Europe · Albania
This eight day circular itinerary invites you to discover Albania, a land of striking contrasts where ancient history unfolds through a blend of Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet architecture.
This eight day circular itinerary invites you to discover Albania, a land of striking contrasts where ancient history unfolds through a blend of Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet architecture. The journey follows evocative routes connecting the vibrant capital, Tirana, to the Adriatic and Ionian coasts, traversing the rugged mountain landscapes of the interior.
Enjoy the freedom of a self-drive adventure as you explore UNESCO World Heritage sites including Gjirokaster and Berat, the ancient ruins of Apollonia, and the stunning Albanian Riviera. From the Roman amphitheatres of Durres to the Byzantine monasteries of Ardenica, every stop offers an authentic encounter with local traditions and the natural beauty of Lake Shkoder and the Karaburun Peninsula.
The route is designed with a dynamic pace, featuring daily stays in ever-changing locations. The package includes car hire, four star hotel accommodation with breakfast, and constant assistance. For a deeper cultural insight, the trip can be enhanced with specialised Italian speaking guides for the primary historical visits.
8 days in the programme
Arrive in Tirana and collect your hire car Arrive in Tirana and collect your hire car. Begin your exploration of the Albanian capital, a city famous for its colourful buildings that reflect a unique mix of architectural influences, from Ottoman and Fascist styles to significant monuments of the Soviet era. Overnight stay at your hotel.
Depart for Kruja, a medieval town perched on a mountainside and a symbolic heart of national history and tradition Depart for Kruja, a medieval town perched on a mountainside and a symbolic heart of national history and tradition. Continue north to Shkoder to visit Rozafa Castle, which offers commanding panoramic views, and the ancient Mesi Bridge, noted for its elegant arched architecture over the river. Time permitting, we recommend a stop at Lake Shkoder, the largest in the Balkans. Overnight stay in Shkoder.
Travel to Durres, Albania's primary Adriatic port Travel to Durres, Albania's primary Adriatic port. The day is dedicated to discovering the city's vast Roman amphitheatre and the historic centre overlooking the sea. Overnight stay at your hotel.
Stop at the Monastery of Ardenica, a 13th century Orthodox complex renowned for its frescoes and as the site of the national hero Skanderbeg's wedding Stop at the Monastery of Ardenica, a 13th century Orthodox complex renowned for its frescoes and as the site of the national hero Skanderbeg's wedding. Continue to Apollonia, a significant archaeological site on the Via Egnatia and a former centre of study for Augustus Octavian. Arrive in Vlora, beautifully positioned with views of the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island. Overnight stay in Vlora.
Drive along the Albanian Riviera, defined by rugged cliffs and crystalline waters, until you reach the UNESCO protected archaeological site of Butrint Drive along the Albanian Riviera, defined by rugged cliffs and crystalline waters, until you reach the UNESCO protected archaeological site of Butrint. Continue to Saranda, a coastal town surrounded by olive groves, featuring lively beaches and a popular promenade. Overnight stay in Saranda.
A day dedicated to two UNESCO World Heritage cities A day dedicated to two UNESCO World Heritage cities. Visit Gjirokaster, home to an impressive castle and remarkable medieval architecture, then continue to Berat, famed for its ancient walls and the timeless atmosphere of its historic squares. Overnight stay in Berat.
Complete your sightseeing in Berat before returning to the capital, Tirana Complete your sightseeing in Berat before returning to the capital, Tirana. Spend the afternoon further exploring the city or enjoying some final shopping in the central streets. Overnight stay at your hotel.
Enjoy your final moments in Tirana before heading to the airport to return your hire car and board your flight home.
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