Introducing Albania Small Group Tour

Itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to Albania
On arrival at Tirana Airport you will be met by your guide who will be with your for the tour. You will then half hour drive to Durres and our beach hotel where we will stay overnight.
Overnight in Durres

Day 2 - Kruje and Tirana
Start the day with a trip to Krujë to visit the museum dedicated to Albania's national hero, Skanderbeg. Located at the edge of a mountain massif, the museum is significant for many Albanians and offers excellent views. Explore Skanderbeg's life and contributions to Albanian history. Afterwards, you will head to Tirana, the capital. A city tour will cover the colourful buildings, the Clock Tower, Ethem Bey Mosque, and the National Museum. You will then return to the hotel in Durres.
Overnight in Durres (BD)

Day 3 – Berat, Apollonia and Vlore
You begin your adventure today with a drive along the stunning Adriatic Coast, where the crystal-clear waters meet picturesque landscapes. Your journey then takes you inland to Berat, famously known as the "City of a Thousand Windows," a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its unique architecture and historical significance. In Berat, explore the impressive fortress that overlooks the city, offering a glimpse into its rich past. You can also visit the Mosque of the Bachelors, a beautiful example of Ottoman-era architecture, and stroll across the charming Ottoman Bridge, which adds to the city's enchanting ambience. After taking in the sights of Berat, you continue your journey to the remarkable archaeological site of Apollonia, where ancient ruins tell tales of a bygone era. After a day filled with exploration and culture, we'll settle in for the night in the vibrant coastal city of Vlora, ready for more adventures.
Overnight in Vlora (BD)

Day 4 - Llogara Pass, Butrint and Saranda
Enjoy your breakfast before beginning the drive to Saranda on the spectacular Albanian Riviera looking down at the Ionian Sea. A breath-taking vista awaits you at the Llogara Pass, one of Albania's most famous places with the road providing one of the most spectacular drives in Europe. You then continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint. It’s one of the most important archaeological sites in the country containing different artifacts and structures which date from the Bronze Age up until the 19th century. There are a number of major monuments including the city walls, late-antique baptistery, great basilica, the theatre and Venetian castles. It is then a short half hour drive to the beaches of Saranda and your hotel for the evening.
Overnight in Saranda. (BD)

Day 5 - Blue Eye Spring, Gjirokastra and Permet
Your 'Introducing Albania' small group tour continues to Gjirokastra but there is a stop on the way to visit the Blue Eye Spring, a beautiful fresh water spring that is said to look like a human eye. The journey continues to Gjirokastra, another UNESCO site and museum town with beautiful and very distinct architecture. The town of Gjirokastra is built on the slope of a hill and is known for its characteristic and narrow coble stone streets. The city was besieged and captured by the Ottomans in the 15th century, but unlike many other towns in Albania it flourished under its new rulers. In the 17th century it had over 2000 houses and was an important trading town. The castle itself stands like a balcony over the city and gives visitors a wonderful view of the local area. You will also get to visit a traditional family home before heading to Permet and your accommodation for the evening.
Overnight in Permet (BD)

Day 6 - Korçë and Lake Ohrid
Today you will immerse yourself in breathtaking unspoiled nature, featuring majestic mountains, valleys, and rivers as you drive to Korçë. Here you stop to enjoy a picturesque picnic lunch and explore the vibrant culture of Korçë on a city tour, culminating in dinner and an overnight stay by the tranquil shores of Lake Ohrid.
Overnight in Pogradec (BLD)

Day 7 - Lake Ohrid, St Naum and a taste of Macedonia
You continue your journey by crossing into Macedonia to explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Ohrid, renowned for its rich history and breathtaking views. A highlight of today is the famous St. Naum Monastery, also protected by UNESCO, where you can appreciate its architectural beauty and serene surroundings. On your return to Albania, visit Elbasan and admire its inhabited fortress, a testament to the region's past. Finally, conclude your day back in Durrës, where you can enjoy dinner and a restful overnight stay, reflecting on the wonders of your adventure.
Overnight in Durres (BD)

Day 8 – Depart Albania
At a suitable time you will transfer to the airport for your return flight. This is the end of the 'Introducing Albania' small group tour. However, if you would like to extend your time in Albania with a beach stay or further exploration, just let us know.