Morning:
6:30 - Departure from Vlora
Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café in Vlora and get ready for the journey.
Begin your trip towards Gjirokastra. The drive takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, following the E853 road through Tepelena and onward to Gjirokastra.
Mid-Morning:
9:00 - 12:30: Visit Gjirokastra
Arrive in Gjirokastra, one of Albania’s most authentic and historic UNESCO-protected cities.
Visit Gjirokastra Castle: A magnificent fortress overlooking the city, offering an interesting museum on history and weaponry from various periods.
Walk through the historic district: Enjoy the unique architecture, cobbled streets, and characteristic Gjirokastrian houses.
Midday:
12:30 - 13:30: Departure to Përmet
Travel from Gjirokastra to Përmet, a roughly 1 hour and 30-minute journey through stunning natural landscapes.
13:30 - 14:30: Lunch in Këlcyrë
Head to Këlcyrë, a short drive from Përmet.
Stop for lunch in Këlcyrë, where you can enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine at a local restaurant. Typical dishes include local casseroles and meat or vegetable specialties.
Afternoon:
1. 14:30 - 16.00: Explore Përmet
Stroll through the small town of Përmet, known for its hospitality and beautiful surrounding nature.Banja thermal baths
Visit the Church of Saint Mary in Leusa, if time allows, to admire its intricate carvings and mural paintings (time may be limited for a long stop).
16.:00 - 18.30: Rest and Return to Vlora
After lunch, enjoy the scenery and relax before setting off back to Vlora.
Plan a leisurely return drive along the stunning landscapes.
Evening:
18:30: Arrival in Vlora
Arrive in Vlora. After a long day of travel, relax and enjoy a light dinner in town.
If you have time and energy, a stroll along the Vlora promenade would be a beautiful way to end your day.