Planning a vacation and can’t decide between Greece and Albania? Good news — you don’t have to. These two neighboring countries are close enough to explore in a single trip, and they each offer something totally different. Think: whitewashed Greek villages and ancient ruins on one side, and turquoise Albanian beaches and rugged mountains on the other.
Why Combine the Two?
- Proximity: You can get from Corfu to southern Albania in under an hour.
- Affordability: Albania is generally more budget-friendly than Greece (but that’s changing quickly!).
- Contrast: Greece is more polished and iconic; Albania is raw, wild, and less discovered.
- Easy logistics: Ferry and land border crossings make it surprisingly simple.
Option 1: Ferry from Corfu to Sarandë
If you’re already headed to the Greek island of Corfu, you’re only a 30–90 minute ferry ride from Albania. Ferries between Corfu and Sarandë run multiple times a day in high season. Tickets can be booked online or at the port, and it’s an easy crossing. The main operators are Ionian Seaways and Finikas Lines, both offering regular and high-speed services.
Once in Sarandë: You can head north toward the Albanian Riviera (Dhërmi, Palasë, Jale), or inland to Gjirokastër or other cities. Renting a car gives you flexibility, but there are also buses and taxis available.
Option 2: Overland Border Crossing
If you’re road tripping, you can cross into Albania by land. Popular crossings include:
- Kakavia (Greece) → Kakavijë (Albania): the main southern border crossing, near Gjirokastër. (See Τελωνείο Κακαβιάς / Kakavia Toldhus on Google Maps)
- Kristallopigi → Bilisht: further north, ideal if you’re coming from Kastoria. (See Τελωνείο Κρυσταλλοπηγής (GR) / Krystallopigi toldhus on Google Maps)
Be aware that border wait times can vary, especially in peak summer. (We’ve crossed with literally no cars ahead of us — but we’ve also had to wait for five hours in August. It really depends on the day, so pack some snacks and patience just in case.)
Note: There is one more border crossing station (Qafë Botë Albanian Border Station), but it’s not open 24/7.
Suggested Itinerary (10 Days)
Here’s one way to split your time that includes about a week in Albania:
- Days 1–3: Greece (Athens or Corfu)
- Day 4: Ferry to Sarandë
- Days 5–7: Albanian Riviera (Palasë, Dhërmi, Jale)
- Day 8: Gjirokastër
- Days 9–10: Tirana or Berat before flying out
Short on time? Just do Corfu + southern Albania — it’s the perfect sun-and-sea combo.
Things to Know
- Currency: Greece uses Euro; Albania uses Lek. Card payment is common in Greece, less so in Albania (especially in small towns).
- Language: In Greece, you’ll find English spoken almost everywhere, especially in hospitality and larger cities. In Albania, it’s a bit more hit or miss — younger people are more likely to speak some English, particularly in tourist towns, but it’s not as widespread overall. Still, people are really friendly and helpful, and Google Translate can go a long way!
- Car rental: If you’re picking up a car in one country and dropping it in another, double-check the rental company’s policy and border permissions.
Final Tip
However you plan it, Albania and Greece complement each other beautifully. One gives you iconic postcard views and history; the other gives you unfiltered nature, warm hospitality, and hidden gems. The best of both worlds? Yes, please.
And if your travels bring you to the Albanian Riviera, we’d love to welcome you at Palasa View—where the sea and mountain views are truly something special.
