Around the lake Albania from Ohrid and Struga.

This full-day tour around Lake Ohrid offers a unique opportunity to explore both North Macedonia and neighboring Albania within 7.5 hours. Starting from Ohrid or Struga, the tour takes you on a complete lap of the lake, revealing its changing water colors and scenic beauty. A key highlight is the chance to visit Albania, a country that was once closed off under a strict regime, now open for visitors eager to see the contrasts between the two neighbors.

What truly sets this experience apart is the visit to Lin village, where you get a glimpse of traditional Albanian life, and the exploration of the Roman basilica with its breathtaking views. The tour also includes stops at bunkers built during Enver Hoxha’s regime, a photo opportunity at the prehistorical Bay of Bones, and a walk through Pogradec’s lively marketplace. With a rating of 4.4 from 20 reviews, this tour appeals to those interested in cultural discovery, scenic drives, and a taste of local life.

While the tour emphasizes highlights like homemade products and historical sites, some reviews suggest that adding activities such as a church visit or more extensive city tours could enhance the experience. Still, its well-organized stops, friendly guides, and flexible schedule make it a compelling choice for travelers who want a comprehensive lake exploration with a cultural twist.

Key Points

• Complete Lake Ohrid circumnavigation in one day, covering both North Macedonia and Albania.
• Visit the Albanian village of Lin, experiencing local life and exploring the Roman basilica with impressive views.
• See the bunkers built during Albania’s communist regime, now a popular photo spot.
• Enjoy a cultural walk in Pogradec, including the marketplace, town park, and boulevard.
• Tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with flexible pickup points and transportation in comfortable vehicles.
• Child and senior discounts are available, making it accessible for families and older travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Lake Ohrid and Albania’s Hidden Corners

This tour begins with a pick-up at one of 12 locations in Ohrid or Struga, ensuring easy access for most travelers. Once aboard a comfortable coach or van, the journey around the lake begins, offering stunning views of the water as it changes color during the drive. The tour includes a 1.5-hour stop in Lin, where a short walk reveals the village’s authentic Albanian way of life and offers the option to visit the ancient Roman basilica for those wishing to see a remarkable historical site perched with breathtaking vistas.

The next stop is at bunkers constructed during Enver Hoxha’s dictatorship, which provide striking visual insights into Albania’s recent past. The tour continues to Pogradec, a lively town on the lake’s eastern shore, where visitors can explore the local marketplace, stroll through the town park, and see statues along the boulevard. Here, guides share insights into the cultural differences between patriarchal and modern Albanian society.

Highlights of the Albanian Village of Lin

A visit to Lin is a core part of this experience, giving travelers a flavor of authentic Albanian rural life. The short walk through the village allows for photo stops and sightseeing, with the opportunity for a guided tour to learn about local customs and history. The Roman basilica nearby is noted for its astonishing views and historical significance, making it a memorable part of the trip.

Visiting the Communist Bunkers of Albania

The tour’s stop at bunkers is both visually striking and historically significant. These concrete structures stand as remnants of Albania’s dictatorial past under Enver Hoxha. Visitors appreciate the photo opportunities here, capturing the surreal landscape of hundreds of bunkers dotting the hillside, which tell stories of an era when Albania was highly isolated.

Pogradec: A Cultural and Market Experience

In Pogradec, the local market offers a lively atmosphere with homemade products and local crafts. The guided walk introduces visitors to cultural nuances, contrasting traditional patriarchal customs with the more modern aspects of Albanian life. The town park and statues provide pleasant spots for relaxations and photos, while free time allows for lunch and shopping—a great chance to sample regional specialties or pick up souvenirs.

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Bay of Bones: A Prehistoric Photo Stop

Before returning to Ohrid, the tour makes a photo stop at the Bay of Bones, a prehistoric site that provides striking views over the lake. This archaeological site adds a historical layer to the journey, with the lake’s changing water colors creating a beautiful backdrop for photos and reflections on the region’s ancient past.

Practical Logistics and Transport

The tour includes pickup at multiple locations with confirmation within 12 hours, ensuring flexible planning. Transportation is conducted in air-conditioned coaches or vans, depending on the group size. The transportation is designed to be comfortable, and the drop-off points are close to your accommodations or central locations in Ohrid and Struga.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This around-the-lake trip suits those interested in history, culture, and scenic drives. The duration of 7.5 hours offers a rundown without feeling rushed. The inclusion of local markets and historical sites satisfies travelers seeking authentic experiences. However, those expecting an extensive city tour or visits to churches might find the experience somewhat limited, as the focus is primarily on scenic and cultural highlights.

Final Thoughts on the Lake Ohrid and Albania Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, history, and culture, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting to see both North Macedonia and Albania in one day. The visits to Lin, the bunkers, and the Pogradec market provide engaging stops, and the views of Lake Ohrid are truly captivating.

While some might wish for more activities or deeper exploration, the organized stops and flexible schedule deliver a straightforward, enriching day. The child and senior discounts make it accessible for a wide audience, and guides provide insightful commentary throughout.

In short, this tour is a practical way to explore the region’s highlights with a focus on scenic views, local culture, and historical remnants. It’s well-suited for those keen to see Albania’s contrasts and experience the diversity of Lake Ohrid’s surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Are there any discounts available?
Yes, child and senior discounts are offered, making the tour more accessible for families and older travelers.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in a comfortable vehicle, a guide speaking English or Dutch (upon request), and pickup and drop-off at designated locations.

Are meals included?
No, additional food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, are not included. There is time for lunch in Pogradec.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Lin village, the bunkers, Pogradec’s marketplace, and a photo stop at Bay of Bones.

How do I meet the guide?
You can choose from 12 pickup points in Ohrid and Struga, with confirmation within 12 hours of booking and instructions via WhatsApp.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need a passport or ID?
Yes, travelers must bring a passport or valid ID card for crossing the border into Albania.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, with child discounts and a mix of scenic and cultural stops, it caters well to families.

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