After check-in at hotel.
Walking tour:
ACCOMMODATION IN TIRANA
Tirana is the capital of Albania with around one million inhabitants. In 1614 it was raised to the status of kasabe, a unit of township bigger than a village but smaller than a city, by Suleyman Pasha Bargjini. Tirana has been mentioned in a Venetian document of 1418 as having been inhabited since the Stone Age. It is a colourful city that contains within it Et’hem Bey Mosque, Gallery of the Arts, National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, Tanner’s Bridge, and Tirana Castle. Tirana is renowned for its livelihood. In the capital of Albania there are plenty of cafés and restaurants which make up the social scene with the youth of the city. It has corners for everyone to enjoy a soft drink or a football game.
ITINERARY OF THE DAY:
DINNER AT RESTAURANT TRADITIONAL FOOD - ODA GARDEN
ACCOMMODATION IN TIRANA
Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Pogradec, a city on the shores of Lake Ohrid, the deepest lake in the Balkans and one of the oldest lakes on our planet. Stop for a coffee by the lake. Then continue towards Korça, an important cultural centre in the southeast of the country surrounded by high mountains. Panoramic tour of the city with its historic centre of stately homes from the early 20th century, the Orthodox Cathedral, and the old Ottoman bazaar.
ACCOMMODATION IN KORCË
Drive to Benje Thermal Baths. The thermal waters of Benja (Bënjë) are natural sulfur springs with water rising up through deep tectonic cracks. In total, there are 6 springs with each having water flowing a natural way up into a stone bath. You can find these thermal baths on both sides alongside the Lengarica Canyon.
Then head on to Church of St. Mary of Leusa.
Visit the Jam factory in Permet.
ACCOMMODATION IN PËRMET
Drive to Gjirokastra through Tepelena. Gjirokastra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a complex and layered history. The first mention of its name was during the Byzantine Empire in 1336 under its Greek name Αργυρόκαστρο (Argyrókastro). Its origins date back to medieval Greek and can be split into two words: ἀργυρόν, which means silver, and κάστρον, which means castle—therefore “silver castle.”
Visits:
ACCOMMODATION IN GJIROKASTËR
After breakfast, drive to the Blue Eye, a natural water spring with mesmerizing turquoise colours. Then, continue to Saranda, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant promenade. Enjoy a relaxing evening by the sea.
ACCOMMODATION IN SARANDA
Visit the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features well-preserved ruins from the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. Afterwards, visit Ksamil, a beautiful coastal village known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
ACCOMMODATION IN SARANDA
Depart for Himara, a small town on the Albanian Riviera with beautiful beaches and charming streets. Continue through the stunning coastal road to Llogara National Park, known for its impressive views and lush pine forest.
ACCOMMODATION IN LLOGARA NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely hike in Llogara National Park. Continue to Vlora, a historic coastal city where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. Visit Independence Square and the Museum of Independence, which commemorates Albania's declaration of independence in 1912.
ACCOMMODATION IN VLORA
Drive to the archaeological site of Apollonia, an ancient Greek city founded in the 6th century BC. Explore the ruins, including the impressive Odeon and the Library. Afterwards, continue to Berat, known as the "City of a Thousand Windows" and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
ACCOMMODATION IN BERAT
Explore the historic city of Berat, visiting the impressive Berat Castle, the Onufri Museum, and various churches and mosques that showcase the city's religious diversity. Wander through the charming neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, and enjoy panoramic views from the castle.
ACCOMMODATION IN BERAT
Depart for Tirana, stopping in Elbasan along the way. Visit the Castle of Elbasan and the Clock Tower. Continue to Tirana for a relaxing evening at leisure.
ACCOMMODATION IN TIRANA
Drive to Kruja, the historic city of Albania's national hero, Skanderbeg. Visit the Skanderbeg Museum, located in Kruja Castle, and explore the Old Bazaar, which offers traditional crafts and souvenirs.
ACCOMMODATION IN KRUJA
Depart for Lezha, where Skanderbeg is buried. Visit the memorial and then continue to Shkodra, one of the oldest cities in Albania. Visit Rozafa Castle, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, and explore the historic city center.
ACCOMMODATION IN SHKODRA
Drive to Lake Komani for a scenic boat ride through the dramatic mountain landscape to reach Valbona Valley National Park. Enjoy hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Valbona.
ACCOMMODATION IN VALBONA
After breakfast, drive back to Tirana for your departure. Transfer to the airport. END OF SERVICES.