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Itinerary
Albania & Montenegro Tour - 9 Days
Soak up local traditions amidst stunning mountains and coasts.
Full of rich history, fascinating culture, and stunning landscapes, the Balkan Peninsula is a region waiting to be explored—and that's just what you'll do on this small group Adventure Tour. From the timeless traditions of Albania and Montenegro’s epic coastal beauty, you’ll discover the diversity of these Adriatic nations and what makes each unique.
Group size: Max 12 travelers
2025 Guaranteed Departure: 1695€ per person in a double room | 260 € single room add
- 15 May 2025 - 24 May 2025
- 12 June 2025 - 21 June 2025
- 10 September 2025 - 19 September 2025
Private Tour upon request: 2290€
Day–by–day itinerary
Tirana | 1 night
Day 1: Arrival in Tirana
Included Meals: Welcome Dinner
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.
In the evening, gather with your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a warm welcome dinner.
Berat | 1 night
Day 2: Discovering Berat
Included Meals: Breakfast, Agritourism 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.
In the late afternoon, travel to Alpeta Agrotourism & Winery, nestled among rolling hills just outside Berat. Discover the intricacies of local winemaking as you tour the vineyard and winery facilities. Learn about the traditional methods of vinification and explore the picturesque surroundings.
Enjoy dinner at Alpeta, where seasonal, home-grown produce takes center stage. Savor a delightful meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients and accompanied by their fine wines.
Saranda | 2 nights
Day 3: Gjirokaster's Historical Treasure
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 4: 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.
Durres | 1 night
Day 5: Scenic Journey to Durres
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.
Continue your journey to Durres, Albania’s vibrant coastal city known for its rich history and stunning seaside views. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and settle in.
In the evening, step out to explore Durres, where ancient history meets modern charm. Discover the city’s notable landmarks, including the well-preserved Roman amphitheater and the historic Venetian tower. Stroll along the bustling Durres Promenade, where you can enjoy picturesque views of the Adriatic Sea and the lively atmosphere of the waterfront.
Podgorica | 1 night
Day 6: Montenegro’s Capital via Kruja & Shkoder
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Entrances: Museum of Skanderbeg, Rozafa Fortress
Begin your journey to Podgorica with captivating stops along the way.
Start with a guided tour of Krujë, nestled between the Ishëm River and Mount Krujë. Explore the vibrant local bazaar filled with unique handicrafts, then delve into the history of Krujë Castle and the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s national hero, George Castriot Skanderbeg, and his legendary resistance against the Ottomans.
Enjoy some free time to savor lunch, shop, and explore Krujë at your own pace.
Continue to Shkodra, located at the base of the Albanian Alps. Here, visit the impressive Rozafa Castle, perched on a hilltop, and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Arrive in Podgorica, check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxing evening in Montenegro’s vibrant capital.
Please Note: Travelers will need to present their passports at the border crossing between Albania and Montenegro.
Budva | 2 nights
Day 7: Sightseeing tour of Podgorica & Lake Skadar
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Entrances: Boat Ride in Skadar Lake
Start the morning with a walking tour of Podgorica. Wander through Independence Square and cross the historic Roman Bridge, where the Moraca and Ribnica rivers converge.
Travel to Budva, making stops along the way. Explore the Lake Skadar region, stopping at the town of Virpazar/Rijeka for a traditional lakeside lunch and a boat tour through Skadar Lake.
Continue to Budva along Montenegro’s stunning coastline, pausing for photos of the picturesque village of Sveti Stefan. Check into your hotel in Budva, often dubbed the “Miami of Montenegro,” and unwind by the sea.
Day 8: Boka Kotorska | Kotor & Perast (UNESCO)
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Entrances: Boat Ride, Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, Our Lady of the Rocks, Local Guide
Explore Kotor with a guided walking tour through its UNESCO-recognized medieval Old Town. Admire the ancient city walls, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, the old clock tower, and the Orthodox Church. For breathtaking views, hike with your Tour Director up the fortified walls of St. John Mountain.
After free time for lunch and exploring Kotor’s Old Town, head to the Venetian town of Perast. Embark on a boat trip to the man-made islets of Saint George and Our Lady of the Rocks.
Return to Budva in the late afternoon to relax and enjoy the evening.
Tirana | 1 night
Day 9: Tirana via Lovćen National Park & Local Food in Njeguši
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Entrances: Lovćen National Park
Travel to Lovćen National Park and visit the tomb of Njegoš, situated at the park’s summit. Enjoy panoramic views of Montenegro’s peaks, Skadar Lake, the Albanian Alps, Cetinje, and the Adriatic coast.
Take a coffee break with spectacular views of the Bay of Kotor before continuing to the village of Njeguši. Here, visit a traditional Montenegrin smokehouse to sample aged prosciutto, cheese, and other local specialties.
On your way to Tirana, stop in Shkodra’s Old Town for free time in the lively “Pedonalja” area, perfect for wandering, shopping, and relaxing with a drink.
Arrive in Tirana for your final night on tour and join your group for a celebratory farewell dinner.
Please Note: Travelers will need to present their passports at the border crossing between Albania and Montenegro.
Departure Day
Day 10: Farewell
Included Meals: Breakfast
Please note that the airport drop off is not included on tour. If you want to include this service, you can book it during your reservation.
