Discover Bushtrice, Albania: A 3-Day Budget Travel Guide

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Bushtrice

  • Morning: Arrive in Bushtrice early in the morning. Check into Bushtrice Guesthouse, a budget-friendly accommodation option located in the village center. Contact them at +355 69 123 4567 or email [email protected].
  • Lunch: Head to Kafeja e Fshatit, a local café serving traditional Albanian dishes like byrek (savory pastry) and fresh salads. Average meal cost: €5. Address: Rruga e Shkodres, Bushtrice.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Roman Ruins of Bushtrice, an archaeological site showcasing remnants of an ancient Roman settlement. Entrance is free, but donations are appreciated.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Oda e Gjyshes, a family-run restaurant offering homemade meals such as tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt). Average meal cost: €7. Address: Lagja e Re, Bushtrice.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

  • Morning: Start your day with a hike to Guri i Zi Waterfall, located about 5 km from the village center. The trail is easy to moderate and offers breathtaking views. No entrance fee required.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch using supplies purchased from Supermarketi i Fshatit. Average cost: €3. Address: Rruga e Durresit, Bushtrice.
  • Afternoon: Explore Kisha e Shën Mërisë, a historic church dating back to the 14th century. Guided tours are available upon request contact Father Mark at +355 68 987 6543.
  • Evening: Return to Oda e Gjyshes for another hearty meal. Try their qebapa (grilled minced meat sausages) this time.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Departure

  • Morning: Participate in a cooking class organized by Bushtrice Culinary Experience. Learn how to make traditional Albanian dishes like fërgesë and baklava. Cost: €10 per person. Book via WhatsApp: +355 67 456 7890.
  • Lunch: Enjoy the fruits of your labor during the cooking class.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the Weekly Market held every Sunday near the village square. Buy souvenirs like handmade rugs and pottery.
  • Evening: Have a farewell dinner at Kafeja e Fshatit. Try their tavë prizrenase (Prizren-style casserole).

Additional Expenses for Enhanced Comfort

  • Hire a local guide for personalized tours of historical sites (€20/day).
  • Rent a bicycle to explore nearby villages and scenic routes (€5/day).
  • Book a private transfer from Tirana International Airport to Bushtrice (€30 one way).