Albania Discovery (Culture & Villages) 10D9N, Fully Guided

Making your own way from the airport, your adventure begins at your hotel in Tirana, the ever bustling capital city of Albania enclosed by huge mountains and hills overlooking the Adriatic Sea at a distance.

At the hotel we begin with an introductory afternoon excursion into a refurbished area situated a short distance, "the New Bazaar" – an iconic residential neighborhood of Tirana. Here we experience the enticing mix of old and new pleasantly chaotic vibes that stir up the spirit of the city. From enjoying a food festival-like atmosphere to browsing the many antique and artisan boutiques and people watching at the largest bicycle market found here, we explore deep into the New Bazaar, a fascinating site that offers a little of everything for everyone.

After a cordial exploration of the famous neighborhood, opt for a refreshing dining at one of the fine restaurants found nearby before retreating back to your hotel for the night.

Tonight, you’ll be staying at the quaint Hotel Capital Tirana, situated in the heart of Tirana next to the General Prosecution Office. After settling in your spacious room, relax over a soothing drink on the rooftop terrace or indulge in the flavours of the exquisite restaurant before turning in for the night.

After a hearty breakfast, we embark on an eventful walking tour of the quaint streets of Tirana, an active metropolis which became the capital of Albania in 1920. Along the way, we transit notable landmarks dotting the beautiful city including remains of an old castle, the Pyramid, and the Prime Minister's Office Building.

We traverse the famous Blloku, an ancient area previously occupied by members of The Politburo (a former leading group of the Albanian Labour party), now developed into a lively centre of Tirana's nightlife, boasting trendy bars, cafés, and fashionable clubs. We continue to the National History Museum, to adore its impressive facade beautified by a huge mosaic called "The Albanians". We get introduced to Albania's fascinating past and rich contemporary histories from the distinctive exhibits displayed by the grand museum.

En route Pogradec (about 2.5 hrs drive), an iconic city influenced by Turks and Italians cultures among other civilizations, we make a brief stop to soak up the magnificence of the Elbasan fortress, a historic feature built in the 15th century. This majestic fortifications spans twenty-six gigantic towers equally spaced apart along the length of a nine-metre-high wall. We marvel at the mediaeval fortress, seek the ruins which are more or less intact today along the southern wall, and possibly call in for a cooked to order lunch offered by the locals.

We spend the rest of the day in Pogradec, one of the Albanians most endearing resorts, praised for its vantage location on the picturesque Lake Ohrid, which boasts pristine waters and wide mountain vistas. 2019 saw the addition of the lake's Albanian side to the list of UNESCO protected monuments. Watch out for Ohrid trout, a native species of the lake also known as "Koran" in Albania. To learn more about the rivers, decorative plants, and trees that make up this unique ecosystem, we take a scenic stroll through Drilon Park, to the opposite side of the lake where the former dictator of Albania's fishing villa was located.

You’ll stay at Elite Hotel located on the promenade of Pogradec boasting sweeping views of Ohrid Lake. The ideal location with the perfect fusion of peace, charm and serenity.

Today, we join an hour-long spectacular drive to delve into the treasures of Voskopoja Village (formerly Moskopole), a significant and well-known artistic hub where many gifted Albanian artists indulge to hone their expertise. From the second half of the 18th century to the world wars, the community experienced hardships caused by the theft of many of its riches over the years. To explore the oldest churches showcasing Voskopoja religious art, we proceed on a 40 minute leisurely stroll across the well mapped routes.

We continue on a further quick drive (approx. 30 mins) to Korçe, the largest city in southeast Albania, located at the base of Moravia Mountain, 800 m above sea level. This city, often known as "the city of museums," rose to prominence as a commerce and handicraft centre in the 18th century. For centuries, Korçe has been a significant Orthodox Christian religious centre. While in the city, we enrich our taste buds with premium beers offered by the locals.

You'll stay at the 4- star hotel Christi Borova, located just a few kilometres from Ohrid Lake Springs, where you can enjoy breathtaking views from the privacy of your room. After settling in you can make your way to the exquisite bar or terrace to enjoy a nice and warm atmosphere before calling it a night.

We marvel at breathtaking views of the Gramos and Nemercka Mountains as we go into the mountains today. En route we relish a quick break along the winding road in Ersekë, a 17th century settlement known as the highest town in Albania at 1050 metres, also beautifully surrounded by the Gramos Mountains' gorgeous verdant meadows. During the drive to Përmet, we pause to unwind and take a refreshing dip in the hot springs and the mediaeval bridge of Benje village before continuing on a long drive (approx. 5 hrs. drive in total) to the picturesque town of Përmet, an ancient region located on the Vjos River in the middle of the White Mountains. Known for its delectable cuisines and wines, Përmet treats us to an array of mesmeric tastes including 'gliko' sweets and raki.

You’ll stay at Hotel Villa Permet, a beautiful historical building with exceptional rooms with quality design. It features a bar with different collections of wine to try, and enjoy serene views of the city from its roof terrace.

Another scenic drive (approx. 2 hrs) takes us to the lovely town of Gjirokastër, stopping for a cooked to order lunch at the quaint village of Dhoksat along the way. We join a guided tour of the well-known town of Gjirokastër in the afternoon. The historic homes found here with their distinctive architectural characteristics, such as mediaeval turrets, are tucked amid cobblestone streets that wound their way scrupulously across the mountainous landscape. The wonderful Gjirokastër castle, which is the primary attraction, towers like a balcony above the town and provides stunning panoramic views of the surroundings. We get immersed into the elegance of Skenduli House, one of Gjirokastër's most historic authentic structures.

Note: Depending on the availability of the local family, lunch may occasionally be rescheduled to dinner.

You’ll stay at the quaint Argjiro Hotel situated very close to the iconic Old Bazaar. Unwind with a soothing drink on the patio, savour the flavours of Albanian cuisine at its fine restaurant or spend the evening with a calming stroll in the lovely garden before retiring for the night.

After a hearty breakfast, our destination is Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 18 km south of Saranda. The ancient sanctuary built in the 4th century BC in honour of Asclepius, the god of medicine, is responsible for the development and early prominence of Butrint. Worshippers frequent the sanctuary, which stood on the acropolis' south slope, in order to receive healing. Butrint was created in the Sanctuary, and as long as the town existed, its water will be cherished for its spiritual power. The city flourished throughout the Roman era, but following an earthquake it went into decline and was abandoned at the end of the Middle Ages. From here, we continue to the beautiful Llogora National Park, making stops along the coasts on the way. Come evening, we enjoy an overnight stay in Llogora.

You’ll stay at Llogora Tourist Village situated within the National Park. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, rejuvenate at the sauna or take a dip in the Turkish bath.

After a delectable breakfast, our tour today is dedicated to the Llogora National Park as we enjoy the possibility of stopping at Caesar's field to explore modern-day Albania, an historic territory where Julius Caesar won his battle against Pompey.

We proceed to the magnificent ruins of Apollonia (approx. 1.5 -2 hrs drive). This old town which was first settled by Illyrian tribes around 600 BC followed by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth, flourished during the Roman era and was the site of a renowned school of philosophy where Octavian studied, but in the 3rd century AD it started to experience declination as a result of an earthquake that caused its harbour to silt up. After travelling a little more than an hour further inland, we transfer from Apollonia to the UNESCO town of Berat, where we spend the night.

You’ll stay at the cosy Mangalemi Hotel. A beautifully decorated oasis with a wonderful and friendly environment located in the historic centre of the Mangalem quarter 300 metres from the town centre. Unwind in your ensuite room with a balcony overlooking the inner courtyard.

Our tour this morning is truly spectacular as we sweep through Berat, Albania's crown jewel. We head for all the treasures of the historic Berat neighbourhood, with its charming white buildings located on hills amidst wide pine forests. As we make our way through a maze of winding cobblestone alleyways, we eventually arrive at Berat Castle on the slopes of Mount Tomorr, where we take pleasure in its breathtaking vistas and understand why the Albanians refer to it as "The City of a Thousand Windows." At leisure we explore the residences and the Onufri Museum (Museum of Iconography) nestled inside the castle walls. The National Ethnographic Museum of Berat will be our final stop before returning to the hotel.

The rest of the day is yours to spend exploring the city at your convenience.

We continue onwards from Berat to the pristine port of Durrës (approx. 2 hrs. drive), Albania's second-largest city, lauded for being home to the largest amphitheatre in the Balkans. The amphitheater, which has a capacity of 15,000 people, was built in the 2nd century AD, exhibiting early Christian crypt with valuable wall mosaics. Colonists from Corinth and Korkyra civilised the city in 627 BC, which they originally named Epidamnus but eventually changed to Dyrrachium.

Then, after a 45-minute journey, we arrive at Krujë, a well-known mediaeval fortress where Skanderbeg, Albania's national hero, revolted against the Ottomans. He was dubbed "Champion of Christ" for successfully preventing enemies from entering Western Europe for 25 years

Come afternoon after we check into the hotel, the Skanderbeg Museum will be our next stop, a fascinating attraction where we marvel at the alluring views of the Adriatic Coast.

You’ll stay at Hotel Panorama set on a hillside overlooking a valley to the ancient castle of Kruje. Relax un your spacious rooms with magnificent views from the balcony. The hotel features an amazing restaurant serving traditional Albanian specialties. Enjoy access to the rooftop pool for a relaxing swim before calling it a night.

Today marks the end of our 10 days unforgettable Albania tour. After a hearty breakfast, we explore the mediaeval Bazaar of Krujë, one of the greatest market place in the nation for finding gifts, handmade items and other memorabilia, a fitting end to your amazing adventure. After this, the included transfer to Tirana Airport (about a 45-minute drive away) will be organised in accordance with the group's flight timings for easy departure.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.