Hébergement pas cher en Estonie?
by Rohan
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour,
Je pars une semaine en Estonie avec ma fille (15 ans) et une amie. Nous avons pris des vols secs et n'avons pas encore défini où nous dormirions. Nous aimerions savoir s'il existe des gites ruraux pas chers plutôt que des auberges de jeunesse. Notamment à Tallinn, puis dans les Iles de l'archipel (Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, Muhu et vormsi) Est-ce que l'on peut dormir chez l'habitant. Si vous avez des pistes à nous donner, elles seront les bienvenues.
Merci !
Anne
Bonjour,
Pour Tallinn, je ne sais pas, pour les îles, il existe des formules chez l'habitant ou la location de lodge voir de gîte.
Par contre, il me semble qu'une semaine pour faire les quatre îles précitées et visiter également Tallinn, c'est trop court, sauf peut être à opérer les jonctions par vol interne, et encore.
Hormis les vols domestiques mais qui te raméneront, je pense toujours à ülemiste, il te faudra aller de Tallinn à Hapsaaluu (Rohuküla exactement) pour prendre un ferry qui te permettra d'aller soit à Vormsi soit à Hiiumaa.
Depuis Hiiumaa, tu pourras prendre un ferry à Orjaku qui te méneras à Saaremaa (inversement également, liaison possible depuis Saaremma pour Hiiumaa)
Si le départ se fait depuis le continent pour Saaremaa, il faut aller à Pärnu et prendre là aussi un ferry.
Une route (digue plutôt) en pierre relie Saaremaa à l'île de Muhu.
Sauf à passer une journée maximum sur chaque île et passer beaucoup de temps à gérer les transferts, je ne vois pas l'interêt de cumuler un séjour sur ces 4 îles en une semaine.
As tu prévu de louer une voiture pour optimiser les temps de transfert ?
Pour Tallinn, je ne sais pas, pour les îles, il existe des formules chez l'habitant ou la location de lodge voir de gîte.
Par contre, il me semble qu'une semaine pour faire les quatre îles précitées et visiter également Tallinn, c'est trop court, sauf peut être à opérer les jonctions par vol interne, et encore.
Hormis les vols domestiques mais qui te raméneront, je pense toujours à ülemiste, il te faudra aller de Tallinn à Hapsaaluu (Rohuküla exactement) pour prendre un ferry qui te permettra d'aller soit à Vormsi soit à Hiiumaa.
Depuis Hiiumaa, tu pourras prendre un ferry à Orjaku qui te méneras à Saaremaa (inversement également, liaison possible depuis Saaremma pour Hiiumaa)
Si le départ se fait depuis le continent pour Saaremaa, il faut aller à Pärnu et prendre là aussi un ferry.
Une route (digue plutôt) en pierre relie Saaremaa à l'île de Muhu.
Sauf à passer une journée maximum sur chaque île et passer beaucoup de temps à gérer les transferts, je ne vois pas l'interêt de cumuler un séjour sur ces 4 îles en une semaine.
As tu prévu de louer une voiture pour optimiser les temps de transfert ?
Brigitte
Bonjour, Merci de ta réponse. En fait je me suis mal exprimée. Nous n'avons pas l'intention de voir toutes les îles en un semaine. Une suffira. J'ai lu quelque part que l'archipel faisait partie des coins du monde incontournables en terme de beauté de la nature. Quelle île faut-il choisir (et là tu peux peut-être nous conseiller) et quel hébergement le moins cher nous pourrions y trouver ? Idem à Tallinn.
On a encore rien envisagé réellement sur le programme de la semaine mais as-tu un itinéraire à nous conseiller ?
Anne
Bonjour
Il faudrait m'en dire un peu plus sur vos goûts et quelle limite en terme de budget pour l'hébergement.
Pour les îles, par exemple, la plus sauvage question nature est certainement Hiiumaa mais Saaremaa présente plus d'infrastructure. Vormsi est la seule île où il est possible de voir ces superbes croix celtiques rondes, en parfait état de conservation etc
Allez-vous vous déplacer en bus ? En voiture ?
a bientôt brigitte
Il faudrait m'en dire un peu plus sur vos goûts et quelle limite en terme de budget pour l'hébergement.
Pour les îles, par exemple, la plus sauvage question nature est certainement Hiiumaa mais Saaremaa présente plus d'infrastructure. Vormsi est la seule île où il est possible de voir ces superbes croix celtiques rondes, en parfait état de conservation etc
Allez-vous vous déplacer en bus ? En voiture ?
a bientôt brigitte
Brigitte
nous nous déplacerons en bus et pensons à 2 étapes : Tallinn et une île. Le budget est un peu serré et nous visons pour l'instant les auberges de jeunesse. Par contre notre envie de rencontrer des gens du pays nous inspire l'hébergement chez l'habitant ? est-ce possible et à quel prix ?
Vous semblez bien connaître ce pays peut-être avez vous qq réponses à nos questions. Sachez que nous avons décidé et pris nos billets ce we et que ns en sommes à explorer le circuit à parcourir.
Anne
L'hergement chez l'habitant est assez peu répandu à Tallinn. Toutefois, il existe des beds and breakfasts. Je te ferai passer le lien ce soir ou demain.
Dans les îles, c'est plus répandu et peu répertorié. par contre tu risques d'être déçu car beaucoup ne parlent pas anglais, sauf peut être à Saaremaa. Donc sauf à parler estonien voir russe (mais c'est très peu apprécié), le contact va être difficile.
L'île la plus touristique est Saaremaa, tu y verras beaucoup d'estoniens en vacances. Personnellement, je lui préfère Hiiumaa, moins fréquentée et aux côtes plus sauvages. Pour des raisons de logistiques, peut être préferer Saaremaa donc.
Dans les îles, c'est plus répandu et peu répertorié. par contre tu risques d'être déçu car beaucoup ne parlent pas anglais, sauf peut être à Saaremaa. Donc sauf à parler estonien voir russe (mais c'est très peu apprécié), le contact va être difficile.
L'île la plus touristique est Saaremaa, tu y verras beaucoup d'estoniens en vacances. Personnellement, je lui préfère Hiiumaa, moins fréquentée et aux côtes plus sauvages. Pour des raisons de logistiques, peut être préferer Saaremaa donc.
Brigitte
Merci de toutes ces infos. Es-tu en Estonie actuellement ?
A ton avis, est-ce qu'en cette période de l'année, tu nous conseilles de réserver pour notre première nuit à Tallinn ? ns pensons dormir en auberge de jeunesse.
Pour l'argent, que faut-il mieux faire ? Prendre de l'argent estonien en France ou attendre d'être dans le pays ?
Les retraits d'espèces sur place sont-ils possibles avec une carte visa ?
Nous prendrons contact avec l'office du tourisme en arrivant pour nous aiguiller.
Merci si tu peux m'envoyer le lien des hébergements en B&B, c'est très sympa
Anne
A ton avis, est-ce qu'en cette période de l'année, tu nous conseilles de réserver pour notre première nuit à Tallinn ? ns pensons dormir en auberge de jeunesse.
Pour l'argent, que faut-il mieux faire ? Prendre de l'argent estonien en France ou attendre d'être dans le pays ?
Les retraits d'espèces sur place sont-ils possibles avec une carte visa ?
Nous prendrons contact avec l'office du tourisme en arrivant pour nous aiguiller.
Merci si tu peux m'envoyer le lien des hébergements en B&B, c'est très sympa
Anne
Non, pas pour le moment, mais prochaine escapade estonienne certainement mi octobre 😎.
Oui, les hébergements les moins chers sont les plus prisés et il y en a peu par rapport à la demande, donc il est conseillé de réserver.
Les retraits sont possibles avec la carte visa : je n'en sais rien mais je ne vois pas pourquoi il y aurait de problème.
Pour le change, tout dépend du taux que pratique ta banque en France.
En Estonie le meilleur rapport est le bureau de change Tavid Exchange. Ils ont des bureaux à Tallinn, Parnu et Tartu. Le taux officiel est 1 € = 15, 65 kroon estonienne. Si les prix sont souvent établis en € et en Kroon, les euros ne sont pas acceptés. http://www.tavid.ee/...&main_id=221, 228
Ne change surtout pas à l'aéroport, c'est le pire taux que tu puisses trouver.
Ne change pas non plus après 19h, il te sera appliqué le tarif de nuit, soit un taux de 1 € = 15 kroon.
Ensuite, chez Tavid, le taux varie entre 15 et 15, 65 en fonction de la somme en euros que tu vas changer et de la taille des coupures. Par exmeple, pour avoir le taux max, officiel, il faut changer plus de 2500 € et avoir des coupures de 500 €. Si tu changes environ 300 € en coupure de 20 et 50 € tu auras en gros un taux de change de 15, 60 qui est plutôt bon.
Les banques estoniennes changent également les € à des taux correctes. Une des plus répandue est la HANSAPANK. Vois ici pour avoir une idée du taux. https://www.hanza.net/cgi-bin/hanzanet?pageId=hanzanet.bank.rates.currency&language=ENG
Pour payer le bus ou le taxi à l'arrivée, le mieux est peut être de trouver le distributeur de l'aéroport et de tirer une somme minimale.
Le lien des B&B est ici : http://www.bedandbreakfastinsweden.com/?country=356&state=55&city=2045&language=4 pour Tallinn
et pour Saaremaa : http://www.bedandbreakfastinsweden.com/?country=356&state=50&city=0&language=4
Pas mal de choses également sur le site de l'office du tourisme de Tallinn http://www.tourism.tallinn.ee/index.uk.php?page=54
Voilu 🙂
Oui, les hébergements les moins chers sont les plus prisés et il y en a peu par rapport à la demande, donc il est conseillé de réserver.
Les retraits sont possibles avec la carte visa : je n'en sais rien mais je ne vois pas pourquoi il y aurait de problème.
Pour le change, tout dépend du taux que pratique ta banque en France.
En Estonie le meilleur rapport est le bureau de change Tavid Exchange. Ils ont des bureaux à Tallinn, Parnu et Tartu. Le taux officiel est 1 € = 15, 65 kroon estonienne. Si les prix sont souvent établis en € et en Kroon, les euros ne sont pas acceptés. http://www.tavid.ee/...&main_id=221, 228
Ne change surtout pas à l'aéroport, c'est le pire taux que tu puisses trouver.
Ne change pas non plus après 19h, il te sera appliqué le tarif de nuit, soit un taux de 1 € = 15 kroon.
Ensuite, chez Tavid, le taux varie entre 15 et 15, 65 en fonction de la somme en euros que tu vas changer et de la taille des coupures. Par exmeple, pour avoir le taux max, officiel, il faut changer plus de 2500 € et avoir des coupures de 500 €. Si tu changes environ 300 € en coupure de 20 et 50 € tu auras en gros un taux de change de 15, 60 qui est plutôt bon.
Les banques estoniennes changent également les € à des taux correctes. Une des plus répandue est la HANSAPANK. Vois ici pour avoir une idée du taux. https://www.hanza.net/cgi-bin/hanzanet?pageId=hanzanet.bank.rates.currency&language=ENG
Pour payer le bus ou le taxi à l'arrivée, le mieux est peut être de trouver le distributeur de l'aéroport et de tirer une somme minimale.
Le lien des B&B est ici : http://www.bedandbreakfastinsweden.com/?country=356&state=55&city=2045&language=4 pour Tallinn
et pour Saaremaa : http://www.bedandbreakfastinsweden.com/?country=356&state=50&city=0&language=4
Pas mal de choses également sur le site de l'office du tourisme de Tallinn http://www.tourism.tallinn.ee/index.uk.php?page=54
Voilu 🙂
Brigitte
Merci pr les indications intéressantes que tu nous avais donné avant notre séjour en Estonie. Ns sommes restées 4 jours à Tallinn (visite à Paldinski)et 3 jours à Kurassaré à Saarémaa. Nous sommes vraiment heureuses d'avoir parcouru quelques routes de ce pays dont l'histoire transpire encore du régime soviétique. Il nous a semblé que les Estoniens étaient assez "renfermés" et pas encore ouverts aux touristes. Les paysages forestiers ns ont semblé assez monotones au bout de plusieurs jours de voyage en car et location auto sur Saarémaa. Nous regrettons de n'avoir pas trouvé de logement "chez l'habitant" avec un vrai accueil et un partage de leur culture. Ns avons trouvé grâce au Petit Futé un B&B à Kurassaré (sans Breakfast) mais un propriétaire en quête d'argent qui a tenté de tripler le prix indiqué pr revenir raisonnable lorqu'on lui a montré le guide. Lui-même ns ayant dit que c'était une période "business" pr lui et ns réclamant sans cesse sont dû.
Les paysages de l'Ile de Saarémaa son luxuriant mais infesté de moustique, du coup, ns avons boudé le salon de jardin du matin au soir.
Tallinn nous a conquis par sa vieille ville. Ns avons trouvé un hôtel : Dzingel à qq km tout à fait correct. Et une Auberge de Jeunesse rue Vaike Karju ds la vieille ville très très bruyant par ceux qui y habitaient.
Paldinski est sordide. Mais ns sommes contentes d'avoir pu nous y rendre pour voir de nos yeux les vestiges du communisme soviétique.
Bridgetouille conseille très bien sur tout ce qui est sur l'Estonie, je suis entierement d'accord avec ce qu'elle a dit. Sinon, pour choisir l'itinéraire, cela pourrait peut être vous aider de voir certains endroits grace à des photos et/ou videos. Pour ça, nous avons fait mon amie et moi un blog sur nos voyages en Estonie (ou nous somes actuellement en Service Volontaire Européen). On a aussi créé un guide en ligne sur les cafés et restaurants qu'on a testé un peu partout en Estonie. Si ça vous intéresse voici les liens.
le blog (en français)
http://estonie.blogsome.com le guide en ligne (français aussi)
http://estonieguide.blogsome.com
il existe aussi une version anglaise du blog pour ceux que ça intéresserait...
il existe aussi une version anglaise du blog pour ceux que ça intéresserait...
"le meilleur moyen de savoir si on est proche d'une personne, est de partir loin avec elle..." les poupées russes.
Hello,
J ai passe quelques semaines a Tallinn et c est une ville tres attachante.
Pour ce qui est de l hebergement je conseille le 16 euros hotel, qui comme son nom l indique est
a 16 euros par personne. C est la formule la moins chere en ville, voici un lien:
http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostels-Tallinn--eur-Hostel-092431.en.htm Tel. +3725013046 info@16eur.ee Ce qui est pas mal c est qu il est situe en plein centre. Il y a aussi un bar mitoyen, le Protest. La pinte est a 30kr, 2euros, c est aussi le bar le moins cher. Avis aux amateurs, je ne partage pas mes bons plans tous les jours ;)
http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostels-Tallinn--eur-Hostel-092431.en.htm Tel. +3725013046 info@16eur.ee Ce qui est pas mal c est qu il est situe en plein centre. Il y a aussi un bar mitoyen, le Protest. La pinte est a 30kr, 2euros, c est aussi le bar le moins cher. Avis aux amateurs, je ne partage pas mes bons plans tous les jours ;)
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Planning to return to Belarus in mid-August, I just realized that since last September, Poland has reopened several border crossing points, and for buses, this means connections like Białystok-Grodno.
The official Polish page: https://granica.gov.pl/index_wait.php?p=b&c=t&v=pl&k=w

Several bus company routes, like on infobus.eu, take between 3 and 4 hours. Trains from Warsaw to Białystok take about 1.5 to 2 hours. This has the advantage of allowing comfortable train journeys with minimal time spent on a bus. Also, the Terespol-Brest border might have shorter queues if you still prefer a Warsaw-Brest bus.
Note that another route to Minsk, if you have a paper Russian or Belarusian visa, is the Kaliningrad-Minsk train. It’s long—around ten or eleven hours—but you can lie down and sleep. An option if you fly into Gdańsk and then take a short bus to Kaliningrad.
There are also Belavia flights from Minsk to Kaliningrad, but they’re expensive. The route is scenic:

In any case, this adds a few more options compared to what’s been available over the last four years.
The official Polish page: https://granica.gov.pl/index_wait.php?p=b&c=t&v=pl&k=w

Several bus company routes, like on infobus.eu, take between 3 and 4 hours. Trains from Warsaw to Białystok take about 1.5 to 2 hours. This has the advantage of allowing comfortable train journeys with minimal time spent on a bus. Also, the Terespol-Brest border might have shorter queues if you still prefer a Warsaw-Brest bus.
Note that another route to Minsk, if you have a paper Russian or Belarusian visa, is the Kaliningrad-Minsk train. It’s long—around ten or eleven hours—but you can lie down and sleep. An option if you fly into Gdańsk and then take a short bus to Kaliningrad.
There are also Belavia flights from Minsk to Kaliningrad, but they’re expensive. The route is scenic:

In any case, this adds a few more options compared to what’s been available over the last four years.
Hi there.
I’d like to know what the daily budget is for Greece in December. I’ll be landing in Athens and staying there for a week, then heading to some other islands—I don’t have a set itinerary yet. Also, I’ve heard that in December, or early January, the temperature is around 11–16°C. Is that accurate?
Finally, does anyone have a good recommendation for a cheap but clean hotel near the tourist sites? I don’t need a TV or any other extras. Also, is Greece gay-friendly?
Thanks in advance for your replies. Best regards
Finally, does anyone have a good recommendation for a cheap but clean hotel near the tourist sites? I don’t need a TV or any other extras. Also, is Greece gay-friendly?
Thanks in advance for your replies. Best regards
hi
I’d like to know the opening hours of physical stores between Germany and Austria, and between Austria and Slovenia, that sell the PAPER STICKER toll vignettes that still exist for 2026—non-digital ones. I don’t think they’re open 24/7, and I can’t find the info anywhere. Thanks
I’d like to know the opening hours of physical stores between Germany and Austria, and between Austria and Slovenia, that sell the PAPER STICKER toll vignettes that still exist for 2026—non-digital ones. I don’t think they’re open 24/7, and I can’t find the info anywhere. Thanks
Hi there,
We’re planning a 3-week trip in late September with our camper van to explore Bulgaria and Romania.
What routes would you recommend, starting from the South?
Is there an option to take a ferry in Italy, and is it worth it?
Thanks for all your tips!😊
Hi there, we’re a young couple and we’d love to go to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter) between today (26/06/26) and tomorrow (27/06/26).
Is anyone heading there and could give us a ride? We’re super friendly!
Thanks so much!
Maya and Sullivan
Maya and Sullivan
We're back. It's still a bit tough to get precise info, so here's a quick trip report!
A good starting point is Shkoder, a really pleasant city. You can easily explore Shkoder itself in a day or two.
Two accessible spots: Valbona and Theth. In both cases, local travel agencies in Shkoder or online offer round-trip or one-way access packages. Super handy, especially for Valbona.
Valbona and Theth are both very steep! There aren’t many easy hikes for less sporty folks (like me!).
Valbona: The highlight is the amazing 2.5-hour boat ride across Lake Koman. There are day trips from Shkoder, but you’ll only get a short tour of the lake. The best option is to do the full crossing—so spend a night in Valbona (or two if you want to hike in the valley) and return.
Theth is deeply nestled in the mountains. The village at the end of the valley, which is a dead end, has lots of hotels, but they’re pricey. Other hostels are scattered along the mountainside road, but it’s a steep climb down to the village or to the start of the two easy hikes (waterfalls and the Blue Eye). For us, it was a one-hour descent (and ascent!). It’s fine if you have a car; otherwise, keep an eye out for a taxi (cheap) or try hitchhiking—it works really well. Access from Shkoder to Theth is through an agency. The road is in great condition, and you can also rent a car for 2-3 days in Shkoder. If we did it again, that’s the option we’d choose.
We didn’t do the trek and returned to Shkoder each time. I can’t speak to its difficulty, but we were there in late May, and even experienced hikers had given up because of heavy rain and snow.
Hope this helps! It’s a stunning region you shouldn’t miss.
A good starting point is Shkoder, a really pleasant city. You can easily explore Shkoder itself in a day or two.
Two accessible spots: Valbona and Theth. In both cases, local travel agencies in Shkoder or online offer round-trip or one-way access packages. Super handy, especially for Valbona.
Valbona and Theth are both very steep! There aren’t many easy hikes for less sporty folks (like me!).
Valbona: The highlight is the amazing 2.5-hour boat ride across Lake Koman. There are day trips from Shkoder, but you’ll only get a short tour of the lake. The best option is to do the full crossing—so spend a night in Valbona (or two if you want to hike in the valley) and return.
Theth is deeply nestled in the mountains. The village at the end of the valley, which is a dead end, has lots of hotels, but they’re pricey. Other hostels are scattered along the mountainside road, but it’s a steep climb down to the village or to the start of the two easy hikes (waterfalls and the Blue Eye). For us, it was a one-hour descent (and ascent!). It’s fine if you have a car; otherwise, keep an eye out for a taxi (cheap) or try hitchhiking—it works really well. Access from Shkoder to Theth is through an agency. The road is in great condition, and you can also rent a car for 2-3 days in Shkoder. If we did it again, that’s the option we’d choose.
We didn’t do the trek and returned to Shkoder each time. I can’t speak to its difficulty, but we were there in late May, and even experienced hikers had given up because of heavy rain and snow.
Hope this helps! It’s a stunning region you shouldn’t miss.
We’re a Canadian couple, both 77, and we’re already planning our vacation for fall 2027.
Timeframe: mid-September to mid-October... dates are flexible, and we might stay even longer.
Initially, I had planned this itinerary:
Athens (3), Naxos (4), Paros (4), Santorini (4), then a flight to Istanbul (7–10 days!!). This would let us maximize our flights and experience another culture.
That’s a lot of ferries, though... I’ve already cut out Milos.
Our second option would be to stay 2 x 15 days on two different islands, but I’d still keep Istanbul as our next destination... or maybe 30 days on one island that offers the chance to take day trips to other islands where the ferry ride is no more than 2 to 2.5 hours. For example, Naxos to Paros only takes 30 minutes. We could return the same evening or stay overnight.
Naxos seems like the best option!!!
For Istanbul, of course we want to do a day cruise on the Bosphorus and see Hagia Sophia. If we stay 6–7 days, what would be the other main attractions? Are there any points of interest we can reach by local bus?
Our second option would be to stay 2 x 15 days on two different islands, but I’d still keep Istanbul as our next destination... or maybe 30 days on one island that offers the chance to take day trips to other islands where the ferry ride is no more than 2 to 2.5 hours. For example, Naxos to Paros only takes 30 minutes. We could return the same evening or stay overnight.
Naxos seems like the best option!!!
For Istanbul, of course we want to do a day cruise on the Bosphorus and see Hagia Sophia. If we stay 6–7 days, what would be the other main attractions? Are there any points of interest we can reach by local bus?
Hi there!
We bought our tickets to Greece at the end of November 2025, and let’s just say the geopolitical climate has really taken a turn since then with the war started by the United States against Iran. Not to mention all the other conflicts happening around the world 😕... Anyway!
Our flight from Montreal is on May 1st, and I was wondering how things are currently being experienced in Greece.
We were planning to rent a car and had already booked accommodations on three Cyclades islands!!
The oil shortage is also worrying us...
If you could share some insights on this, that would be great!
Thanks!!
Thanks!!
A little trip report from an 11-day journey to Albania at the end of April 2026, with two friends in their early sixties and beyond...
Our route: Berat, Gjirokastër, Himarë, Tirana
Here are some opinions, tips, and great deals to share:
Flight Round-trip Beauvais-Tirana: Ryanair, 260 € with checked baggage (20 kg) and seat selection. Flight was fine and on time. 2h 30min flight.
Exchange: 1 € was worth 95 lek in April 2026. We were advised to exchange in the airport hall at the Illiria counter (98 lek outside the security zone), saying we wouldn’t find a better rate. However, the exchange rate was 93 lek for 1 euro, while in the city it was 95...
Car rental at Tirana airport for 9 days via Booking.com: 144 € (56 € for the car rental and 88 € for optional full insurance deductible waiver).
Wheego agency: the car was fine, but be careful when signing the contract—they tried to convince us that the insurance taken through Booking didn’t cover everything and insisted we take their own insurance for 250 €... We refused.
After reading about driving in Tirana, instead of starting our trip by visiting the capital, we decided to head straight to Berat upon arrival and return the car at the end of the trip to explore the city on foot. This turned out to be a great choice!
Accommodations: All our stays were booked via Booking.com. Everyone prefers to be paid in euros and in cash—they mention this when booking.
Berat: 2-hour drive from the airport.
Accommodation: Vila Arben Elezi: 135 € for 3 nights with breakfast and private parking. The room was decent and clean but a bit dark, located slightly below ground level near the parking. However, the breakfast on the rooftop was excellent, especially with the stunning view of the "city of a thousand windows." Great location.
Berat was our favorite—there are lovely walks through the different neighborhoods on both sides of the river, each with a very different vibe. The citadel visit is also fascinating, as it’s like a small town within the fortress.
The walk along the river is pleasant, with plenty of restaurant choices. Other restaurants in the old town are also very nice. The White House Restaurant, on the first floor along the road, is good and offers a great view of the Gorica district.
Gjirokastër:
Accommodation: Te Ajdini Guest House: 120 € for 3 nights with breakfast. A private home stay. There’s free parking just before entering the city, a 5-minute walk from the accommodation, which is very convenient since the cobblestone streets are narrow and parking is tricky. Yes, it’s a climb to get to the place, but everything in this city is uphill... The room was bright and clean. Breakfast was very good, hearty, and served in the courtyard with a view of the castle. The guesthouse is a 5-minute walk from the city center (the bazaar) but in a quiet area.
Restaurants: Rrapi and Kujtimi—good and affordable with their little pergolas.
The old town of Gjirokastër is charming but very touristy, with streets packed with souvenir shops and restaurant tables and chairs. Lots of people.
-The bunker visit (near the tourist office) is very interesting: Cold War Tunnel.
The castle offers a beautiful view of the city.
-Visit to the Ottoman house Skenduli: very well done. Don’t forget to climb the ladder facing a trapdoor in the ceiling to see the roof’s framework—it’s like a forest of beams: impressive!
-The bridge Ura e Ali Pasha: A steep 45-minute climb from the city to the site is worth it, but once you reach the viewpoint (which is stunning), you have to go back down a path to reach the bridge. You can drive to the viewpoint, but parking is very tricky.
Around Gjirokastër:
-Just outside the city: Lake Liqeni i Viroit: a nice, ordinary-looking lake, but at the end, there’s a natural spring making the water crystal clear and a brilliant blue—really spectacular, like photos of Blue Eye near Sarandë.
-Drive to Përmet along the gorges: beautiful viewpoints along the way and lovely countryside.
Himarë:
Accommodation: Vila Kosteli: 120 € for 2 nights with breakfast—slightly overpriced for this type of place but very close to a small beach and not far from the promenade with all the restaurants. Private parking, but very tight (4 cars on a tiny lot along the road). The "sea view" room is a bit obstructed by the building across the street. However, the rooftop breakfast view is beautiful. Friendly staff.
Himarë is a pleasant seaside resort, quite calm (but it was April...). There’s a cute promenade with restaurants along the beach. The castle on the heights of Himarë is worth a visit.
Around Himarë:
-Qeparo is worth a quick stop, but Qeparo village is really worth the detour: a village lost in the heights after a scenic drive up from the coastal road—narrow but well-maintained. Beautiful view from the top and a charming village.
-The Big Bunker and Llogora Panorama: take a right turn several kilometers after Dhermi—a road that climbs steeply from the start... A breathtaking winding road that reaches 900 meters in altitude. The view is stunning.
-Several small villages between Dhermi and Himarë are worth a quick stop.
-Porto Palermo Castle is somewhat disappointing.
Tirana:
Taxi from Tirana airport to the city center: 15 € with electric taxis (Green Taxi, Bee Taxi, Do Taxi).
Accommodation: Hotel Nevi Apartment: 63 € for 2 nights. A private apartment in an older building but very clean and well-equipped, with a kitchen and small enclosed balcony.
Great welcome and contact—the owner even booked a taxi for our departure. Very well located, close to the main square, shops, and restaurants. A small supermarket nearby is perfect for stocking up on breakfast supplies.
The city is lively and dynamic, with plenty of green spaces and promenades. Buildings are popping up everywhere, often with surprising architecture—like a building shaped like a face, a huge golden cube, and many others under construction.
-Sky Tower: at the top, a rotating bar offers a 360° view of the city and its buildings. Drinks are a bit pricier than usual, but it’s totally worth it (6 € for a beer or a glass of white wine, 3 € for coffee). We were there for sunset, and it was amazing! A must-do. Arrive early, as it fills up quickly.
-The House of Leaves: a house used for secret surveillance and interrogations during the dictatorship... A great way to learn about the surveillance systems of that era.
-Bunk’Art 2: a bunker in the heart of the city—very interesting, covering the dictatorship period and its system...
-The Pazari i Ri Bazaar: the new bazaar district. The large hall is worth a visit, but souvenir prices are often higher than elsewhere... The area is nice.
Restaurant: Kastrati Restaurant—a bit like a canteen with lots of traditional dishes. It’s on the first floor of a building. Excellent value for money, and the waitress explains the dishes in French.
That’s a little overview of our trip and my personal impressions! Albania is a beautiful and pleasant country to visit. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
That’s a little overview of our trip and my personal impressions! Albania is a beautiful and pleasant country to visit. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
What are the main sights to visit on Rhodes itself or the surrounding islands, and what’s the weather like? We’re leaving on May 18th.
Hi everyone,
We’re thinking of spending 3 weeks in Crete between mid-August and early September, renting a car, quickly exploring a few spots in the east, and focusing on the west, southwest, and south.
I’m worried about the heavy tourist crowds. Is it really more noticeable than elsewhere in Greece? Is there a way to avoid the crowds without missing out on the iconic places, which I imagine are stunning in Crete? Thanks for your thoughts and experiences!
Hi,
I'm heading to Greece via Albania soon. Does anyone have info on transportation from Gjirokastër to Ioannina?
Which company, fares, and schedules—it's not very clear with Google.
Thanks!
Patrice
Thanks!
Patrice
Hi everyone,
I’m just passing through Bratislava quickly (one afternoon, one night, one morning) and I’d love to see the highlights of the city. I’ve put together a little itinerary—feel free to let me know what you think!
Start at the castle and its beautiful viewpoint Visit the Baroque gardens St. Martin’s Cathedral, quick visit National Theatre Discover the Cumil statues Primatial Palace via Hlavné Namestie Michael’s Gate Grassalkovich Palace via Obchodna Walk across Namesti Slobody to head back to the upside-down pyramid Head down to the Blue Church Cross the Danube to see Sad Janka Krala, then return via the UFO Bridge There you go—10 km and a packed day! What do you think?
Thanks, Stéphane.
I’m just passing through Bratislava quickly (one afternoon, one night, one morning) and I’d love to see the highlights of the city. I’ve put together a little itinerary—feel free to let me know what you think!
Start at the castle and its beautiful viewpoint Visit the Baroque gardens St. Martin’s Cathedral, quick visit National Theatre Discover the Cumil statues Primatial Palace via Hlavné Namestie Michael’s Gate Grassalkovich Palace via Obchodna Walk across Namesti Slobody to head back to the upside-down pyramid Head down to the Blue Church Cross the Danube to see Sad Janka Krala, then return via the UFO Bridge There you go—10 km and a packed day! What do you think?
Thanks, Stéphane.
Hi,
I’m renting a car in Greece (Heraklion).
Should I get extra insurance?
What’s driving like with the Greeks?
Thanks for any tips!
Hi there,
we’re heading to Crete from May 8th to 15th, staying at a hotel in Agia Pelagia, 20 km from Heraklion, on half-board, so we’ll be back every evening. What daily itinerary would you recommend? We love hiking and discovering local cultures...
Thanks in advance!!
Hello,
We’re heading to Prague with so much excitement from June 10th to 20th. I’ve got three main questions for those who live there or have visited:
- What are your thoughts on what to pack clothing-wise? What’s the weather usually like at this time of year? We’re a bit sensitive to the cold—we live way down in southern Andalusia and are used to the *calor* 😎... Should we pack rain gear? Are we likely to get a lot of rain (which we’re dreading a little, but we couldn’t choose other dates)?
- I’ve seen there are "passes" for various attractions, museums, and sites, including one that’s valid for 10 days but costs a whopping 160 € per person—that’s an average of 16 € per day. Do you think it’s really worth it? We won’t be spending our days rushing between every indoor site; we also love wandering the streets and discovering things a bit "at random." If we do two paid visits a day, that’ll probably be the max... Can we make it worth the cost with that? Of course, we want to visit the castle and take a boat trip as a minimum. Are the sites included in these passes iconic, or are they more "minor" attractions? Does having the pass help us skip long lines?
- Finally, a question about communication: I speak French, obviously, plus Spanish and English fluently, but very little German (haven’t practiced in ages), and no Russian or Czech at all. My husband knows a few words of Russian, but it’s "Cuban" Russian—about the same level as my current German 🙂 !! Can we still get by without too much trouble? We don’t want to spend 10 days not saying a word to anyone and communicating only with gestures!!
Thanks for your valuable tips and opinions.
hi,
I'm looking to rent a small car, not too expensive, for Crete in April. Do you have any great tips? Thanks in advance! Best regards
I'm looking to rent a small car, not too expensive, for Crete in April. Do you have any great tips? Thanks in advance! Best regards
Hi there!
We’re heading to Crete (Heraklion) as a couple and I’d like to rent a car.
1) Do we need an international driver’s permit?
2) Are rentals super expensive?
Thanks everyone!
Hi there
I’d like to know how much a meal costs on average in zloty in Poland (Warsaw, Kraków, Częstochowa, Wadowice), and also the price of souvenirs like postcards and magnets—so I don’t end up with too many zlotys left after my 5-day trip to Poland?
I’d like to know how much a meal costs on average in zloty in Poland (Warsaw, Kraków, Częstochowa, Wadowice), and also the price of souvenirs like postcards and magnets—so I don’t end up with too many zlotys left after my 5-day trip to Poland?