Semi Private: Authentic Albania

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Tirana | The capital of colors & contrasts
1 stop
1
Tirana
-Arrival at Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, where you will be welcomed by a company representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy some time to rest and refresh. -In the afternoon, join a relaxed introductory walk through Tirana, exploring key landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Tirana Pyramid. -In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant, and get a preview of the journey ahead. -Overnight in Tirana.
8 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
From the capital to the timeless shores of Lake Ohrid
3 stops
2
Elbasan
-Breakfast at the hotel The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before departing from Tirana. As we leave the capital behind, the landscape gradually changes from urban energy to rolling hills, farmland, and peaceful countryside. -Stop in Elbasan – Echoes of the Ottoman Era A short stop in Elbasan offers a glimpse into its historic Ottoman-era fortified center. Once an important stop along ancient trade routes, the city still preserves parts of its old walls and traditional streets, reflecting Albania’s strategic role through centuries of empire.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
3
Lin
-Arrival at Lake Ohrid & visit to Lin village Continuing east, we reach Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, recognized as a UNESCO-protected ecosystem. The region is known for its rich biodiversity and ancient human settlements. We visit the charming lakeside village of Lin, where: • Stone houses line narrow cobbled alleys • Elderly residents gather in shaded courtyards • Flowers decorate balconies overlooking the crystal-clear lake The peaceful rhythm of village life creates a beautiful contrast with the busy atmosphere of Tirana.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
4
Pogradec
-Arrival in Pogradec & hotel check-in We continue to the nearby town of Pogradec, located along the shores of Lake Ohrid. After hotel check-in, there will be time to enjoy a relaxing lakeside walk at sunset, when the calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains and create a serene atmosphere. -Overnight in Pogradec.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Cultural refinement in Korçë & The wild beauty of the Vjosa River
2 stops
5
Korce
-Breakfast at the hotel The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before continuing the journey southeast toward Korçë, often considered the cultural capital of Albania. -Korçë – elegance & intellectual heritage Known for its refined architecture and lively café culture, Korçë has a distinctly European atmosphere. While exploring the Old Bazaar, visitors will notice: • Beautifully restored stone buildings • Small artisan workshops and local shops • A strong sense of Orthodox tradition and cultural pride The city is also known for its role in Albania’s intellectual and cultural development.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
6
Permet
-Arrival in Përmet – The City of Roses From Korçë, the journey continues through scenic mountain landscapes toward Përmet, often called the “City of Roses.” Nestled between mountains and rivers, the town is known for its peaceful setting and natural beauty. After arrival, we check in at the hotel. -Afternoon at leisure in nature In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the surroundings. You may take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Vjosa River, one of Europe’s last free-flowing rivers. There is also the optional opportunity to visit the nearby thermal baths of Bënjë, a beautiful natural area where warm mineral waters flow beneath a historic Ottoman bridge. -Overnight in Përmet.
6 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
NESCO Stone Heritage in Gjirokastër & Riviera evenings
2 stops
7
Gjirokaster
-Breakfast at the hotel The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before continuing the journey south. The drive offers dramatic canyon landscapes and panoramic mountain views, revealing the rugged beauty of southern Albania. -Gjirokastër – The City of Stone (UNESCO) Arrival in Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the “City of Stone.” The historic town is known for its distinctive Ottoman-era houses built from local stone, cascading down the hillside beneath a large hilltop castle. -During our visit we explore: • Narrow cobblestone streets • Traditional tower houses that reflect the region’s architecture • The impressive Gjirokastër Castle, offering panoramic views over the Drino Valley In the Old Bazaar, there will be time to enjoy a coffee prepared in the traditional local style while experiencing the town’s authentic atmosphere.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
8
Saranda
-Arrival in Sarandë & hotel check-in We then continue the journey toward the Ionian coast. As we descend from the mountains, the landscape opens to the sea and the climate becomes milder. Arrival in Sarandë, where we check in at the hotel and take some time to relax. -Dinner at Lëkurësi Castle In the evening, we head to Lëkurësi Castle, located on a hill above Sarandë. Here we enjoy dinner with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the Albanian Riviera, especially beautiful at sunset. -Overnight in Sarandë.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Ancient Civilizations at Butrint & The natural wonder of the Blue Eye
2 stops
9
Butrint National Park
-Breakfast at the hotel The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore some of southern Albania’s most remarkable natural and historical sites. Butrint – A Living Timeline of Mediterranean History We visit Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian civilizations can be discovered within a lush Mediterranean landscape. Walking through the archaeological park, visitors explore ancient ruins such as the theater, city walls, basilica, and Roman baths, while learning about the long history of this important ancient city. The peaceful natural surroundings of the lagoon and forest add to the unique atmosphere of the site.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
10
The Blue Eye
-Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) A short drive inland brings us to the famous Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a stunning natural spring where crystal-clear turquoise water emerges from deep underground. The vibrant colors and refreshing air create a magical setting, making it a perfect place for photos and a short break surrounded by nature. -Return to Sarandë After the visit, we return to Sarandë where the rest of the day is free to relax by the sea, stroll along the promenade, or enjoy the lively coastal atmosphere. -Overnight in Sarandë.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 6
Berat | The City of 1001 Windows
1 stop
11
Berat
-Breakfast at the hotel The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before departing from Sarandë and traveling inland. -Arrival in Berat & hotel check-in Arrival in Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” The town’s distinctive white Ottoman houses rise dramatically along the hillside overlooking the Osum River. After arrival, we check in at the hotel. -Guided exploration of Berat During a guided visit, we explore the highlights of this historic city, including: • Berat Castle, a remarkable fortress that is still inhabited today • The historic quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, famous for their traditional architecture • Several Byzantine churches and Ottoman monuments, reflecting the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage Berat beautifully illustrates Albania’s long tradition of religious coexistence and architectural harmony. -Traditional dinner with folk performance -Overnight in Berat.
6 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Rural encounters & coastal heritage in Durrës
1 stop
12
Durres
-Breakfast at the hotel The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before departing for a scenic drive through central Albania. -Stop in Belsh – Farm-to-table experience We make a relaxing stop in Belsh, known for its lakes and peaceful countryside. Here we visit a welcoming family farm, where guests will: • Taste organic products grown on-site • Learn about sustainable rural life and traditional farming • Observe a short animal care demonstration This authentic experience connects Albanian gastronomy with everyday rural life. -Arrival in Durrës & hotel check-in We then continue to Durrës, one of the oldest cities on the Adriatic coast. Known for its seaside atmosphere and rich history, the city combines coastal relaxation with ancient heritage. A short guided walk includes visits to the Roman Amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans, and the historic Venetian Tower near the old city walls. -Overnight in Durrës.
8 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Northern flavors & Shkodër
2 stops
13
Mrizi i Zanave - Restorant Agroturizëm
-Breakfast at the hotel The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before departing north along the Adriatic plain. The journey passes through fertile farmland and coastal landscapes as we head toward northern Albania. -Lunch at Mrizi i Zanave We stop for lunch at Mrizi i Zanave, one of Albania’s most famous farm-to-table restaurants. Known for celebrating the country’s slow food movement, the restaurant offers dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients and traditional recipes from the region.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
14
Rozafa Castle
-Arrival in Shkodër & hotel check-in In the afternoon we arrive in Shkodër, one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in Albania. After hotel check-in, we visit Rozafa Castle, dramatically located on a hill overlooking Lake Shkodër and the surrounding rivers. -Free evening in Shkodër The evening is free to explore the city’s lively pedestrian area, known for its cafés, restaurants, and vibrant local atmosphere. -Overnight in Shkodër.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 9
The dramatic landscapes of the Albanian Alps & Theth
2 stops
15
Theth National Park
-Breakfast at the hotel The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before setting out on a spectacular drive into the Albanian Alps. The road winds through dramatic mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and traditional northern villages as we head toward Theth National Park. -Exploring Theth Upon arrival in Theth, we explore one of Albania’s most iconic alpine villages, surrounded by towering peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and pristine nature. Highlights of the visit include: • The picturesque village church, a symbol of Theth and its cultural heritage • The historic Lock-In Tower (Kulla e Ngujimit), connected to the traditions of the Kanun • A visit to the Blue Eye of Theth, a stunning natural spring with vibrant turquoise water hidden in the mountains • A scenic hike to the Grunas Waterfall, one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the Albanian Alps Here, nature feels wild, pure, and untouched, offering one of the most memorable experiences of the journey.
8 hours • Admission ticket included
16
Shkoder
-Return to Shkodër After exploring Theth, we return to Shkodër, enjoying the impressive mountain scenery once again during the drive. Evening in Shkodër – Farewell Dinner In the evening, we gather for a special farewell dinner, celebrating the end of our journey through Albania. It will be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine while sharing memories and experiences from the trip. -Overnight in Shkodër.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 10
Return
1 stop
17
Tirana
-Breakfast at the Hotel Transfer to Tirana International Airport. -Departure with a deep connection to Albania’s landscapes, flavors, and people.
2 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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