Infos

1. Arrival and Tirana - Overnight in the Durres area
The day starts with a walk through the city centre. Over the last 25 years, Tirana has transformed from a dark, communist-era city into a vibrant, international metropolis. The tour continues to the hotel in the Durres area.

2. Apollonia and Berat (240 km) - Overnight in the Durres area
Scenic drive to Apollonia, one of the most significant ancient cities of Illyria, located on the Via Egnatia. Exploration of the extensive ruins, including temples, the Agora, and a theater. Next stop in Berat, the "City of 1000 Windows" and Albania's oldest city. Its white houses climb the hillside, offering stunning views from the castle, with churches and mosques reflecting its rich history. Wine tasting with a snack in the Berat area before returning to the hotel in Durres. 

3. Vlora, Himara and Saranda – hotel change (240 km) - Overnight in the Saranda area
Drive to the port city of Vlora, where Albania declared its independence on November 28, 1912, after centuries of Ottoman rule. Along a winding mountain road through small villages to the Llogara Pass at 1,027 m, then a descend to the Riviera and the charming town of Himara. Last stop in the coastal city of Saranda, known for its beautiful promenade lined with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops. Overnight stay and dinner in the Saranda area.

4. Butrint and Blue Eye (80 km) - Overnight in the Saranda area
Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site just 20 km south of Saranda, is one of Albania's most iconic attractions. Exploration of its impressive ancient ruins, a must-see for any visitor. En route northeast, stop at the medieval Mesopotam Church, one of the most unique Byzantine buildings in Albania. The Blue Eye Spring, the country's largest, offers a mesmerizing natural sight with its vivid blue waters and lush surroundings. Return to Saranda for dinner at your hotel.

5. Gjirokastra, Korce and Pogradec – hotel change (300 km) - Overnight in the Pogradec area
The cityscape of Gjirokastra (UNESCO World Heritage), birthplace of writer Ismail Kadare and dictator Enver Hoxha, is defined by typical Balkan architecture. Perched on a hill, the city is famous for the Zekate House, a prime example of Ottoman architecture. The tour continues to Korça, the main city in southeastern Albania, which in the late 19th century was a centre of Albanian national movements and home to the country’s first primary school. The small town of Pogradec on Lake Ohrid presents its beautiful beaches, offering a serene and picturesque setting. Check-in at a hotel in the Pogradec area.

6. Elbasan – hotel change (130 km) - Overnight in the Tirana area
After breakfast, drive to Enver Hoxha's former villa in Tushemisht, then on to Elbasan. The Ottoman Old Town charms with its oriental atmosphere, while the distant 1,800-meter-high mountains provide a stunning backdrop. Key sights include the city's central boulevard, the clock tower, and the rectangular fortress with Roman origins. Check-in at the hotel in the Tirana area for dinner.

7. Kruje and Shkodra (235 km) - Overnight in the Tirana area
Drive to Kruje, a sacred city for many Albanians, located in the Skanderbeg Mountains where Prince Skanderbeg resisted the Ottoman forces. Time to explore the old bazaar, before continuing to Shkodra, Albania’s fifth-largest city and "secret capital," known for its landmarks such as the beautiful cathedral and Rozafa Castle. Visit to the charming Old Town before returning to the hotel in the Tirana area.

8. Departure

2 x nights in the Durres area
2 x nights in the Saranda area
1 x night in the Pogradec area
2 x nights in the Tirana area