The Soul of Albania: From Stone Cities to Sapphire Seas

Upon arrival at Tirana International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your private driver and transferred comfortably to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax after your journey or to begin discovering Tirana’s lively atmosphere at your own pace, from its colorful streets and cozy cafés to its modern, youthful energy. Overnight in Tirana at Destiny Hotel & Spa (or similar). 

After breakfast, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby, and we begin your Albanian adventure with a tour of Tirana. We visit the House of Leaves Museum, a fascinating insight into the country’s Cold War history, followed by Bunk’Art 2, an underground museum that brings the communist era to life through its immersive exhibits. We then journey toward Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage city known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” Along the way, we admire the changing landscapes before arriving in this enchanting riverside town. Lunch is served at Restaurant Klea (or similar), where you’ll enjoy authentic Albanian dishes prepared with local ingredients. In the afternoon, we explore Berat Castle, a remarkable fortress overlooking the Osum River, and continue through the Mangalem and Gorica quarters, where Ottoman-era houses and cobblestone alleys reflect centuries of history and charm. Overnight in Berat at Portik Hotel (or similar). 

After breakfast, we leave Berat and travel south toward Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its stone architecture and hilltop castle. Along the way, we pause in Tepelena at the renowned Uji i Ftohtë, where natural springs emerge from the mountains, and enjoy a coffee while admiring the peaceful surroundings and fresh mountain air. Upon arriving in Gjirokastra, we savor a traditional Albanian lunch in the charming old town. Afterward we explore Gjirokastra Castle, perched high above the city with panoramic views of the valley below. We then wander the historic stone streets, lined with distinctive stone-roofed Ottoman houses, and explore the bustling old bazaar, immersing ourselves in the vibrant local culture. The evening is at leisure to relax or take a peaceful stroll through the town. Overnight in Gjirokastra at Hotel Kalemi (or similar). 

After breakfast at the hotel, we start ou journey toward the coast. We first visit the Blue Eye, a natural spring where crystal-clear turquoise waters bubble from a deep cavern. This is a perfect spot to pause and soak in nature’s beauty. From there, we continue to Ksamil, where lunch is served at Guvat Bar Restaurant (or similar), offering fresh seafood beside the sparkling Ionian Sea and a chance to soak in the seaside atmosphere. In the afternoon, we explore Butrint National Archaeological Park, an ancient city layered with Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian history. We wander among the ruins, amphitheaters, and temples, while the peaceful wetlands and calm marshes surrounding the site create a serene backdrop. The day concludes in Saranda, where we enjoy dinner at Lekursi Castle Restaurant (or similar), with breathtaking panoramic views over the coastline. Overnight in Saranda at Demi Hotel (or similar). 

We depart after breakfast along the stunning Albanian Riviera, stopping at Porto Palermo to explore Ali Pasha Castle, perched dramatically on a small peninsula. We continue to Vlora, the city of Albanian independence, and have lunch at a local restaurant, tasting regional specialties. In the afternoon, we visit the Zvernec Lagoon and cross the charming wooden bridge to reach the St. Mary Monastery, a tranquil sanctuary peacefully nestled in the heart of the lagoon. The evening is free to enjoy Vlore’s coastal charm at your own pace. Overnight in Vlore at Regina City Hotel & SPA (or similar). 

After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and drive to the Apollonia Archaeological Park, where we explore the ancient Greek and Roman ruins of the city. We wander among its historic columns, amphitheaters, and temples, taking in the serene olive groves and rolling hills that surround the site. Next, we continue to Tirana for lunch at Era Vila (or similar), enjoying a variety of traditional Albanian “meze” dishes that showcase local flavors. In the afternoon, we discover the city’s highlights, strolling through Skanderbeg Square, exploring the lively Blloku District, admiring the historic Et’hem Beu Mosque, browsing the colorful stalls of the Old Bazaar, and taking in the unique architecture of the Tirana Pyramid. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner at Jarna Restaurant (or similar), celebrating the journey and reflecting on our experiences. Overnight in Tirana at Destiny Hotel & Spa (or similar). 

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning before your private transfer to Tirana International Airport, concluding your Albanian adventure smoothly and comfortably.