar of Krujë, Mount Krujë, and Mount Sari Saltik, with pick-up and drop-off from seven locations in Tirana and round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle.
You’ll get: A licensed English-speaking tour guide, entry to Krujë Castle, a guided visit to the Old Bazaar of Krujë, transfers to Mount Krujë, scenic viewpoints along Mount Sari Saltik, and free time to explore Krujë at your own pace.
Krujë Castle: Visit Albania’s historic hilltop fortress associated with national hero Skanderbeg, offering sweeping views over the surrounding valleys.
Old Bazaar of Krujë: Walk through a traditional Ottoman-style market street lined with handicraft shops, souvenirs, and artisan goods.
Mount Krujë & Mount Sari Saltik: Head into the mountains for panoramic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding countryside and coastline.

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6 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

From Tirana: Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain Hiking Day Trip by Minivan

Escape the city for a guided mountain hike that leads to dramatic viewpoints, fresh air, and some of Albania’s most striking scenery.

Full day out to: Bovilla Lake and Gamti Mountain, with smooth hotel pick up and air-conditioned transfers from Tirana for a stress-free day from start to finish.
You’ll get: A guided hike to Bovilla Lake and Gamti Mountain, round-trip air-conditioned transfers with hotel pick up from Tirana, panoramic views over Dajti National Park and surrounding landscapes, a professional hiking guide, expert commentary, scenic photo stop at a small Bovilla canyon, free time to relax and explore at the top of Gamti Mountain, and all facility fees.
Bovilla Canyon: Stop at a narrow rocky canyon near Bovilla Lake, where steep cliffs and dramatic terrain create a striking setting for photos.
Gamti Mountain: Hike to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Bovilla Lake, with time to rest, soak in the scenery, and connect with fellow travelers.

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6 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

From Saranda: Blue Eye Kayak Tour

Paddle through Albania’s legendary Blue Eye spring on a guided kayak adventure from Saranda.

Day out to: The magical Blue Eye, with round-trip transfers from Saranda. Enjoy a scenic drive, a safety briefing, and plenty of time to swim, relax, or snap photos in nature’s turquoise playground.
You’ll get: Transfers from Saranda, kayak and safety gear, an English-speaking guide, and free time at the Blue Eye.
Blue Eye: Marvel at the vivid turquoise waters, learn local legends, and enjoy a peaceful swim or photo stop at this natural wonder.
Muzinë: Journey through lush landscapes and discover the serene beauty of southern Albania en route to the Blue Eye.

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4 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

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Day Trips

From Tirana: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip with Wine Tasting

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 2 years are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
You will be contacted in advance by the guide with exact pickup details and vehicle information.
Arrive at your chosen pickup location at least 10–15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Wine tasting is included in the tour. Lunch is not included and must be paid for separately if chosen.

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Free cancellation

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8 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

From Tirana: Ksamil, Saranda & Blue Eye Day Trip

Ready for Albania’s Riviera? Ksamil beaches, Saranda & the Blue Eye in one day.

Day out to: Ksamil, Saranda, and the Blue Eye with round-trip transport from Tirana. Enjoy free time for swimming, sightseeing, and exploring vibrant coastal villages and natural wonders.
You’ll get: Entry tickets to the Blue Eye Spring, expert local guide, liability insurance, and comfortable transport from Tirana.
Ksamil: Relax on white-sand beaches, swim in turquoise waters, or explore the village, Albania’s ‘Ionian Pearl.’
Saranda: Stroll the lively seaside promenade, enjoy mountain and sea views, and soak up the city’s relaxed charm.
Blue Eye: Witness the dazzling turquoise spring, take a guided walk, and snap photos of this unique natural phenomenon.

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17 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

#From Tirana/Golem/Durres: Kruja, Bazaar, Sari Salltik Day Trip

Discover Krujë’s rich history and spiritual landmarks on a guided day trip from Tirana, combining medieval heritage, traditional culture, and mountain viewpoints.

Day out to: Krujë Castle, the Old Bazaar of Krujë, the Gjergj Kastrioti National Museum (Skanderbeg Museum), the Ethnographic Museum of Krujë, Mount Krujë, and the Sari Saltik Shrine, with hotel pick-up and drop-off in Tirana and round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle.
You’ll get: A professional guide-driver, entry to Krujë Castle, visits to the Skanderbeg Museum and the Ethnographic Museum of Krujë, entry to the Sari Saltik Shrine, transfers to Mount Krujë, and around 1.5 hours of free time to explore Krujë.
Krujë Castle: Visit the historic hilltop fortress linked to Albania’s national hero Skanderbeg, offering sweeping views over the surrounding valleys.
Gjergj Kastrioti National Museum (Skanderbeg Museum): Explore exhibits dedicated to Skanderbeg’s life, battles, and legacy within the castle complex.
Ethnographic Museum of Krujë: Step inside a restored Ottoman-era house showcasing traditional Albanian household life, crafts, and cultural artifacts.
Old Bazaar of Krujë: Walk along a cobbled Ottoman-era market street lined with shops selling handmade carpets, jewelry, and local crafts.
Mount Krujë & Sari Saltik Shrine: Head into the mountains to visit the revered Sari Saltik Shrine and enjoy panoramic views across the surrounding countryside.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

7 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

#From Durres/Golem: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 2 years are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
Pets are allowed on this tour.
Infant seats are available on request.
You will be contacted in advance by the guide with exact pickup details and vehicle information.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

7 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

#From Tirana/Durres/Golem: Sazan Island & Karaburun Peninsula Speedboat Tour

An easy full-day escape to Albania’s Ionian coast with scenic boat cruising, swim breaks, coastal landmarks, and stress-free transfers included.

Everything you get: A full-day coastal escape from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem with hotel pick-up, road transfers to Vlora, and a boat cruise along Albania’s Ionian coast. Expect swim time at Karaburun Peninsula, panoramic passes by Sazan Island and Haxhi Ali Cave, and enough deck space on the boat.
Why choose this: It’s one of the easiest ways to see Albania’s wild southern coast without planning boats, buses, or timings yourself.
Upgrades: Want to go inside Haxhi Ali Cave instead of viewing it from the boat? You can opt for a speedboat entry on the spot with the crew, depending on sea conditions and availability.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

12 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

Tirana Pub Crawl: Guided Nightlife Tour with Entry to Three Venues, Welcome Drinks, and DJ Entertainment

Discover Tirana’s nightlife with guided entry to three lively venues, welcome drinks, and local DJ sets.

Everything you get: Explore the energetic Blloku district with guided access to three unique venues, each offering a complimentary welcome drink and live music or DJ sets from local artists. Mingle with locals and fellow travelers in a small group, with liability insurance included.
Why choose this: Enjoy a curated night out with exclusive access, entertainment, and drinks—no planning or guesswork needed.

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4 hrs

Guided tour

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Slide 1 of 4

No time to read? Tirana's top day trips in a nutshell

Destination	Distance from Tirana	One-way travel time	Top highlights	Ideal for	Recommended tickets
Berat	~120 km	~2 hrs	Berat Castle, Mangalemi Quarter, Gorica Bridge, Belshi Lake, optional wine tasting	History lovers, architecture enthusiasts, photographers	Book now
Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain	~25 km	~1 hr	Guided hike, Bovilla Lake viewpoints, Dajti National Park, Bovilla Canyon	Hikers, nature lovers, adventure seekers	Book now
Blue Eye, Saranda & Ksamil	~280 km	~4 hrs	Blue Eye Spring, Ksamil beaches, Saranda promenade	Beach lovers, first-time visitors, families	Book now
Gjirokastër, Saranda & Ksamil	~230 km	~3.5 hrs	UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër, Saranda, Ksamil Beach	Travelers wanting history and coastal scenery in one trip	Book now

Why take a day trip from Tirana?

1/5

Easy to explore in a day

Tirana's central location makes it a convenient starting point for discovering Albania's top destinations. Reach Berat in around 2 hours, Bovilla Lake in about an hour, or travel south to the Blue Eye, Saranda, Ksamil, and Gjirokastër on well-planned full-day excursions that return the same evening.

Discover Albania's top highlights

From the UNESCO-listed streets of Berat and Gjirokastër to the emerald waters of the Blue Eye Spring and the beaches of Ksamil, day trips from Tirana showcase the country's rich mix of history, culture, mountains, and coastline. Nature lovers can also hike Gamti Mountain for sweeping views over Bovilla Lake and Dajti National Park.

Stress-free travel with guided tours

Forget navigating unfamiliar roads or public transport. Most tours include round-trip transfers from Tirana, while many also offer hotel pickup, expert English-speaking guides, and attraction tickets such as entry to Berat Castle or the Blue Eye Spring, making your journey smooth from start to finish.

Experience more in less time

Well-planned itineraries let you cover multiple highlights in a single day. Explore Berat's castle and Ottoman neighborhoods with Belshi Lake, pair Gjirokastër with Saranda and Ksamil, or combine scenic hiking with spectacular lake views at Bovilla, all without worrying about logistics.

A trip for every travel style

Whether you're interested in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mountain hikes, wine tasting, freshwater springs, or relaxing by the Albanian Riviera, Tirana offers day trips to match every interest. With a range of guided experiences available, it's easy to find an itinerary that fits your travel style and schedule.

Things to know before booking your Tirana day trip

Book at least 1-2 weeks in advance during the peak season (May-September), especially for popular tours to Berat, the Blue Eye, Ksamil, and Gjirokastër. Small-group experiences like the Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain hike tend to fill up the fastest.
Choose a tour based on the experience you're after. Pick Berat for UNESCO-listed history and Ottoman architecture, Bovilla Lake tours for hiking and mountain views, or Blue Eye, Saranda, and Ksamil for a day of natural springs and Albania's Riviera. If you'd like to combine culture with the coast, opt for the Gjirokastër, Saranda & Ksamil itinerary.
Departure locations vary by tour. While most experiences depart from Tirana, several are also available from Durres and Golem, and the Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave & Karaburun Peninsula boat tour departs from Vlore. Be sure to select the option that matches your preferred starting point.
Most tours include round-trip transportation and an expert guide, with many also offering hotel pickup and drop-off or convenient meeting points. Several experiences include attraction tickets, such as Berat Castle, Blue Eye Spring, or Lekursi Castle, so check your selected tour's inclusions before booking.
Look out for tours with added experiences. Depending on the option you choose, you can enjoy a guided hike to Gamti Mountain, wine tasting at Alpeta Winery, or explore multiple destinations in a single day, including Berat and Belshi Lake or Blue Eye, Saranda, and Ksamil.
Expect a full day on the road for southern Albania itineraries. Tours covering Blue Eye, Saranda, Ksamil, and Gjirokastër involve longer drives but allow you to visit several of Albania's top attractions in one well-planned day.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear appropriate for your itinerary. Sturdy shoes are recommended for the Bovilla Lake hike, while swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes are useful for summer trips to Ksamil and Saranda. A reusable water bottle and sun protection are recommended on all tours.
Travel times and stop durations may vary slightly depending on traffic, weather, and seasonal conditions, particularly on longer coastal routes. Guided tours are designed to optimize sightseeing while ensuring a comfortable return to your departure point.

Main stops on your Tirana day trip!

Berat Castle & Old Town

Explore the UNESCO-listed city of Berat, home to the hilltop Berat Castle, the white Ottoman houses of Mangalemi, the historic Gorica neighborhood, and the stone Gorica Bridge. It's one of Albania's best-preserved historic towns and a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Recommended duration: 3-4 hours

Belshi Lake

Take a relaxing break at the picturesque Belshi Lake, surrounded by rolling hills and cafés. It's a popular stop on Berat day trips and offers a peaceful contrast to the city's historic landmarks.

Recommended duration: 30-45 minutes

Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain

Hike to one of Albania's most spectacular viewpoints overlooking Bovilla Lake and Dajti National Park. The guided trail rewards you with panoramic scenery, while a stop at the nearby Bovilla Canyon offers excellent photo opportunities.

Recommended duration: 3-4 hours

Blue Eye Spring, Saranda & Ksamil

Visit the crystal-clear Blue Eye Spring before continuing to the coastal town of Saranda and the white-sand beaches of Ksamil. This full-day route combines natural beauty, seaside relaxation, and time to explore Albania's Riviera.

Recommended duration: 5-6 hours (combined stops)

Gjirokastër Old Town

Discover the UNESCO-listed "Stone City," known for its slate-roofed houses, cobbled streets, and Ottoman-era architecture. Enjoy free time to stroll through the historic center before continuing to Albania's southern coast.

Recommended duration: 1.5-2 hours

Your Tirana day trip itinerary

Morning: Start your day with pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point in Tirana before travelling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Depending on your chosen tour, you'll head towards Berat, Bovilla Lake, Blue Eye Spring, or Gjirokastër, with your guide sharing stories about Albania's history, culture, and landscapes along the way.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon discovering your chosen destination at a relaxed pace. Wander through Berat Castle and its Ottoman neighborhoods, hike to panoramic viewpoints above Bovilla Lake, explore the crystal-clear Blue Eye Spring, relax on Ksamil's beaches, or stroll the historic streets of Gjirokastër. Some tours also include experiences such as wine tasting at Alpeta Winery or free time in Saranda.
Evening: After a full day of sightseeing, begin your journey back to Tirana with comfortable return transfers. Most tours arrive back in the evening, giving you time to relax after a well-planned day exploring Albania's cultural landmarks, mountain scenery, or coastal highlights. Guided itineraries take care of the logistics, while allowing enough free time at key stops to explore at your own pace.

Best time to do day trips from Tirana

Day trips from Tirana are enjoyable throughout the year, but April to June and September to October offer the best combination of pleasant weather, clear skies, and comfortable sightseeing conditions. These months are ideal for exploring Berat's historic streets, hiking to Bovilla Lake viewpoints, or spending time along the Albanian Riviera.
Summer (July and August) is the peak travel season, bringing warm beach weather to Ksamil, Saranda, and the Blue Eye but also larger crowds and longer travel times, especially on weekends. Winter is quieter and well suited for cultural destinations like Berat and Gjirokastër, though hiking conditions at Bovilla may vary depending on the weather.
Starting early is recommended for most full-day tours, as it helps you avoid traffic, enjoy cooler temperatures, and maximize your time at each stop.

Quick tips

Best seasons: April-June and September-October for mild weather and comfortable sightseeing.
Avoid: July-August weekends if you're visiting Ksamil, Saranda, or the Blue Eye due to peak crowds and traffic.
Departure time: Tours departing before 8:00am offer the most time to explore and avoid morning traffic.
Seasonal notes: Spring and autumn are best for hiking at Bovilla Lake, while summer offers the warmest sea temperatures for the Albanian Riviera.
Special moments: Visit Berat and Gjirokastër during the Shoulder Season (April-May or September-October) for quieter UNESCO sites, or plan a summer trip to Ksamil and Saranda for swimming and beach time.

Other departure cities for exploring Albania

Durres

Located on Albania's Adriatic coast, Durres is a convenient starting point for southern Albania and cultural excursions. Selected tours depart directly from the city, saving you the trip to Tirana.

Available tours: Ksamil, Blue Eye & Lekursi Castle Day Trip

Golem

This popular beach resort offers the same convenient departures as Durres, making it easy to visit UNESCO sites, natural springs, and the Albanian Riviera without changing hotels.

Available tours: UNESCO, Saranda & Ksamil Beach Day Trip

Vlore

If you're vacationing on Albania's southwest coast, Vlore is the gateway to marine adventures. From here, you can set sail to Sazan Island, explore Haxhi Ali Cave, and cruise along the Karaburun Peninsula.

Available tours: Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave & Karaburun Peninsula Pirate Ship Tour

Frequently asked questions about day trips from Tirana

Most day trips last 6 to 14 hours, depending on the destination. Nearby excursions like Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain take around 6-7 hours, while tours to Berat, Blue Eye, Ksamil, Saranda, and Gjirokastër are typically full-day experiences lasting 10-14 hours.

Tirana Day Trips

From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Day Trip

From Tirana: Kruja Castle, Old Bazaar & Sari Salltik Day Trip

From Tirana: Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain Hiking Day Trip by Minivan

From Saranda: Blue Eye Kayak Tour

From Tirana: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip with Wine Tasting

From Tirana: Ksamil, Saranda & Blue Eye Day Trip

#From Tirana/Golem/Durres: Kruja, Bazaar, Sari Salltik Day Trip

#From Durres/Golem: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip

#From Tirana/Durres/Golem: Sazan Island & Karaburun Peninsula Speedboat Tour

Tirana Pub Crawl: Guided Nightlife Tour with Entry to Three Venues, Welcome Drinks, and DJ Entertainment

How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

We curate the best ways to experience

We partner with the best

All the best options, in one place

Book with complete peace of mind

No time to read? Tirana's top day trips in a nutshell

Why take a day trip from Tirana?

Easy to explore in a day

Discover Albania's top highlights

Stress-free travel with guided tours

Experience more in less time

A trip for every travel style

Things to know before booking your Tirana day trip