7 Days The Best of Albania: Eco & Traditions Discovery Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Tirana - Elbasan - Korca
7 stops
1
Skanderbeg Square
In Tirana, you will start your visit from the Skanderbeg square which is also the biggest square in Tirana, around this square you will see, the Palace of Culture, the old et hem bey mosque, and the national museum. You will spend around 15 minutes in the square to get all the information from the guide
2 hours • Admission ticket free
2
Elbasan
In Elbasan, you will visit the castle of Elbasan which was very important in Roman times and which also has a view of Via Egnatia, which was the "road" between the old city of Rome and Kostandinopoja. You will also see a fortress of Elbasan, Saint Mary's Church and the king Mosque inside the fortress. After sightseeing you will have your free time in the castle
1 hour • Admission ticket free
3
Pogradec
Once you arrive in Pogradec you will enjoy Lake Ohrid, which utterly dominates the small town of Pogradec. This ancient tectonic lake is one of the oldest and deepest (up to 288m) lakes in Europe. The lake is divided between Albania and North Macedonia. The Macedonian side, which centers on the dreamy town of Ohrid, was declared an UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979 and there is talk of that distinction being extended to the Albanian half. For the moment, though, tourism in and around Pogradec is minimal and on the surface, this is perhaps understandable. Pogradec itself is a fairly drab small town with few physical attractions, and rubbish is a serious eye-sore along the lake-shore. That being said, for an off-beat adventure and the opportunity to stroll quietly around the lake, without the masses of tourists who define its Macedonian side, Pogradec ticks all the right boxes.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
4
Enver Hoxha Pyramid
The Pyramid of Tirana was built in 1988 as a museum for communist leader Enver Hoxha, designed partly by his daughter. After communism fell in 1991, it stopped being a museum and was used for different purposes—like a conference center, NATO base during the Kosovo War, and later a TV station. The building fell into disrepair, and Albanians debated whether to demolish it. Instead, it was renovated and turned into a youth, technology, and cultural center. Today, it’s a modern public space and a symbol of Albania’s transition from dictatorship to a new era. The pyramid is during our sightseeing and we will stop 10 minutes for explanation
Admission ticket free
5
Blloku
Blloku is an upmarket area in Tirana, Albania. It is widely known as an entertainment destination with its boutiques, shops, restaurants, trendy bars, pubs, and cafes. The area is part of the neighborhood of Tirana e Re in southwestern Tirana. During the peak summer months, its trendy bars transfer along the Albanian Riviera. It became very attractive after the fall of Communism in Albania because during the communist period it was a restricted residential area for the members of the Albanian politburo, ordinary Albanians would not be allowed in. On most maps it was unmarked. Blloku you can still find the residence of Albania’s communist leader Enver Hoxha. In blloku neighborhood, you will spend your free time for lunch or for Caffe
1 hour • Admission ticket free
6
National Gallery of Art
Tracing the relatively brief history of Albanian painting from the early 19th century to the present day, this beautiful space also holds temporary exhibitions. The interesting collection includes 19th-century paintings depicting scenes from daily Albanian life and others with a far more political dimension, including some truly fabulous examples of Albanian socialist realism. The entrance of the gallery is not always open, so if there are any exhibitions at the time of your visit you can enter inside the gallery
Admission ticket free
7
Lake Ohrid
Some cities are undeniably special. As soon as you take your first steps in them, inhale the first breath of fresh air, the first smell of a nearby body of water, and the first sight of its beauty, you know that these places must have inspired great poetry! Pogradec, the city of artists, resting on the shores of Lake Ohrid, is certainly one of these. It’s an ideal place for the romantic soul, who seeks and relishes nature’s peace and tranquillity. You will overnight near this lake in Pogradec
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Korca – Voskopoja - Permet
5 stops
8
Voskopoja is a place where nature meets history, making it a favorite destination for tourists. The town of Voskopoja has been known as a cultural center since 1330 and, over the centuries, more than 24 churches have been built there. The city hosted the first printing press outside of Istanbul alongside other important institutions, such as the New Academy. Unfortunately, fire, war, robbery, and earthquakes ultimately destroyed many of these buildings. You will visit Saint Athanase, Saint Ilie, and Saint Marie churches. In Vosopoja there is a Possibility of light hiking in the forest.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
9
Korce
Arrive in Korca and have a sightseeing tour of the most important places in this city. The Cathedral, the Ottoman Bazaar, Andon Zako Cajupi theatre, and the Hani I Pazarit. The city of Korca is known for its vivid life and traditional music. You will have a nice walk in the main pedestrian area in Korca
1 hour • Admission ticket free
10
Tushemisht
Tushemisht is the last village on the Albanian side of Ohrid Lake, before the Macedonian border. Tushemisht is a lovely relaxing place, surrounded by mountains, gorgeous beaches, and great restaurants that offer authentic fish cuisine.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
11
Driloni National Park
One of the most enchanting hamlets of southeastern Albania is Drilon, a very small village located between Korça and Pogradec. During the Communist-era, Drilon was the favorite place of dictator Enver Hoxha, who used to come here to relax. Today Drilon is an attractive summer destination, thanks to its beauty, beaches, and a national park.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
12
Resurrection of Christ Cathedral
Cathedral of the Resurrection: built-in 1992 on the foundations of an old Orthodox church destroyed during the Communist era, it is now the largest and most important Orthodox church in Korça and Albania.
Admission ticket free
Day 3
Përmet – Gjirokastra
3 stops
13
On this day you will explore one of the most natural and interesting landscapes of Albania. We will stop from time to time to enjoy the scenery.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
14
Benja Thermal Baths
The Benja Thermal Pools are smooth and clear, and also contain a high content of sulfur. The stone baths are the most authentic, and as such, attract a large number of visitors all year-round. The winter, when the temperature in Përmet falls below 0 degrees Celsius, it is the best time to immerse yourself in these hot baths. Enjoy that satisfying contrast between the air and water! Remember though, 20-25 minutes in the pool usually suffices! More time in the highly sulfuric waters can be quite overwhelming, and not necessarily that good for you. You will spend in the thermal baths around 2 hours, there is a possibility for jumping in the natural pools and walking in the Langarica canyon
2 hours • Admission ticket included
15
Permet
In Permet, after visiting the city, we will visit one traditional house and meet the locals, we will experience the typical product of Permet, which is called Gliko. Gliko is an important element of the local cuisine in Përmet and is made from many different fruits and vegetables, all grown locally by many of the valley’s small-scale farmers. "Walnut husk" like, made from whole green walnuts, is the most common style and other popular variations include white cherry, eggplant, wild fig, plum, and apricot. Walking arownd the city and having some free time on your own
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Gjirokastra - Saranda - Ksamil Islands- Butrint
5 stops
16
Gjirokaster
There has been a settlement here for 2500 years, though these days it's the 600 'monumental' Ottoman-era houses in town that attract visitors. For Albanians, the town is also a synonym for former dictator Enver Hoxha, who was born here and ensured the town was relatively well preserved under his rule, though he is not memorialized in any way here today. After the sightseeing in the afternoon, you will have free time on your own for discovering the city
2 hours • Admission ticket free
17
Skenduli House
The lovingly restored Ottoman-era Skenduli House has been in the hands of the same family for generations (apart from a few years during the communist period when the government took it over), and you'll most likely be shown around by a member of the family. Dating from the early 1700s, but partially rebuilt in 1827, the house has many fascinating features, including a room used only for wedding ceremonies and which has 15 windows, many with stained glass.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
18
Gjirokastra Bazaar
The historic site in Gjirokastra, the "Neck of the Bazaar", makes up the center of the Old Town but what were once artisanal workshops are today mainly tourist souvenir shops. There are a couple of stone carvers left at the top end of the bazaar.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
19
Gjirokaster Castle
Gjirokastra's eerie hilltop castle is one of the biggest in the Balkans. There's been a fortress here since the 12th century, although much of what can be seen today dates to the early 19th century. The castle remains somewhat infamous due to its use as a prison under the communists. Inside, there's a collection of armory, two good museums, plenty of crumbling ruins to scramble around, and superb views over the valley.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
20
Saranda
AFter breakfast meet the guide and depart to the city of Saranda , which is near the ionian sea, in front of the Corfuz Island. You will enjoy the parnoramic view of the seaside and visit the archeological site of butrint. Village of Ksamil Known for the magical beach of 3 islands . have some free time for enjoying the beach Visit the the archeological site of Butrint (Butrint in Albanian) from ancient Greek was an ancient Greek city and 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 went into decline at the end of Antiquity, before being abandoned in the Middle Ages after a major earthquake flooded most of the city
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Saranda - Llogara national Park - Vlora
2 stops
21
Llogara National Park
Morning: Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Departure for Vlora: Set off for Vlora, driving along the breathtaking Albanian Riviera. Your journey will take you through the scenic Llogara Pass, a high mountain pass situated within the Ceraunian Mountains, connecting the Dukat Valley in the north with Himarë in the south. Llogara National Park: Along the way, make a brief stop to capture stunning photographs of the Albanian Riviera, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas converge. Entering Llogara National Park, you’ll be surrounded by lush pine and oak forests, which set the stage for this "mountain of panoramas." With its diverse flora and fauna, the park is a popular destination, especially in the summer for those seeking a refreshing retreat. You can enjoy a leisurely walk or a short hike to experience the park's natural beauty before continuing your journey.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
22
Vlore
Arrival in Vlora: As you approach Vlora, take in the views along the waterfront. Visit the Monument of Independence, which commemorates the Albanian Declaration of Independence. This significant monument, created by renowned Albanian sculptors Muntaz Dhrami and Kristaq Rama, is located in Flag’s Plaza, near the site where the first Albanian government convened in 1913. Enjoy a brief 10-minute stop to appreciate this historical landmark. Evening: Return to Vlora for dinner, savoring local dishes that highlight the region’s culinary traditions. Overnight: Stay overnight in Vlora.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Vlora - Berat . Agritourism ,Wine Tasting Experience
2 stops
23
Berat
Morning: Breakfast and Departure Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation to energize yourself for the day ahead. Meet your local guides in the lobby for a brief overview of the day’s activities. Transfer to Berat City Depart for Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy the scenic drive as you approach this beautiful city. Arrival in Berat and Visit to the Fortress Upon arrival, transfer to the Berat Fortress (Kalivo), a historical site that has stood for centuries. Explore the interior of the fortress, walking through its ancient walls and taking in the panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills. Visit the Onufri Museum, located within the former church of Sainte-Marie. Here, you can admire a collection of religious art from the 16th century, including works by the renowned Albanian icon painter, Onufri.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
24
Lunch at the Fortress Enjoy a delicious traditional lunch in a village side Restaurant famous for wine tasting and nice home made food Afternoon: Free Time in the City Center After lunch, take some free time to explore the city center at your leisure. Stroll through the cobbled streets, visit the charming shops, or relax at a café. Make sure to admire the unique architecture, including the "White City" houses that are characterized by their distinctive balconies. Evening: Discover the Magic of Berat at Night As night falls, experience the enchanting atmosphere of Berat. The city lights reflecting on the Osum River and the illuminated fortress create a magical ambiance. If you like, explore more of the city’s cultural spots or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Berat After a fulfilling day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night, reflecting on the beauty and history of Berat.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Berat - Karavastas Lagoon - Kruja Old Town - Tirana or Airport
3 stops
25
Laguna e Karavastase
Morning: Transfer to Kruja via Karavasta National Park Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, energized and ready for your final adventure. Transfer to the National Park of Karavasta with a scenic drive through Albania’s picturesque landscapes. Enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty as you travel towards the lagoon. Visit to Karavasta Lagoon Arrive at Karavasta National Park, home to the largest lagoon in Albania and a vital habitat for wildlife, including the rare Dalmatian Pelican. Take some time to explore the park’s lush Mediterranean pine forests and observe the diverse fauna. You may take a short walk along the lagoon to appreciate its beauty and tranquility, or opt for an optional boat tour if available. Capture the stunning landscapes and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this Ramsar wetland. Lunch After your explorations, enjoy lunch at a local eatery near the lagoon, sampling traditional Albanian dishes.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
26
Kruje
Afternoon: Transfer to the City of Kruja Depart from Karavasta for a scenic 2-hour drive to the historical city of Kruja. As you approach Kruja, take in its stunning views, dominated by the impressive fortress on a hilltop. Kruja: Historical Exploration Visit the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania's national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti (Scanderbeg), who famously defended Albania against Ottoman rule. Optionally, explore the Ethnographic Museum, which is housed in the former home of Scanderbeg’s descendants, showcasing artifacts from the 18th century. Stroll through the famous Bazaar of Kruja, where you can find traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Enjoy some free time for shopping and personal exploration. Evening: Return to Tirana
2 hours • Admission ticket free
27
Tirana
After a fulfilling day in Kruja, return to Tirana, the capital city of Albania. Depending on your time of arrival, enjoy a panoramic tour of Tirana, taking in major attractions such as Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the colorful buildings of the city. Farewell Coffee and Dinner Celebrate the end of your tour with a farewell coffee at a local café, reminiscing about the experiences and sights you’ve enjoyed. Enjoy your final dinner in Tirana, savoring traditional cuisine and reflecting on the memories made during your journey. Overnight in Tirana After dinner, return to your hotel for your last night in Albania. Departure: Thank You for Joining Us!
1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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