Welcome to Albania! Albania’s stunning mountain scenery, crumbling castles, boisterous capital and dreamy beaches are ready to enchant. Upon arrival at Tirana Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Tirana, the vibrant capital city of Albania. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.
Overnight – Hotel Opera or similar
Following breakfast you will being your exploration of Tirana, a city blending rich history with modern development. Centred around the bustling Skanderbeg Square, Tirana features a mix of Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet-era architecture, alongside contemporary buildings and colourful street art from urban beautification efforts. Start by visiting Skanderbeg Square, the vibrant heart of Tirana, named after Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. Next, visit the historic Ethem Bey Mosque, a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture built in the late 18th century with a graceful minaret and a beautifully adorned prayer hall painted with intricate frescoes and decorative motifs.. It is one of the oldest mosques in the city and is named after its Founder, Et’hem Be, a prominent Albanian nobleman.
From here, head to the Bektashi Temple and Headquarters, offering insights into the Bektashi Order, a Sufi sect with a significant presence in Albania. Continue to Lundra, also known as Lundër, a serene town nestled in Albania’s countryside. Lundër provides an authentic glimpse into rural Albanian life. Explore its charming streets and be absorbed in the local culture, centred around the cultivation of grapes, olives, and crops.
Stop for a gourmet lunch at a renowned restaurant, curated by a famous chef. After lunch, return to Tirana and enjoy a free afternoon to explore Tirana at your own pace. Why not visit the Block area, known for its bustling nightlife, trendy bars, and cafes? (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Opera or similar
After breakfast, visit BunkArt1, a historical artistic centre housed in an anti-nuclear bunker inaugurated by dictator Enver Hoxha in June 1978. This underground complex has 106 rooms and a congress hall and offers insight into Albania’s communist past.
Continue to the small historical town of Kruje for a short visit of the town including its old bazaar that dates back to the 17th Century. Next is Fishte village where you will enjoy a unique dining experience at “Mrizi Zanave,” a community-based village farm restaurant. Enjoy excellent regional cuisine in a stunning setting.
After lunch, visit Vasili Studio Ceramics to experience handmade ceramic work. Here, you will have the opportunity to observe skilled artisans at work, using time-honoured techniques to create beautiful ceramic pieces.Continue to Shkodër and enjoy a short walking tour of the pedestrian area, soaking in the city’s charm. One of the charming streets is named after Kole Idromeno, a famous Albanian painter, sculptor, and photographer. The boulevard’s architecture reflects a blend of Italian and Austrian influences, with beautifully restored buildings that add to its picturesque appeal.
End your day with a boat tour on Shiroka Lake, where you can admire the view and enjoy the sunset. This tranquil experience is a wonderful way to end your day before returning to Shkodër. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Cocja Boutique or similar
After breakfast, visit Rozafa Castle. This ancient fortress, steeped in history, offers incredible views of Lake Shkodra, the city’s rivers, and expansive mountain ranges. Enjoy exploring the sights of Shkodra starting with Ebu Bekr Mosque, an important religious site for the local Muslim community with a striking design. Next visit the Catholic and Franciscan Churches, which showcase the city’s diverse religious heritage and architectural beauty.
Continue to the ancient Castle of Shkodra, also known as Rozafa Castle. Built during Antiquity, enduring the Roman and Ottoman empires, and remaining intact up to the present day, Rozafa Castle has witnessed the dramatic changes of tide over the course Albania’s fascinating history. Needless to say then that this archaeological area is incredibly rich in historical tales.
Head to the Factory of Venetian Masks. Here, you can learn about the intricate process of mask-making, a traditional craft that has been perfected over generations. Admire a variety of handcrafted masks, each with its unique design and story.
Stop for lunch at Restaurant Shqiponja. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Shkoder at your own pace. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Cocja Boutique or similar
This morning, you will transfer to Koman (110km, 2hr 50min). Upon arrival, board a ferry to Fierze. Experience the beauty of the Albanian landscape as you cross the waters on the ferry. Take a bus to Valbone before stopping for lunch at a local house, Gjon Kola.
After lunch, meet your guide who will lead you on an optional hike to Valbona Waterfall. Enjoy stunning views of the Albanian Alps and the serene beauty of the cascading waterfall as you follow a 13km loop trail (hike is moderately challenging, and optional).
After the hike, enjoy some free time at leisure. (B,L)
Overnight – Vila Dini or Similar
After breakfast, transfer to Junik where you will visit a 200-year-old fortified tower, a traditional structure unique of this area. Cross into Kosovo and drive to Decani where you will visit the Visoki Decani Monastery, a medieval Serbian Orthodox monastery. The monastery was founded in the early 14th century by Serbian King Stefan Uros III Decanski, after whom it was named. The interior of the church is adorned with vibrant frescoes that cover almost every inch of its walls and ceilings, depicting scenes from the Bible, the lives of saints, and various religious motifs. These frescoes are considered among the finest examples of Byzantine art in the Balkans and have earned Decani Monastery a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing in the afternoon to Peja Brewery, one of Kosovo’s most renowned breweries. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see the beer-making process, from the selection of quality ingredients to the brewing, fermentation, and packaging stages. Learn about the history of Peja Brewery, established in 1971, and its significance in the region’s beer culture.
Next you will take a short hike in the scenic surroundings of Peja. This is followed by a walk around the city centre of Peja to explore the area. Discover local shops, cafes, and historical landmarks, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city. Later, return to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours at leisure. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Seraphine Plaza or similar
After breakfast, visit Patriarchate of Peja, also known as Patriarchate of Pec, a historic site dating back to the 13th century. This complex features several religious buildings, including churches and accommodations still inhabited by nuns. Explore the crumbling yet captivating architecture and immerse yourself in the rich history of this sacred place.
You will then have free time in Peja to explore at your own pace. (B,L)
Overnight – Hotel Seraphine Plaza or similar
After breakfast, visit the Gracanica Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning medieval architecture and rich history. Explore the monastery and marvel at its intricate frescoes and religious significance. Then, continue to Pristina and enjoy a tour of the city. Visit the city centre, including landmarks such as Newborn, a famous monument symbolising Kosovo’s independence, the Youth centre, and the city’s bibliotic where you can delve into Pristina’s literary and intellectual heritage. Learn about the city’s culture, history, and modern-day significance as you explore its lively streets.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant and then visit Prizren, with some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Prizren is renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era buildings, including mosques, churches, and traditional stone houses, which reflect its diverse history and multicultural heritage. (B,L)
Overnight – Monarch Boutique Hotel or similar
After breakfast, start your day with a visit to the Arlind Family in Prizren, where you’ll experience traditional hospitality. Enjoy a Turkish coffee and sample homemade rose syrup, a delightful and refreshing traditional drink.
Next, enjoy a city tour of Prizren. Explore the city centre and the charming old town with it’s cobblestone streets. Visit Sinan Pasha Mosque, dating back to the 17th century, stands as a symbol of the city’s Ottoman heritage. Named after its patron, Sinan Pasha, a prominent Ottoman military commander, this mosque is renowned for its elegant design and historical significance. Sinan Pasha Mosque has served as a spiritual and cultural centre for the Muslim community of Prizren. Today, it continues to be a cherished landmark and a symbol of religious tolerance and diversity in Kosovo. Later, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
You will then travel to Stone Castle Winery in Rahovec where you will taste a selection of locally produced wines and learn about the winemaking process while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. Following this, drive back to Prizren and visit the Prizren Fortress. This medieval fortress, also known as Kalaja Fortress, dates back to the Byzantine era, with subsequent additions made during the Ottoman period. Its strategic location played a vital role in guarding the city and controlling trade routes throughout history. (B,L)
Overnight – Monarch Boutique Hotel or similar
After breakfast, depart for Skopje (161km, 2hrs), the capital city of North Macedonia. Skopje has plenty of charm. Its Ottoman- and Byzantine-era sights are focused around the city’s delightful Čaršija, bordered by the 15th-century Kameni Most (Stone Bridge) and Tvrdina Kale Fortress – Skopje’s guardian since the 5th century. Begin your exploration of Skopje with a ride on the Millennium Cross Cable Car. Enjoy panoramic views of Skopje and the surrounding mountains as you ascend to the top of Vodno Mountain, where the Millennium Cross stands proudly overlooking the city.
Following your cable car ride, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, before heading to Skopje’s Old Town. Explore the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of the old bazaar, where you’ll encounter bustling markets, artisan shops, and centuries-old architecture. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Stone Bridge, Macedonia Square, and Mother Teresa’s house.
Later, enjoy free time to explore Skopje at your leisure.(B,L)
Overnight – Next Door Park Hotel or similar
This morning is yours at leisure until you transfer to the airport for your onward flight.(B)
Prices
In the unlikely event of price increases from our suppliers, taxes or a reduction in numbers of passengers travelling below the minimum passenger numbers, Crooked Compass reserves the right to pass on these increases in costs to passengers. This may occur with or without warning to the passengers. In the unlikely event that a tour fails to attract the minimum passenger numbers, the tour may be cancelled at the discretion of Crooked Compass. Crooked Compass may also cancel, at its discretion, any tour for operational or other reasons. If a tour is cancelled, monies already paid by passengers will be refunded or credited towards future travel. Crooked Compass will not be responsible for any other travel arrangements affected by, or costs imposed because of, our cancellation.
Crooked Compass reserves the rights to correct any errors in rates quoted or calculated, or any omissions made at any time during your booking. Any verbal quote given is an indication only of the final price and is subject to confirmation in writing.
Pricing Validity
Itineraries and prices advertised are based on exchange rates as at 01 Jan 2017. Once a customer has paid in full, the price of the tour is guaranteed, subject to any tax changes or levies imposed by any government or their agencies or any airline. Crooked Compass reserves the right to make alterations to itineraries and prices due to circumstances beyond their control.
Deposits
A non-refundable deposit of AUD$1000 per person, per tour, is required to secure your place on each tour within 7 days of booking. For tours that include domestic flights or permits, payment in full for these is required at the time of deposit. Some hotels may require pre-payment in peak seasons. You will be advised of this at time of booking. For bookings under the value of AUD$1000, full payment is required to secure your place. By sending a deposit you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions set forth on this website.
Final Payment
Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to travel on your Crooked Compass tour unless otherwise specified. Should you not make your final payment by this deadline, Crooked Compass reserves the right to cancel your place. Regular cancellation fees will apply.
Cancellations
All cancellations must be received in writing and will be subject to the following cancellation charges from the date the written cancellation is received.
More than 60 days prior to departure; loss of deposit plus any administration fees
Between 59 - 45 days prior to departure; 25% of total tour cost
Betwen 44 - 39 prior to departure; 50% of total tour cost
38 days or less prior to departure; 100% of total tour cost
Any ‘no show’; 100% of total tour cost
International or domestic flights that form part of your itinerary, permits and any accommodation that requires pre-payment must be paid for in full at the time of deposit and are non-refundable.
Please note that employees of any overseas ground suppliers are not authorised to give any guarantees or agreements to customers in respect of refund or any other matters.
The above mentioned cancellation fees are in addition to any that may be charged by travel agents, airlines, hotels or other tour operators. Regrettably cancellation charges and fees cannot be waived.
Refunds
To the extent permitted by law, no refund is available for cancellations after travel has commenced or in respect of any tours, accommodation, meals or any other services not utilised.
Amendments
The following fees will apply:
Amendments to confirmed and deposited itineraries outside of 30 days prior to departure where the value of the booking is decreased - AUD$25 per change (a change to the booking that increases the value will incur no fee)
Amendments within 30 days prior of departure - AUD$50 per change
Reissue of airline tickets - AUD$100 per person (other fees may apply)
Booking of only 3 nights accommodation or less - AUD$30 per booking
Rail tickets and passes only - AUD$50 per booking
Amendments after departure, loss of cancelled services, plus a fee of AUD$50 per person per change
NOTE: Once a booking is confirmed, name transfers are not permitted as this will be regarded as a cancellation - See ‘Cancellation’ for applicable fees and details
Travel documents
Travel documents will be sent to you approximately 21 days prior to departure (providing full payment has been received). If you are leaving home earlier, please advise us so that we can deliver your documents before you depart.
Guaranteed departures
Tours marked as ‘Guaranteed Departures’ are guaranteed to depart, regardless of passenger numbers. Please note that we reserve the right to withdraw this guarantee for a force majeure event including but not limited to terrorist attack, economic downturn and war, client safety at risk or for operational reasons such as a the late cancellation of a group parties causing passenger numbers to be below minimum operating numbers.
Should a tour be cancelled due to minimum numbers not being met or unforeseen circumstances as stated above, you will be offered a full refund or offered a replacement travel option.
Airport transfers
On tours that offer airport transfers as an inclusion, an airport transfer to/from your hotel will be provided on the arrival and departure day of the tour (within the ground suppliers operating hours). Flight details must be provided to Crooked Compass. Documentation will not be released until this information is provided. Once transfers are booked they cannot be changed. Only one inbound and one outbound transfer will be included. In the event of flight delays outside Crooked Compass' control, the transfers will be deemed to be cancelled. All transfers are based on group transfers, and no refund is available for missed transfers or passengers not using the transfer service. Airport transfers are provided as a service to passengers and it is the responsibility of the passenger to ensure that any airport transfer will allow them enough time to connect with their flights. Crooked Compass will not be responsible for any flight delays or cancellations caused by the late arrival or departure of an airport transfer, or for cancellation fees associated with a missed flight.
Airline Fuel Levy Surcharge
Since 2004 all airlines servicing flights have been charging a fuel levy surcharge, on top of the normal airline ticket price, in order to cover the increased cost of aviation fuel. As fuel prices have fluctuated, so too has the amount the airlines charge for this levy. This amount is detailed against every tour featured and will also be advised to you at the time of your booking and is subject to change until your airline ticket is issued.
Product descriptions, maps and photographs
Descriptions of tours, attractions and accommodation provided on this website are based on information provided by hotels and suppliers. Any facilities shown as included may change at any time. Crooked Compass makes no representation as to the standard, class or description of accommodation or services provided by third parties. Maps are shown for general information and do not necessarily reflect actual routings, locations or services provided. Photographs may show places in the general area visited, but not necessarily included in the tour. Many of the images are supplied courtesy of tourist bureaux, hotels and tour operators. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided to passengers; however, Crooked Compass cannot be held responsible for typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances.
Travel insurance
It is a condition of travel that each passenger is adequately covered by an appropriate travel insurance policy for duration of travel. Please also check the contingencies of your prospective insurance cover and ensure you are aware of its conditions and omissions. We strongly advise travel insurance from time of booking to provide full cover.
Health Requirements
All customers are required to familiarise themselves with any health requirements specific to countries being visited. All customers should visit their doctor for these aforementioned purposes and/or to confirm that they are physically able to undertake the day-to-day requirements of the tour.
Crooked Compass does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical attention will be provided by a local facility at the passenger’s expense. Crooked Compass is not responsible or liable for any losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on tour, or for the quality of the care or services provided.
Passports and Visas
It is the responsibility of the passenger to have a valid passport (which is valid for at least six months from your last day of travel) and all visas, permits and certificates required for the selected tour. Ask your travel agent for further information. Responsibility for documentation accuracy, passport validity and dispatch of documents rests with the customer. Crooked Compass accepts no responsibility for any failure in this respect.
Baggage
Please check with your airline for applicable baggage allowances. Where a tour includes hotel porterage, this includes one standard suitcase per person, and only applies when the passengers are travelling as part of the group. Porterage is not included when passengers check in and out of a hotel at the start and end of a tour. All baggage and personal effects are at all times and in all circumstances at the risk of the tour participant. Baggage insurance is recommended.
Single travel
On group tours, if you are travelling as a single passenger, you can request that we try to match you in a twin share room with another single passenger of the same sex. Should we not be able to match you in a twin share room by the final tour balance payment date, the single room supplement rate will apply. Should you be matched with another person we cannot be held responsible if the choice is not to your satisfaction. Any twin match must understand that the room must be treated as a non-smoking room unless both parties agree otherwise. Single rooms may be smaller than twin rooms. The Single Supplement represents a fee passed on to us by the hotels for sole use of a room.
Refusal of Carriage
Crooked Compass retains the right to remove customers from our tours for reasons that impact on the enjoyment or safety of other passengers, such as, but not limited to, the physical, medical, mental inability of customers to undertake the arrangements of the holiday, unsocial or unruly behaviour, or the carriage of prohibited substances or materials. Onward travel arrangements will be at the omitted travellers expense.
Variations
All possible effort will be made to adhere to the published touring itinerary. Occasionally circumstances beyond our control will force cancellations, changes, amendments or modifications to the itinerary and its inclusions such as particular events and services. Crooked Compass cannot be held responsible for any omissions or modifications to the itinerary or the inclusions made as a consequence of these changes.
Pre-departure contact
You must provide a telephone number, email or address where you can be reached, if necessary. Documentation will not be released until this information is provided.
Not included in the price
Anything not specifically included in the tour is at your own expense.
Air travel
Air travel is subject to the conditions and limitations set out in the airline's conditions of carriage. Airfares are subject to change at any time.
Booking arrangements
The person making a booking will be deemed to have accepted these booking conditions on behalf of everyone named in the booking. Only the person making the booking is authorised to make changes to or cancel the booking. All communications from us will usually be sent to your travel agent. Your travel agent is responsible for forwarding payments made by you to us.
Limitation of liability
To the extent permitted by law, Crooked Compass excludes all liability for any loss or damage whatsoever (including but not limited to physical and psychological injury, and loss or damage to property of whatever nature) that may arise in any way in connection with the offer or supply of goods or services through Crooked Compass or any third parties, or in connection with the supply of such goods or services. If the law implies a condition or warranty that cannot be excluded, Crooked Compass' liability for a breach of the conditions or warranty will be limited as determined by Crooked Compass to the re-supply or payment of the cost of re-supplying the relevant goods or services. Except where otherwise stated within these terms and conditions Crooked Compass excludes liability for any loss or damage that may be caused by cancellation, abandonment, alteration, amendment, modification or termination of the tour.
Events beyond our control
If a tour cannot proceed due to a force majeure event including but not limited to flood, earthquake, war or civil strife, acts of terrorism, hurricane, cyclone, industrial disturbance, strike, fire, lock out, epidemic, failure or delays of scheduled transportation facilities, or other Acts of God, or any law, order, decree, rule or regulation of any government authority, or for any reason whether of a similar or dissimilar nature beyond the control of Crooked Compass, this agreement shall terminate and there shall be no claim for damages by either party against the other.
Destination advice
Crooked Compass makes no representations as to the safety, conditions or other issues that may exist at any destination. You should obtain travel advice for your relevant government bodies.
Complaints procedure
Should you have a complaint while on the tour, you should inform your tour guide immediately. If the matter cannot be resolved after the tour guide’s best endeavours to do so during the tour, your complaint can be made in writing to Crooked Compass.
Crooked Compass cannot be held responsible for issues that were not brought to our attention during the course of a tour.
Agent Responsibility
It is the travel agents’ responsibility to ensure that all invoice and itinerary details and documentation issued by Crooked Compass are correct and that the customer is aware of amendment and cancellation conditions and other clauses in these booking conditions.
ATAS
Crooked Compass is a member of the Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS) which is administered by the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA). ATAS travel agents have met strict standards and criteria in order to become nationally accredited. Their accreditation means they are the best in the industry, financially viable, credible, well trained and professional businesses. This means you can book your travel knowing you're in the safe hands of a trusted and reputable travel agent. See www.atas.com.au for more information.
Australian and New Zealand Bookings
All components purchased through Crooked Compass' Australian office (Crooked Compass Pty Ltd) are protected by a client trust account where monies are held until your departure or the full cost of your services have been paid for by us. This relates mainly to bookings from Australia and New Zealand.
Travel Agents
All clients booking through a travel agent are financially protected by the travel agent's own protection scheme, which you should check carefully before purchasing your travel arrangements. Crooked Compass is not financially liable for bookings due to the insolvency of your travel agent.
Law of contract
This agreement shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of New South Wales, Australia.
10 nights’ accommodation including breakfast daily
Transfers and transportation
All transfers, sightseeing and excursions by air-conditioned private vehicle
Other activities and services are not included
International & domestic flights not mentioned above
Entrance fees as per the itinerary
International & domestic flights not mentioned above
Visas
Travel and medical insurance
All services, and meals other than those indicated above
Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program.
All items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc
Early check-in/Late check-out
Meals as per itinerary
Professional English-Speaking Guide
Albania
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