Albania

Albania's Highlights

10 days · Group · from €1,599.00
‹ Adventure Europe
Duration
10 days
Start/End
Tirana
Tour type
Group
Accommodation
Hotel
Price from · per person
€1,599.00
Dates & prices ›
Price from · per person
€1,599.00
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Albania's Highlights

Duration

10 days

Start/End

Tirana

Tour type

Group

Level

Easy

Accommodation

Hotel

Overview

This round trip combines UNESCO World Heritage sites, old towns and nature: from Tirana to Lake Ohrid, on to Korça and Gjirokastra, via the Blue Eye to Butrint and Saranda, and over the Llogara Pass to Berat and Kruja. No sporting demands, plenty of culture and encounters.

Discover fascinating Albania and the enchanting Lake Ohrid on an unforgettable tour! Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this country as you explore breathtaking landscapes, ancient sites, and picturesque towns. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historic old towns to stunning natural wonders, this journey offers a diverse range of experiences. Be captivated by the beauty of Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest lakes in the world and the deepest in the Balkans. Look forward to a unique blend of culture, history, and natural treasures on this unforgettable trip!

Culture
Food & drink

Tour Code

ALTIA003

Tour language

GermanGerman

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Albania

    Hotel

    17 km, approx. 30 minutes

    Arrival in Tirana. You make your own way from the airport to the hotel – by public transport or taxi. We are happy to arrange a private transfer for an extra charge. You will spend the next two nights at the hotel.

    Arrival in Albania

    Day 1

    Hotel

    17 km, approx. 30 minutes

    Arrival in Tirana. You make your own way from the airport to the hotel – by public transport or taxi. We are happy to arrange a private transfer for an extra charge. You will spend the next two nights at the hotel.

  • Day 2
    Tirana

    Hotel, breakfast and dinner

    After a hearty breakfast, your tour guide will meet you at reception around 9:00 a.m., from where your comprehensive city tour of the enchanting Albanian capital, Tirana, will begin. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of this city, famous for its vibrant architecture and colorful buildings. You'll reach the picturesque Skanderbeg Square, the city's main center. There you'll find the historic Et'hem Bey Mosque, which has retained its splendor. Nearby, you'll discover other impressive sights: the magnificent Opera House, the famous Clock Tower, the imposing Palace of Culture and Science, and the majestic Orthodox and Catholic cathedrals, all waiting to be explored. Your journey then takes you to the National Martyrs Boulevard, which offers insights into life under the former dictator Enver Hoxha. Afterwards, enjoy a scenic stroll through the vibrant Blloku district, a popular hub for young people, businesses, and cafes. In the evening, you get to know Albanian cuisine at a shared dinner in a traditional restaurant.

    Tirana

    Day 2

    Hotel, breakfast and dinner

    After a hearty breakfast, your tour guide will meet you at reception around 9:00 a.m., from where your comprehensive city tour of the enchanting Albanian capital, Tirana, will begin. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of this city, famous for its vibrant architecture and colorful buildings. You'll reach the picturesque Skanderbeg Square, the city's main center. There you'll find the historic Et'hem Bey Mosque, which has retained its splendor. Nearby, you'll discover other impressive sights: the magnificent Opera House, the famous Clock Tower, the imposing Palace of Culture and Science, and the majestic Orthodox and Catholic cathedrals, all waiting to be explored. Your journey then takes you to the National Martyrs Boulevard, which offers insights into life under the former dictator Enver Hoxha. Afterwards, enjoy a scenic stroll through the vibrant Blloku district, a popular hub for young people, businesses, and cafes. In the evening, you get to know Albanian cuisine at a shared dinner in a traditional restaurant.

  • Day 3
    From Tirana via Elbasan to Lake Ohrid

    Hotel, breakfast

    135 km, approx. 3 hours

    In the morning, you'll meet your fellow travelers and tour guide again at reception around 9:00 AM to depart for the charming city of Elbasan, following the historic Roman road Via Egnatia. After a brief exploration, you'll continue your journey towards the Macedonian border. Upon arrival in the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage city of Ohrid, your sightseeing begins. Your tour starts with a magical boat trip on the lake, offering a unique perspective of the city's beauty. Back on land, you'll continue your exploration on foot. You'll marvel at the impressive fortress of King Samuel, which majestically overlooks the city. Along the way, you can admire some of the city's estimated 365 churches, which have earned Ohrid its nickname, the Jerusalem of the Balkans.

    From Tirana via Elbasan to Lake Ohrid

    Day 3

    Hotel, breakfast

    135 km, approx. 3 hours

    In the morning, you'll meet your fellow travelers and tour guide again at reception around 9:00 AM to depart for the charming city of Elbasan, following the historic Roman road Via Egnatia. After a brief exploration, you'll continue your journey towards the Macedonian border. Upon arrival in the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage city of Ohrid, your sightseeing begins. Your tour starts with a magical boat trip on the lake, offering a unique perspective of the city's beauty. Back on land, you'll continue your exploration on foot. You'll marvel at the impressive fortress of King Samuel, which majestically overlooks the city. Along the way, you can admire some of the city's estimated 365 churches, which have earned Ohrid its nickname, the Jerusalem of the Balkans.

  • Day 4
    From Lake Ohrid via Sveti Naum to Korça

    Hotel, breakfast

    80 km, approx. 2 hours

    After a hearty breakfast, a new and exciting day of travel begins. The lake you explored is not only one of the oldest lakes in the world but also the deepest in the Balkans – a true natural gem. Both the picturesque town and the breathtaking lake are proud UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Before you begin your journey back to Albania from Ohrid, however, an unforgettable highlight awaits. The next stop is the impressive Sveti Naum Monastery, surrounded by unique natural scenery. Here, you can admire the splendor of the monastery and explore the springs of Lake Ohrid. But first, enjoy a refreshing drink. Afterward, experience a relaxing rowboat ride on the springs of Lake Ohrid – an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of this region from a special perspective. Following this impressive experience, you continue your journey, cross the border, and finally arrive in the charming city of Korçë.

    From Lake Ohrid via Sveti Naum to Korça

    Day 4

    Hotel, breakfast

    80 km, approx. 2 hours

    After a hearty breakfast, a new and exciting day of travel begins. The lake you explored is not only one of the oldest lakes in the world but also the deepest in the Balkans – a true natural gem. Both the picturesque town and the breathtaking lake are proud UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Before you begin your journey back to Albania from Ohrid, however, an unforgettable highlight awaits. The next stop is the impressive Sveti Naum Monastery, surrounded by unique natural scenery. Here, you can admire the splendor of the monastery and explore the springs of Lake Ohrid. But first, enjoy a refreshing drink. Afterward, experience a relaxing rowboat ride on the springs of Lake Ohrid – an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of this region from a special perspective. Following this impressive experience, you continue your journey, cross the border, and finally arrive in the charming city of Korçë.

  • Day 5
    From Korça to Gjirokastra

    Hotel, breakfast

    225 km, approx. 5.5 hours

    The next leg of your journey takes you to Korça, before you continue through Albania's picturesque mountains to Gjirokastra, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the "City of Stone," Gjirokastra's fascinating old town boasts a largely medieval style. Perched atop a hill, it offers breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The city's architecture impressively reflects its rich past. Upon arrival, your first stop will be the castle, offering panoramic views of the entire city and its surroundings. This impressive fortress houses a weapons museum, providing fascinating insights into the region's military history. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city's narrow streets. During your stay in Gjirokastra, you'll also have the unique opportunity to participate in a traditional coffee ceremony with a local family. Together, you'll savor Turkish coffee and immerse yourselves in the culture and hospitality of this region. After a short break to explore the historic shops and perhaps purchase some distinctive products, you will head to your new accommodation.

    From Korça to Gjirokastra

    Day 5

    Hotel, breakfast

    225 km, approx. 5.5 hours

    The next leg of your journey takes you to Korça, before you continue through Albania's picturesque mountains to Gjirokastra, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the "City of Stone," Gjirokastra's fascinating old town boasts a largely medieval style. Perched atop a hill, it offers breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The city's architecture impressively reflects its rich past. Upon arrival, your first stop will be the castle, offering panoramic views of the entire city and its surroundings. This impressive fortress houses a weapons museum, providing fascinating insights into the region's military history. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city's narrow streets. During your stay in Gjirokastra, you'll also have the unique opportunity to participate in a traditional coffee ceremony with a local family. Together, you'll savor Turkish coffee and immerse yourselves in the culture and hospitality of this region. After a short break to explore the historic shops and perhaps purchase some distinctive products, you will head to your new accommodation.

  • Day 6
    From Gjirokastra via the Blue Eye and Butrint to Saranda

    Hotel, breakfast

    120 km, approx. 3.5 hours

    In the morning, you continue your journey to Butrint, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route, you'll stop to admire the stunning Blue Eye – a natural spring of exceptional beauty. Upon arrival in Butrint, you'll be captivated by the fascinating ancient buildings unearthed during excavations. Some parts of this historical site are remarkably well-preserved, offering a vivid glimpse into the past. Particularly noteworthy is the colorful mosaic in the Baptistery, depicting two peacocks and a vase of grapes – a stunning testament to the artistic splendor of bygone eras. After your time in Butrint, you'll continue your journey, making a brief stop in Ksamil before finally arriving in Saranda.

    From Gjirokastra via the Blue Eye and Butrint to Saranda

    Day 6

    Hotel, breakfast

    120 km, approx. 3.5 hours

    In the morning, you continue your journey to Butrint, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route, you'll stop to admire the stunning Blue Eye – a natural spring of exceptional beauty. Upon arrival in Butrint, you'll be captivated by the fascinating ancient buildings unearthed during excavations. Some parts of this historical site are remarkably well-preserved, offering a vivid glimpse into the past. Particularly noteworthy is the colorful mosaic in the Baptistery, depicting two peacocks and a vase of grapes – a stunning testament to the artistic splendor of bygone eras. After your time in Butrint, you'll continue your journey, making a brief stop in Ksamil before finally arriving in Saranda.

  • Day 7
    From Saranda via Llogara National Park to Vlora

    Hotel, breakfast

    130 km, approx. 3.5 hours

    On the Porto Palermo peninsula, you'll make a photo stop to capture the impressive triangular fort of Ali Pasha. This massive structure is an imposing testament to the past. The next stop takes you to Himara, a true gem in southern Albania. Here you'll have some free time to enjoy the beautiful beach promenade and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. Another highlight awaits you in Llogara National Park, where you'll experience breathtaking natural scenery. Your route then takes you along the scenic coastal road of the Albanian Riviera towards Vlora. This port city in southern Albania lies on the Strait of Otranto, the narrowest point of the Adriatic Sea. The views and impressions along this stunning coastal route will undoubtedly be unforgettable.

    From Saranda via Llogara National Park to Vlora

    Day 7

    Hotel, breakfast

    130 km, approx. 3.5 hours

    On the Porto Palermo peninsula, you'll make a photo stop to capture the impressive triangular fort of Ali Pasha. This massive structure is an imposing testament to the past. The next stop takes you to Himara, a true gem in southern Albania. Here you'll have some free time to enjoy the beautiful beach promenade and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. Another highlight awaits you in Llogara National Park, where you'll experience breathtaking natural scenery. Your route then takes you along the scenic coastal road of the Albanian Riviera towards Vlora. This port city in southern Albania lies on the Strait of Otranto, the narrowest point of the Adriatic Sea. The views and impressions along this stunning coastal route will undoubtedly be unforgettable.

  • Day 8
    From Vlora via Apollonia to Berat

    Hotel, breakfast

    110 km, approx. 2 hours

    In the morning, you'll depart for the fascinating archaeological site of Apollonia. More than 2,500 years ago, the Greeks established a colony here in honor of the god Apollo. After this impressive visit, you'll continue your journey to Berat. This city, also known as the City of 1,000 Windows, boasts a still-inhabited fortress and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Berat is characterized by its historic architecture and picturesque beauty. Its nickname comes from the numerous large windows of the old houses that overlook the city. With a settlement history spanning over 2,400 years, Berat is one of the oldest cities in Albania. During your stay, you'll explore the Old Town, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and have the opportunity to sample yogurt with honey and walnuts. The Old Town is divided into three main quarters: Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kala, where the fortress is located. Visiting Kala requires a steep climb along a cobbled path. But those who reach the summit are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. You spend the night in Berat.

    From Vlora via Apollonia to Berat

    Day 8

    Hotel, breakfast

    110 km, approx. 2 hours

    In the morning, you'll depart for the fascinating archaeological site of Apollonia. More than 2,500 years ago, the Greeks established a colony here in honor of the god Apollo. After this impressive visit, you'll continue your journey to Berat. This city, also known as the City of 1,000 Windows, boasts a still-inhabited fortress and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Berat is characterized by its historic architecture and picturesque beauty. Its nickname comes from the numerous large windows of the old houses that overlook the city. With a settlement history spanning over 2,400 years, Berat is one of the oldest cities in Albania. During your stay, you'll explore the Old Town, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and have the opportunity to sample yogurt with honey and walnuts. The Old Town is divided into three main quarters: Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kala, where the fortress is located. Visiting Kala requires a steep climb along a cobbled path. But those who reach the summit are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. You spend the night in Berat.

  • Day 9
    From Berat via Durres and Kruja to Tirana

    Hotel, breakfast and dinner

    180 km, approx. 4 hours

    Today you leave Berat and visit Durrës, Albania's largest port city. In the 2nd century AD, the largest amphitheater on the entire Balkan Peninsula was built here. After a comprehensive city tour, your journey continues to Krujë, the city of the national hero Skanderbeg. In Krujës, you'll explore the impressive fortress and stroll through the old town, which exudes a unique charm with its oriental-style bazaar. Afterwards, you continue to Tirana, where the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. The trip concludes with a farewell dinner at a restaurant, providing an opportunity to reflect on your experiences and impressions of this fascinating journey.

    From Berat via Durres and Kruja to Tirana

    Day 9

    Hotel, breakfast and dinner

    180 km, approx. 4 hours

    Today you leave Berat and visit Durrës, Albania's largest port city. In the 2nd century AD, the largest amphitheater on the entire Balkan Peninsula was built here. After a comprehensive city tour, your journey continues to Krujë, the city of the national hero Skanderbeg. In Krujës, you'll explore the impressive fortress and stroll through the old town, which exudes a unique charm with its oriental-style bazaar. Afterwards, you continue to Tirana, where the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. The trip concludes with a farewell dinner at a restaurant, providing an opportunity to reflect on your experiences and impressions of this fascinating journey.

  • Day 10
    Return trip to Germany

    Breakfast

    Today it's time to say goodbye to beautiful Albania. You make your own way to the airport by public transport or taxi – we are happy to arrange a private transfer for an extra charge. There you begin your flight back to Germany.

    Return trip to Germany

    Day 10

    Breakfast

    Today it's time to say goodbye to beautiful Albania. You make your own way to the airport by public transport or taxi – we are happy to arrange a private transfer for an extra charge. There you begin your flight back to Germany.

Price

€1,599.00

Phone: +43 512 209071

Services

What's included

  • Flight (economy) to Tirana and back, possibly plus flight surcharge.

  • 9 nights in a double room with bath or shower/toilet

  • Daily breakfast, 2x dinner

  • Transport in air-conditioned vehicles

  • German-speaking, local tour guide

  • Entrance fees

  • Varied boat tours on Lake Ohrid

  • Coffee ceremony with a local family and a tasting of yogurt with honey and walnuts

  • 6 - 16 participants

What's not included

  • Airport transfers (private transfers can be booked for an extra charge)

  • Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)

  • Personal equipment

  • Visa and vaccinations, if required

  • Tips

Character of the trip

Fitness

Easy

Altitude

Low

Culture / nature

Culture-led

This tour requires no special athletic ability. A normal level of fitness is sufficient for city walks, sightseeing, and shorter strolls, some of which involve cobblestones and visits to archaeological sites like Butrint. Expect some longer driving stages of up to approximately 5.5 hours.

The trip is ideal for anyone who wants to combine culture, nature, and encounters with locals.

Dates and prices

January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

Group dates

Optional

Single room supplement

€360.00

per person

Single room supplement high season

€440.00

per person

  • Some departures are already guaranteed.