Skanderbeg Square
Skanderbeg Square is the main plaza in the center of Tirana, Albania. The square is named after the Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu. You can stroll around the square, visit the National Historical Museum, Bunk'Art 2 museum, the National Opera, and a couple of bars/restaurants that are alongside the strip.
Dajti Ekspres Cable Car
Located just 15 mins from the centre of Tirana, “Dajti Ekspres” provides it’s visitors with an unforgettable experience. Take the 15 minute trip up Dajti Mountain on the longest cableway in the Balkans and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city. At the summit, relax and enjoy the surroundings, take a stroll and enjoy the view! Enjoy a hot or cold drink in our rotating bar/cafe, located on the 7th floor of the Dajti Tower Hotel. I linked their website below for all the information you need to know for this activity!
Blloku
Blloku is an upmarket area in Tirana, Albania. It widely known as an entertainment destination with its boutiques, shops, restaurants, trendy bars, pubs, and cafes. This area is the place to be. This is considered the nice "richer" part of the city. The area is part of the neighborhood of Tirana e Re (The new Tirana) in southwestern Tirana. During the peak summer months, its trendy bars transfer along the Albanian Riviera.
Clubs
J'adore (Also has dinner)
Lost (Also food available in the earlier hours of the day)
Bars
Whiskey Bar
Duff
Piano Bar Elysee
Charl's Bristo
Rooftops
Arka
Lift
The Crown
Restaurants
The Crown (Dining)
Lift
Salt (Also a Sushi Bar)
Oda (Traditional Albanian Food)
Morsi
Cafes
Mulliri
Cioccolatini
PS: There are restaurants and cafes all over the city, I just mentioned a few here that are located in the center of Tirana or Blloku! The options are endless! There are also plenty of places located near the Air Albania Stadium (where our national soccer team plays) which is close to the Blloku area as well.
Kalaja e Tiranes (Tirana Castle)
Tirana Castle is a castle in Tirana, Albania. Its history dates back before 1300 and is a remnant from the Byzantine-era. They have preserved what is left of the castle and inside the Tirana Castle made various traditional hand crafts stores, traditional cuisine restaurants, a wine bar and plenty more! I have linked their home page below (although it is in Albania) to help you get a better idea of what to expect.
Durrës
There are many things to do in Durrës, especially in the summer. On the hottest days, many people from the capital come down for a visit to smell the sea and take a walk along the beach. Durrës has a vibrant nightlife scene with the perfect mix of beach clubs, bars, and restaurants. The whole city comes to life after sunset, providing a wide range of entertainment options. It is even perfect for a day trip from the capital city or even a great way to end your trip for a couple of days because it is close to the international airport.
Distance from Tirana: ~25 Miles
Krujë
Krujë a great little town to escape to, especially because it almost feels like you are going back in time. The history and beautiful views are worth it. It is famous for its castle and incredible shopping that is filled with colorful local crafts. It is perfect place for a one-day trip and if you want to learn about the country's history/culture.
Distance from Tirana: ~20 Miles
Vlorë
Now we are headed down south! In Vlorë there are plenty of cute towns, ancient ruins, amazing seafood, and beautiful beaches to see. Vlorë is a very popular place to stop before road-tripping along the Riviera. This is when the beaches become more beautiful as you go!
FYI: Water shoes will make your experience much better.
Distance from Tirana: ~95miles (2 Hours)
Dhërmi
Dhërmi is one of Albania's most remarkable destinations. It's a tiny place that packs a big punch! Steep mountains meet calming crystal blue waters, rock arches appear along the seafront, and the blue sky turns into a clash of vibrant oranges and deep reds as the sun goes down. With its beautiful beaches, day clubs, restaurants, and stunning views this has become one of the most traveled beach cities in all of Europe!
Distance from Tirana: ~ 137miles (3 Hours)
*It's a slow drive up and around a mountain at one point that causes the drive to be longer. *
Sarandë
Sarandë is located near the most southern point of Albania near Greece! It is one of the most popular cities on the Albanian Riviera, is known for its unique attractions and serene beaches. There are many tourists that travel this city from all over. Near Sarandë is the beach town Ksamil, which has become known worldwide for its more secluded and beautiful beaches. It's about an 30 min drive from Sarandë.
Distance from Tirana: ~164miles (4 Hours-5 Hours)