Albania’s Most Iconic Cities: A Journey Through History and Culture

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Krujë (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes). This town, rich in history, is famous for its Old Bazaar and the impressive Krujë Castle—a symbol of Albania's resistance during the Ottoman period. Enjoy lunch in Krujë, followed by an afternoon journey to Berat (around 1 hour and 45 minutes). Berat is a charming historic city in southern Albania, renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and scenic hillside views. Known as the "City of one above the other Window," Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient castle, historic mosques, and beautiful riverside setting. Once there, we’ll check in to our hotel and settle in. We will enjoy dinner in Berat, with an option to dine at the Berat Castle for a truly magical experience.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before we head to Berat Castle a stunning medieval fortress in southern Albania, perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the town and the Osum River, one of Albania’s most iconic landmarks. Berat Castle is known for its well-preserved structures and ancient walls, it houses several churches and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. Following our visit, we’ll make our way to Përmet, a beautiful town nestled in southern Albania (about 2 hours’ drive). After arriving, you’ll have some free time to explore the town at your leisure. Lunch in Përmet will showcase the region’s delightful traditional flavors. In the evening, indulge in a traditional live music dinner, where you can enjoy local delicacies accompanied by folk tunes.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll drive to Benjë, just 30 minutes away, where you can relax and bathe in the famous Thermal Springs, known for their healing properties. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, the warm, mineral-rich waters offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience. Next, we’ll enjoy lunch in the Kelcyra Gorge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, we will continue our journey to Gjirokastra, often called the "City of Stone," (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes). The city is a UNESCO World Heritage, known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, cobbled streets, and striking stone houses. After checking in to your hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the historic town. Later, we will gather for dinner in the city, and spend some leisure time at Qafa e Pazarit, which is a lively, historic square that offers a vibrant atmosphere with traditional Albanian shops, cafes, and local markets. Set in the heart of the UNESCO-listed town, it provides a perfect blend of cultural heritage and modern charm.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will explore the Argjiro Castle and the charming old town. We will also visit the house of Ismail Kadare, Albania’s renowned writer, before enjoying a traditional lunch in the city. In the afternoon, we’ll journey towards Saranda (about 1 hour and 15 minutes), a beautiful coastal city located along the Ionian Sea, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel. In the evening, we’ll head to Lekursi Castle perched on a hill above Saranda,  which offers panoramic views of the city, the Ionian Sea, and the Greek island of Corfu. There you can enjoy an atmospheric dinner with live music, offering both amazing views and a lively ambiance.

After a breakfast at the hotel, we’ll drive to the UNESCO-listed Butrint archaeological site (30 minutes from Saranda), one of the most significant historical landmarks in Albania. Our tour here will last about 2 hours, where you’ll explore the ruins of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Following the visit, we’ll head to Ksamil, a picturesque coastal village in southern Albania, famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, a popular destination for relaxation, swimming, and exploring nearby small islands.Here we will enjoy a relaxing lunch and some time at the beach. We will return to Saranda for dinner, trying some of the finest seafood in the area.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll embark on a coastal journey to Vlora. Along the way, we’ll stop at Qeparo, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy a lunch and the beach (optional). Next, we’ll explore the Ali Pasha Tepelena Castle in Porto Palermo (15 minutes from Qeparo), an impressive fortification with stunning views of the Ionian Sea. We will continue our drive to Vlora, where we’ll check in to the hotel. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the Lungomare, a lively seaside promenade, with the sound of the waves in the background.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll travel to Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital (about 1 hour and 40 minutes). Once there, you will check into your hotel, followed by an afternoon sightseeing tour of the city’s major attractions. In the evening, we’ll have a traditional festive dinner, where you can savor the best of Albanian cuisine and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the capital.

After your final breakfast at the hotel, we’ll take you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of this unforgettable Albanian adventure.