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Albania’s historic gems: Castles, ruins and UNESCO sites

  • Thailand
  • 0 booked
    • Gallery
  • Duration: 5 nights
  • Language: English

Overview

This 6-day journey takes you through Albania’s most historic and scenic destinations, blending cultural heritage with natural wonders. Explore ancient castles, UNESCO World Heritage sites, picturesque villages and breathtaking landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Tirana to the serene shores of Lake Shkodër, the archaeological marvels of Butrint and the stunning Blue Eye spring, this tour offers a perfect mix of history, adventure and local traditions.

Highlights of this tour

  • Shkodër & Rozafa Castle – Discover Albania’s cultural hub and enjoy panoramic views from its iconic fortress.
  • Krujë & Skanderbeg Museum – Step into Albania’s past in the town of its national hero.
  • Tirana & Bunk’Art 2 – Experience the capital’s lively atmosphere and delve into its communist history.
  • Durrës Amphitheater – Visit the largest Roman amphitheater in the Balkans.
  • Berat (UNESCO) – Wander through the “City of a Thousand Windows” and its well-preserved Ottoman quarters.
  • Apollonia Archaeological Park – Explore an ancient Greek and Roman city.
  • Gjirokastër (UNESCO) – Stroll through the “Stone City” with its castle and charming bazaar.
  • Blue Eye Spring – Marvel at this mesmerizing natural phenomenon.
  • Butrint National Park (UNESCO) – Walk through the ruins of an ancient city with Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influences.
  • Sarandë & the Ionian Coast – Enjoy the beauty of Albania’s southern Riviera before departure.

Price

14 pax +1 tour leader: 630€/person

NOTE: For group inquiries with a different number of travelers, please contact us directly via email to receive a personalised offer tailored to your needs.

 

What’s Included

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • All land transfers in a fully air-conditioned coach
  • 5 nights in hotels in different villages/cities in Albania (rooms upon request with private bathrooms)
  • All breakfasts
  • All entrance fees
  • All day tours as per programme
  • City tour in Shkoder, Kruje, Tirana, Durres, Berat, Gjirokaster, Saranda
  • English speaking professional guide
  • Tour Leader travels for free

 

Check dates & Availability

  • 21st-26th May: Available
  • 18th-23th June: Fully Booked
  • 23th-28th July: Available
  • 21st-26th September: Available
  • 3rd-8th October: Available

Group Size: 

Minimum 6 – Maximum 18

 

 

Additional Information

  • Pricing Adjustments: The price per person varies based on the number of participants.
  • Group Discounts: If you book as a full group (18 people), you may receive a discounted rate. Contact us for group pricing details.
  • Private Tours: If you prefer a private experience, we can organize a customized private tour for you at a special rate.
  • Flexible Dates: If these dates don’t work for you, we can arrange a tour on different dates upon request, depending on availability.
  • Custom Itineraries: We can modify the itinerary to include specific attractions or experiences based on your preferences.
  • Booking Confirmation: Your booking is confirmed only after the payment is made. A deposit may be required to secure your spot.
  • Early Booking Recommended: Spots fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred dates.
  • Multiple Languages Available: The tour is available in different languages upon request. Please inform us in advance for language preferences.
  • Travel Insurance & Requirements: Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended. Participants should check visa and entry requirements before booking.

 

 

Cancellation Policy

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 31 days before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 30 days before the experience’s start time, 50% of the total tour price will be refunded.
  • If you cancel less than 15 days before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 7 days before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers.

What To Expect

1

Day 1: Shkodër and Shiroka Village

  • Upon arrival at Tirana International Airport, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to Shkodër, one of Albania’s most historic and culturally rich cities.
  • Begin your journey with a visit to Rozafa Castle, an ancient Illyrian fortress perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the city and Lake Shkodër. Delve into the castle’s legendary tale of sacrifice and resilience while exploring its well-preserved ruins.
  • Next, immerse yourself in Albania’s visual history at the Marubi National Museum of Photography, home to one of the richest photographic archives in the Balkans. Discover a stunning collection that captures Albania’s transformation over the centuries.
  • Continue your exploration with a leisurely stroll along Gjuhadol Pedestrian Street, a charming avenue lined with Ottoman-era buildings, quaint cafés, and cultural landmarks, perfect for soaking in the city’s atmosphere.
  • In the afternoon, visit Shiroka Village, a peaceful lakeside retreat near Shkodër. Enjoy a delicious meal featuring fresh fish while admiring the serene beauty of Lake Shkodër.
  • Conclude the day with an overnight stay in a boutique hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.
2

Day 2: Exploring Krujë and Tirana

  • Start the day with a morning transfer to Krujë, a historic city that played a pivotal role in Albania’s resistance against the Ottoman Empire.
  • Begin your exploration at Krujë Castle, the former stronghold of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. Within the castle walls, visit the Skanderbeg Museum, where you’ll learn about his legendary battles and enduring legacy. Continue to the Ethnographic Museum, housed in a traditional Ottoman-style residence, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that offer insight into Albanian culture and daily life.
  • Afterward, take a stroll through the Old Bazaar, a charming marketplace with cobblestone streets lined with stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional textiles, and unique souvenirs.
  • In the afternoon, transfer to Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital. Begin your tour at Skanderbeg Square, the city’s central hub, surrounded by key landmarks, including the National History Museum. Visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque, one of Tirana’s oldest and most beautifully adorned mosques, known for its intricate frescoes.
  • End the day with a visit to Bunk’Art 2, an underground museum set in a former nuclear bunker. This immersive exhibit provides a deep dive into Albania’s communist-era history through compelling stories and artifacts.
  • Conclude the day with an overnight stay at a centrally located hotel in Tirana, where you can unwind and reflect on the rich history and culture explored throughout the day.
3

Day 3: Durrës and Berat

  • Start the day with a transfer from Tirana to Durrës, Albania’s main port city, rich in Roman and Byzantine history. Begin your exploration at the Durrës Amphitheater, the largest of its kind in the Balkans, dating back to the 2nd century. Continue to the Venetian Tower, a medieval fortress that once played a key role in the city’s defense. Wrap up your visit at the Archaeological Museum, where artifacts from the Illyrian, Greek, and Roman periods provide insight into the city’s long and fascinating past.
  • In the afternoon, travel to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” Visit the Berat Castle, a hilltop fortress offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Osum River. Within the castle walls, explore centuries-old churches and mosques, including the Onufri Museum, which houses the vibrant religious iconography of Albania’s most renowned medieval painter, Onufri.
  • End the day with a stroll through the Mangalem and Gorica Quarters, famous for their Ottoman-era houses and picturesque cobblestone streets. Enjoy an overnight stay in a traditional hotel in Berat, soaking in the charm and history of this remarkable city.
4

Day 4: Apollonia and Gjirokastër

  • Depart from Berat in the morning and head to Apollonia, one of Albania’s most significant archaeological sites. Once a thriving center of learning and trade in antiquity, this ancient Greek city offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Explore the Apollonia Archaeological Park, where highlights include the Odeon, the Temple of Artemis, and impressive Roman-era mosaics that showcase the artistry of the time.
  • In the afternoon, continue to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-listed city known for its distinctive stone architecture. Begin your visit at the Gjirokastër Castle, a hilltop fortress that houses a military museum and offers breathtaking views of the city and Drino Valley. Next, step into the Ethnographic Museum, located in the former home of Enver Hoxha, to gain insight into traditional Albanian life and customs.
  • Wrap up the day with a leisurely walk along Bazaar Street, where shops display handcrafted goods, antiques, and souvenirs reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage. Settle in for an overnight stay at a traditional guesthouse, immersing yourself in the charm of this historic city.
5

Day 5: Syri i Kaltër, Sarandë, Mesopotam Monastery and Butrint

  • Begin the day with a scenic morning transfer to Syri i Kaltër (Blue Eye), one of Albania’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This stunning spring, with its deep turquoise waters and lush surroundings, creates a mesmerizing sight. Take a leisurely walk along the trails, capture stunning photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this hidden gem.
  • In the afternoon, continue to Sarandë, a vibrant coastal city along the Ionian Sea. Start by visiting the Monastery of Mesopotam, a remarkable Byzantine site known for its distinctive architectural design and ancient frescoes. Then, explore the legendary Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases centuries of history through its Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins. Wander through the ancient city, stopping at key landmarks such as the theater, baptistery, and the iconic Lion Gate, each telling a unique story of the past.
  • As evening falls, unwind along the beautiful Sarandë coastline. Relax by the Ionian Sea and savor fresh seafood at a local restaurant before settling into a beachfront hotel for the night, where the sound of the waves sets the perfect ambiance for your stay.
6

Day 6: Return

  • After a memorable journey through Albania’s historic sites and breathtaking landscapes, it’s time to head back home. Enjoy a leisurely morning in Sarandë, with time for a final stroll along the Ionian coastline or a relaxing coffee by the sea. Guests will then be transferred to Tirana International Airport for their departure. Carry with you the unforgettable experiences, stunning views, and rich cultural memories of this unique tour.

Map

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The tour includes accommodation, daily breakfast, guided tours, entrance fees to all attractions and private transportation, including airport transfers.

  • The tour involves moderate walking, including uneven terrain at historical sites and archaeological parks. It is recommended for travelers with good mobility.

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, hats and a camera. For cooler months, include layers and a light jacket.

  • Yes, the itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate specific preferences or additional language guide requests. Please contact us in advance for customizations.

  • Full refund if canceled up to 31 days before the start date. 50% refund for cancellations made 15–30 days before the start date. No refund for cancellations within 15 days of the tour or no-shows. Special circumstances may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

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