Tirana

Skanderbeg Square - Begin your exploration of Tirana at Skanderbeg Square, the largest square in the city. Surrounding the square, you’ll find the Palace of Culture, the historic Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the National Museum. Spend about 15 minutes here to gather insights from your guide.

Enver Hoxha Pyramid - This strikingly unattractive structure, designed by Enver Hoxha’s daughter and son-in-law, was completed in 1988. Initially the Enver Hoxha Museum, it later served as a convention center and nightclub. Now adorned with graffiti and encircled by Tirana’s homeless, its once-white marble walls are deteriorating. A decision on its future—whether to demolish or restore—remains pending. During the tour, you’ll pause for a 10-minute explanation.

Bunk’Art 1 - This small bunker is located along the route of our Tirana sightseeing tour.

Blloku - Blloku is a chic district in Tirana, Albania, renowned for its entertainment options, including boutiques, shops, restaurants, trendy bars, pubs, and cafes. Situated in the Tirana e Re neighborhood in southwestern Tirana, its bars migrate to the Albanian Riviera during peak summer months. After the fall of Communism, Blloku became highly appealing, as it was previously a restricted area for the Albanian politburo, inaccessible to ordinary citizens. The residence of Albania’s communist leader, Enver Hoxha, can still be found here. Enjoy your free time for lunch or coffee in the Blloku neighborhood.

National Gallery of Art - This beautiful space chronicles the brief history of Albanian painting from the early 19th century to the present, also hosting temporary exhibitions. The collection features 19th-century paintings depicting daily Albanian life and others with a political dimension, including remarkable examples of Albanian socialist realism. The gallery’s entrance isn’t always open, so if exhibitions are available during your visit, you can explore inside.

Pazari i Ri - The New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri), one of Tirana’s oldest and most historic residential neighborhoods, has recently been renovated and revitalized. Traditional elements of the old town have been preserved, while the square has been modernized. The name comes from the local farmer’s market at the center, where over 300 farmers from surrounding areas sell fresh produce, meat, seafood, and spices.

Tirana - Shkodra

Rozafa Castle - Built in antiquity, enduring through the Roman and Ottoman empires, Rozafa Castle remains intact today, bearing witness to Albania’s rich history. This archaeological site is steeped in historical tales. Visit the castle and enjoy the stunning panoramic views.

Shkodra Lake - Located in Northwest Albania, Shkodra Lake is the largest in the Balkan Peninsula and a natural wonder of the region. Covering 368 km2, the lake extends beyond Albania into Montenegro, with 149 km2 within Albania. The lake beautifully frames the historic and artistic city of Shkodra, offering a calming and refreshing atmosphere, enhanced by the surrounding water.

Shkoder - This diverse city boasts a rich artistic heritage and significant contributions to Albanian culture. Shkodra is the birthplace of notable Albanian poets like Migjeni, painters like Kol Idromeno and Edi Hila, and photographers, the Marubi Family. Shkodra is home to the Marubi National Photography Museum, displaying Albania’s first photo, and the Venice Art Mask Factory, where intricate masks for Venice carnivals and Las Vegas shows are crafted. A city of myths and legends, the famous Castle of Shkodra is said to be supported by the body of Rozafa, a young mother who sacrificed herself for it. This naturally beautiful city is mirrored by the Adriatic Sea, Shkodra Lake, and the Buna River. Known as the “city of bicycles,” its views are best enjoyed while cycling. Enjoy free time and an overnight stay in this city.

Shkodra - Valbona

Valbona Valley National Park - The Valbona Valley is a haven of rivers, spectacular waterfalls, and endless forests beneath towering peaks. In this breathtaking setting, organic, farm-fresh products and clean air seem to add years to your life. This natural wonder offers a rare sense of tranquility and beauty, not to be missed by those seeking Albania’s most awe-inspiring natural treasures. Enjoy the fresh air and a pleasant walk in the park before dinner.

Komani Lake - Lake Koman, a reservoir on the Drin River in northern Albania, is surrounded by dense forested hills, steep slopes, deep gorges, and a narrow valley occupied by the river. Besides the Drin, it is fed by the Shala and Valbona Rivers. The lake covers an area of 34 km2, with a width of 400 m. The narrowest gorge, flanked by vertical canyon walls, is over 50 m wide. Constructed between 1979 and 1988 near Koman village, the reservoir stands 115 m (377 ft) tall. The unique topography and hydrological conditions have created diverse habitats. Predatory mammals include the golden jackal, red fox, European badger, Eurasian otter, beech marten, and European polecat. Numerous bird species inhabit the region, such as the common kingfisher, common quail, grey heron, Eurasian wryneck, great spotted woodpecker, and black-headed gull.

Valbona - Prizren - Kruja

Prizren - After breakfast, depart for Kosovo, a country with a unique and complex history. Discover some of it and be pleasantly surprised by the hospitality and friendliness encountered here! Prizren, a town of shops, mosques, churches, and old bridges, rivals many Western European cities in culture and beauty.

Albanian League of Prizren Museum [Muzeu Lidhja Shqiptare e Prizrenit] - The League for the Defense of the Rights of the Albanian Nation, commonly known as the League of Prizren, was established on June 10, 1878, in the old town of Prizren, in the Kosova Vilayet of the Ottoman Empire. This museum offers insights into Albanian history in Kosovo.

Sinan Pasha Mosque - Located in the Historic Centre of Prizren, the Sinan Pasha Mosque was built in 1615 by Sofi Sinan Pasha, a distinguished figure in the Ottoman administration. Its prominent position, dimensions, shape, minaret-to-cupola proportion, construction materials, and interior endowments make it one of Prizren’s most characteristic monuments.

Kruja Castle - After visiting Prizren, return to Albania and head towards Kruja city. The ancient city of Kruja was the stronghold of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, who successfully resisted the Ottomans for 25 years in the 15th century. A museum dedicated to Skanderbeg, designed by Enver Hoxha’s daughter, is located within the citadel walls. The small bazaar is an excellent place to purchase handmade products and objects, such as wooden carpets and handcrafted pots.

Kruja - Elbasan - Pogradec

Elbasan - After breakfast, depart for Elbasan. Upon arrival, visit the Elbasan Castle, significant in Roman times and offering views of Via Egnatia, the “road” between ancient Rome and Constantinople. Explore the fortress of Elbasan, Saint Mary’s Church, and the King Mosque within the fortress. Enjoy free time in the castle.

Lake Ohrid - Some cities are undeniably special. From the first steps, the fresh air, the scent of nearby water, and the sight of its beauty, it’s clear these places inspire great poetry! Pogradec, the city of artists, resting on Lake Ohrid’s shores, is one such place. It’s ideal for romantics seeking nature’s peace and tranquility. Spend the night near this lake in Pogradec.

Pogradec - Upon arrival in Pogradec, enjoy Lake Ohrid, which dominates the small town. This ancient tectonic lake is one of Europe’s oldest and deepest (up to 288m). The lake is shared between Albania and North Macedonia. The Macedonian side, centered on the dreamy town of Ohrid, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, with discussions to extend this distinction to the Albanian side. Currently, tourism in and around Pogradec is minimal, which may seem understandable. Pogradec itself is a modest town with few attractions, and litter is a significant issue along the lakeshore. However, for an offbeat adventure and a quiet stroll around the lake, away from the tourist crowds of its Macedonian counterpart, Pogradec is ideal.

Tushemisht - Tushemisht is the last village on the Albanian side of Lake Ohrid before the Macedonian border. It is a charming, relaxing place, surrounded by mountains, beautiful beaches, and excellent restaurants offering authentic fish cuisine.

Pogradec - Voskopoja - Korca

Driloni National Park - In the morning, visit Drilon, one of southeastern Albania’s most enchanting hamlets. This small village, located between Korça and Pogradec, was a favorite retreat of dictator Enver Hoxha during the Communist era. Today, Drilon is a popular summer destination, known for its beauty, beaches, and national park.

Korce - In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Korca’s most important sites, including the Cathedral, the Ottoman Bazaar, Andon Zako Cajupi Theatre, and Hani I Pazarit. Korca is renowned for its vibrant life and traditional music. Take a pleasant walk in Korca’s main pedestrian area.

Korca Old Bazaar - The old bazaar attracts both locals shopping for daily needs and tourists exploring the city. As Korçë’s first market, built at the end of the 19th century, it holds great historical and monumental value. The complex preserves old stone buildings and parts of the city, making a visit to the bazaar an aesthetically pleasing experience. The old bazaar combines an open-air market with workshops, small commercial units, and intimate guesthouses that maintain the city’s culinary and hospitality traditions.

Ngjallja e Krishtit Cathedral - The Cathedral of the Resurrection, built in 1992 on the foundations of an old Orthodox church destroyed during the Communist era, is now the largest and most important Orthodox church in Korça and Albania.

National Museum of Medieval Art - The National Museum of Medieval Art in Korça seamlessly blends modern and ancient elements, creating a timeless space. This ultra-modern venue revives the Byzantine era. Originally built in 1980 and reconstructed in 2016, it is located on the main “Fan Noli” boulevard in the city. As the newest museum in the country, it preserves artworks that have miraculously survived the communist regime’s challenges, allowing them to be appreciated today.

Korca - Germenj - Permet - Gjirokastra

Benja Thermal Baths - The Benja Thermal Pools are smooth and clear, with a high sulfur content. The stone baths are the most authentic, attracting many visitors year-round. Winter, when Përmet’s temperature drops below 0 degrees Celsius, is the best time to immerse yourself in these hot baths. Enjoy the satisfying contrast between the air and water! Remember, 20-25 minutes in the pool is usually sufficient, as prolonged exposure to the highly sulfuric waters can be overwhelming and not necessarily beneficial.

Spend about 2 hours in the thermal baths, with opportunities for jumping into natural pools and walking in the Langarica canyon.

Permet - In Permet, after exploring the city, visit a traditional house and meet the locals. Experience the typical product of Permet, known as Gliko. Gliko is a key element of Përmet’s local cuisine, made from various fruits and vegetables grown by the valley’s small-scale farmers. “Walnut husk,” made from whole green walnuts, is the most common style, with other popular variations including white cherry, eggplant, wild fig, plum, and apricot.

Stroll around the city and enjoy some free time.

Gjirokastra Bazaar - Upon arrival in Gjirokastër, pass through the old town center. The historic “Neck of the Bazaar” forms the heart of the Old Town, where former artisanal workshops are now mostly tourist souvenir shops. A few stone carvers remain at the bazaar’s top end.

Enjoy free time in the bazaar before dinner.

Skenduli House - The lovingly restored Ottoman-era Skenduli House has been in the same family for generations, except for a few years during the communist period when the government took it over. A family member will likely guide your tour. Dating from the early 1700s and partially rebuilt in 1827, the house features many fascinating elements, including a room used solely for wedding ceremonies, boasting 15 windows, many with stained glass.

Gjirokastra - Blue Eye - Saranda

Gjirokaster Castle - Begin your morning with a walking tour of Gjirokastra Castle. This eerie hilltop fortress is one of the largest in the Balkans. A fortress has stood here since the 12th century, though much of what is visible today dates to the early 19th century. The castle is infamous for its use as a prison under the communists. Inside, you’ll find an armory collection, two excellent museums, numerous crumbling ruins to explore, and superb valley views.

Enjoy free time in the old town.

The Blue Eye - Describing the multidimensionality and depth of this surreal beauty may be challenging, but it’s worth the effort! The landscape leading to the Blue Eye reveals this natural anomaly, surrounded by palm trees, wild ferns, tropical plants, and dense, mountainous forest vegetation of oaks and sycamores, all at once! This lush vegetation is maintained by the spring flowing down the mountain into the Bistrica River.

Butrint National Park - After lunch, visit the top archaeological sites of Butrint. Butrint (Butrint in Albanian) was an ancient Greek city, later Roman, and a bishopric in Epirus. Inhabited since prehistoric times, Buthrotum was a city of the Greek Chaonian tribe, later a Roman colony and a bishopric. It declined at the end of Antiquity before being abandoned in the Middle Ages after a major earthquake flooded most of the city.

Check into your hotel and enjoy free time by the sea in Saranda, the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera. During the summer months, it seems like half of Tirana relocates here to enjoy the lively beach and vibrant nightlife along its bustling seaside promenade.

Saranda - Albanian Riviera - Himara (Llogara)

Porto Palermo Castle - On the way to Himara, near the Ionian Sea, in a picturesque bay just south of Himara, this 19th-century fortress, also known as the Castle of Ali Pasha, is an intriguing stop along the coastal road. The fortress itself is dark inside, but it’s worth exploring the battlements, which offer superb sea views.

Himare - Himara, the largest village on the Southern Riviera, is a must-see! Due to its strategic position along the Ionian Coast, the village has experienced steady growth, with exponential growth in recent decades. Of all the villages along the coastline, Himara offers the most comprehensive summer experience. It’s no wonder that nearly all travel guides recommend it without hesitation!

Himara - Vlora

Llogara National Park - Where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, the journey to Llogara National Park begins. The lush forests of pines and oaks are just the start of this “mountain of panoramas,” beautifully surrounded by numerous mountain ranges and the majestic Ionian Sea. Located only 40 km southeast of Vlora, Llogara National Park is one of Albania’s most visited natural parks, home to rich flora and fauna and some of the country’s finest cuisine. Though the park is open year-round, it is most popular in summer as a cooling stop and a literal rite of passage to the southern Albanian Riviera.

Pass through the national park and enjoy a pleasant walk or short hike.

Llogara Pass - The Llogara Pass is a high mountain pass within the Ceraunian Mountains along the Albanian Riviera. It connects the Dukat Valley in the north with Himarë in the south.

Pause briefly for photos of the stunning Albanian Riviera.

Independence Monument - The Monument of Independence in Vlorë, Albania, commemorates the Albanian Declaration of Independence. Created by Albanian sculptors Muntaz Dhrami and Kristaq Rama, it is located in Flag’s Plaza, near the building where the first Albanian government operated in 1913.

Stop for 10 minutes at this historical center of Vlora.

Ethnographic Museum, Vlore - As the building that hosted the first Albanian government’s operations, the Museum of Independence in Vlorë is strategically located near the port, offering a beautiful sea view. This modest, two-story house is steeped in history! Founded in 1936, it is considered Albania’s first museum before the ’90s. This national museum provides comprehensive information about the most significant events in the country’s history. It was on the famous balcony of this bright yellow, traditional house that Ismail Qemali raised the Albanian flag in 1912.

Vlora - Berat

National Ethnographic Museum Berat - Upon arrival in Berat, visit the National Ethnographic Museum, housed in a striking, typical 18th-century two-story Berat residence. This museum offers a delightful immersion into the lifestyle traditions of this fascinating town. The museum’s pavilions are well-organized within the two stories of the former residence. The journey through the pavilions provides an accurate panorama of the traditions and daily lives of Berat’s prominent families.

Spend about 1 hour in this museum; the admission fee is not included in the price.

Berat Castle - Transfer to Berat Castle and explore its interior. Berat, Onufri Museum Berat is one of Albania’s most visited and distinctive cities, protected by UNESCO for its unique architectural character. In Berat, visit the castle and the Onufri Museum. Berat Castle is particularly interesting because people still live within its walls in traditional houses, just as their ancestors did for centuries. The castle once had over 40 churches, with 7 remaining, including the Sainte-Marie church, now an Onufri museum. Onufri was a renowned 16th-century Albanian icon painter who decorated many orthodox churches in Albania and Greece, using a special red color.

After the visit, enjoy free time in the old town. Spend about 2 hours in the castle, depending on your preference.

National Iconographic Museum Onufri - Built in 1797, this museum was a cathedral and is located at the highest point of Berat Castle, though it can be challenging to find. While the Ottomans were Muslim, they allowed Christians to practice their faith and build churches, albeit discreetly.

Berati - Apollonia - Karavastas - Tirana

Apollonia Archaeological Park - In the morning, depart for the Apollonia archaeological site. If one place could offer the most memorable historical encounter in Albania, it would be the ancient city of Apollonia, founded in the sixth century B.C. Located in southwestern Albania, about 13 miles from Fier, this city was established by Greek colonizers on the lands of the Taulantii Illyrian tribe. It was one of the most prominent cities of its time, chosen from over twenty other cities throughout the Mediterranean to bear the glorious name of Apollo, the god of music and poetry.

Laguna e Karavastase - Divjakë-Karavasta National Park is a beautiful experience for nature lovers and a must-see for birdwatchers! The park is home to around fifty thousand birds among its wonderful natural monuments. It offers the extraordinary opportunity to become part of another world. Observing these birds in their natural habitat and witnessing their behaviors is a rare treat indeed.

• Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Comfortable travel with in-vehicle air conditioning.
• All fees and taxes covered.
• Professional guide and driver service included.

• everything that is not Mentioned at Inclusion section

In this captivating 12-day journey, the hidden treasures of Albania will be unveiled to you. You’ll get to explore historical sites, ancient castles, expansive national parks, and quaint old towns. Here, you’ll experience thrilling mountain hikes, relaxing sandy beaches, and delicious local cuisine. The tour spans the landscapes of northern and southern Albania.

This journey is designed for individuals who are keen to delve into Albania’s intriguing history, picturesque beaches, awe-inspiring landscapes, and remarkable landmarks. The journey crosses all regions in Albania, with a brief diversion into Kosovo. We’ve selected some of the most distinctive sights in both Albania and Kosovo for your enjoyment. You’ll get a chance to witness the renowned hospitality and warmth of the Albanian people. Part of your journey will be spent at local guesthouses, where you’ll hear compelling traditional tales and experiences from the locals – a truly outstanding experience.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.