Albania Uncovered: A 5-Day Journey from North to South

0 (0 Reviews)
From €780.00
From: €780.00
0
(0 review)
Check
Duration

5 days

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

12 people

Languages

___

About this tour

Number of Persons Price / Person
Double or Twin Room (group)790 Euro
Single private room (group)1500 Euro
Private Tour (Min 2 guests)890 Euro

Departure for Group Tours

Apr 30, 2026

May 24, 2026

Jun 18, 2026

Sep 10, 2026

Oct 5, 2026

Oct 22, 2026

Nov 16, 2026

 

 

Highlights

  • Tirana – Meet driver and guide, start of the journey
  • Krujë – Explore Krujë Castle, Skanderbeg Museum, Old Bazaar, café stop
  • Shkodër – Visit Rozafa Castle and enjoy panoramic views
  • Durrës – Overnight, seaside promenade, dinner
  • Berat – Scenic drive through historic city (if included before Gjirokastër)
  • Gjirokastër – Visit Gjirokastër Castle, Skenduli House, Old Bazaar
  • Gjirokastër – Participate in traditional Turkish coffee-making workshop
  • Saranda – Walk along pedestrian promenade, visit Lëkurësi Castle
  • Butrint National Park – Explore UNESCO-listed archaeological ruins
  • Ksamil – Swimming, relaxation on white sandy beaches
  • Albanian Riviera – Scenic coastal drive, photo stops
  • Lukovë – Stop at seaside village for photos
  • Borsh – Explore long beaches, village views
  • Dhermi – Coastal town, short visit/photo stop
  • Porto Palermo Castle – Optional fortress visit with panoramic bay views
  • Himarë / Vlorë – Evening relaxation, seaside dinner, overnight stay

Itinerary

­

This 4–5 day itinerary offers a dynamic and scenic journey through both northern and southern Albania, perfect for travelers looking to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, deep history, and warm culture — all in under a week.

From the vibrant northern city of Shkodra, to the UNESCO World Heritage towns of Berat and Gjirokastër, and the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Riviera, this trip blends culture, history, nature, and relaxation in a seamless and rewarding experience.

Whether you're exploring the ancient ruins of Butrint, wandering through Ottoman-era stone streets, or unwinding on the beaches of Ksamil and the Albanian Riviera, this program is designed to show you the very best of Albania — without the need for strenuous mountain hikes.

08:00 | Departure from Tirana

Meet your professional driver and licensed guide at your hotel. After a short briefing about the day’s itinerary, depart north toward Krujë, one of Albania’s most historic towns.
Driving time: approx. 1 hour


Stop 1: Krujë – The Historic Heart of Albania

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Krujë, this town played a crucial role in Albania’s resistance against the Ottoman Empire and is closely linked to the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg.

Krujë Castle (Kalaja e Krujës)

  • Explore the medieval fortress that once served as Skanderbeg’s stronghold.

  • Enjoy panoramic views over the Adriatic lowlands and surrounding mountains.

  • Learn about the castle’s strategic importance and centuries of history.

Skanderbeg Museum

  • Visit Albania’s most iconic museum, dedicated to the life and legacy of Skanderbeg.

  • Discover historical artifacts, armor, documents, and multimedia exhibits.

  • Gain deeper insight into Albania’s fight for independence and national identity.

Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjetër)

  • Walk through a beautifully preserved Ottoman-era bazaar with cobblestone streets.

  • Browse traditional wooden shops selling:

    • Handmade carpets

    • Silver filigree jewelry

    • Souvenirs and local crafts

  • Perfect spot for photos and authentic shopping.

Café Break

  • Enjoy a short coffee or refreshment stop in the Old Town.

  • Relax and soak in the traditional atmosphere before continuing the journey.

Total visit time in Krujë: approx. 2.5–3 hours


Continue to Shkodër

Depart Krujë and travel north toward Shkodër, one of Albania’s oldest and most culturally rich cities.
Driving time: approx. 2 hours


Stop 2: Rozafa Castle – Shkodër

Rozafa Castle Visit (1–1.5 hours)

  • Explore the impressive ruins of this ancient fortress, dating back to Illyrian times.

  • Admire spectacular views over:

    • Shkodër city

    • Lake Shkodër (the largest lake in the Balkans)

    • The Buna and Drin Rivers

  • Hear the famous Legend of Rozafa, a powerful Albanian folktale symbolizing sacrifice, loyalty, and resilience.

  • Free time for photos and exploration within the castle walls.


Transfer to Durrës

After the visit, depart for Durrës, Albania’s main coastal city on the Adriatic Sea.
Driving time: approx. 2.5–3 hours


Evening in Durrës

  • Arrival and hotel check-in.

  • Free time to:

    • Walk along the seaside promenade

    • Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant

    • Relax after a full day of cultural exploration

Overnight in Durrës

Meet your driver and guide and begin the tour.

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Durrës, one of Albania’s oldest cities. Visit the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, one of the largest in the Balkans. Built in the early 2nd century AD, during the height of the Roman Empire (often linked to Emperor Trajan), the amphitheatre once held 15,000–20,000 spectators—a remarkable size for ancient Dyrrachium, an important Adriatic port city. Continue exploring other key landmarks of the city.


Afternoon: Durrës – Berat

Depart for Berat (approx. 2-hour drive).

Along the way, enjoy an optional stop at Çobo Winery for a guided wine tasting and an introduction to Albania’s long-standing winemaking traditions.

Upon arrival in Berat, have lunch at a local restaurant and sample traditional Albanian cuisine.

After lunch, explore Berat Castle and stroll through the historic Mangalem and Gorica Quarters, renowned for their white Ottoman-era houses, cobblestone streets, and picturesque views—earning Berat its nickname, “The City of a Thousand Windows.”


Evening: Berat

Enjoy dinner in the old town, soaking in the warm and atmospheric evening ambiance of Berat.

Overnight stay in Berat.

Morning | Departure from Berat

Early morning departure from Berat, heading south toward Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage city known as the “City of Stone.”
Driving time: approx. 3 hours
Along the way, enjoy scenic views of southern Albania’s hills, rivers, and traditional villages.


Stop 1: Gjirokastër – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Gjirokastër Castle

  • Visit one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Albania.

  • Explore ancient walls, towers, and courtyards that date back to medieval and Ottoman times.

  • Enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the Drino Valley and surrounding mountains.

  • Learn about the city’s strategic importance and its role in Albanian history.
    Visit time: approx. 1–1.5 hours

Skenduli House (Ottoman-Era Home)

  • Step inside a beautifully preserved 17th-century Ottoman residence.

  • Discover traditional Albanian architecture, carved wooden ceilings, stone towers, and family rooms.

  • Learn about local customs, family life, and social traditions passed down through generations.
    Visit time: approx. 45 minutes

Old Town & Stone Bazaar

  • Stroll through the historic stone-paved streets of Gjirokastër’s Old Town.

  • Explore artisan shops selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local products.

  • Enjoy the authentic atmosphere of one of Albania’s most photogenic towns.
    Free walking time: approx. 45 minutes


Afternoon | Cultural Experience

Traditional Turkish Coffee Workshop

  • Take part in an authentic coffee-making experience, guided by a local host.

  • Learn the traditional method of preparing

Butrint National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Begin the day with a visit to Butrint National Park, one of Albania’s most important archaeological and natural sites.

  • Explore remarkably preserved ruins from the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods.

  • Highlights include the ancient theater, Roman baths, city walls, basilica, and Lion Gate.

  • Learn how Butrint evolved over centuries as a strategic and cultural crossroads.

  • Enjoy the unique setting, surrounded by wetlands, forests, and the Vivari Channel, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

Visit time: approx. 1.5–2 hours


Continue to Ksamil

Travel south to Ksamil, a coastal gem known for its turquoise waters and small island beaches.

  • Free time to swim, relax, or stroll along the beach (weather and season permitting).

  • Enjoy views of the nearby Ksamil Islands and the Ionian Sea.

  • Optional lunch at a seaside restaurant serving fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes.

Free time: approx. 1.5–2 hours


Afternoon | The Albanian Riviera Experience

Scenic Drive Along the Albanian Riviera

Continue north along the Albanian Riviera, widely regarded as one of the most scenic coastal roads in the Mediterranean.

  • Drive past dramatic cliffs, olive groves, and crystal-clear bays.

  • Pass through or stop in picturesque seaside villages such as:

    • Lukovë – known for its quiet charm and coastal views

    • Borsh – home to Albania’s longest beach and a hillside village

    • Dhermi – a lively Riviera town with white houses and turquoise waters

  • Short photo stops and free time depending on schedule and group interest.


Optional Visit: Porto Palermo Castle

  • Visit Porto Palermo Castle, a small but striking fortress built during the time of Ali Pasha of Tepelena.

  • Learn about its strategic coastal role and historical significance.

  • Enjoy stunning views over the turquoise Porto Palermo Bay, one of the Riviera’s most photogenic spots.

Visit time: approx. 30–45 minutes


Evening | Arrival & Overnight

  • Continue toward your final destination for the day.

  • Arrival and overnight stay in Himarë or Vlorë, depending on accommodation arrangements and route.

Evening at Leisure

  • Relax by the sea or enjoy a sunset walk along the coast.

  • Dinner at a local restaurant featuring fresh seafood, traditional Albanian dishes, and coastal flavors

Early departure from the Albanian Riviera.

Travel through the spectacular Llogara Pass, one of Albania’s most scenic routes, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding mountain landscapes.

Stop for a relaxing coffee break in Llogara National Park, enjoying the fresh mountain air, pine forests, and peaceful natural surroundings.


Afternoon: Llogara – Tirana

Continue the journey toward Tirana, with a cultural stop at Ardenica Monastery. This historic Orthodox monastery is renowned for its well-preserved frescoes and tranquil atmosphere, providing a meaningful glimpse into Albania’s religious and cultural heritage.

Upon arrival in Tirana, enjoy a guided city tour of Albania’s vibrant capital. Discover the city’s key landmarks and learn about its history, culture, and modern transformation.

Take a leisurely walk through the city center, passing Skanderbeg Square, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the lively Blloku district, known for its colorful buildings, cafés, and contemporary energy.


Evening: Tirana

Enjoy free time to relax and experience Tirana by night, with its bustling cafés, diverse restaurants, and dynamic urban atmosphere.

End of the tour.

Durations

4 – 7 days

Travel Style

Adventure
Beach
Culture
Food & Culinary
Historical
In-depth Culture
Local Living
Private Tour
Tailored Tour
Wine Tasting

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation - 4 nights in Hotels will be in 3 or 4 stars depending from availability and season.
  • Guide - Guide and Tour leader service will be included for 5 days
  • Meals - 4 Breakfasts
  • Additional Services - Entrance fees in every Castles, Museums and National Parks
  • Transport - Transport Fees and Driver
  • Flights - Flights are not included in the cost of the Tour
  • Meals - Lunch and Dinners

Have questions? Reach out to us on WhatsApp

+355 67 290 7087

Please feel free to send us a message with any questions.

Explore other options