Albania Showcase: 7 Nights Exploring Historic Relics and Vibrant Cultures
Rinas
Discover Albania's hidden gems: 7 nights exploring ancient relics, vibrant cultures, and stunning architecture from Greek, Roman, and Ottoman eras.
Duration: 8 days
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

Airport Transfer.

Tirana International Airport - Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Tirana. Overnight stay at Hotel Livia 3* or a similar establishment.

Tirana Walking Tour - Shkoder.

Tirana - After breakfast, embark on a walking tour of Tirana. Situated on a plain where a Byzantine fortress once stood, Tirana has been the capital since 1920. The tour includes visits to Skanderbeg Square, the Mosque of Et’hem Bey (constructed in 1824), the Clock Tower (built in 1822), the National Museum (featuring a large mosaic depicting the development of Albanian history, with various stages showcased in different pavilions), the National Art Gallery, the Archaeological Museum (displaying numerous archaeological finds from the Stone Age to the Medieval period), the National Heroes Cemetery, Grand Park, and government buildings.

Shkoder - Afterwards, we head to Shkodra. The journey offers picturesque views of the highlands, including the Albanian Alps to the north. In Shkodra, enjoy a city tour that includes the Old Bazaar, the city center, the Cathedral, and the Mosque. Visit the Castle of Rozafa and its museum, where you can take in stunning views of the mountains, Shkodra’s lake, and the Drini, Buna, and Kir rivers from the top of the castle. Also, see the “Ura e Mesit” bridge over the Kir River. Dinner at the hotel. Overnight stay in Shkoder at Hotel Kaduku 3* or a similar establishment. (B)

Koman Lake - Durres

Komani Lake - Depart for Koman. Drive into the heart of the Albanian Alps, stopping in Koman to see a massive dam built in the 1980s that holds back the waters of the Drini River, creating one of the country’s largest artificial lakes. Take a boat to the Shala River, passing through canyons formed by the Drini River. The route showcases the wild beauty of the Albanian Alps, offering numerous photo opportunities of the stunning landscape and lake. Enjoy the banks of the Shala River, where the rugged mountains present a vibrant display of colors in every season. The area’s forests, rivers, creeks, flowers, traditional dwellings, and the hospitality of its people make it an ideal destination. Overnight stay at Hotel Fiore 3* or a similar establishment.

Durres – Berat (UNESCO)

Durres - Durres is Albania’s second-largest city and one of its oldest. According to legend, it was founded by the Illyrian King Epidamnos, who named it after himself and called the port area after his grandson, Dyrrah. For centuries, it was the largest port on the Adriatic and the starting point of the Via Ignatia to Constantinople. Visit the Roman amphitheater and the Archaeological Museum, located near the sea and rich in artifacts excavated in Durres.

Berat - Continue to Berat, one of Albania’s oldest continuously inhabited regions, with a history spanning over 2400 years and a special status from UNESCO. Visit Berat Castle, the Onufri Museum, and various churches within the castle; the Mosque of Berat and the old Gorica Bridge. Onufri was a renowned 16th-century Albanian painter, and many of his beautifully painted icons are housed in the museum, while others can be found in churches in Albania and Greece. Overnight stay in Berat at Hotel Mangalemi 3* or a similar establishment. (B)

Zvernec Monastery - Vlore - Gjirokaster.

Zvernec Monastery - After breakfast, continue to Zvernec Monastery and Narte Lagoon. The lagoon is named after the village of Narta, located on its southern shores. It is home to over 34,800 species of wintering and migratory birds, as well as the two largest islands, including Zvernec Island, which houses the Shen Meri Monastery and Church.

Vlore - Next, depart for the coastal city of Vlora, where Albanian independence from the Ottomans was declared on November 28, 1912. Visit the Museum of Independence.

Gjirokaster - Proceed to Gjirokaster for an overnight stay at Hotel Kalemi 3* or a similar establishment. (B)

Gjirokaster (UNESCO) - Belshi Lakes - Tirane.

Gjirokaster - Gjirokaster has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2005. Enjoy a city tour, visit the Castle and Weapons Museum, and have free time to explore the bazaar.

Belsh - Depart for the Belshi lakes. Like a crown adorned with precious jewels, Belshi Lake and the Lakes of Dumrea captivate all who visit. Situated 160 meters above sea level in the Elbasan district, these karstic lakes are renowned for their unique characteristics and the harmonious landscapes they create. Return to Tirana for accommodation at Hotel Livia 3* or a similar establishment. (B)

Bovilla Lake - Tirane.

Lake Bovilla - After breakfast, depart for Bovilla Lake, located about 21 km away, with half the journey on unpaved roads. Observe the suburban neighborhoods of Tirana, which offer a stark contrast to the city. Drive up to the lake dam and prepare for a hike on Mount Gamti. The hike is relatively easy, with each step offering increasingly beautiful views as you ascend. The hike takes about 40 minutes, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with an impressive view of the lake and the surrounding green hills. Take time to rest and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Tirana - Return to Tirana for accommodation at Hotel Livia 3* or a similar establishment. (B)

Airport Transfer.

Tirana International Airport - Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.

What's Included
  • Tour Leader/Manager in English language as per itinerary
  • Air Conditioned modern van/minibus/bus and other transportation listed in itinerary
  • Daily breakfast. All other meals not listed are at your expense
  • Accommodation 3* hotels on double occupancy in good locations of respective cities/places
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Admission/Entry Fees
  • Travel insurance, visa fees (if applicable)
  • Koman Lake Ferry Tickets
  • Declaration for travel services (if applicable)
  • Personal expenses
  • A mandatory service fee for tour guide/bus driver (min. 5-7 Euro /day per person).
Additional Information

Tucked away in a lesser-known part of Europe, Albania is a captivating and delightful country that remains a mystery to many. For years, Albania was a closed society under the strict rule of Communism, but since the Cold War ended, it has been revealing its many charms to curious travelers. Positioned between some of Europe’s most significant empires, Albania boasts a rich array of attractions from the Greek, Roman, and Ottoman periods. The region features an abundance of old Turkish architecture alongside intricately decorated Orthodox churches, civic buildings from the Communist era, impressive Roman ruins, and well-preserved historic towns.

Location
Tirana International Airport
Ruga Nene Tereza
Cancellation Policy

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

Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1
Adult
July 2024
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