Welcome to Tirana | The Capital of Colors & Contrasts

Tirana - Arrive at Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, where a company representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel. After checking in, take some time to relax and refresh.

• In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely introductory walk through Tirana, visiting key landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Tirana Pyramid.

• In the evening, savor a welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant, offering a glimpse of the journey ahead.

• Overnight stay in Tirana.

Shkodër Visit & Boat Tour on Shkodra Lake

Shkoder - Breakfast at the hotel.

• Depart for Shkodra
  Travel northward to the historic city of Shkodra, enjoying scenic views of the Albanian countryside as your guide shares insights into the region’s culture, history, and traditions.
• Arrive in Shkodra & hotel check-in
  Upon arrival in Shkodra, one of Albania’s oldest and most culturally rich cities, check in at your chosen hotel. Take about an hour to refresh, relax, and prepare for the afternoon activities.
• Guided walking tour of Shkodra Old Town
  Enjoy a pleasant walking tour through Shkodra’s charming old town, strolling along pedestrian streets known for their lively atmosphere, traditional architecture, and local artisan shops.
  *Optional: Visit the Marubi National Museum of Photography, home to one of the most important photographic archives in the Balkans.

Shkodra Lake - Visit Shiroka Village & Lake Shkodra
Continue to the lakeside village of Shiroka, known for its serene landscape and picturesque views of Lake Shkodra. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of the area, with your guide highlighting local history and natural features.

• Sunset – Private boat ride on Lake Shkodra (1 hour)
  Experience a tranquil one-hour private boat ride on Lake Shkodra during sunset. Witness the sky’s changing colors reflecting over the water, creating an unforgettable and peaceful atmosphere.
• Dinner & traditional food tasting
  Savor an authentic Albanian dining experience in a local home garden. Enjoy a specially prepared selection of homemade traditional dishes, offering a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
• Overnight stay in Shkodra.

Komani Lake & Shala River Excursion

Koman - Breakfast at the hotel.

• Depart for Lake Koman.
  Often referred to as the “Albanian Fjords,” this spectacular lake is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, making it one of Albania’s most scenic destinations.
• Arrive in Koman.
  Boat transfer to the Shala River for swimming, kayaking, and exploration. There is also the possibility of experiencing a zip line over the river.
• Free time at Shala River (approx. 2 hours) to relax and enjoy the pristine natural surroundings before continuing another scenic boat trip across Lake Koman toward 5 Stinet Resort, where breathtaking views and a traditional Albanian lunch await.
• Arrival at the resort and traditional lunch (optional): featuring homemade local specialties.
  Return boat transfer from 5 Stinet Resort to Koman.
• Arrival in Shkodër.
  Free evening and overnight stay in Shkodër.

Theth Exploration

Theth National Park - Breakfast at the hotel
Enjoy a fresh and energizing breakfast at your hotel in Shkodra before beginning your full-day alpine adventure.

• Depart for Theth National Park
  Qafë Thore Pass Stop (10–15 minutes)
  Make a brief stop at Qafë Thore Pass(1,700 m), one of the most famous viewpoints in the Albanian Alps. Capture stunning panoramic photos of rugged mountain peaks and deep valleys before continuing the journey.
• Arrive in Theth & transfer to Nderlysaj
  Arrive in the picturesque village of Theth, renowned for its pristine nature, traditional stone houses, and dramatic mountainous scenery. Continue by vehicle to the village of Nderlysaj, the starting point of your hike.

Blue Eye of Theth - Guided hike to the Blue Eye of Theth (3.5 km – approx. 1.5 hour)
Begin a guided moderate-level hike towards the Blue Eye of Theth, a natural turquoise pool fed by underground springs.

• Free time at the Blue Eye (30 mins)
  Enjoy time at leisure upon arrival at the Blue Eye. Take photographs, relax by the water, or, for the adventurous, enjoy a refreshing (and very cold) dip—especially chilly in October.
• Return hike to Nderlysaj (1.5 hour)
  Hike back to Nderlysaj following the same scenic route.
• Traditional lunch (Optional)
  Savor a delicious traditional lunch, featuring regional specialties prepared with fresh local ingredients.
• Cultural visits: Theth Church & Lock-in Tower
  Continue with visits to two of Theth’s most significant cultural landmarks:
  Theth Church (1892): A charming alpine church surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
• Transfer back to Shkodra
  Depart Theth in the late afternoon and relax during the return drive to Shkodra.
• Overnight stay in Shkodra.

Kruje & Durres Visit

Kruje - Breakfast at the hotel & check-out
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Shkodra before checking out and preparing for your journey south toward central Albania.

• Depart for Kruje
  Travel toward Kruje, dramatically positioned on the slopes of Mount Kruje. This historic town served as the center of Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century under the leadership of Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero.
• Kruje Castle & Skanderbeg Museum
  Explore the historic castle complex, strategically overlooking the surrounding plains and Adriatic coastline. Visit the Skanderbeg Museum, which showcases artifacts, historical documents, and insights into Albania’s medieval resistance.
  Afterward, stroll through the atmospheric Old Bazaar, a cobblestone market street lined with traditional handicrafts, handmade carpets, silver filigree jewelry, and local souvenirs — an ideal place to experience authentic Albanian craftsmanship.

Durres - Continue to Durres
Proceed to Durres, one of the oldest cities on the Adriatic coast, founded in the 7th century BC. Durres has served as an important port and cultural crossroads for Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians.

• Durres Amphitheatre visit
  Visit the impressive Durres Amphitheatre, dating back to the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Trajan. Once accommodating up to 20,000 spectators, it remains one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the Balkans and a powerful reminder of the city’s Roman significance.
• Hotel check-in
  Check in at your seaside hotel in Durres or the Mali i Robit area. The remainder of the evening is at leisure — enjoy a walk along the Adriatic coast or relax at the hotel.
• Overnight stay in Durres / Mali i Robit

Discovering Berat and Ancient Apollonia

Berat - Breakfast at the hotel & check-out
After breakfast, depart Durres and journey toward southern Albania.

• Arrival in Berat – UNESCO World Heritage Site
  Arrive in Berat, famously known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” due to its distinctive Ottoman-era houses cascading down the hillside.
• Berat Castle & Historic Quarters
  Explore the remarkable Berat Castle, a rare example of a “living castle” where families still reside within its ancient walls. Visit beautifully preserved Byzantine churches and admire panoramic views over the Osum River valley.
  Continue to the historic quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, characterized by white Ottoman houses with large windows facing one another across the river. Cross the elegant Gorica Bridge, one of the city’s iconic landmarks.
• Traditional lunch in Berat (Optional)
  Enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant, featuring regional specialties prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.

Apollonia Archaeological Park - Apollonia Archaeological Park
Continue to Apollonia Archaeological Park, founded in the 6th century BC by Greek colonists. Once a major cultural and philosophical center — where even the future Roman Emperor Augustus studied — the site features impressive ruins including a grand boulevard, library, and ancient theater set amid scenic countryside.

• Continue to Vlore
  Proceed to Vlore, the coastal city where Albania declared independence in 1912. Situated between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Vlore marks the beginning of the Albanian Riviera.
• Hotel check-in
  Check in at your hotel in Vlore. Evening at leisure along the lively seaside promenade.
• Overnight stay in Vlore.

Coastal Beauty: Himarë & Porto Palermo

Porto Palermo - Breakfast at the hotel & check-out
Enjoy breakfast before beginning one of the most scenic drives in the Balkans.

• Llogara Pass Scenic Drive
  Travel through the spectacular Llogara Pass, ascending to over 1,000 meters above sea level. Pause at panoramic viewpoints to admire dramatic vistas where mountains plunge into the turquoise Ionian Sea — a breathtaking gateway to the Albanian Riviera.
• Himare visit
  Arrive in the charming coastal town of Himare, known for its blend of Greek and Albanian cultural influences. Enjoy time to explore the relaxed promenade, traditional houses, and crystal-clear beaches that define this authentic Riviera destination.
• Porto Palermo Castle
  Continue to Porto Palermo Castle, a well-preserved triangular fortress located on a small peninsula. The castle is historically linked to Ali Pasha of Tepelena, the powerful 19th-century Ottoman ruler who shaped much of southern Albania’s history. Short stop for exploration and photographs.

Saranda - Continue to Sarande
Drive further south along the Ionian coastline to Sarande, a vibrant seaside town facing the Greek island of Corfu.

• Hotel check-in
  Check in at your hotel in Sarande. Evening at leisure — enjoy a sunset walk along the waterfront promenade or dine at one of the seaside restaurants.
• Overnight stay in Sarande

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 stay in Sarande.

Grama Bay Day Tour

Himare - Breakfast at the hotel & hotel check-out
Enjoy breakfast in Ksamil before beginning your journey along the Riviera. Check out from your hotel and prepare for a day filled with stunning coastal landscapes and hidden beaches.

• Departure from Ksamil to Himarë
  Travel for approximately two hours along Albania’s most beautiful coastal road, arriving in Himarë by late morning.
• Arrival in Himarë & boarding the boat
  Upon arrival, head to the marina and board your vessel for the Grama Bay expedition—one of the region’s most breathtaking boat tours.

Bay of Grama - Begin 5-hour boat tour
Cruise along the rugged Riviera coastline, stopping at several pristine beaches and natural attractions. Expect crystal-clear waters, cliffs, caves, and untouched coastline.
Key scenic stops include:

• Livadhi Beach
• Aquarium Beach
• Jale Beach
• Goats Beach
• Couples Bay
• Marble Beach
• Saint Theodore’s Cave
• Pirates Cave
• Dhermi
• Palasë
• Saint Andrew Beach
  Each stop offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, photography, and relaxation amid some of Albania’s most stunning natural scenery.
• Extended 1.5-Hour stop at Grama Bay
  Arrive at the spectacular Grama Bay, known for its turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and ancient inscriptions carved into the rocks.
  Enjoy plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, exploring the shore, or simply relaxing in this remote paradise.

Saranda - Return to Sarande
In the afternoon, cruise back to Sarande along the picturesque coastline.

• Evening at Leisure
  The evening is free to relax at your hotel or enjoy a sunset stroll along Sarande’s lively waterfront promenade.
• Overnight stay in Sarande.

The Stone City: Gjirokastër

Gjirokaster - Breakfast at the hotel & check-out
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your journey inland toward southern Albania’s cultural heartland.

• Drive to Gjirokaster – The “Stone City”
  Travel to Gjirokaster, a beautifully preserved Ottoman town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, often referred to as the “Stone City” due to its distinctive slate-roofed houses.
• Old town walking tour
  Explore the atmospheric cobblestone streets lined with traditional stone tower houses (kullas), many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Visit artisan shops showcasing handmade crafts and local products, while learning about the city’s rich cultural heritage and its unique architectural style.
• Gjirokaster Castle
  Visit the imposing hilltop fortress that dominates the skyline of the city. The castle offers spectacular panoramic views over the Drino Valley and houses historical exhibits reflecting Albania’s military and cultural past.

Tirana - Continue to Tirana
In the afternoon, depart for Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital, blending Ottoman history, Italian architecture, communist-era landmarks, and modern urban life.

• Hotel check-in
  Upon arrival, check in at your hotel in Tirana. The remainder of the evening is at leisure — ideal for exploring nearby cafés, restaurants, or simply relaxing after the journey.
• Farewell evening at leisure
  Enjoy your final evening in Albania at leisure — the perfect opportunity for a farewell dinner or a relaxed walk through the illuminated city center.
• Overnight stay in Tirana.

Return

Tirana - Breakfast at hotel & check-out
Private transfer to Tirana International Airport for departure flight.

• All entrance fees
• Private Boat Tour in Koman Lake
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Professional certified guide
• Private Boat tour in Shkodra Lake
• Food Tasting at a Traditional Home Garden
• Private Boat Tour at Grama Bay
• 10 nights accommodation in different villages/cities in Albania (rooms upon request)
• Welcome and farewell dinners
• Hiking at Blue Eye, Theth
• All land transfers in a fully air-conditioned vehicle
• Cable car ride to Dajti Mountain
• Airport pick-up and drop-off

Set off on an enchanting journey through Albania’s most renowned landscapes, historic towns, and untouched natural wonders. This 10-day tour blends cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation, guiding you from the northern lakes and mountain villages to the southern Riviera and UNESCO-listed heritage sites. Discover Albania’s rich history, traditional cuisine, stunning coastline, and breathtaking natural scenery, all while traveling comfortably with a professional guide.

From rafting on Europe’s last wild river to exploring ancient castles, archaeological sites, and secluded bays, this itinerary provides an authentic and diverse Albanian adventure. Whether strolling through Ottoman-era towns, hiking to mountain waterfalls, or enjoying the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, each day offers a new discovery.

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.