Albania Fly & Drive

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, is a fascinating mix of Ottoman heritage, Italian architecture, and bold Communist-era planning, all wrapped in a fresh coat of color and creativity. Once a gray, austere city, it has reinvented itself with lively murals, pastel façades, and a youthful energy that’s hard to miss. Skanderbeg Square, the monumental heart of Tirana, is the ideal starting point: from here you can visit the National History Museum, recognizable by its grand socialist-realist mosaic, and stroll toward the Et’hem Bey Mosque and the Clock Tower, which recall the city’s Ottoman past. One of Tirana’s most distinctive attractions is its Communist legacy. Bunk’Art and Bunk’Art 2—underground bunkers turned museums—offer immersive exhibits on daily life under Enver Hoxha’s regime, with chilling corridors and preserved rooms that make history feel close and personal. Nearby, the “Pyramid,” once a museum dedicated to Hoxha and now an urban playground and cultural venue, symbolizes Tirana’s transition from dictatorship to a more open, creative society. Tirana’s modern personality shines in its neighborhoods and public spaces. The trendy Blloku district, once reserved for the Communist elite, is now full of cafés, cocktail bars, and restaurants where locals linger late into the night. The Grand Park and Artificial Lake provide a green escape, perfect for jogging, cycling, or a relaxed picnic. For a panoramic view, take the Dajti Express cable car up Mount Dajti, where you’ll find hiking trails, restaurants, and sweeping vistas over the city and the Adriatic coast beyond.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Durres (alb. Durrës), the second largest city of Albania (161,800 inhabitants, 2008 estimate), is the most ancient city and one of the most economically important as the biggest port city. The beaches of Durrës are local hotspots for many Albanians and are an important part of tourism in Albania. The city was colonized by the colonists from Corinth and Korkyra in 627 B.C. It was named Epidamnus, which later became Dyrrachium. Between the 1st and 3rd centuries Durres was an important port and trading centre on the Via Egnatia trading route, between Rome and Byzantium (Istanbul). After a great number of earthquakes, much of ancient Durres sank into the sea or collapsed and was subsequently built over. The most important object is the amphitheatre with 15,000 seats, dating back to the 2nd century AD. In the middle ages was Durres coveted by many different intruders from all over Europe. The fact that this city has been inhabited throughout its history, means that very little of the ancient city has been excavated, as it exists under the newer buildings. However the archeological museum is well stocked and presented. The famous Roman orator, Cicero called Durres an admirable city, while the poet Catullus called it the tavern of the Adriatic. Today the city is well known for the beach resort of Durres with sandy beaches and warm sea waters. It is about 10.5 km long and is frequented by Albanian and foreign tourists from May until October

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Berat (Albanian pronunciation: [ˈbɛ:rat], definite Albanian form: Berati), is the ninth largest city by population of the Republic of Albania. The city is the capital of the surrounding Berat County, one of 12 constituent counties of the country. By air, it is 71 kilometres (44 miles) north of Gjirokastër, 70 kilometres (43 miles) west of Korçë, 70 kilometres (43 miles) south of Tirana and 33 kilometres (21 miles) east of Fier. Geographically, Berat is located in the south of the country surrounded by mountains and hills including Tomorr on the east that was declared a national park. For a total length of 161 kilometres (100 miles) the Osum River runs through the city before it empties into the Seman River within the Myzeqe Plain.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Vlorë (en albanés Vlora, en italiano Valona, en griego Αυλών) es una ciudad portuaria y municipio de Albania, capital del condado de Vlorë. Situada en la bahía de Vlorë (con la famosa isla de Sazan o Saseno en la entrada), es uno de los puertos importantes de la conocida ribera albanesa y el segundo del país después de Durrës, con 93.812 habitantes (datos del 2006). Vlorë es el punto más cercano al puerto italiano de Bari y de la costa de Salento, de la que está separada por el canal de Otranto. El municipio comprende, desde la reforma territorial de 2015, las unidades administrativas de Novoselë, Orikum, Qendër Vlorë, Shushicë y la capital Vlorë. Anteriormente Vlorë fue capital del desaparecido distrito de Vlorë.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Welcome to Dhërmi, Albania's Hidden Gem by the Ionian Sea Nestled along the Albanian Riviera, Dhërmi is a picturesque coastal village that embodies the serene beauty of the Ionian Sea. Known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant sunsets, this hidden gem is an idyllic destination for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Mediterranean. Upon arrival in Dhërmi, visitors are greeted by the warm embrace of the Mediterranean climate and the inviting pebble and sandy shores. The most famous beach, Dhërmi Beach, stretches across the coast offering a tranquil retreat for sunbathers and swimmers alike. For those in search of seclusion, a short hike or boat ride will lead you to hidden coves and secluded bays, like Gjipe Beach, where the natural beauty of Albania can be experienced in its purest form. Beyond the beaches, Dhërmi is steeped in history and culture. Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the old village, and you'll find traditional stone houses and charming local tavernas where you can savor delicious Albanian cuisine. The village is also home to historic churches, such as the Church of St. Mary, which dates back to the 14th century and offers a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. As the sun sets, Dhërmi's nightlife begins to sparkle. Beachfront bars and clubs come alive with music and dancing, providing the perfect atmosphere for enjoying a night out under the stars. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, Dhërmi's magical allure promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to return to this enchanting corner of Albania.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Himara is a municipality and region in Vlorë County, southern Albania. The municipality has a total area of 571.94 km2 and consists of the administrative units of Himarë, Horë-Vranisht and Lukovë.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Saranda (Sarandë) is a small city located in southern Albania, near the border with northern Greece. It is a destination that in recent years has become fashionable in Albania due to the recent arrival of several cruise ships to its port. A quiet city, well located, that always has something to do, with cafes and terraces open all year round and with a Mediterranean climate to enjoy its beaches. Not surprisingly, it was chosen as the stopover for their Greek island cruises

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, is a fascinating mix of Ottoman heritage, Italian architecture, and bold Communist-era planning, all wrapped in a fresh coat of color and creativity. Once a gray, austere city, it has reinvented itself with lively murals, pastel façades, and a youthful energy that’s hard to miss. Skanderbeg Square, the monumental heart of Tirana, is the ideal starting point: from here you can visit the National History Museum, recognizable by its grand socialist-realist mosaic, and stroll toward the Et’hem Bey Mosque and the Clock Tower, which recall the city’s Ottoman past. One of Tirana’s most distinctive attractions is its Communist legacy. Bunk’Art and Bunk’Art 2—underground bunkers turned museums—offer immersive exhibits on daily life under Enver Hoxha’s regime, with chilling corridors and preserved rooms that make history feel close and personal. Nearby, the “Pyramid,” once a museum dedicated to Hoxha and now an urban playground and cultural venue, symbolizes Tirana’s transition from dictatorship to a more open, creative society. Tirana’s modern personality shines in its neighborhoods and public spaces. The trendy Blloku district, once reserved for the Communist elite, is now full of cafés, cocktail bars, and restaurants where locals linger late into the night. The Grand Park and Artificial Lake provide a green escape, perfect for jogging, cycling, or a relaxed picnic. For a panoramic view, take the Dajti Express cable car up Mount Dajti, where you’ll find hiking trails, restaurants, and sweeping vistas over the city and the Adriatic coast beyond.