Albania Tours
Albania, Kosovo and North Macedonia Tour
A private 11-day journey through three of the Balkans' most intriguing countries.
Tour Overview
Prepare to explore the rich history, vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Albania, Kosovo and North Macedonia. You embark on an extraordinary private tour guided by an expert local. As a result, this immersive adventure will unveil the hidden gems and captivating allure of these Balkan nations. It also offers a unique blend of ancient heritage, modern sensibilities and stunning natural beauty.
Your journey begins in Albania, a land steeped in history and adorned with a mesmerising coastline. Tirana, the bustling capital, will welcome you with its Ottoman-era landmarks, trendy cafes and lively cultural scene. Later in the tour, we explore the ancient city of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is nestled amidst mountains and adorned with whitewashed houses clinging to the hillsides.
Kosovo and North Macedonia
Kosovo is a land of resilient spirit and a cultural crossroads, which will unveil its captivating charm. Pristina, the dynamic capital, showcases a blend of Ottoman, Serbian and modern influences. We also delve into the rich heritage of Prizren, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In fact, it is renowned for its Ottoman-era mosques, medieval bridges and vibrant Old Town.
North Macedonia is a land where history whispers from every stone. It will also captivate you with its fascinating past and natural splendour. Skopje, the lively capital, boasts a captivating blend of Byzantine, Ottoman and contemporary architecture. Then ascend to the Ohrid Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From here, marvel at the panoramic views of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest lakes.
An expert local guide leads this private tour, so you enjoy an intimate and personalised experience. Gain insights into the lives of locals and navigate effortlessly through each destination. Above all, uncover the authentic essence of these captivating Balkan nations.
Embark on this enriching journey through Albania, Kosovo and North Macedonia. You will discover a region where history, culture and natural beauty intertwine. In short, it is an unforgettable travel experience.
Day By Day
Your Itinerary
DAY 1
Arrival in Tirana
Arrive at Rinas Airport and transfer to Tirana. After checking in to your accommodation, you take a short city tour of Tirana, starting from Skanderbeg Square. First, visit the National History Museum, Ethem Bey Mosque and Clock Tower. We then continue to the main boulevard, where you will find the Academy of Fine Arts and the main University.
Overnight in Tirana
DAY 2
Korca
After enjoying our breakfast, we'll embark on a journey to Korca. Along the way, we'll make a brief stop at the historic Elbasan Castle to admire its grandeur. Upon reaching Korca, we'll check into our hotel and get settled in. Once we're all set, we'll dive into the city's rich history and culture. First, we visit the Museum of Medieval Art, brimming with fascinating artifacts. Next, we'll head to the Mirahori Mosque, one of Albania's oldest and most revered places of worship. Our exploration then continues with a visit to the reconstructed Old Bazaar. Here you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of traditional Albanian commerce. Finally, we'll visit the Church at Mborje, which dates back to the 14th century. It stands as a testament to Albania's enduring heritage.
Overnight in Korca
DAY 3
Pogradec, Sveti Naum and Ohrid
The day begins with a brief sightseeing tour of the town. Next, we depart for Pogradec, a charming city on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Upon arrival, we explore Driloni Park, a tranquil oasis, and Villa Art, a former fishing villa of the dictator. Our journey then continues to the Sveti Naum Monastery, a captivating religious complex nestled amidst breathtaking scenery. After immersing ourselves in the monastery's rich history and architecture, we return to Ohrid. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its cultural significance.
The afternoon unfolds with a series of visits. First comes the Church of St. Sophia, dating back to the 11th century. Then we see St. Clement's Church, a masterpiece of Byzantine and Italian Renaissance art. After that, we visit Plaoshnik, where St. Clement of Ohrid established Europe's first university in the 9th century. Next is St. John at Kaneo, a picturesque church perched on a promontory overlooking the lake and mountains. Finally, we visit Samuil Fortress.
Overnight in Ohrid
DAY 4
Struga and Skopje
After enjoying breakfast, we will travel to Struga, a town renowned for its impressive waterfall. Here the Black Drin River emerges from Lake Ohrid and embarks on its journey towards the Adriatic Sea. In August, Struga also hosts the renowned international poetry festival on the bridge spanning the Black Drin River. Following a brief visit, we will continue our journey to Skopje, the capital of Macedonia. Finally, we will embark on a guided tour of the city's most significant landmarks.
Overnight in Skopje
DAY 5
Prizren and Kruje
In the morning, we will drive north for two hours to Prizren, crossing the border into Kosovo. Prizren is a beautiful town nestled amidst the Sharr Mountains and along the Bistrica River. It is a true open-air museum, with well-preserved architecture that showcases its rich history. It is also renowned for its skilled craftsmen, who produce exquisite gold and silver jewellery. In addition, they make intricate embroidery, traditional Prizren cloth, handcrafted knives and other folk handicrafts. After exploring Prizren, we will continue our journey to Kruja. This town played a pivotal role in Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Turks under the leadership of national hero Scanderbeg. Here, we will visit the Kruja Fortress, the Scanderbeg Museum and the old bazaar, brimming with souvenirs.
Overnight in Kruja
DAY 6
Apollonia and Vlora
After breakfast, we'll embark on a journey to the ancient city of Apollonia. It is nestled along the renowned Via Egnatia, a significant Roman-era road. This esteemed city once hosted Roman Emperor Augustus Octavian during his studies. Upon arrival, we'll explore the ruins of Apollonia and delve into its rich history. We also visit an Orthodox monastery, now transformed into an archaeological museum, preserving the site's fascinating past. We will take lunch in Apollonia. Following lunch, we'll set off towards Vlora, the birthplace of Albanian independence. Finally, we step into the Independence Museum. It occupies the very building that served as the cradle of Albania's first independent government.
Overnight in Vlora
DAY 7
Butrint, Saranda and Gjirokastra
Embark on a scenic drive along the Albanian Riviera, enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Ionian Sea. We then ascend the Llogara Pass, reaching an elevation of 1,000 metres above sea level. Here, panoramic vistas will captivate us. After that, we make our way to Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded by Greek colonists. It was continuously inhabited for centuries, leaving behind an intriguing tapestry of archaeological layers. Our journey then takes us to Gjirokastra, the birthplace of Albania's former iron-fisted dictator, Enver Hoxha. We will explore the pre-Ottoman citadel, which houses a weapons museum and a former political prison. Finally, there is free time to wander through the charming town.
Overnight in Gjirokastra
DAY 8
Berat and Durres
Our journey continues to Berat, Albania's second museum town and one of its most captivating destinations. It is often referred to as the "city of a thousand windows". We'll explore the Fortress, the Onufri Museum and a selection of churches and mosques. For example, these include the Leaden Mosque, the King Mosque, the Bachelor Mosque and the Alveti Tekke. Later, we'll depart for Durres, where we'll embark on a sightseeing tour. This covers the Amphitheatre and the Archaeological Museum, brimming with artifacts unearthed from the city and its surrounding areas.
Overnight in Durres
DAY 9
Kotor
Kotor is a top tourist spot in Montenegro. It has one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in the Adriatic. UNESCO also protects it as a World Heritage site. There are many other attractions to see, including the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166). In addition, ancient walls run for 4.5 kilometres directly above the city. We'll have lunch in Kotor and then head to Budva for the night.
Overnight in Budva
DAY 10
Budva and Tirana
In the morning, enjoy sightseeing of Budva old town. Afterwards, return to Tirana via Shkoder. If time permits, we stop here for a quick visit.
Overnight in Tirana
DAY 11
Departure from Albania
Your time is at leisure until we transfer to the airport where we say goodbye. End of our service.
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Know Before You Go
Included & Excluded
What’s Included
Arrival and departure transfers
Transportation as described with A/C
All accommodation as shown in good standard hotels
Daily breakfast, plus lunch and dinner as shown in the itinerary
Services of a local expert English speaking guide/driver. For groups of 6 or more, we will provide a separate driver and guide.
All entrance fees as per program
What’s Not Included
International travel to the start and end point – contact us for information and flight options
Any airport taxes
Travel insurance
Any visa requirements
Drinks
Items of a personal nature
Tips for drivers and guides
Tour Map
Book With Confidence
Price & Availability
This is a private guided tour, so we can schedule it to your specific dates and requirements. Contact us for more details or to get a quote for a tailor-made holiday option.
From £2,095 per person
Based on two people travelling and sharing a room.
Good to Know
Travel Information
Safety, Passport, Visa and Health Information
We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination. For example, it covers safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice.
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 3 months from the date of entry into Albania. British citizens can enter and remain in Albania without a visa. However, this is for a maximum of 90 days in every 6-month period. Therefore, anyone staying longer than 90 days must apply at a local police station for a residence permit.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice. The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) publishes this on the TravelHealthPro website. Medical and dental facilities are very poor outside Tirana, so make sure you have adequate travel health insurance. In addition, the tap water in Albania may cause illness, so drink only bottled water. For emergency medical assistance, dial 127 or 04 2222 235 and ask for an ambulance.
What to Bring
Mountain areas can be very cold even during summer months. Therefore, lightweight clothing which can be layered is advisable. Also bring a warm jumper for cooler evenings and a light rain coat. There is a laundry available in most hotels. Finally, bring lightweight comfortable shoes/trainers and sandals.
Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack. You're expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself. For example, a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suitcase. We also recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a torch, insect repellent and a water bottle. In addition, pack a solar charger for your phone and other electronics.
While You're There
The official currency of Albania is the Lek (ALL). Most banks, large supermarkets and international hotels accept major credit and debit cards. However, smaller businesses and taxis often only accept cash. There are also numerous ATMs in Tirana and the main towns. Only use banks or established bureaux de change, because street money-changers operate illegally. In addition, there have been cases of credit card fraud.
Albania uses plug types C and F, on a 230V/50Hz supply. It is also in the GMT+1 time zone. Internet access is unrestricted and widely available in business centres, hotels and internet cafés.
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