Classic Albania – 8 Days

Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana

Arrival at Tirana and transfer to the hotel.

Visit: Skanderbeg Square

The central square of Tirana and the heart of the city. It is surrounded by important landmarks such as the National History Museum, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and government buildings. The square is named after Albania’s national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg.

Visit: Et’hem Bey Mosque

Built in the late 18th century, this mosque is one of the most beautiful Ottoman monuments in Albania. It is famous for its unique frescoes depicting landscapes and nature.

Visit: National History Museum

The largest museum in Albania, presenting the country’s history from ancient Illyrian civilization to modern times.

Visit: Blloku District

Once restricted to communist leaders, today Blloku is the most vibrant area in Tirana, full of cafes, restaurants, and modern lifestyle venues.

Return to hotel. Overnight in Tirana.

Day 2 – Tirana – Berat

Breakfast at hotel and departure to Berat, known as the City of a Thousand Windows.

Visit: Berat Castle

A massive fortress overlooking the city that has been continuously inhabited for centuries. Inside the castle you will find churches, traditional houses, and panoramic views.

Visit: Onufri Iconographic Museum

Located inside a historic church, the museum displays icons painted by Onufri, one of the most important icon painters in the Balkans.

Visit: Mangalem Quarter

The historic Ottoman neighborhood known for its white houses with large windows stacked along the hillside.

Visit: Gorica Bridge

A historic stone bridge connecting the old quarters of Berat across the Osum River.

Return to hotel. Overnight in Berat.

Day 3 – Berat – Gjirokastër

Breakfast at hotel. Departure to Gjirokastër.

Visit: Gjirokastër Castle

One of the largest castles in the Balkans. It offers spectacular views of the Drino Valley and houses a military museum and historic artillery.

Visit: Gjirokastër Bazaar

A traditional Ottoman marketplace filled with artisan shops, souvenirs, carpets, and handmade crafts.

Visit: Traditional Ottoman Houses

Gjirokastër is known for its unique stone houses built like small fortresses, reflecting the wealth and status of historic families.

Return to hotel. Overnight in Gjirokastër.

Day 4 – Gjirokastër – Butrint – Sarandë

Breakfast at hotel and departure to Butrint National Park.

Visit: Butrint Archaeological Site

One of the most important archaeological parks in the Balkans. The ancient city has layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian history.

Highlights include:

Ancient theatre

Roman baths

Basilica

Venetian tower

The ruins are surrounded by lagoons and lush nature.

Continue to Sarandë, a coastal city facing the island of Corfu.

Free time along the seaside promenade.

Overnight in Sarandë.

Day 5 – Albanian Riviera

Breakfast at hotel and drive along the famous Albanian Riviera.

Visit: Himarë

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and traditional Greek-Albanian culture.

Visit: Dhërmi

One of the most famous beach destinations in Albania, known for its turquoise waters and spectacular coastline.

Visit: Llogara Pass

A spectacular mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea from more than 1000 meters above sea level.

Continue to Vlorë.

Overnight in Vlorë.

Day 6 – Vlorë – Durrës – Shkodër

Breakfast at hotel and departure north.

Visit: Durrës

One of the oldest cities in Albania and the country’s main port.

Visit: Durrës Amphitheatre

Built in the 2nd century AD, it is the largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and once hosted thousands of spectators.

Continue to Shkodër.

Visit: Rozafa Castle

A legendary fortress overlooking Lake Shkodra and the surrounding rivers. The castle is associated with the famous Albanian legend of Rozafa.

Overnight in Shkodër.

Day 7 – Shkodër – Tirana

Breakfast at hotel and return to Tirana.

Visit: Mount Dajti National Park

A beautiful natural park located just outside Tirana. Visitors can reach the top by cable car and enjoy panoramic views over the city and surrounding mountains.

Free afternoon for shopping and exploring Tirana.

Overnight in Tirana.

Day 8 – Departure

Breakfast at hotel.

Transfer to Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza.

End of the tour.