Itinerary
Albania: North to South Tour
Uncover the beauty and variety of Albania’s national parks and coastal towns.
Discover breathtaking wildlife and geographic diversity as you make your way from the Northern Albanian Peaks to the Southern Coastal Saranda. Scenic drives, Mediterranean-style beaches, ancient ruins, snowy summits—this tour’s extraordinary landscapes and pretty towns are sure to leave you in awe.
Group size: Max 12 travelers
2025 Guaranteed Departure: 1390€ per person in a double room | 210 € single room add
- 08 May 2025 - 15 May 2025
- 01 June 2025 - 09 June 2025
- 02 September 2025 - 10 September 2025
Private Tour upon request: 1875€
Day–by–day itinerary
Tirana | 1 night
Day 1: Arrival in Tirana
Upon arrival in Albania, enjoy a hassle-free transfer to your hotel in Tirana with our airport pick-up service. Settle in and, if time permits, join a guided walking tour of Tirana’s vibrant city center. Discover Skanderbeg Square, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the Pyramid, and the trendy Blloku area.
Theth | 2 nights
Day 2: Theth via Shkoder
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Entrances: Rozafa Fortress
Begin your day with breakfast before departing for Shkoder, a charming city nestled at the base of the Albanian Alps. En route, make a memorable stop at the majestic Rozafa Castle perched on a hilltop. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and delve into the fortress's intriguing history.
For lunch, travel to the picturesque town of Shiroke, where you’ll savor a delightful fish-based meal at a local restaurant overlooking the serene Shkodra Lake.
Following lunch, embark on a guided tour of Shkoder’s Old Town, including the impressive St. Stephen’s Catholic Cathedral and the historic Ebu Bekr Mosque. Afterward, journey towards Theth, with scenic stops in the quaint mountain village of Boge and the stunning Thore Pass, enveloped by towering peaks.
Upon arrival in Theth, check into your guesthouse and unwind. Take a leisurely walk through the village, exploring highlights such as the ancient reconciliation tower and the well-preserved, century-old church. Conclude your day with a rustic dinner, complemented by a glass or two of traditional Raki, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 3: The Blue Eye of Theth & Grunas Waterfall and Canyon
Included Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Spend a day immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Theth National Park with a leisurely hike through its stunning landscapes.
Begin your adventure by marveling at the breathtaking Grunas Waterfall and its dramatic canyon, where you can enjoy the soothing sounds of cascading water. Next, head to the natural pools of Nderlysa for a refreshing swim followed by a picnic lunch, surrounded by pristine nature.
Afterwards, embark on a scenic hike to the mesmerizing Blue Eye of Theth, a captivating natural spring renowned for its striking blue color and crystal-clear waters.
Return to your guesthouse via local transportation, savoring the memories of a day spent amidst some of the park’s most spectacular sights.
Durres | 1 night
Day 4: Durres via Kruja
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Entrances: Skanderbeg Museum, Ethnographic Museum
Depart from the charming village of Theth and journey to the historic city of Kruja.
We’ll explore the majestic Kruja Castle, an impressive fortress that once served as the stronghold of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. Wander through its ancient ramparts and defensive walls, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Inside the castle, the Skanderbeg Museum provides fascinating insights into the life and legacy of this legendary figure, while the Ethnographic Museum, housed in a traditional Ottoman-era house, offers a glimpse into the local culture and daily life of Kruja’s past.
For lunch, dine at a local restaurant in Kruja, where you can enjoy delicious cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the city and the picturesque Kruja Valley.
After lunch, spend some leisurely time strolling through the Old Bazaar. Discover its charming cobblestone streets, vibrant market stalls, and captivating old architecture.
In the afternoon, depart from Kruja and head towards the vibrant seaside city of Durres, where you'll have the opportunity to relax and enjoy the coastal ambiance.
Saranda | 2 nights
Day 5: Saranda via Gjirokaster (UNESCO)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Entrances: Castle of Gjirokaster, Skenduli House
Embark on a journey to Gjirokaster, often celebrated as the "City of a Thousand Steps" due to its labyrinthine, steep streets and terraced hillside layout. This UNESCO World Heritage city is renowned for its impeccably preserved Ottoman-era architecture and its striking stone houses that seem to cling to the mountainside.
Begin your exploration with a visit to the Skenduli House, an exceptional example of Ottoman residential architecture. This beautifully preserved tower house, with its intricate wooden balconies and stone masonry, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Gjirokaster's historical elite.
Next, make your way to the Gjirokaster Castle, a formidable fortress that dominates the city’s skyline. Wander through its expansive grounds and explore the various sections, including the former prison and military museum.
After your castle exploration, delight in a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant renowned for its authentic regional cuisine. Savor traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavors and culinary heritage of southern Albania, offering a perfect complement to the day’s historical adventures.
In the late afternoon, relax as you transfer to Saranda, your next destination. As you travel through the picturesque landscape, reflect on the day’s experiences and anticipate the beauty and charm awaiting you in Saranda.
Day 6: The Blue Eye Spring, Butrint National Park (UNESCO) & Ksamil Beach
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Entrances: Blue Eye Spring, Butrint Archaeological Park
Start your day with a visit to the enchanting Blue Eye Spring, a natural wonder renowned for its mesmerizing, crystal-clear blue waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, this stunning spring creates a kaleidoscope of blue hues as sunlight dances across its depths.
Next, we journey to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a captivating blend of ancient history and natural splendor. As you explore the Butrint Archaeological Park, a local expert will guide you through its rich tapestry of 2,500 years of history. Wander through the evocative ruins of the ancient Amphitheater, stand in awe of the imposing castle, and admire the remnants of early Christian churches. The Lion Gate, with its intricate carvings, stands as a testament to the city's historical significance and grandeur.
After soaking in the historical and cultural riches of Butrint, head to the idyllic Ksamil Beach. This pristine stretch of coastline is renowned for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Enjoy some leisurely free time to relax, swim, or simply bask in the sun.
On our return to Saranda, we’ll make a scenic stop at Lekursi Castle. From this vantage point, take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Saranda and its shimmering bay, offering a perfect end to a day filled with exploration and natural beauty.
Vlore | 1 night
Day 7: Scenic Journey to Vlore
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Entrances: Ali Pasha Castle
Start your journey with a picturesque drive along the Albanian Riviera, where the road meanders between rugged mountains and the deep blue waters of the Ionian Sea. The drive itself is an experience, offering panoramic views of the coastline and glimpses of charming seaside villages.
Your first stop is the historic Ali Pasha Castle. Perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding landscape, this 19th-century fortress is a testament to the ambitious architectural vision of Ali Pasha of Tepelena. As you explore the castle, you’ll uncover stories of intrigue and power struggles that shaped its construction.
After your visit to the castle, head to a local restaurant for a traditional Albanian lunch. Here, you can savor regional specialties, accompanied by local wines or refreshing beverages.
After lunch, travel to Vlore, a city significant in Albania’s National Independence movement. Check into your hotel and then set out to explore Vlore’s notable landmarks. Visit Flag Square to see the Independence Monument, take in the serene beauty of the Muradie Mosque, and stroll along the vibrant Vlore Lungomare, where you can soak in the seaside atmosphere and enjoy the view.
Tirana | 1 night
Day 8: Discovering Berat
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Included Entrances: Berat Castle
Immerse yourself in the charm of Berat, known as the "City of a Thousand Windows," with a guided walking tour through its UNESCO-recognized old town. Start your exploration at the White Mosque, a symbol of the city's diverse architectural heritage. Next, marvel at the Holy Trinity Church, a striking example of Byzantine architecture with its beautiful frescoes.
Stroll across the iconic Gorica Bridge, an elegant stone structure that connects the old town with the Gorica district, offering picturesque views of the Osum River and the city's distinctive whitewashed houses.
At Berat Castle, perched majestically on a hill, take a step back in time. Wander through the ancient fortifications, enjoy panoramic views of the city below, and relax with a traditional coffee and raki break inside the castle’s historic walls.
Travel to Tirana and immerse yourself in the vibrant pulse of Albania’s capital. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's lively neighborhoods, from the bustling Skanderbeg Square to the eclectic Blloku district, where modern cafes and historical landmarks come together. Wander through Tirana’s charming streets, taking in its colorful street art and diverse architectural styles that reflect the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
In the evening, gather with fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner. Enjoy a delightful meal at a local restaurant, where you’ll savor traditional Albanian dishes and reflect on your journey through this captivating country.
Departure Day
Day 9: Farewell
Included meals: Breakfast
Please note that the airport drop-off is not included on the tour. If you want to include this service, you can book it during your reservation.
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