8-Days around Albania

1- Day

Arrival at the Tirana airport and meeting with the guide.

Departure from the airport to Bunk'Art museum, situated on the outskirts of Tirana, near Dajti Mountain.

Bunk'Art 1 is housed in a massive underground bunker built in the 1970s during the rule of communist dictator Enver Hoxha. The bunker was intended to shelter the government and military elites in case of a nuclear attack. The museum features exhibits on the history of communism in Albania, the daily lives of Albanians during this period, and the regime's secret police. It includes photographs, documents, and personal stories. Visitors can explore the vast network of tunnels and rooms, giving a sense of the scale and secrecy of the bunker.

Free time for lunch.

Then we will reach the city center and the first stop will be Skanderbeg Square, named in honor of the Albanian National Hero. Gjergj Kastrioti, better known as Skanderbeg, is the only person in Albania that holds the title of Albanian National Hero, which he earned by fighting and preventing the Turkish invasion. Taking the Boulevard ''Deshmoret e Kombit'' we will see the most important ministries and buildings of the Capital, to end it at the Mother Teresa Square.

Check-in at the hotel 4* and dinner at the restaurant.

2- Day

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for Shkodër.

Shkodër is one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in Albania, located in the northwestern part of the country. It's history dates back to the 4th century BCE, making it one of the oldest cities in the Balkans. It was an important center in the Illyrian kingdom and later under Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule.

We'll visit the city center and the Rozafa Castle - This historic fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city, is one of Shkodër's most famous landmarks. According to legend, the castle was named after a woman who was walled into its foundations to ensure its stability. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Free time for lunch.

After lunch, we will head to Kruja.

Kruja is famously associated with Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, Albania's national hero. Skanderbeg led the resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century and used Kruja Castle as his base.

Kruja Castle - This medieval fortress is a central landmark in Kruja. It played a crucial role in the Albanian resistance against the Ottomans. Today, it houses several museums and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Return to hotel to Tirana. Dinner at the restaurant.

3- Day

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for Ardenica and Apollonia.

The Monastery of the Nativity of the Theotokos, commonly known as Ardenica Monastery, is a Byzantine-style monastery located near the village of Ardenica, in central Albania. It is known for its beautiful architecture and impressive frescoes. The monastery complex includes a church, a chapel, and other buildings. The church is adorned with intricate frescoes and icons, some of which date back to the 18th century.

After the visit to Ardenica, we'll head to the Archaeological Park of Apollonia.

Apollonia was an ancient Greek city founded in the 6th century BCE. It is located near the modern city of Fier, in southwestern Albania.

It was one of the most important cities in the region during antiquity, known for its flourishing trade and culture. Apollonia was an important center of learning and philosophy, attracting students from various parts of the Mediterranean.

This site is set in a picturesque landscape, surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills. It offers a tranquil and scenic environment, making it a pleasant place to explore.

Departure for Vlora.

Arrival in Vlora and accommodation in hotel 4*. Dinner at the restaurant.

4- Day

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for Saranda from Llogara, enjoying the view of the Albanian Riviera.

Free time for lunch in Himara.

Arrival in Saranda.

Saranda is a beautiful coastal town located in the southern part of Albania, along the Ionian Sea. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical sites, Saranda is a popular tourist destination.

Accommodation in hotel 4*. Dinner at the restaurant.

5- Day

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for Butrint.

The Butrint National Park is located about 18 kilometers south of Saranda, Butrint is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features well-preserved ruins from various periods, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian eras. The park includes an ancient theater, a basilica, a baptistery, and a fortress.

After the visit to Butrint, we will go to the Ksamil island, called ''The Maldives of Europe''.

Free time for lunch.

Afternoon on the beaches of Ksamil.

Accommodation at the hotel. Dinner at the restaurant.

6- Day

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for the Blue Eye attraction.

This natural spring is located about 20 kilometers from Saranda and is a must-visit attraction. The spring is known for its deep blue and turquoise waters, and it’s surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.

After the visit to the Blue Eye, we will go to Gjirokaster.

Gjirokastër, often referred to as the "City of Stone," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southern Albania. Known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, rich history, and cultural heritage, Gjirokastër offers a unique and captivating experience. This city is famous for its unique stone houses with characteristic slate roofs, high stone walls, and wooden balconies. These houses reflect the city's Ottoman heritage and traditional Balkan architecture.

Free time for lunch in Gjirokaster.

Departure for Berat.

Arrival and accommodation in hotel 4*. Dinner at the restaurant.

7- Day

Breakfast at the hotel.

Visit of Berat.

Berat, often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Windows," is one of Albania's oldest and most picturesque cities. Known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Berat offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It's history dates back over 2,400 years. Berat has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.

Free time for lunch in Berat.

Departure for Durres.

Durrës is one of Albania's oldest cities and a significant port located on the Adriatic coast. Known for its historical sites, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful beaches, Durrës is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Durrës Amphitheatre was built in the 2nd century AD during the Roman period, this is one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the Balkans. It could hold up to 20,000 spectators and is partially excavated, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient past.

Accommodation in hotel 4*. Dinner at the restaurant.

8- Day

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for airport.

End of service

This is a tour organized only for groups. It has a minimum of 20 people to get confirmed.