Based in Tirana and wondering where to explore? Albania’s capital is perfectly placed for day trips — from UNESCO cities to turquoise rivers and Riviera beaches, most of the country’s highlights are within reach in a single day. Here are the best ones.
1. Berat & Belsh Lake
The UNESCO “City of a Thousand Windows” with its living castle and Ottoman quarters, paired with a relaxing lakeside stop. A perfect introduction to Albania’s history. See the Berat day trip →
2. Komani Lake & Shala River
A fjord-like boat journey into the Albanian Alps to reach the turquoise Shala River — the “Thailand of Albania.” A long but unforgettable day. See the Komani Lake tour →
3. Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain
The easiest nature escape — just 40 minutes out, with a rewarding hike to a panoramic viewpoint over turquoise water. Ideal for a half-day. See the Bovilla hike →
4. Southern Albania: Blue Eye, Saranda & Ksamil
The full southern experience — Europe’s last wild river, the sapphire Blue Eye spring, seaside Saranda and the Maldives-like beaches of Ksamil. See the Southern Albania tour →
5. Vlora, Llogara Pass & Dhërmi
The Albanian Riviera in a day: a historic coastal city, one of Europe’s most scenic mountain passes, and a charming beach village. See the Riviera tour →
6. Divjaka-Karavasta National Park
A peaceful nature day among lagoons, pine forests and pelicans on the Adriatic coast — perfect for families and photographers. See the national park tour →
How to do them
Most of these are far easier as guided day tours than by self-driving mountain roads. Eagle’s Path Travel runs all of them daily with hotel pickup from Tirana and Durrës. Browse all day trips →
At a glance
- Base city: Tirana, Albania
- Top 6 day trips: Berat, Komani/Shala, Bovilla, Blue Eye/Ksamil, Llogara/Dhërmi, Divjaka-Karavasta
- Best transport: Guided day tours with hotel pickup
- Operator: Eagle’s Path Travel
Frequently asked questions
What are the best day trips from Tirana?
The top six are Berat, Komani Lake & Shala River, Bovilla Lake, Blue Eye/Saranda/Ksamil, Vlora/Llogara/Dhërmi, and Divjaka-Karavasta National Park.
Can you do day trips from Tirana without a car?
Yes — Eagle’s Path Travel runs daily guided tours with hotel pickup from Tirana and Durrës to all major destinations.
Which day trip from Tirana is best for first-time visitors?
Berat (UNESCO history) or Southern Albania (Blue Eye, Ksamil beaches) are the most popular choices for first-time visitors.
More Albania guides to plan around this
You may also want to read Kruja Castle, Divjaka-Karavasta National Park and Bogove Waterfall and Osumi Canyon.
Related Albania travel guides
For deeper planning, continue with best Albania tours from Tirana compared, best day trips from Durres and best beaches near Tirana.
10 Comments
Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Tirana. 5/5
This made me want to explore the whole country. Thank you!