Europe · Albania
This eight-day circular itinerary journeys through the heart of Albania, starting in the capital, Tirana, and encompassing major archaeological sites, UNESCO-listed historic towns, and the breathtaking Ionian coast.
This eight-day circular itinerary journeys through the heart of Albania, starting in the capital, Tirana, and encompassing major archaeological sites, UNESCO-listed historic towns, and the breathtaking Ionian coast. The route provides a comprehensive overview of the country's cultural and scenic heritage, connecting the mountainous hinterland to the Albanian Riviera.
The trip is defined by deep historical and cultural insights, with visits ranging from the Roman amphitheatres of Durres and Apollonia to the medieval castles of Gjirokaster, Shkoder, and Kruja. Immersive local experiences include a tasting of traditional products within the fortress walls of Berat and the discovery of natural wonders such as the Blue Eye spring.
Logistics include stays in selected 4-star hotels on a half-board basis. The programme balances explorations of vibrant urban centres with discoveries of archaeological sites along the ancient Via Egnatia, ensuring a continuous narrative of Albania's historical evolution.
8 days in the programme
Upon arrival in Tirana, you will be transferred to your hotel Upon arrival in Tirana, you will be transferred to your hotel. The day is dedicated to your first steps in the vibrant Albanian capital, allowing you to begin discovering its dynamic atmosphere before your overnight stay.
The journey continues to Durres to visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre The journey continues to Durres to visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre. Afterwards, you will head to Berat, the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the city of a thousand windows. A tasting of local specialties will be held in a traditional house within the castle walls.
Departing from Berat, the tour heads towards the Monastery of Ardenica Departing from Berat, the tour heads towards the Monastery of Ardenica. The next stop is Gjirokaster, a UNESCO-listed city celebrated for its distinctive architecture. Here, you will visit the medieval castle and the Ethnographic Museum.
The day begins with a visit to the crystal-clear spring of the Blue Eye The day begins with a visit to the crystal-clear spring of the Blue Eye. The journey continues to the archaeological site of Butrint, one of the most significant in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage site, before concluding in the coastal city of Saranda.
The itinerary travels north along the Albanian Riviera The itinerary travels north along the Albanian Riviera. Along the way, a stop is made at Ali Pasha’s castle in Porto Palermo, continuing then to Vlore, a city that stands as a symbol of national independence.
Visit the remains of the ancient city of Apollonia, located along the route of the ancient Via Egnatia Visit the remains of the ancient city of Apollonia, located along the route of the ancient Via Egnatia. After the visit, you will return to Tirana for an in-depth exploration of the capital’s iconic monuments and history.
An excursion to the north of the country to visit Shkoder, home to the imposing Rozafa Fortress and the Marubi National Museum of Photography An excursion to the north of the country to visit Shkoder, home to the imposing Rozafa Fortress and the Marubi National Museum of Photography. The tour proceeds to Kruja, the city closely linked to the national hero Skanderbeg, before returning to Tirana for the final night.
After breakfast, a transfer will be provided to Tirana airport in time for your return flight.
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