Exploring Albania: A 6-Day Tour of Nature, Culture, and Adventure

Kruja

Our first visit should be the city of Kruja , the historical city of our national hero Scanderbeg, where we will learn more about the history of Albania in general and the figure of Scanderbeg.

Rozafa Castle

We drive towards the beautiful North of Albania, with the majestic Castle of Rozafa as our first destination. Perched atop a hill, overlooking the city, the Castle is steeped in Albanian history, from antiquity to the Iliryan-Roman wars. Cascaded with legends, the Castle stands as a reminder of the timelessness of Albanian Epos.

Shkodra City Tour

Leaving the Castle, we travel down to the vibrant city of Shkoder! With its unique architecture, hilarious sense of humour, and warm hospitality, this city is an essential part of Albania’s history. It is also a place of great religious tolerance, with a Catholic Church, Orthodox Church, and Muslim Mosque all in close proximity. Let’s embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the most exciting parts of Shkoder, including the illustrious “Pedonale”!

On the lake shores of Scadar Lake- Shiroke Village

When we have finished exploring the beauties of Shkodra city we can pay a visit to a small touristic village on the Shkodra Lake Shores famous for the traditional fish restaurant where we can also enjoy our lunch.

Accommodation

Overnight in  Shkoder 

Durres

We will head towards the south of Albania and pay a visit to the most important city on the Adriatic shores Durres, a touristy city by the beach so rich in history dating back more then 2500 years ago.

Berat

We head to Berat , a UNESCO city to explore the heritage neighborhoods of Mangalem , Gorica and the still inhabited castle since 2000 years ago.

Berati Castle 

The majestic Citadel of Berat, commonly referred to as Berat Castle and its castle quarter, soars grandly above the town of Berat, Albania. Its majestic walls date back to the 13th century and are surrounded by a multitude of Byzantine churches as well as Ottoman mosques.

We can try the traditional Gliko and Turkish coffee at a local guest house .

Accommodation in Berat

Berat 

During our second day in Berat we can spend the day visiting one of the local wineries for a wine tasting tour of Albanian wines if a fan of wines.

Osumi Canyons 

If you would like  to explore more of the region we can have a half day tour visiting the Osumi Canyons from Berat.

Accommodation in Berat

Gjirokaster

We shall journey towards Gjirokastra, renowned for its remarkable preservation of the Ottoman architecture and its prominent agricultural land. We will traverse through the depths of Southern Albania, admiring the green fields that the countryside has to offer. Along our path, we shall be accompanied by the Vjosa River, one of the few untamed rivers of Albania and the surrounding Balkan region.

Gjirokastra Old Bazaar 

On our visit to Gjirokaster we will visit the Old Bazaar of Gjirokaster a historical site of the old “Stone City” full of souvenir shops , local bars and restaurants.

Argiro Castle

A visit of the silver castle to get back in time touring the magnificent fortress standing proudly on top of the hill and the city for more than hundreds of years

Accommodation

Overnight in Gjirokaster

Sarande 

Leaving Gjirokaster we will have a visit of the city of Sarande , a stunning coastal city on the shores of the Ionian Sea overlooking Greece in the distance.

Himara  

We will drive along the Albanian Riviera on the hilly terrain to get to its main city Himara .

Accommodation

Overnight in Himare .

Himare

You can enjoy some free time on the small coastal city of Himare on the first part of your day. Sunbathing if its hot enough or just to enjoy the nature beauty of the town.

Llogara National Park

We drive through the Albanian Riviera leaving Himara behind and passing by the village of Dhermi . After a stop for photos we head to Llogara National Park , we will have a stop on the same place where paragliders start their flight with some amazing view to enjoy.

Zvernec Island

Zvërnec Island is an island within the Narta Lagoon connected to the mainland by a 270m long wooden bridge.
If lucky enough we can have a look on the migrating flamingos calmly occupying the shallow waters.
The island contains the well preserved 13th-14th century Byzantine Zvërnec Monastery which we can visit.

We head back to Tirana where the tour finishes.