South Albania Road Trip by Camper Van – 7-Day Itinerary & Tips

Day 1: Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows

Morning

• Arrival in Berat: Start your journey from Tirana to Berat (approx. 2-hour drive). This UNESCO World Heritage city is famous for its Ottoman architecture and its iconic "thousand windows."

• Visit Berat Castle: Wander through the castle, which offers stunning views of the town. Explore the Onufri National Iconographic Museum located inside the castle.

Afternoon

• Explore Mangalem & Gorica Quarters: These historic neighborhoods with their whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and traditional architecture give Berat its nickname "The City of a Thousand Windows."

• Lunch: Try a traditional meal at a local restaurant, such as "Tavë Kosi" (a baked lamb and yogurt dish).

Evening

• Overnight: We recommend overnighting at Riverside Camping as one of the oldest in the area with the best amenities.

  
  

  Day 2: Taste of the wild remote beaches

Morning

• Drive to Dalan Beach:  A wild beach near a Monastery and the lagoon with flamingos with an opportunity for wild camping but also paid camping in a beautiful nature spot.

• Lunch: Prepare a meal at your campsite or opt for a local restaurant in Zvernec.

• Relax on the Beach: Enjoy some time swimming and sunbathing on the beach, taking in the tranquility of the Albanian coast.

• Explore Zvernec Monastery: Take a short walk to the Zvernec Monastery, a serene spot surrounded by cypress trees.

  
  

Evening

• Option 1: Wild Camping at Dalan Beach.

• Option 2: Eco-Valona in Zvernec – A charming eco-camp near the Zvernec beach and the Monastery and the lagoon with flamingos with an opportunity for more comfortable, paid camping in a beautiful nature reserve.

Day 3: Himare

Morning

• Travel to Himare town: Drive south towards Livadhi or Llamani Beach, known for their crystal-clear water and tranquil environment.

• Relax by the Sea: Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this less-crowded beach.

Afternoon

• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic on the beach or visit a nearby seafood restaurant.

• Hiking & Exploration: Take a short hike around the area or visit the nearby village for a glimpse into local life.

Evening

• Overnight: Livadhi Beach is very camper friendly for both paid/wild camping.

  
  

Day 4: Visit Ksamil (Optional) and Overnight in Gjirokaster

Morning

• Visit Ksamil (Optional): Known for its stunning islands and crystal-clear waters, Ksamil is a great stop for a short visit. However, its not worth the hype it got and is very tourist-y and apart the picture perfect beaches (at 6AM when there are no people), its usually overcrowded.

• Drive towards Gjirokaster: After a relaxing time at the beach, head towards Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage city. This drive will take about 2 hours.

  
  

Afternoon

• Explore Gjirokaster: This city is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture.

  • Visit the Castle: Walk up to the Gjirokaster Castle, which offers panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

  • Skenduli House: A visit to this traditional Ottoman house will provide insight into the history of the region.

Evening

• Overnight in Gjirokaster: Spend the night in one of the campings by the river, a few good options available.

  
  

Day 5: Permet – The Gateway to the South

Morning

• Travel to Permet: Depart Gjirokaster and drive for about 1.5-2 hours to reach Permet, a beautiful town surrounded by rivers and mountains.

• Explore Permet:

  • Vjosa River: Admire the crystal-clear waters of the Vjosa River, one of Europe’s last wild rivers.

  • Thermal Springs: Take a dip in the thermal springs at Benja, a popular spot near Permet known for its natural hot springs.

Afternoon

• Lunch: Try local specialties like “byrek” or “tavë kosi” at a local eatery.

• Explore: If time allows, take a short hike in the surrounding mountains or visit the charming town center of Permet.

Evening

• Overnight in Permet: Camp near the Langarica Canyon and the thermal baths, so you can enjoy a late evening or early morning dip at the hot baths of Permet.

Day 6: Pogradec – Lakeside Beauty

Morning

• Drive to Pogradec: Start the day with a 3-hour drive to Pogradec, a beautiful town located on the shores of Lake Ohrid.

• Visit the Lake: Take a walk along the lake, enjoy a boat ride, or visit one of the lake’s serene beaches.

Afternoon

• Lunch: Try fresh fish from Lake Ohrid at a lakeside restaurant.

• Explore Pogradec: Visit the town’s charming promenade, the Drilon National Park, and enjoy the peaceful lakeside atmosphere.

Evening

• Overnight in Pogradec: Spend the night in a lakeside hotel or guesthouse. Enjoy the sunset over Lake Ohrid.

Day 7: Return to Tirana

Morning

• Drive Back to Tirana: After breakfast, start your drive back to Tirana (approximately 2.5 hours).

• Optional Stops: If time permits, stop by interesting locations like Elbasan or a scenic viewpoint along the way.

Afternoon

• Arrival in Tirana: Arrive in Tirana, and depending on your time, explore the capital city, its vibrant streets, and lively cafes.

• Lunch: Enjoy a final meal in Tirana at one of the city's delicious local eateries before your journey ends.