14-day campervan road trip

Pick up your campervan in Tirana and drive north to Shkodër, one of Albania's oldest cities. Rozafa Castle, sitting right at the entrance of the city, is a must-visit — climb up for panoramic views of Shkodër, Lake Shkodër, and the surrounding mountains. Wander the charming pedestrian streets, stop for coffee in a local café, and soak up the vibrant town atmosphere.

If you prefer a sandy beach experience, you can skip overnighting in Shkodër and instead head to Velipoja, a nearby coastal village with long sandy shores, perfect for a relaxing seaside night.

Head into the Albanian Alps toward Lepushë, one of the most scenic northern villages. On the way, stop at Leqet e Hotit, a viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramas over Shkodër, perfect for photos and a short break.

Continue toward Tamara, a quiet village surrounded by alpine meadows and rivers. Take a short walk through Tamara, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere before heading further into the mountains.

End your drive in Lepushë, nestled in a valley with dramatic peaks all around. The village is perfect for relaxing, walking by streams, and enjoying the alpine scenery.

Spend the morning hiking Vajusha Peak, starting from Lepushë, the trail rises to around 2,050 m. The hike is moderate (about 3-4 hours one way) and takes you through alpine meadows, forests, with breathtaking views of northern Albania and neighboring Montenegro.

On your way to Vermosh, stop at Bashkimi Canyon, a natural gem where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear river waters.

Continue to Vermosh, Albania's northernmost village. Explore alpine trails, stroll along the river, and immerse yourself in traditional mountain life, a paradise for nature and photography lovers.

Drive deeper into the Albanian Alps to Theth, one of the most scenic spots in the country. The road is narrow and winding, but every turn offers spectacular mountain views. Once in Theth, explore the village: visit the Lock-in Tower and the Old Church of Theth, stroll among traditional stone houses, and admire the surrounding alpine meadows.

For the afternoon, take a short hike to the Grunas Waterfall (about 1 hour one way) or local river pools, perfect for a refreshing dip and enjoying the serene mountain environment.

Spend a full day in Theth National Park. In the morning, hike toward Valbona Peak — a moderate to challenging trek that typically takes 3.5 hours one way, depending on your pace. The trail climbs through alpine meadows and ridgelines, offering panoramic views of Theth Valley.

In the afternoon, take a shorter hike to the Blue Eye of Theth, a hidden turquoise pool nestled in the forest. From the parking area, the trail is about 40 minutes one way, making it perfect for a half-day adventure. Wander along the rivers, enjoy the lush meadows, and soak in the serene alpine atmosphere.

Evening brings the perfect conditions for a campfire and stargazing under clear mountain skies.

After several days in the mountains, drive south toward the Adriatic coast. Stop in Shkodër for a coffee or a short walk by the lake if you haven't yet. Continue to your overnight spot: Golem, with wide sandy beaches, or Gjiri i Lalëzit, a quieter coastal area with clear waters and flat campervan-friendly spots. Enjoy a swim, sunset, and relaxing evening after your alpine adventures.

Drive south along the coast. Stop at Apollonia Park or Byllis Amphitheater to explore ancient ruins and take photos. In Vlorë, visit Nartë Lagoon for birdwatching and the Zvernec Monastery via its wooden bridge. Continue through Dukat, taking the tunnel for stunning cliffside views, and end the day at Gjipe Beach — hike 20 minutes from the parking area to reach the beach and explore Gjipe Canyon.

Drive south to Himara. Stop at Livadhi Beach for a swim and relax on the sand. Visit the Porto Palermo Fortress, perched by the sea, perfect for a short walk and some photos. Continue along the coast to Borsh Beach, known for its long sandy stretch. Enjoy the evening with a quiet walk along the beach.

Drive south to Sarandë. Along the way, stop at Pulëbardha Beach and Manastiri Beach for a swim and some relaxation on these quieter, scenic spots. Spend the afternoon in Ksamil, famous for its white-sand beaches and tiny offshore islands. Explore Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient ruins surrounded by lush nature. Return to Sarandë for dinner along the promenade, enjoying fresh seafood and coastal views.

Drive north from Sarandë, stopping at the Blue Eye, a magical turquoise spring bubbling from deep underground.

Continue to Gjirokastër, Albania's famous Stone City and UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander the cobblestone streets lined with Ottoman-era stone houses with characteristic stone roofs. Visit the Gjirokastër Fortress, one of the largest in the Balkans, for panoramic views of the Drino Valley. Don't miss the old bazaar, where artisans sell traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Take time to explore small museums, sip coffee at a local café, and soak up the unique blend of history, architecture, and mountain scenery that makes Gjirokastër unforgettable.

Drive east toward Përmet, a charming town known for its riverside cafés. Take a short stop to explore the town and visit the Big Rock, a local natural landmark with panoramic views of the valley. Continue to Benja Thermal Waters, natural hot pools surrounded by mountains, perfect after several days of hiking. Explore the Langarica Canyon along the Vjosa River, take short hikes, and enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery.

Drive north to Berat, the "City of a Thousand Windows." Explore the Ottoman-era old town, climb to Berat Castle for panoramic views, and stroll along the Osum River. Cross the historic Gorica Bridge, connecting the Mangalem and Gorica quarters, and admire the whitewashed hillside houses. Stop at local taverns to enjoy traditional dishes like tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) and fresh bread. Take your time wandering the cobblestone streets, discovering hidden churches, and soaking up the town's historic charm.

Leave Berat in the morning and drive northwest toward the coast. Make a stop at Bashtova Fortress, an ancient fort perched above the Adriatic, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy spectacular coastal views. Nearby, there's a quiet beach perfect for a swim or a short break. Continue north to Kepi i Rodonit, a wild peninsula with cliffs, and a small historic church overlooking the sea. Park your campervan at the parking lot near the church, then take a hike along the coast, enjoy panoramic views, and relax by the water before spending the night.

Drive back to Tirana to return your campervan. Spend the day exploring the heart of the city: start at Skanderbeg Square, the main plaza surrounded by important landmarks, then visit the Pyramid of Tirana, an iconic structure with a fascinating history. Discover Bunk'Art, a unique museum inside a Cold War-era bunker showcasing Albania's communist past, and the House of Leaves, a museum dedicated to the secret surveillance of the communist era. Stroll through the Pazari i Ri market, colorful and vibrant, where you can find local crafts, fresh produce, and traditional souvenirs. End your Albanian adventure with a relaxing coffee or dinner in one of the city's lively cafés or restaurants, soaking up the energy of Tirana.