Arrival in Tirana & City Exploration

Tirana - Arrival at Tirana International Airport
Welcome to Albania! Upon landing at Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, you will be warmly welcomed in the arrivals hall by our company representative holding a sign with the reservation holder’s name.
You will receive the keys and documents for your rental vehicle, which will be used throughout your journey. After a brief introduction and travel instructions, you will embark on your self-drive journey to your hotel in Tirana.

-Hotel check-in & relaxation time
Arrive at your hotel in Tirana and proceed with check-in.

-Afternoon: Explore Tirana
Spend the afternoon exploring Tirana at your own pace.

-During your visit, you may explore:
Skanderbeg Square Et’hem Bey Mosque
*Tirana Pyramid
Optional – Cable car ride to Dajti Mountain
Consider taking the cable car to Dajti Mountain, located within Dajti National Park. Relax with a coffee while enjoying the fresh mountain air.

-Overnight in Tirana.

Lake Ohrid Villages & Arrival in Korça

Lin - Breakfast & departure from Tirana
After breakfast at your hotel, begin your journey southeast toward one of Albania’s most scenic regions.
The drive follows sections of the ancient Via Egnatia, the Roman road that once connected Rome with Constantinople. Along the way, landscapes gradually transform from rolling hills to dramatic lakeside scenery.

-Stop in the village of Lin
Your first stop is the charming village of Lin, located on a small peninsula on the shores of Lake Ohrid.
This peaceful village is known for its cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and breathtaking views over the lake. Enjoy a relaxing walk through the narrow lanes and take time to appreciate the authentic atmosphere of one of Albania’s most picturesque lakeside settlements.

Tushemisht - Visit to Tushemisht village
Continue the journey toward Tushemisht, a picturesque village near the North Macedonian border.
Famous for its natural springs and traditional fishing culture, the village offers a glimpse into the daily life of the local community. Here you may observe local fishermen and learn about the long-standing traditions connected to Lake Ohrid.

Korce - Afternoon arrival in Korça
In the afternoon, arrive in Korça, often considered Albania’s cultural capital.
The city is known for its elegant architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and strong artistic traditions.

During the city exploration, you will visit:
The National Museum of Medieval Art – one of the most important museums in Albania, home to an impressive collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons. The Orthodox Cathedral of the Resurrection – one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the Balkans.
*The French Soldiers’ Cemetery – commemorating French troops who fought in the region during World War I.

-Evening at leisure in Korça
In the evening, enjoy free time to experience the relaxed atmosphere of Korça.
You may wish to stroll through the Old Bazaar area where cafés and restaurants create a warm and welcoming local ambiance.

-Overnight in Korça.

Prespa National Park & Village Traditions

Korce - Return to Korça
Later in the afternoon, return to Korça where you can relax and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Korça.

Përmet & Gjirokastër Discovery

Permet - Morning drive through southern Albania
After breakfast, begin your journey through the mountain landscapes of southern Albania toward the town of Përmet.
The scenic drive reveals dramatic valleys, rivers, and traditional villages that characterize this beautiful region.

-Visit to the village of Leüs
From Përmet, continue to the hillside village of Leüs hidden among forested hills.
Here you will visit the Church of St. Mary (Kisha e Shën Marisë), known for its colorful interior frescoes and peaceful natural surroundings.

Gjirokaster - Arrival in Gjirokastër
Continue the journey toward the UNESCO World Heritage town of Gjirokastër.
Famous for its distinctive Ottoman-era stone houses, the town offers one of the most authentic historical atmospheres in Albania.
Gjirokastër city exploration
Upon arrival, explore the cobbled streets of the old town and discover its historical landmarks.
Highlights include:
Gjirokastër Castle – a massive fortress dominating the skyline and offering panoramic views over the Drino Valley. The Ethnographic Museum – located in a traditional Ottoman house and offering insight into the region’s cultural heritage.
Evening in the old town
Spend the evening enjoying the charming atmosphere of Gjirokastër’s historic center.
Overnight in Gjirokastër.

Exploring Butrint & the Blue Eye Spring

Butrint National Park - Breakfast at the hotel
-Butrint National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Depart for Butrint National Park, one of the Mediterranean’s most important archaeological treasures. This UNESCO-listed site reflects layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian civilizations.
During your guided exploration, discover the well-preserved Greek theater, Roman baths, early Christian basilica with intricate mosaics, Venetian fortifications, and the impressive Lion Gate — all set within a lush landscape of wetlands and lagoons.

The Blue Eye - The Blue Eye Spring
Continue to the natural wonder known as the Blue Eye. This powerful underground spring forms a mesmerizing deep-blue pool, with water so clear that its true depth remains unknown. Enjoy time for photographs and relaxation in the serene forest setting.

-Return to Sarande
Return to Sarande in the afternoon. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
-Overnight in Sarande.

Qeparo - Journey to the Albanian Riviera
After exploring Butrint and Blue Eye, continue the journey north along the spectacular Albanian Riviera.

-Arrival in Qeparo
Arrive in the charming coastal village of Qeparo.
Known for its traditional stone houses with red tile roofs and beautiful seaside scenery, the village offers a peaceful and authentic Riviera atmosphere.

-Afternoon at leisure by the sea
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming in the clear Ionian waters, or strolling through the village streets.

-Overnight in Qeparo.

Boat Experience on the Albanian Riviera

Himare - Morning transfer to Himara
After breakfast, take a short drive to the coastal town of Himara.

-Boat trip along the Ionian coast
Board a boat for a scenic coastal trip along the Albanian Riviera.
Cruise past dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and secluded beaches accessible only by sea.
Enjoy time for swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters and relaxing in peaceful bays

-Seaside lunch
During the excursion, stop in a secluded bay to enjoy a simple seaside lunch featuring fresh grilled fish and local specialties

-Visit to Himara Castle
In the afternoon, visit Himara Castle located on a hill above the town.
From here you can enjoy panoramic views over the Ionian coastline.

-Return to Qeparo
Later in the afternoon, return to Qeparo for a relaxing evening by the sea.

-Overnight in Qeparo.

Berat & Return to Tirana

Berat - Scenic drive toward Berat
After breakfast, depart from the Riviera and drive inland toward the historic city of Berat.
Exploration of Berat – the “City of a Thousand Windows”
Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its distinctive Ottoman architecture.

Highlights include:
Berat Citadel – a remarkable fortress where people still live within the ancient walls. Onufri Museum – located inside a historic church and displaying beautiful religious icons.
The traditional neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica with their famous hillside houses.

-Wine tasting experience
In the afternoon, enjoy a wine tasting experience in a local winery.
Here you will have the opportunity to sample regional Albanian wines and learn about the country’s long wine-making traditions.

Tirana - Return to Tirana
Later in the day, return to Tirana for the final evening of the tour.

-Overnight in Tirana.

Return

Tirana - Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
Drive to Tirana International Airport where you will return your rental vehicle before your departure flight.

• 7 nights in hotels in different villages/cities in Albania (rooms upon request)
• A fully air-conditioned private car, for the entire duration of the tour
• Full CASCO insurance
• A professionally curated digital travel dossier (PDF)
• Breakfast
• Professional guide available 24/7 for online assistance
• Airport rental car pick-up and drop-off at Tirana International Airport

Embark on a captivating 7-day self-guided adventure through Albania, perfect for those who desire a blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. Begin in the lively capital, Tirana, and journey to the historic towns of Korça and Gjirokastër, where centuries of heritage, Ottoman architecture, and local customs await. Traverse the pristine landscapes of Prespa National Park and the sparkling waters of the Albanian Riviera. Delight in picturesque drives through mountain passes, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, and engage with local communities. With thoughtfully chosen accommodations and the freedom to explore independently, this trip provides a leisurely yet enriching experience in one of Europe’s most enchanting and still largely undiscovered locales.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.