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8-Day Tour of Classic Albania

Customisable Itinerary
4.0 • (1 review)

Trip Overview

Get ready for an exhilarating journey through the vibrant tapestry of Albania's rich heritage! Our carefully crafted itinerary promises an immersive experience like no other, introducing you to the captivating Greek & Roman ruins, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the enchanting Ottoman Heritage. But that's not all – get ready to delve into the intriguing Communist legacy and witness the vibrant Albanian way of life in modern times!

Prepare to be pampered in boutique hotels nestled in the very heart of each destination, where friendly staff await to ensure your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. And when it comes to dining, get ready for a feast for the senses as we indulge in dinners accompanied by folkloric music, each tune weaving its own unique story of the town's cultural heritage. From Serenades in Korca to Saze in Permet and Iso-Polyphony in Gjirokaster, every meal promises to be a celebration of Albanian tradition!

But that's not all – we've carefully curated our itinerary to minimize long drive hours during the day, ensuring you have ample time to soak in the stunning landscapes and enjoy short breaks at breathtaking vista points along the way. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure filled with unforgettable moments and boundless excitement – Albania awaits!

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Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome Dinner at The Albania Capital, Tirana

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Welcome Dinner at The Albania Capital, Tirana

Upon arrival, our guide will warmly greet us at the airport and lead us to the charming Oxford Hotel in central Tirana. Our adventure begins with a captivating visit to Bunk'art, housed within a historic anti-atomic bunker from the communist era. We'll explore its labyrinthine tunnels, originally crafted as an escape route, and delve into the haunting history of the House of Leaves, once the secret police headquarters. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a leisurely walking tour of Skanderbeg Square and the main boulevard, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Tirana's city center.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Oxford Hotel

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Bunk'Art

    House of Leaves & Bunk’Art 1

    Walking Tour of Skanderbeg Square

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Tirana International Airport to Oxford Hotel

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Dinner

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Tirana

    Tirana County

Day 2

A Journey From Communist Ruins, to Ohrid Lake and Characteristic Town

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A Journey From Communist Ruins, to Ohrid Lake and Characteristic Town

Get ready for an action-packed day starting from Tirana at 9 AM! First stop: Elbasan Metallurgy Industrial Park for an eye-opening exploration. Then, we'll enjoy a scenic drive to Pogradec by Ohrid Lake for a delicious lunch. Next up, a quick transfer to Korca where we'll check into our hotel before immersing ourselves in the captivating exhibits at the Gjon Mili Photography Museum. And to top it all off, a night of traditional cuisine and live music awaits us! Get set for an unforgettable adventure!

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Seven7 Hotel

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Elbasan Metallurgy Industrial Park

    "Gjon Mili" Photography Museum

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Tirana to Elbasan

    Private Driver from Elbasan to Lake Ohrid

    Private Driver from Lake Ohrid to Korçë

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Tirana

    Elbasan

    Korçë

Day 3

Off the Beaten Path to Vjosa Valley

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Off the Beaten Path to Vjosa Valley

Today's drive is the longest, yet it's a scenic route connecting Korca and Permet. This region, nearly abandoned since the '90s, boasts villages frozen in time. Despite its remote feel, it's gaining popularity for its stunning landscapes and sense of adventure.

Permet, a small town by the Vjosa River, is our final destination. Its friendly people primarily work in agriculture and farming, known for producing some of Albania's finest raki. Permet is also famous for its authentic folkloric music, adding to its charm.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Hotel Alvero

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Farma Sotira

    Thermal Water

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Korçë to Përmet

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Korçë

    Korçë County

    Gjirokastër County

    Përmet

Day 4

Amazing Ottoman Architecture - UNESCO World Heritage

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Amazing Ottoman Architecture - UNESCO World Heritage

Welcome to Gjirokaster, where the echoes of history resonate through the walls of the ancient Gjirokaster Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 12th century, stands as a testament to Albanian resilience. Inside, a military museum showcases artifacts from the Communist resistance, while panoramic views offer a breathtaking vista of Gjirokaster and the Drino Valley.

Just a stone's throw away lies the opulent Skendulate House, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture from the 1700s. Adorned with intricate ceiling decorations and wooden carvings, it offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Gjirokaster's elite. Explore these timeless treasures of Gjirokaster's past.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Kalemi 2 Hotel3 star

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Gjirokaster Castle

    Skenduli House

    Gjirokaster Old Bazaar

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Përmet to Gjirokaster

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Përmet

    Gjirokaster

Day 5

Exploring the Drino Valley

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Exploring the Drino Valley

Embark on a captivating journey through the stunning landscapes of the Drino Valley, beginning in the historic town of Gjirokaster and winding our way to Labove e Kryqit. Immerse yourself in history at the awe-inspiring Dormition of Theotokos Church and uncover ancient mysteries at the Adrianopole archaeological site. After morning, indulge in a delectable lunch at a charming traditional restaurant, savoring the flavors of Albanian cuisine. As the day draws to a close, retreat to the welcoming embrace of the Kalemi 2 Hotel in Gjirokaster. Here, amidst the cozy ambiance, reflect on the day's adventures and recharge for the excitement that awaits tomorrow in this enchanting corner of Albania.

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    Accommodation

    Kalemi 2 Hotel3 star

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Drino Valley

    Labove e Kryqit

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Gjirokaster

    Gjirokastër County

    Labovë e Poshtme

Day 6

Archaeological Site in Albania

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Archaeological Site in Albania

Get ready for an exciting day starting from Gjirokaster at 9 am! Our first stop? The breathtaking Blue Eye natural spring, followed by the ancient wonders of Butrint Archaeological Park. Then, it's time for a delicious seaside lunch at Ksamil beach, with an optional mussel tour available for extra fun. As we continue our journey to Himare, we'll marvel at the majestic Porto Palermo castle along the way. Finally, our day concludes at the Sea View Hotel in Himare, offering stunning seaside views to end our adventure perfectly!

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Sea View Hotel4 star

  • activities icon
    Activities

    The Blue Eye

    Butrint Archaeological Park

    Porto Palemo Castle

  • restaurant icon
    Restaurants

    Ksamil

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Gjirokaster to Sarandë

    Private Driver from Ksamil to Himarë

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast and lunch

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Gjirokaster

    Vlorë County

    Ksamil

    Sarandë

Day 7

Landscapes, History and Wine

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Landscapes, History and Wine

Get ready to depart from Himara at 9:00 AM for an adventure-packed day! Our first stop is Llogara National Park, followed by a scenic drive to Berat, totaling 3.5 hours.

In Berat, immerse yourself in history at Berat Castle and the Onufri Museum of Iconography. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional restaurant before heading to the "Alpeta" winery in Roshnik village for a wine-tasting experience.

End the day by checking into the historic Mangalem Hotel in Berat's traditional district, where you'll enjoy a cozy overnight stay.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Hotel Mangalemi3 star

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Llogara National Park

    Berat Castle

    National Iconographic Museum Onufri

    Roshnik Hills

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Himarë to Llogara National Park

    Private Driver from Llogara National Park to Berat

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Sarandë

    Vlorë County

    Berat

    Berat County

Day 8

Farewell and Departure

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Farewell and Departure

As your Albanian adventure comes to a close, get ready for a seamless departure with our enthusiastic representative! They'll greet you at the hotel, ensuring a smooth transfer to Tirana International Airport or any other destination for your journey back home. Let's wrap up your trip with smiles and fond memories, knowing that Albania will always hold a special place in your heart!

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Hotel Mangalemi to Tirana International Airport

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Berat

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What’s included?

  • 7 nights accommodation
  • 19 activities
  • 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
  • Airport transfer
  • Entrance fees
  • Ground transportation
  • Licensed English speaking guides

What’s not included?

  • Alcohol beverages
  • Domestic flights
  • Entry visas / airport departure tax
  • Gratuities
  • International flights
  • Laundry
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Trekking permits

Notes

INCLUDED:
-Accommodation in boutique hotels, very well located and excellent reviewed, breakfasts included.
-Fun and knowledgeable English speaking driver/guide during the trip.
-All transport by comfortable A/C vehicle. Fuel included.
-Local taxes and fees.