We didn't plan to love Montenegro as much as we did. Coming straight off Albania, we weren't sure anything could top it — we were wrong. In six days we rafted through Europe's deepest canyon, drove 25 white-knuckle hairpin turns up a mountain, wandered medieval streets in Kotor, and stumbled upon a hidden waterfall almost nobody knows about. All of it on a budget. This is how we did it.

From turquoise beaches in southern Albania to the iconic Valbonë–Theth hike in the north, this 7-day itinerary showcases the country’s incredible diversity. Travel through historic towns, camp on secluded beaches, hike dramatic mountain trails, and experience Albania’s raw beauty on a budget. This guide covers where to go, how to get around, and what to expect along the way.

Packing for the Camino is all about balance. Since you carry everything you bring, keeping your backpack light makes a huge difference in comfort. Most pilgrims walk with just two or three outfits, washing clothes along the way. Choosing the right essentials—and leaving behind what you don’t truly need—allows you to walk more freely, focus on the journey, and fully embrace the simplicity the Camino teaches.