ALBANIA-NORTH MACEDONIA

Meet at airport with our guide and head to Tirana. Visits will start in Tirana’s main square, discovering the history and beauties of this town which was transformed from a big village into a modern capital in the first half of the 20th century. We will visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the Museum of National History, walk along the main boulevard “Martyrs of the Nation,” and see the Pyramid of Tirana, etc. Overnight in Tirana.

After breakfast, we drive toward Kruja, a well-preserved medieval town. Kruja is an important site in Albanian history. We will visit the Castle and the Ottoman bazaar, the best place in Albania to find handmade, traditional crafts. Afterward, we head to Shkodra, the most important town in the north of Albania, which was once the capital of an Illyrian Kingdom in the 3rd century BC. We’ll take a walk in the newly renovated pedestrian area with Italian and Austrian architectural influences. Return to Tirana. Overnight in Tirana.

After breakfast, depart to Berat, known as the museum town of “one over one windows” due to its unique architecture. It has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit in Albania. Berat Castle is of particular interest as people still live within its walls in traditional houses. The castle used to have over 40 churches, of which 7 remain, including St. Mary’s Church, now the Onufri Museum. After the visit, depart to Apollonia, an ancient city founded in the 7th century BC by Greek colonists. We’ll also visit the Museum of Apollonia before departing for Vlora, a panoramic coastal city. Overnight in Vlora.

After breakfast, we continue driving along the mountains and enjoy the view of Albania’s beauty, arriving at Llogara National Park, a park covered by intense pine forests. After visiting Llogara, we’ll continue our journey, passing through traditional villages like Dhermi, Himara, and Borsh, known for citrus growth and olive trees. Upon arrival in Saranda, we’ll visit Butrinti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an ancient archaeological complex dating back to the 5th century BC. Overnight in Saranda.

After breakfast, depart to Gjirokastra, known as the “Town of the Stones.” Many houses in Gjirokastra have roofs covered with stones, giving the town its distinctive style. The Castle of Gjirokastra is of great historical importance. After the visit, we head to Korca, passing through the beautiful Kelcyra Gorge and the valley of the Vjosa River. We’ll make several photo stops to capture the stunning nature. Lunch will be at a bio farm in Erseka (optional). Overnight in Korca.

After breakfast, we continue the visit in Korca with the Museum of Medieval Art, the Mirahori Mosque, and the old bazaar. We then continue to Pogradec on the shores of Lake Ohrid and visit the Park of Drilon, known for its beautiful scenery. After lunch, we head to North Macedonia to visit the Monastery of St. Naum, built in the 10th century, located at the southern tip of Lake Ohrid next to the Black Drin River. Overnight in Ohrid.

Upon arrival in Ohrid, we begin our guided visit at the Castle and the Roman Amphitheater. Afterward, we’ll walk by the lake and visit the Kaneo Church, one of the most impressive in the town. We’ll continue to Sveti Sophia Cathedral to complete our visit of Ohrid. On our way back to Tirana, we’ll stop at Elbasani Castle for a quick visit before heading to Tirana for the overnight stay.

Transfer to Tirana Airport for your flight back home, bringing with you wonderful memories and souvenirs from your Northern Albania vacation. We hope to see you again on your next adventure with Amales Travel DMC.