Highlights of Albania

Overview

Discover the Land of Eagles before everyone else does

Albania has a history to rival its better-known (and busier) neighbours and an equally impressive wild landscape. Past civilisations have left their mark here, mainly the Romans and Byzantines, which we see throughout the tour, including at the ancient Greek colony of Butrint and the 13th-century Berat Castle, both Unesco-listed. We also discover modern Albania, visiting the cities of Tirana, Korçë, Durrës and foodie-favourite Përmet. Expect a warm welcome wherever we go. Did you know you can travel by train to this trip? Find out more here

Highlights

Visit Unesco World Heritage sites: Pogradec, Butrint, Berat and Gjirokaster
Journey through the beautiful Albanian Riviera
Discover historic monuments, including Durres Amphitheatre and Korce Museum of Medieval Arts
Explore Llogora National Park

Key Information

Nine nights in hotels
Group normally 6 to 16, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16
Travel by air-conditioned private bus
Option to travel by train to your adventure

Included

All breakfasts and one lunch included
All accommodation

Not included

Travel insurance
Visas and vaccinations
Single supplement

Itinerary

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Day 1: Start Tirana
The tour starts at our hotel in Tirana, the capital of Albania. There will be a welcome briefing at 4.30pm, followed by an orientation tour of the renovated New Bazaar, very close to our hotel. Accommodation: Hotel Capital Tirana (or similar)
Day 2: Visit Elbasan Fortress en route to Pogradec
After an early breakfast, we take a walking tour of Tirana, which was made the capital of Albania in 1920, visiting the remains of an old castle; the modern Pyramid of Tirana, which was opened as a museum and served as a NATO base during the Kosovo War; and the Prime Minister’s Office. We reach the Blloku neighbourhood, where villas were once occupied by members of the Politburo, a former leading group of the Albanian Labour party. It is now the nightlife hub of Tirana, home to trendy bars, cafes and clubs. We visit the National History Museum, which is adorned with a gigantic mosaic called The Albanians, while the exhibits within unravel the intriguing history of the country. We then drive to Pogradec (approximately 2hr 30min), making a short stop at the 15th-century fortress of Elbasan. Pogradec is one of the most charming resort cities in Albania, next to beautiful Lake Ohrid and surrounded by mountains. We take a scenic walk at Drilon National Park, where Enver Hoxha, ex-dictator of Albania, had a lakeside villa to discover the waterways and plant life that make up this special ecosystem. Accommodation: Elite Hotel (or similar)
Day 3: Transfer to the artists village of Voskopojë; continue to Korçë
This morning, we drive for about an hour to Voskopojë Village (formerly known as Moscopole), an important and well-known centre for the arts, where many talented Albanian painters work. The village has suffered over the years, with many treasures stolen during the second half of the 18th century and this continued during the world wars. We take a 40-minute walk to visit one of the oldest churches representing Voskopoja religious art. Another drive (approximately 30 minutes) takes us to Korçë, the largest city in southeast Albania, which sits at the foot of Moravia Mountain, 2,625ft (800m) above sea level. This city became an important trading and handicraft centre in the 18th century and has also been referred to as the City of Museums. Make sure to try the renowned local beer. Accommodation: Hotel Christi Borova/Hotel Kocibelli (or similar)
Day 4: Drive via the mountain village of Ersekë to the gastronomic city of Përmet
Our drive through the mountains today is truly spectacular, with sweeping views across the Gramos and Nemercka mountains. Along the winding route, we enjoy a short stop in Ersekë, which at 3,445ft (1,050m) is the highest town in Albania. This 17th-century town is surrounded by the beautiful green pastures of the Gramos Mountains. Continuing to beautiful Përmet, we make a quick stop at the old bridge of Benje village, and the hot springs, where we have time to relax and swim. After quite a long day (approximately five hours' drive in total), we arrive in Përmet, in the heart of the white mountains on the Vjosë River. This evening you’re in for a treat: Përmet is celebrated for its food and wine, including gliko sweets and raki. Accommodation: Hotel Villa Permet/Hotel Alvero (or similar)
Day 5: To Gjirokastër via the characterful village of Dhoksat
We drive (approximately two hours) to the beautiful town of Gjirokastër, pausing at the traditional village of Dhoksat for a homecooked lunch. In the afternoon, we enjoy a guided visit around mountainside Gjirokastër, where cobbled streets wind between old houses with interesting architectural features including medieval towers. The castle is the standout landmark here, with panoramic views of the landscape. We also visit Skenduli House, a centuries-old building and magnificent example of the local architectural style. Please note: Lunch with the local family can sometimes be changed to dinner dependent on their availability. Accommodation: Argjiro Hotel/Hotel Fantasy (or similar)
Day 6: Visit Butrint, continue to Llogora National Park
After an early breakfast, we travel to Unesco-listed Butrint National Park, an area that rose to fame in the fourth century BCE when it became home to a sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, god of medicine. The sanctuary was located on the south slope of the acropolis (hill) and was visited by worshippers to be healed. The city developed during the Roman period, but fell into decline after an earthquake and was abandoned towards the end of the Middle Ages. After our visit, we drive to Llogora National Park stopping along the coast on the way. Accommodation: Llogora Tourist Village Hotel (or similar)
Day 7: Llogora National Park walk and visit Apollonia
After breakfast, we take a walk in Llogora National Park, possibly reaching Caesar’s Field. Yes, Julius Caesar crossed into today’s Albania in his battle against Pompey, which was won in this territory. Next, we stop at the wonderful ruins of Apollonia (approximately 1hr 30min to two hours' drive). Originally occupied by Illyrian tribes and then colonists from Corfu and Corinth around 600 BCE, Apollonia flourished in the Roman period and was home to a renowned school of philosophy (emperor Augustus studied here) but began to decline in the third century CE when its harbour started silting up as a result of an earthquake. After Apollonia, we transfer for just over an hour further inland to the Unesco-listed town of Berat, where we spend the night. Accommodation: Hotel Mangalemi (or similar)
Day 8: Day in Berat
Today is dedicated to Berat, the gem of Albania. This morning, we enjoy a guided tour around the old district, with pretty white buildings perched on the hill amid pine forests. We walk through the narrow cobbled streets and reach Berat Castle on the slopes of Mount Tomorr, where we are rewarded with breath-taking views (and we find out why Berat is known to Albanians as the City of a Thousand Windows). Within the castle walls are dwelling houses and the Onufri Museum (Museum of Iconography), which we have time to visit. On the way back to the hotel, we also visit the National Ethnographic Museum of Berat. The rest of the day is free to explore the town. Accommodation: Hotel Mangalemi (or similar)
Day 9: Drive to amphitheatre and port of Durrës; continue to Krujë
From Berat, we drive to the port of Durrës (approximately two hours), the second-largest city in Albania and home to the largest amphitheatre in the Balkans. The amphitheatre dates to the second century CE, seats 15,000 people and contains an early Christian crypt with rare wall mosaics. The city was colonised by people from Corinth and Korkyra in 627 BCE and was named Epidamnus, but later became Dyrrachium. We then drive to the medieval citadel of Krujë (approximately 45 minutes), where the national hero, Skanderbeg, led the resistance against the Ottomans. He kept them from crossing into western Europe for 25 years, earning the title Champion of Christ. We check in at the hotel and in the afternoon visit the Skanderbeg Museum, from which you can enjoy inspirational views to the Adriatic Coast. Accommodation: Hotel Panorama (or similar)
Day 10: Tour of the Kruja Bazaar; transfer to Tirana
After breakfast, we have time to wander through the medieval bazaar of Krujë, which is stocked full of souvenirs and handicrafts. After, we begin our return journey home (check the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes for more information about catching your return flight).

Important Information

The trip destination

Nine nights in hotels
Group normally 6 to 16, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16
Travel by air-conditioned private bus
Option to travel by train to your adventure

Food

All breakfasts and one lunch are included. Food in Albania is quite varied thanks to the many influences on the country, particularly from Turkey, Greece and Italy. Dairy products, especially milk and yoghurt, are present in almost every meal, usually locally sourced. Under dictator Enver Hoxha, Albania was isolated from the world and therefore became a self-sustaining country. The fertile valleys, fresh mountain springs and Mediterranean climate means it is still very much a subsistence culture and shows very little sign of changing. In the countryside, expect your food to be very locally sourced. Breakfasts are typically eggs, fresh bread, jam, honey and coffee. For lunch and dinner, meat dishes are often goat or lamb, with fish dishes such as trout and whitebait. Courses often come in meze form, complimented with a variety of vegetables and salad, freshly baked bread, homemade cheeses, local wines and, of course, raki. In the coastal cities, there are several restaurants with an array of Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood available. We recommend you always drink bottled water. The most environmentally friendly method is to share the larger reusable glass bottles served in most restaurants.

Weather

Albania generally experiences a Mediterranean climate with summer temperatures at 25C-30C (77F-86F) on average in the day. The warmest months are July and August, when temperatures can rise to 35C (95F) or above.

It’s cooler further inland towards Pogradec and Korçë during these months, especially in the evenings, with high temperatures around 25C (77F).

There is always a small chance of rain in the mountains; however, we do not to travel in the coldest, wettest months, November to January. Berat also experiences a Mediterranean climate but thanks to its location in the shadow of Mount Tomorr, summers are much warmer than expected for the Mediterranean.

Is this trip for you?

This trip has been rated Activity Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate).

Travelling: There will be some long drives (maximum: five hours). The road surfaces in Albania have improved drastically in the last decade; however, many stretches (especially in the south) are winding and have poor signage, making for slower travelling times. Prepare for some bumpy journeys where roads have not been resurfaced.

Hotels: All hotels are equivalent to three-star accommodation, but standards vary depending on location. Most hotel stays are for one night only.

Prices / Dates

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AVAILABLE DATES	PRICE (1 ADULT)	PRICE (1 CHILDREN)	Single room supplement	TRAVEL STATUS
Fri, 03 May 2024 / Sun, 12 May 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 24 May 2024 / Sun, 02 Jun 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 07 Jun 2024 / Sun, 16 Jun 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 21 Jun 2024 / Sun, 30 Jun 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 / Sun, 08 Sep 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 06 Sep 2024 / Sun, 15 Sep 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 13 Sep 2024 / Sun, 22 Sep 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 20 Sep 2024 / Sun, 29 Sep 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 27 Sep 2024 / Sun, 06 Oct 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 11 Oct 2024 / Sun, 20 Oct 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 25 Oct 2024 / Sun, 03 Nov 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	Available
Fri, 21 Mar 2025 / Sun, 30 Mar 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 11 Apr 2025 / Sun, 20 Apr 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 02 May 2025 / Sun, 11 May 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 23 May 2025 / Sun, 01 Jun 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 06 Jun 2025 / Sun, 15 Jun 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 20 Jun 2025 / Sun, 29 Jun 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 29 Aug 2025 / Sun, 07 Sep 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 05 Sep 2025 / Sun, 14 Sep 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 12 Sep 2025 / Sun, 21 Sep 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 19 Sep 2025 / Sun, 28 Sep 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 26 Sep 2025 / Sun, 05 Oct 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 10 Oct 2025 / Sun, 19 Oct 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available
Fri, 24 Oct 2025 / Sun, 02 Nov 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	Available

AVAILABLE DATES	PRICE (1 ADULT)	PRICE (1 CHILDREN)	SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT	TRAVEL STATUS
Fri, 03 May 2024 / Sun, 12 May 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 24 May 2024 / Sun, 02 Jun 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 07 Jun 2024 / Sun, 16 Jun 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 21 Jun 2024 / Sun, 30 Jun 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 30 Aug 2024 / Sun, 08 Sep 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 06 Sep 2024 / Sun, 15 Sep 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 13 Sep 2024 / Sun, 22 Sep 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 20 Sep 2024 / Sun, 29 Sep 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 27 Sep 2024 / Sun, 06 Oct 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 11 Oct 2024 / Sun, 20 Oct 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 25 Oct 2024 / Sun, 03 Nov 2024	NOK 16 490	On request	NOK 2 750	On request
Fri, 21 Mar 2025 / Sun, 30 Mar 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 11 Apr 2025 / Sun, 20 Apr 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 02 May 2025 / Sun, 11 May 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 23 May 2025 / Sun, 01 Jun 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 06 Jun 2025 / Sun, 15 Jun 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 20 Jun 2025 / Sun, 29 Jun 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 29 Aug 2025 / Sun, 07 Sep 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 05 Sep 2025 / Sun, 14 Sep 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 12 Sep 2025 / Sun, 21 Sep 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 19 Sep 2025 / Sun, 28 Sep 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 26 Sep 2025 / Sun, 05 Oct 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 10 Oct 2025 / Sun, 19 Oct 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request
Fri, 24 Oct 2025 / Sun, 02 Nov 2025	NOK 18 555	On request	NOK 3 025	On request

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Highlights of Albania

Overview

Itinerary

Photos

Important Information

Prices / Dates