Many of the best trips don’t require you to cross continents. Instead, they take place along coastlines. Greece and Cyprus are neighboring countries. Albania present a prime example. A trip to beach towns on the Ionian Sea, bookended by the country’s respective capitals, Athens and Tiranë, offers a simple, perfectly-paced experience packed with history, gastronomy, and seaside relaxation.
During spring and early autumn, you can enjoy mild temperatures and calm seas with fewer people. In my decades of planning Mediterranean vacations, I have found that this four stop itinerary is the perfect blend of coastal charm with cultural discovery. How to make it happen.
Athens
A77 Suites
Start your journey now AthensThe Acropolis, which dates back millennia, is a great way to get a glimpse of ancient Greece. Enjoy the Parthenon and the Acropolis museum, as well as the panoramic views of the city. Then, head into Psyri, a buzzy, creative neighborhood known for bold street art, independent shops, and bohemian cafés. If you still have time left, stop by the Museum of Cycladic Arts to learn more about the ancient Cyclades – one of Aegean’s oldest cultures.
Where to StayThe Dolli, an elegant neoclassical hotel, or the A77 Suites boutique hotel in Plaka, Athens’ oldest district.
Where to Eat: The Zillers Rooftop Gastronomy CTC Urban Gastronomy offers a modern Greek tasting menu with views of the Acropolis. Psarras Tavern and Kuzina offer classic Greek flavors in a traditional setting.
Corfu, Greece
The Venetian Well Bistro
Fly to CorfuThe lush Greek island of is a unique blend of Venetian, British and French influences. Discover the Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage, where pastel shades, quaint stores, and hidden garden create a picture of a fairytale. Then, spend a relaxing day cruising down the coast, swimming in coves accessible only by boat. The Achilleion is a museum that used to be the palace of the Empress Elisabeth.
Where to StayDomes Miramare offers a chic resort with private pools, and a contemporary Greek fine-dining experience.
Where to EatThe Venetian Well, for a romantic evening or Klimataria to enjoy authentic Corfiot food in a relaxed courtyard atmosphere.
Sarandë, Albania
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Take the hour-long ferry from Corfu to Sarandë, Albania, where clear Ionian waters meet rugged cliffs and hills dotted with olive groves. There, travelers can find the 16th-century Lëkurësi Castle; the Blue Eye, a striking 50-meter-deep natural spring; and, just outside the city, Butrint, an archaeological site layered with Green, Roman, and Byzantine history.
For a magical day trip, visit Gjirokastër, nicknamed the “City of Stone” due to its distinct local architecture featuring stone roofs, and navigate picturesque cobblestone alleys to the historic Old Bazaar.
Where to Stay: LaFe Boutique Hotel has a stunning view from its balconies and is just a short walk to the beach.
Where to Eat: In Sarandë, enjoy fresh mussels, grilled seafood, and seaside seating at family-run Haxhi or cozy La Petite. In Gjirokastër, try Taverna Kuka for rich lamb stews, flaky ByrekHoneyed desserts are also available.
Tiranë, Albania
Fani Kurti/Getty Images
Wrap up in Tiranë, Albania’s energetic capital. Visit the National Historical Museum near Skanderbeg Square, spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in the trendy Blloku district, and climb the Ottoman Clock Tower. Bunk’Art 1 is a five-floor Cold War-era bunker, now an art and historical museum. For sweeping city views, take the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car to the top Dajti Mountain. As you wander the streets of Tiranë, keep an eye out for murals and public art installations—and make sure to try some classic Albanian street food, like crunchy Byrek Sweet, syrupy Tulumba.
What to do: Xheko Imperial Luxury Hotel & Spa, an ornate, glamorous stay with a rooftop terrace and convenient proximity to the beautiful Grand Park.
Where to Eat Padam Boutique Hotel & Restaurant, where Italy-trained Chef Fundim Gjepali combines local ingredients with modern style, offering both à la carte options and a tasting menu.
Mina Agnos Agnos is a member Travel + Leisure’s A-List, and specializes on Greece and Eastern Mediterranean tours. Agnos will create an itinerary tailored to your needs. [email protected].
