Highlights of Albania

Begin your Albanian adventure in Tirana, a city that beautifully blends its communist past with a vibrant present. Arrive at your leisure and settle into your hotel. In the evening, meet your tour leader and fellow travelers for a welcome meeting. If time permits, explore the intriguing House of Leaves museum or the bustling Pazari i Ri market. Enjoy a taste of local cuisine, perhaps sampling byrek or baklava, and savor the flavors of Albanian red wine or local beers.

Embark on a walking tour of Tirana, taking in the city's key landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. Visit Bunk Art 2, a unique museum housed in a former nuclear bunker. Later, enjoy a scenic ride on the Dajti Express cable car to Mount Dajti, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding highlands. Experience authentic Albanian hospitality with a visit to the Pellumbus Guesthouse, where you'll enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local produce. Return to Tirana for a relaxing evening.

Start your day with a visit to the Bektashi World Centre in Tirana, exploring the ornate tekke of this unique Islamic sect. Journey to Elbasan to explore its historic fortress before continuing to the charming village of Lin. Enjoy free time for lunch and then travel to Pogradec, nestled on the shores of the ancient and beautiful Lake Ohrid. Take in the stunning views and perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake's clear waters before settling in for the night.

Travel to Voskopoja, a town renowned for its historic churches adorned with exquisite frescoes. After exploring these cultural treasures, enjoy a delightful lunch featuring local specialties. Continue to Korca, a city nestled at the foot of Moravia Mountain. Upon arrival, embark on a walking tour to discover the city's highlights, including the impressive Resurrection Cathedral. In the evening, explore the old town and sample the famous Baked Raki, immersing yourself in the local culture and atmosphere.

Embark on a picturesque drive through Albania's southern highlands, passing the breathtaking Barmash Pass with its sweeping views of the Nemercka Mountains. Stop for lunch at a mountainside restaurant, where you can savor homemade raki or mountain tea. Continue to Benja to admire the Ottoman stone bridge and enjoy a relaxing dip in the thermal pools. Journey through the White Mountains and Kelcyra Gorge, arriving in Gjirokaster, a town known for its enchanting charm. Settle in for a two-night stay in this captivating destination.

Delve into Gjirokaster's rich history with a visit to the Ethnographical Museum, located in the historic district of Palorto. Discover the traditional Albanian lifestyle through its exhibits. Travel to Dhkosat village for a homemade lunch at a family house, where you'll learn about rural life and enjoy local delicacies. Return to Gjirokaster for a walking tour of its UNESCO-listed historic center, culminating in a visit to the impressive Gjirokastra Castle, offering panoramic views and a fascinating glimpse into Albania's past.

Depart Gjirokaster and journey to Saranda, stopping en route to marvel at the mesmerizing Blue Eye, a stunning karstic spring. Continue to the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Butrint, where you'll explore its fascinating ruins, including a Roman theatre, thermal baths, and a baptistery with intricate mosaics. After immersing yourself in the rich history of Butrint, return to Saranda for an overnight stay by the Mediterranean Sea.

Embark on a breathtaking journey along the Albanian Riviera, renowned for its stunning coastal views. Stop at Ali Pasha Fortress, perched on a peninsula with panoramic vistas of the sea. Continue to Himara for a leisurely lunch by the beach, where you can enjoy a swim in the turquoise waters. Arrive at Llogora National Park, where you can choose to hike in the mountains or relax amidst the serene pine forests. Spend the night in a tranquil hotel within the park.

Depart Llogora National Park and travel to Vlora, where you'll visit Flag Square and the Muradi Mosque. Continue to the ancient city of Apollonia, exploring its archaeological wonders, including the impressive bouleuterion. Journey onward to Berat, a city renowned for its Ottoman-era architecture and picturesque setting. Spend the night in Berat, where you can savor the local wine and soak in the city's historic charm.

Conclude your Albanian adventure in Kruja, where you can explore the historic fortress and the Ethnographic Museum. Reflect on the memories made during your journey through Albania's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Depart at your leisure, with the option to extend your stay and further explore this captivating country.