TIRANA AIRPORT - TIRANA (17 KM)

Tirana - Upon arrival at the airport, guests will be transferred to Tirana. The tour begins at Skanderbeg Square, the vibrant heart of the city named after Albania’s national hero. A statue of Skanderbeg stands prominently in the center. This iconic square, recently renovated, is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Albania. It is surrounded by notable landmarks such as the opera house, the National History Museum, and the Et’Hem Bey Mosque, making it ideal for a leisurely walk. The tour continues with visits to BunkArt and BunkArt2, museums housed in former anti-nuclear bunkers, followed by a visit to the Enver Hoxha Pyramid, originally designed as a museum by the daughter of the late Albanian communist leader. The area known as Ish-Blloku, once reserved for high-ranking officials, is now a lively district filled with trendy bars, cafés, restaurants, and nightclubs.

TIRANA - KRUJA - PRIZREN (200 KM)

Kruje - After breakfast, the journey to Prizren begins, with a stop in Kruja, the center of Albanian resistance against the Ottomans led by national hero Scanderbeg. He famously defeated the Ottomans in 22 battles, including against Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, and resisted occupation for 25 years. Visitors will explore the Castle, which houses two museums, and the Old Ottoman-style bazaar.

Prizren - The tour proceeds to Prizren, a city rich in heritage, featuring 15th and 16th-century mosques, 14th and 15th-century Orthodox churches, a 19th-century Catholic cathedral, the old city center, a stone bridge, fountains, and a stunning fortress offering panoramic views. The Sinan Pasha Mosque, built in 1615, is a highlight, as is the Our Lady of Ljevish Church, a significant site for Orthodox Serbs. The Gazi Mehmed Pasha’s public bath, constructed between 1563 and 1574, and the Albanian League of Prizren Museum, a complex of four buildings, are also noteworthy. Prizren’s castle is a key historical site.

PRIZREN - GRACANICA MONASTERY - PRISHTINA - DECAN MONASTERY - PEJA (200 KM)

Gracanica Monastery - After breakfast, the tour departs for Peja, with a brief city tour in Prishtina. The first stop is Gracanica Monastery, located southeast of Pristina in the Serbian town of Gračanica. Completed in 1321 by Serbian king Milutin, the monastery is set on expansive grounds and is one of Kosovo’s most beautiful. Visitors enter through the main doors to see impressive medieval paintings, with the smaller chapel offering enchanting murals. Respectful attire is required, and photography is prohibited inside.

Pristina - Pristina, Europe’s youngest capital, is a unique destination worth visiting. The tour includes a stroll along the boulevard to the National Library of Kosovo, known for its distinctive architecture featuring iron, glass, and 99 domes. The old town, with its narrow streets, mosques, old shops, and ethnographic museum, is explored, followed by a visit to the Newborn monument, symbolizing independence from Serbia. Pristina offers vibrant nightlife before the drive to Peja.

Pec - Peja and the Rugova Valley are top destinations for travelers seeking beautiful, unspoiled locations. Peja boasts a rich history, while Rugova Canyon offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. The tour includes the old bazaar near Peja’s mosque, and a visit to the Rugova Valley, known for its mountain villages, peaks, and canyon views. The Patriarchate of Peja, a cultural and historical landmark, is also visited.

PEJA – GJAKOVA – KOMAN LAKE (Ferry 2.30 hours) – SHKODRA (145 KM)

Gjakova - After breakfast, the tour heads to Gjakova, home to one of the oldest bazaars from the 17th century, featuring numerous shops and stalls selling handicrafts. The Gjakova Old Bazaar also includes a 15th-century mosque, a major attraction.

Komani Lake - The journey continues to Fierze for a ferry ride on Koman Lake, an artificial lake created by hydro power stations on the Drin River. The lake’s opal green color and surrounding mountains create a fjord-like effect.

Shkoder - Upon arrival in Koman, the tour proceeds to Shkodra, Albania’s most important town and former Illyrian capital. The city center features colorful buildings and charming bars. The tour includes a visit to Rozafa Castle, a significant historical site with Roman and Ottoman influences, and a walk in Shiroka for birdwatching. The Venetian carnival masks and Mesi Bridge are also visited.

SHKODRA - DURRES - BERAT (UNESCO) (200 KM)

Durres - After breakfast, the tour departs for Durres, where guests explore 1930s architecture along the boulevard. The Roman Amphitheater, built in the 2nd century AD during Emperor Trajan’s reign, is a highlight, known for its preservation and natural hillside support. The tour includes the Byzantine Wall, seaside promenade, Byzantine Chapel, and Archaeological Museum.

Berat - The tour continues to Berat, known as “the city of a thousand windows” and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors explore the Fortress, Onufri Museum, and various churches and mosques, including the Leaden Mosque, King Mosque, Bachelor Mosque, and Alveti Tekke. Overnight in Berat.

BERAT (UNESCO) - GJIROKASTRA (UNESCO) - BLUE EYE - BUTRINT - SARANDA (220 KM)

Gjirokaster - After breakfast, the tour heads to Gjirokastra, the “city of a thousand steps.” Guests explore the castle and enjoy views of the “city of stone,” visit the Ottoman Bazaar, and dine on local cuisine.

The Blue Eye - En route to Saranda, the tour stops at the Blue Eye, known for its clear turquoise water and natural beauty. The surrounding area is a protected natural monument with oak and sycamore trees.

Butrint National Park - The tour visits Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site with archaeological layers from various civilizations. The city is located on a picturesque peninsula. Overnight in Saranda.

Saranda - Free afternoon in Saranda. Overnight in Saranda.

SARANDA - ALI PASHA CASTLE - LLOGARA NATIONAL PARK - VLORA (125 KM)

Ali Pasha Castle - After breakfast, the tour travels along the Albanian Riviera to Vlora, with stunning views at the Llogara pass. The tour visits the water springs of Borshi and Ali Pasha fortress, a French military engineering example from the early 19th century.

Llogara National Park - The tour stops at 1100 meters above sea level in Llogara National Park, offering views of the coastline and Greek islands. The park features alpine meadows, rock faces, and dense forests.

Vlore - Arrival in Vlora, a city known for its beautiful beaches, ancient sites, and archaeological parks. The tour includes the Zvernec Monastery and the Lungomare boulevard with sea views. Vlore is the birthplace of the National Independence Movement, with sites like Flag Square and the Muradie Mosque.

VLORA - APOLLONIA ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK - ARDENICA MONASTERY - TIRANA (165 KM)

Apollonia Archaeological Park - After breakfast, the tour visits Apollonia Archaeological Park, a significant Greek colony from the 7th century BC. The park includes a museum in a 14th-century building, with exhibits in seven pavilions and a gallery.

Ardenica Monastery - The tour continues to Ardenica Orthodox Monastery, built in 1282 by Byzantine emperor Andronicus II Paleologist. The complex includes a church, chapel, bakery, and stables. The monastery replaced a pagan temple and hosted Skanderbeg’s wedding in 1451. Visitors can admire frescoes by the Zografi brothers.

Tirana - Free afternoon in Tirana. Overnight in Tirana.

TIRANA - TIRANA AIRPORT (17 KM)

Tirana - After breakfast, the tour concludes with a transfer to “Mother Teresa” Airport, marking the end of the service.

• 8 nights’ accommodation included
• Air-conditioned transport throughout
• Daily breakfast provided
• Expert tour guidance
• Ferry tickets included

• Lunches
• Dinners
• All Fees and Taxes

Discovering a corner of Europe untouched by frequent tourism can be a challenge, yet, it’s not an impossibility. Nestled amid the craggy peaks and verdant landscapes of Albania and Kosovo, one can find abundant shepherds, monasteries, lakes, valleys, and Byzantine churches, what’s noticeably missing is the throng of travelers. The Balkans have spent years throwing off the shadow of strife and Communist rule, but remarkably, they have come out resilient and cheerful.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.