Albania’s rugged landscapes and historic fortresses create the perfect setting for an unforgettable road trip. For Belgian travellers, driving through this Balkan gem offers freedom, comfort, and the opportunity to explore its rich history at your own pace. This guide highlights five must-visit castles, each with its own unique story. We also offer route recommendations, travel time estimates, and tips for experiencing local culture, making it easy for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers to explore Albania. Ready to start your adventure? Let’s dive into these incredible castles and discover what makes each one a must-see on your journey!
Albania is a country of contrasts. Coastal towns sit beside mountain ranges, and medieval ruins overlook modern cities. Unlike busy tour buses, a self-driving trip lets you start and stop whenever you like. You can pause for coffee in charming villages, explore markets, and chat with friendly locals. Belgian tourists will appreciate the value and variety—Albania is more affordable than many European neighbours, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas. By driving yourself, you turn each castle visit into a personal adventure.
Before setting off, map out your route. The five castles we recommend form a loop from the capital, Tirana, heading south towards the Greek border, then back north along the coast. The total distance is around 400 kilometres, easily covered in three to five days. Roads have improved greatly in recent years, with motorway sections and well‑signposted national routes. Still, allow extra time for narrow mountain passes. Fill up petrol in major towns—stations can be sparse in remote areas. Lastly, bring water, snacks, a camera, and a paper map or offline GPS if your mobile signal drops.
Perched on a hill overlooking the Osum River, Berat Castle offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The town’s white Ottoman houses cascade down the slopes, earning it the nickname "The Town of a Thousand Windows." Inside the fortress walls, you’ll find Byzantine churches dating back to the 13th century, adorned with vibrant frescoes. Traditional mosques, including the distinctive Lead Mosque with its iconic dome, add to the town's rich history. The residential quarters within the castle still house locals living in the same historic stone homes that have stood for centuries.
To reach Berat from Tirana, drive south on SH4 for about 120 km—roughly 2 hours. Park outside the castle and follow cobbled paths upward. Local guides offer short tours explaining the fortress’s role in resisting Ottoman and later Italian forces. After exploring, wander into the Mangalem district below for lunch at a riverside café, perhaps trying tavë kosi (baked lamb with yoghurt). Before you leave, stroll across the Ottoman-era Gorica Bridge for postcard views.
South of Berat, Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its stone roofs and fortified citadel. The imposing Gjirokastër Castle dominates the skyline and is home to a military museum displaying tanks, artillery, and World War II memorabilia. The castle also houses a restored Ottoman-era bazaar, where visitors can shop for hand-woven rugs and other local crafts. From the castle, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Drino Valley and the distant mountains, offering a scenic experience.
From Berat, the 100 km drive along SH4 and SH8 takes around 2 hours. Roads wind through olive groves and small villages. Upon arrival, park at the base and ascend via a path or mini‑train shuttle. Plan at least half a day to tour the battlements and sample local delicacies—try qifqi, rice balls flavoured with mint. In summer, the castle hosts folk festivals featuring traditional music and dance, offering a vibrant glimpse into regional culture.
To the north, near the city of Shkodër, Rozafa Castle stands proudly atop a rocky hill. Its walls, dating back to the Illyrian era, are steeped in history and legend. The Legend of Rozafa tells of a woman who sacrificed herself by being buried in the castle’s foundation to keep its walls standing. Today, visitors can explore restored cisterns and battlements shaped by Venetian and Ottoman influence. The castle's viewing platforms offer stunning views, including the confluence of three rivers—the Buna, Drin, and Kir—and, on clear days, distant mountains on the horizon.
The drive from Gjirokastër spans 220 km via SH8 and A1—with a motorway section reducing travel time to around 3 hours. Once in Shkodër, take a short drive or local bus to the castle entrance. A café at the summit offers refreshments with a view—ideal for pacing your visit. Consider pairing your trip with a stroll in the city’s pedestrianised centre or a boat ride on Lake Shkodër.
Krujë Castle, located just north of Tirana, sits on a hilltop and is deeply connected to Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. Within the fortress, the Skanderbeg Museum—set in an Ottoman-era building—offers exhibits on medieval warfare and the Albanian resistance. Visitors can also wander through a traditional bazaar where artisans sell silver filigree jewellery, embroidered textiles, and handmade souvenirs. The castle's elevated position provides sweeping views of the surrounding hills and, on clear days, even the distant Adriatic Sea.
From Tirana, Krujë is a quick 30 km drive north on SH1—around 45 minutes. Park near the old town gates and explore winding stone streets with restaurants serving byrek (savory pastry) and local raki. The castle is atmospheric at sunrise or late afternoon when crowds thin and temperatures cool. A morning visit followed by a coffee in the bazaar makes for an easy half‑day trip.
Petrelë Castle, located just south of Tirana, sits on a rocky hill with sweeping views of the Erzen Valley. Although more compact than Albania’s larger castles, Petrelë offers visitors a memorable and worthwhile experience. Visitors can admire the well-preserved medieval walls and circular towers, enjoy a meal at a popular restaurant within the courtyard that serves traditional Albanian dishes by candlelight, and follow walking trails that wind down into olive groves and orchards below.
The 20 km drive from Tirana on SH3 takes about 30 minutes. Arrive late afternoon to explore the ruins and then dine as the sun sets. The view from the terrace is superb—rolling hills painted gold by the evening light. Many visitors combine Petrelë with a morning in Krujë for a full day of history close to the capital.
To experience all five castles comfortably, plan a three‑day loop as follows:
Each day involves around 150 – 250 km of driving—manageable distances that leave plenty of time for sightseeing and breaks.
Planning a road trip through Albania’s historic castles? A few practical tips can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience. From language to local customs, here are some helpful things to keep in mind as you prepare for your journey:
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Albania’s castles stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history. By driving yourself, you can explore each fortress on your timetable, pause for local encounters, and savour the ever‑changing landscapes. From the hilltop stronghold of Krujë to the sunset perch at Petrelë, every stop promises new stories and stunning views. With practical tips, clear routes, and the ease of Rent a Car in Albania, Belgian tourists can craft an enriching, hassle‑free journey through the heart of Albanian heritage. Pack your bags, start your engine, and prepare for a road trip you’ll never forget!
