Undiscovered Balkans
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through the heart of the Balkans, exploring the rich tapestry of Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo. This multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Tirana to the serene shores of Lake Ohrid, and from the historic city of Prizren to the majestic peaks of the Accursed Mountains, each day promises new adventures and unforgettable experiences. Delight in the region's diverse cuisine, uncover hidden gems, and connect with the warm hospitality of the locals. Whether you're hiking through alpine valleys, savoring local wines, or exploring ancient monasteries, this tour is designed to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the Balkans' unique charm.
Included
13 nights standard hotel
hotel: 13 night(s);
A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options
13 Breakfasts
1 Lunches
2 Dinners
All accommodation, activities and meals that are shown in the itinerary are included in the total cost of your trip You will also receive a complimentary transfer to and from the airport if you arrive on day 1 of the trip and depart on the last day and have provided your international flight information.
Bus, Cable Car
Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader's ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and have a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety is adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.
Destinations
Elbasan
Shkoder
TiranaMap
Attractions
Old City Park
Palace of Culture
Bunk’Art 2
Shkodra Castle
Komani Lake
Durres Amphitheatre
SHENGJIN
Dajti
National Park of Drilon
Gjergj Kastrioti National Museum (Skanderbeg)
Lake Matka
Old Bazaar
Square „Macedonia“
House of Leaves Museum
Preza Castle
Skopje Zoo
Church of Saints Clement and PanteleimonDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Tirana
- Tirana - Arrival day
- More
- Palace of Culture
- House of Leaves Museum
- More
Begin your adventure in the vibrant capital of Albania, Tirana. Known for its colorful streets and rich history, this city is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Arrive at your leisure and join a welcome meeting at the hotel (or similar) at 6 PM. If you arrive early, delve into the intriguing past at the House of Leaves or explore the bustling Pazari i Ri market. Enjoy a leisurely evening, sampling local delicacies like byrek and baklava, and perhaps a glass of Albanian red wine.
Day 2 – Day 2: Tirana
- Tirana
- More
- Bunk’Art 2
- Dajti
- Der Strand von Durrës
- More
Embark on a short drive to the base of the Dajti Express cable car, the longest in the Balkans. Ascend to Mount Dajti and enjoy a scenic hike to Tujani summit. For those preferring a relaxed pace, enjoy the views from a mountaintop restaurant or explore the adventure park. After lunch, return to Tirana and visit Bunk Art 2, a fascinating museum housed in a former nuclear bunker. Spend your evening exploring the lively Blloku district, once restricted to the political elite.
Day 3 – Day 3: Tirana to Ohrid
- Tirana
- Elbasan
- More
- National Park of Drilon
- More
Depart Tirana and journey through the Shkumbin Valley to Elbasan, then cross into North Macedonia. Stop in Struga, a charming town divided by the Black Drim River. Continue to Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its cultural significance and natural beauty. Settle into your hotel (or similar) and explore Ohrid's rich history, including the Old Bazaar, Amphitheatre, and Old Castle Walls, with your tour leader.
Day 4 – Day 4: Ohrid
Day 4: Ohrid
- Monastery of Saint Naum
- Ohrid City Park
- Heraclea Lyncestis
- More
Embark on a boat ride to the Monastery of Saint Naum, nestled on a picturesque peninsula. Marvel at the stunning frescoes and enjoy free time to explore or dine by the springs. In the afternoon, travel through Galicia National Park to Lake Prespa, a transboundary lake shared by Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece. Discover the region's rich biodiversity and enjoy birdwatching before returning to Ohrid for the evening.
Day 5 – Day 5: Ohrid to Pristina
Day 5: Ohrid to Pristina
- Lake Matka
- Old Bazaar
- Square „Macedonia“
- Skopje Zoo
- More
Travel to Matka Canyon, a natural wonder with breathtaking cliffs and gorges. Continue to Skopje, North Macedonia's capital, and explore its rich cultural heritage, including the Kale Fortress, Sveti Spas Monastery, and the Ottoman Bazaar. Cross into Kosovo and journey to Pristina, a city blending Ottoman and modern influences. Experience its vibrant atmosphere, savor local cuisine, and unwind in the evening.
Day 6 – Day 6: Pristina to Peja
Day 6: Pristina to Peja
Discover Pristina's historical and cultural landmarks on a guided walking tour. Visit the Central Bazaar, the striking National Library, and the Kosovo Battle Memorial. Explore the Monastery of Gracanica, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, before heading to Peja. Nestled at the foot of the Accursed Mountains, Peja offers a blend of ancient history and natural beauty. Explore the town's attractions, including the Peja Bazaar and Bajrakli Mosque.
Day 7 – Day 7: Peja
Day 7: Peja
Venture into the highlands of Peja, starting with a scenic drive through the Rugova Gorge to the alpine village of Boga. Embark on a moderate hike to a nearby lake, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Visit the Peja Patriarch church complex, adorned with stunning frescoes, before returning to Peja for a relaxing evening.
Day 8 – Day 8: Peja to Prizren
Day 8: Peja to Prizren
Visit the UNESCO-listed Decani Monastery, a stunning example of Orthodox art. Continue to Junik to explore the traditional kullas, stone fortresses that offer insight into local life. Arrive in Prizren, a town rich in Ottoman heritage, and enjoy a free afternoon to explore its charming streets and sample local cuisine.
Day 9 – Day 9: Prizren
Day 9: Prizren
Explore Prizren's Ottoman influences, including the Sinan Pasha Mosque and Old Stone Bridge. Visit Prizren Fortress for panoramic views and learn about the city's history at the Prizren League House. In the afternoon, travel to Rahovec, Kosovo's wine region, for a wine-tasting experience. Return to Prizren for a free evening.
Day 10 – Day 10: Prizren to Valbona
Day 10: Prizren to Valbona
Depart Prizren and visit the charming city of Gjakova, known for its Ottoman Bazaar. Cross back into Albania and enter the picturesque Valbona Valley. Check into a mountain hotel (or similar) and explore the village with your tour leader. Enjoy a traditional dinner amidst the stunning backdrop of the Accursed Mountains.
Day 11 – Day 11: Valbona
Day 11: Valbona
- Komani Lake
- More
Experience the beauty of Valbona Valley on a hike through Kukaj Valley. Traverse forested paths to alpine pastures, offering breathtaking views. Enjoy a picnic lunch and visit a shepherd's family for fresh mountain tea. Return to the hotel for a traditional dinner, featuring lamb on the spit or vegetarian options.
Day 12 – Day 12: Valbona to Shkoder
- Shkoder
- More
- Shkodra Castle
- Xhamia e Plumbit
- Shëngjin Beach
- More
Leave Valbona Valley and travel to Shkoder. Depending on the season, enjoy a scenic ferry ride across Lake Koman or drive through the mountainous landscape. Arrive in Shkoder, a city rich in history and culture. Visit Rozafa Castle for panoramic views and explore the city's attractions, including the Mosque, Cathedrals, and local market.
Day 13 – Day 13: Shkoder to Durres
- Shkoder
- More
- Durres Amphitheatre
- Der Strand von Durrës
- Lezhë
- Shëngjin Beach
- More
Travel to the Adriatic coast, stopping in Lezha to visit the Skanderbeg Memorial. Continue to Durres, where you'll explore the impressive Roman Amphitheatre. Enjoy a sunset stroll along the promenade and savor a fresh seafood dinner by the sea.
Day 14 – Day 14: Departure from Durres
Day 14: Departure from Durres
Conclude your journey with breakfast at the hotel in Durres. Enjoy a leisurely morning before departing at your convenience. If your flight is later, take advantage of luggage storage facilities at the hotel. For those requiring an airport transfer, Tirana International Airport is approximately a 40-minute drive away.
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