Highlights of Albania from North to South in 14 days

Welcome to Tirana, the capital of Albania! Upon arriving at the airport, we will transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you will have some free time to rest and settle in. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of the city, where you can soak in the local atmosphere. You may choose to have dinner at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Albanian cuisine. Overnight in Tirana.

Our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel in Tirana in the morning. Our main destination for today is Shkodra, situated in the north-western part of Albania, giving its name to the biggest lake in the Balkans. It is one of the oldest cities in Albania, with a history of a thousand years of habitation. We will visit Rozafa castle offering tremendous scenery of the lake and the three rivers melting all together towards the Adriatic Sea. Shkodra’s architecture is a fusion of Illyrian foundations, Ottoman influence and Venetian elegance. Most of the guests are surprised to learn that the majority of the Venetian masks are handmade and produced in Shkodra. During our visit, we will stop at the city’s unique Venetian Mask Factory, one of the most fascinating artistic workshops in Albania. Inspired by Venetian traditions, this small factory handcrafts exquisite papier-mâché masks, each one painted and decorated entirely by hand. The vibrant studio is filled with color and creativity, where every mask tells a story, from classic Venetian carnival styles to imaginative modern creations. Overnight in Shkoder

As we drive along the way towards Northern Albania, you will see beautiful landscapes; wild fields, rivers, Shkodra Lake and rugged untouched mountains. As we take the turn from the main road to Theth the area becomes more rural, with fewer cars but more wild nature. Due to its favourable position this area is famous for cultivating medicinal herbs, and if you are lucky to travel in May – June you would be amazed by the pretty and aromatic fields of lavender. On the way to the top we will pass through a steep sneaky hillside reaching up to 1700 meters above sea level at Qafa e Thores. They say this is the spot for the best picture of the Albanian Alps. After arriving in Theth, we will visit the Old Church and the “Lock in” Tower (symbol of Theth). The stories behind these buildings take up centuries full of history. Overnight in Shkoder

Our first destination for today will be one of the best slow food Agro-tourism in the Balkans. We will take a tour around the farm. In addition, we will learn about the story of this farm and how it created jobs for more than 400 people in the surrounding area. The farm collects, elaborates and preserves regional bio fresh local products. We will also learn how this family business adapted some old communist buildings to serve as storage for local-made bio products. You will have some free time to enjoy a traditional lunch or buy some fresh produce products from the farm.

Later we will drive towards Berat, known as the town of 1001 windows, part of UNESCO world heritage. Walking through the narrowed stone streets offers a fantastic view of the medieval old houses, with windows that seem to stand on top of each other. The city’s life began in the 6th-5th century B.C. as an Illyrian settlement. Later, in the 3rd century B.C., it was turned into a castle city known as Antipatrea. Uniquely today, residents still live inside of the castle walls. Berat has it all; a beautiful medieval castle, ancient churches and mosques, a lively lower town consisting of grand old houses draped on steep hillsides, an old stone bridge, great museums and remains from the communist era in Albania. Berat is also known as the birthplace of Onufri, the famous painter of churches all-over the Balkans, distinguished for creating a specific reddish colour still difficult to imitate. We will continue our tour and visit the Gorica Neighbourhood. Overnight in Berat.

After breakfast, we depart from Berat and head east toward the shores of Lake Ohrid (part of UNESCO), one of the oldest and most beautiful lakes in the Balkans. Our first stop will be the picturesque village of Lin, a peaceful lakeside settlement known for its traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and stunning views over the crystal-clear waters. In Lin, recent archaeological discoveries have revealed one of Europe’s oldest lakeside settlements, dating back up to 8,000 years. You will have time to explore the village and enjoy its tranquil atmosphere.

We continue toward the national park of Drilon, where we will make a relaxing stop. The Drilon water springs form a small lake surrounded by lush greenery, creating a unique oasis of beauty and tranquility. The weeping willow trees by the lake's shoreline creates a soothing ambiance, inviting travelers to relax and absorb the beauty of the park.

Next, we will stop in Tushemisht, a hidden gem that offers visitors a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. You will have the chance to meet local street vendors who sell their homemade and handcrafted products, from local preserves, honey, and herbs to beautiful handmade souvenirs. It is a wonderful opportunity to interact with the locals, learn about their traditions, and perhaps pick up a few authentic treats or crafts to take home. Afterward, we continue to Pogradec, a charming lakeside town where you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the promenade by Lake Ohrid, take in the serene views, or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Pogradec.

After breakfast we head toward Korce, one of Albania’s most charming cultural cities. Known for its elegant architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, Korce offers a pleasant stop to explore its old bazaar, tree-lined boulevards, and local cafes. We will also visit the National Museum of Medieval Art, home to an exceptional collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons, providing a fascinating insight into Albania’s rich artistic and religious heritage.

We then continue our journey through scenic southeastern landscapes toward Leskovik, a quiet town nestled in the mountains, known for its unspoiled nature and traditional character. The drive through this region is picturesque, with rolling hills, valleys, and dramatic mountain views along the way.

Our final destination for the day is Permet, often referred to as the “city of roses” Famous for its pristine environment, warm hospitality, and culinary traditions, Permet is the perfect place to unwind. You can enjoy a relaxing evening, perhaps tasting local specialties and experiencing the laid-back charm of this beautiful town. Overnight in Permet.

We will begin the day in Pemet, heading toward the nearby village of Benje, known for its famous thermal baths. Here, you will have the opportunity to relax in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by stunning canyon landscapes. The iconic Ottoman-era stone bridge adds to the charm of this unique setting.

We then continue into Vjosa River National Park, one of Europe’s last wild river ecosystems. The Vjosa River flows freely for hundreds of kilometers, creating a diverse habitat of exceptional natural beauty. During our visit, you will have time to take in the untouched scenery, enjoy short walks, and learn about the ecological importance of this rare and protected environment.

In the afternoon, we drive toward Gjirokaster. Overnight in Gjirokastër.

Today we will visit Gjirokaster, also known as “The Stone City”, part of UNESCO World heritage is situated in Southern Albania on the eastern side of mountain “Mali i Gjere”. Gjirokastra resembles a fortified city where every single house is like a small fortress. The origin of the city starts with the castle of Gjirokastra, built in IV century A.D., and is considered as one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Balkans. Every five years Gjirokastra becomes the capital of the Albanian folklore and traditional music, where passionate folklore ensembles gather in the “stone city” and perform their traditional music, dances and show off their costumes. Right before entering the castle of Gjirokastra you would have to pass by the medieval bazar. The atmospheric old town cascading down in graceful hill crammed with beautiful narrowed stone decorated streets, where you will be amazed by the wide variety of handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. We will visit one of the best-preserved houses of Gjirokastra, where everything is totally original and authentic.

A short drive from Gjirokaster brings us to one of the region’s most enchanting vineyards. At The Barrels, a family-run vineyard and restaurant set among rolling hills and greenery, you can soak in the scenery before enjoying some free time for a meal, a glass of wine, or a leisurely stroll. Overnight in Gjirokaster.

From Gjirokastra, we will move towards Butrint, but not before making a stop at the natural wonder of the Blue Eye, a source of fresh water surrounded by evergreen trees. The source comes from "Mali i Gjere" and reaches a depth that has not yet been discovered, so far divers have gone deep to 50 meters. The water temperature does not go above 10 degrees. The Blue Eye looks like it come straight out of fairy tale but you can actually visit it. You will not be able to keep your eyes off the mesmerizing crystal-clear blue water.

Ksmail will be our next destination! You will feel like you are exploring some tropical paradise when being on its white sandy beaches with the view of the four islands in-front of the beach. Ksamil is the pearl of the Albanian Riviera and it surely is one of the best beach destinations in Europe. Ksamil is primarily known for its fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Albanian Riviera has many pretty beaches; however, this beach gives you that Bora – Bora feeling. Our tour continues to the National Park of Butrint. Part of the UNESCO world heritage, Butrint is the most important archaeological site in Albania. It was the first site in Albania that became part of the UNESCO list. The ruins combined with the stunning natural surroundings make it worth a visit. Overnight near the Albanian Riviera

After breakfast, get ready to explore the beautiful coastline of The Albanian Riviera. The Riviera is known for some of the most famous beaches in Albania, for its hidden coves, pebble beaches and crystal-clear water inviting you to dive in. Your tour leader will drive you towards Borsh, the longest and largest beach in the Ionian Sea (7 km-long). Borsh is a quiet coastal village known for olive oil production. The beach is very clean and the water amazingly crystal clear. From the beach you have amazing views at the Ionean Sea, the coastline and the surrounding mountain range.

On the way to our next destination, we will have a stop at Porto Palermo castle, where you're greeted by the sight of an ancient fortress overlooking the azure waters. The castle, also known as Ali Pasha Castle, is a historical gem with a rich past dating back to the Ottoman era. The architecture reflects a blend of Ottoman and local styles, with sturdy stone walls, arched doorways, and remnants of old cannons that once guarded the bay. After we visit the castle, we will continue our journey along the coast, with the promise of more stunning views and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Overnight near the Albanian Riviera

While driving along the Albanian Riviera, we will pass some of the most beautiful beaches of Albania; Dhermi and Palasa. Along the way we will drive through some small villages one by one, clinging to rock faces by the seaside, all tumbledown stone walls and narrow pathways, overhung with vines full of grapes, and trees heavy with figs and walnuts.

Himara will be our first destination for this day. The town is located next to imposing mountain peaks covered in deep green forests, crystal-clear seas fringed by long white beaches and sparkling springs. You can enjoy a walk by the seaside, fantastically tasty food combining local cuisine and some influence by neighboring Greece. The promenade by the sea side gives you the opportunity to try fresh fruit juice and even shop handmade souvenirs.

Next, we will visit a local olive oil farm, where you will discover the traditional methods of producing olive oil in the Albanian Riviera. You will have the chance to sample freshly pressed extra olive oil and learn about the pressing process firsthand. Our next destination will be Dhermi, one of the most famous beaches in Albania. Known for its hidden coves, pebble beaches and crystal-clear water inviting you to dive in. You will have some free time to absorb and store all the sunshine. Overnight near Vlora bay

Before heading to Tirana, we will explore the city of Vlora, known for its balmy year-round temperatures and very little rainfall, making it a popular destination. Vlora was founded in the 6th century BC under the name of Aulona. The city is known as the “City of the Flag”; the independence of Albania was declared here on the 28th of November 1912. We will visit the Flag’s Square and the Independence Monument. We will then have a walk in Muradie Neighborhood, visit Vlore’s main mosque an Albanian National Monument built in 1537. The Muradie mosque is a stunning Ottoman building which has been well preserved for almost half a millennium.

Along the way, we will stop to explore the beautiful Zvernec Iceland, a serene coastal destination. We will cross the charming wooden bridge to reach the 13th-century Monastery of Saint Mary. Nestled among pine trees, this peaceful monastery offers a glimpse into Albania’s Byzantine past and provides a tranquil setting to reflect.

Next, we continue to Apollonia, one of the most important archaeological sites in Albania. Founded in the 6th century BC by Greek colonists, Apollonia flourished as a significant cultural and economic center in antiquity. You will explore its impressive ruins, including the ancient theater, temples, colonnades, and the well-preserved monastery complex. Surrounded by rolling hills and offering beautiful views of the countryside, Apollonia provides a fascinating insight into the Illyrian, Greek, and Roman heritage of the region. After the visit, we continue our journey back to Tirana. Overnight in Tirana 

Today we will drive towards to Kruja, a symbol of the Albanian resistance against the expansion of the Ottoman Empire during the XV century. It is situated in central Albania on a rocky mountainous terrain, 560 meters above sea level. Walking through the narrow cobblestoned streets, we pass the characteristic wooden houses of Kruja’s Medieval Old Bazaar (one of the biggest and oldest in the Balkans) where you will get a sense of a passage through history. This is the best place to shop for souvenirs in Albania, from typical to more unique, handmade souvenirs such as handmade carpets, jewellery etc. The castle of Kruja (built during the 5th century A.D.) is strategically placed on the top of the rocky hill, making it difficult for the enemies to attack. Your tour leader will take you through the paths used by the locals to leave the castle without being noticed during periods when the enemies surrounded the castle.

After wandering through the history of Kruja, we will drive towards the ancient seaside town of Durres. During our visit we will pass by the amphitheater, the Roman ruins and the Venetian Tower. We will continue our tour towards the promenade to enjoy a coffee while admiring the endless sea views. Overnight in Tirana 

Today we will discover Tirana, the capital of Albania. Meet with your local companion to offer you a unique experience across the city, while passionately sharing our culinary treasures. Make sure to come with an empty stomach and get ready for a delicious adventure.

Our first stop will be at a small local place that only locals know how to find. Here we will have the chance to try Byrek, a classic Albanian specialty made of thin layers of dough filled with cheese, meat, spinach, or other ingredients. The journey then leads towards Çam bazaar, here you can buy all kinds of goods from clothes to kitchen equipment and bargain with the sellers for a cheaper price.

With your local companion by your side, you will have an insight into the hidden alleyways and bustling street markets of Tirana. Here you will have the possibility to try fresh, seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other local flavours, while experiencing daily life up close.

The tour will continue through the charming neighborhoods of Tirana; observe the daily lives of the city's residents, admire colorful buildings, and get a feel for the authentic atmosphere. We will visit a lively market, known for second-hand goods of all kinds. Don’t be shy, explore the market and hunt for any pre-loved item that catches your interest.

The next stop of our local adventure takes us to the New Bazaar, where an array of culinary delights awaits us. We will sit down for a traditional Albanian meal prepared with regional specialties.

To wash it all down, we will also taste the famous Albanian Grape Raki. As we Albanians say, there is nothing that Raki can’t fix!

Now that you have seen Tirana from a local’s perspective, enjoy some free time to explore the vibrant capital on your own. This marks the end of this remarkable adventure through history and culture