ALBANIA

Upon arrival at the airport, you will meet with our guide and travel to Tirana. The city tour will begin at Tirana’s main square, where we will explore the history and beauty of the city, which transformed from a large village into a modern capital in the early 20th century. We will visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque, one of the most important religious sites in Albania, and the Museum of National History, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the country. Strolling along the “Martyrs of the Nation” Boulevard, we will also see the Pyramid of Tirana, a former museum and symbol of the city’s communist past. The day ends with an overnight stay in Tirana.

After breakfast, we depart for Kruja, a medieval town rich in Albanian history. The highlight of our visit will be the Kruja Castle, an iconic symbol of Albania’s resistance against foreign invaders. The castle houses the National Museum and the Skanderbeg Museum, which provide insight into the life of Albania’s national hero. We will also explore Kruja’s Ottoman Bazaar, a lively marketplace famous for its handmade crafts and traditional products. From there, we continue our journey to Shkodra, one of the oldest cities in Albania. Shkodra, once the capital of the Illyrian Kingdom, has played a crucial role in the history of the region. We will visit the Rozafa Fortress, which offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Our day concludes with a walk through the city’s renovated pedestrian area, showcasing its Italian and Austrian architectural influences. Return to Tirana for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, we travel to Berat, a city renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and picturesque “one over one” windows. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A visit to the Berat Castle is a must, as it still houses residential homes, some of which have been inhabited for centuries. The castle is home to several ancient churches, including the 13th-century St. Mary’s Church, which now houses the Onufri Museum, dedicated to the famous 16th-century Albanian icon painter. From Berat, we continue to Apollonia, an ancient Greek city founded in the 7th century BC. The city flourished during Roman times and is now an important archaeological site. Key points of interest include the Encircling Wall, the Monument of Agonothetes, the Library, the Odeon, and the Museum of Apollonia. We will conclude our day with a drive to the coastal city of Vlora for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, we continue our journey along the Albanian Riviera, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea. We will stop at Llogara National Park, a natural paradise with dense pine forests and diverse wildlife, including roe deer, foxes, and wild boars. From here, we continue along the coastal road, passing through picturesque villages such as Dhermi, Himara, and Borsh, known for their citrus groves and olive trees. Upon arrival in Saranda, we will visit Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ruins dating back to the 5th century BC. The ancient city of Butrint was once a thriving Greek and Roman settlement and is home to several remarkable archaeological sites, including the ancient theater, the baptistery with stunning mosaics, and the Temple of Asclepius. We will spend the night in Saranda.

After breakfast, we head to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage city known as the “City of Stones” due to its distinctive stone-roofed houses. The city’s old town is a living museum of Ottoman-era architecture. A visit to the Gjirokastra Castle is essential, as it offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The castle houses a military museum, and its history dates back to the 12th century. Afterward, we drive to Korca, a charming city known for its cultural heritage and picturesque surroundings. We will take a scenic drive through the Kelcyra Gorge, along the wild Vjosa River, and through the lush forests of Leskovik. En route, we will stop for photo opportunities and lunch at a local bio farm in Erseka. Overnight in Korca.

In the morning, we explore Korca, starting with the Museum of Medieval Art, which houses an impressive collection of religious icons and artifacts. We will also visit the Mirahori Mosque, one of the oldest in Albania, and the reconstructed old bazaar, which is one of the most charming in the country. From Korca, we continue to Pogradec, located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. We will visit the Drilon Park, a serene spot with lush greenery and clear waters, and the Villa Art, a former fishing retreat of the Albanian dictator. After lunch, we head back to Tirana, making a brief stop at the Elbasan Castle, which dates back to the Roman era. Return to Tirana for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, transfer to Tirana Airport for your flight back home, bringing with you wonderful memories and souvenirs from your adventure through North Albania. We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring this beautiful and historically rich region of Albania with Amales Travel DMC. Until next time!