During these 8 days, explore Albania's finest sites to uncover the last untouched corner of Europe. Visit 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites, numerous fortresses, charming towns, archaeological parks, religious landmarks, and more. Our region boasts a wealth of history, traditions, culture, and stunning landscapes. Delight in diverse culinary experiences across different regions each day. Engage in discussions about our communist past and its present-day consequences. We make it a priority to share the unique local flavors and immerse you in the warmth of our people.

Day 1: Welcome to Albania

Upon your arrival in Tirana, Albania today, our staff will be at the airport to welcome you.
The designated pickup time is between 13:00 and 14:00 at Tirana International Airport Nene Tereza, followed by an immediate check-in at the hotel. At 17:00, your guide will meet you at the hotel for a presentation meeting and a brief walking tour of Tirana.Overnight stay in Tirana.

Day 2: Visit Kruja and Shkodra
In the early morning, we'll embark on a 45-minute drive to Kruja, a historic town and the birthplace of our national hero, Scanderbeg. Our visit will include exploring the V-VI century fortress and the renowned old bazaar of Kruja, celebrated for its handmade wool carpets. Following a traditional lunch, we'll journey north for about an hour, reaching Shkodra in the early afternoon. In Shkodra, we'll explore the IV century BC Rozafa fortress and take a walking tour of the city center, showcasing Venetian influences. Later in the afternoon, we'll check in at the hotel in Shkodra for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Visit Durres and Berat
Day 3 journey begins with a visit to Durres, a town of historical significance, serving as our main port and beach along the Adriatic Sea.
Established as one of the oldest Greek and Roman colonies since the VII century BC, Durres holds a special place in our history.
During our visit, we will explore the amphitheater dating back to the II century AD, the largest in the Balkans, and the charming town center.

In the latter part of the day, we'll set our course for Berat, making a direct stop at Alpeta Agro Tourism for a lunch featuring traditional food and wine. Alpeta is renowned for producing our local spirit, Raki, providing a delightful experience amidst the beauty of nature.
As the afternoon unfolds, we'll explore the town of Berat, recognized for its distinctive architecture and inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Highlights of our visit will include the IV century BC fortress of Berat and a stroll through the old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica. The day concludes with an overnight stay in the captivating old town of Berat.

Day 4: Visit Pogradec and Korca
Early morning, we will head towards Pogradec, laying on the shore of Ohrid Lake the oldest and deepest lake in Balkans. Lake Ohrid is known for its special trout called Coran. We will make a stop at Driloni park and Tushemisht Village, on the shore of the lake.
Our way will continue towards Korca, arriving around lunchtime, you will have a 1-hour break around 13:00 to 14:00. Korca is one of the nicest towns in Albania, known also as the little Paris. Korca has the first beer factory in Albania, in 1928. We will check-in in at our hotel and will go to visit:

• The city center and the Orthodox Cathedral;
• The old bazaar of Korca.

You will have the evening free to explore this beautiful town on your own. Our tip is to not miss trying the local beer and their meatballs in one of the many beer gardens in town.
Overnight in Korca

Day 5: Farma Sotira and Benja Thermal Baths in Permet

After a filling breakfast, we will drive towards some of the most remote areas of Albania driving through untouched nature.

The first stop will be in Farma Sotira, an agro-tourism where we can take tea or coffee, and walk around nature and animals.
Driving shortly, we will arrive at Leskovik, one of the most remote areas of Albania, to see some of the bunkers built during communism time.
We will start driving again passing through the Vjosa River valley, considered to be the last wilder river in Europe. Lunch near Benja Baths in a restaurant with traditional food, around 13:00-14:00
We will stop at Benja thermal baths and those who want can take a bath in warm sulfuric waters. There are 6 different pools with different healing properties.
In the afternoon will drive to Gjirokastra and will check-in in at our hotel, you can spend your evening discovering this wonderful traditional town on your own.
Overnight in Gjirokastra

Day 6: Gjirokastra, Blue Eye & Saranda
This morning after a filling traditional breakfast we will explore the old town of Gjirokastra, part of UNESCO World Heritage. We will visit:
Visit the XIV-century fortress;
Visit the XIX century-old bazaar of Gjirokastra.
Our day continues with the visit to Blue Eye natural water spring park. This is a natural spring of 46m deep with very cold crystal clear water. The brave ones dare to swim for a few seconds.
A short drive and we will be in Saranda and will accommodate in our hotel. You will have the afternoon free to enjoy walking on Saranda’s promenade or going to the beach. Don’t miss the nightlife which is really vibrant on summer nights.
Overnight in Saranda

Day 7: Butrint Archaeological Park and Ionian Coast
Be prepared for a long and wonderful day. We will start by visiting the biggest Archeological Park in Albania, Butrinti Park, which started as a Greek colony in the VII century BC, later became a Roman colony, and since 1995 been a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.
After Butrinti Park we will start driving along the Ionian coast towards Vlora. This whole trip goes along one of the most beautiful parts of Albania where the sea and mountains come together to shape this amazing landscape. Our first stop will be to Ali Pasha’s XIX century fortress, a real jewel well preserved until nowadays.
On the way, we will cross through the small beautiful villages of Dhermi, Vuno, Himara, Borsh, Qeparo, etc. and will have our lunch stop in Himara. Llogara pass, 1000 m above sea level, a panorama overlooking from Karaburun peninsula up to Korfu Island is the best spot to stop and enjoy the scenery and take pictures.
In the late afternoon, we will check-in at our hotel in Vlora, rest for a short while, and go for our farewell dinner.
Overnight in Vlora

Day 8: End of Journey
Our journey ends here and our staff will send you to Tirana International Airport, wishing you a safe flight back home.
The drop-off time is at 14:00 at Tirana International Airport or Tirana city center for those who want to continue their journey.

Ref number: 16022404