Discover the Best of Albania: 7 Days of Highlights & Hidden Gems

Discover the Best of Albania: 7 Days of Highlights & Hidden Gems offers a flexible, personalized way to explore Albania’s diverse landscapes and historic sites. Priced at $196.05 per person, this tour spans approximately 10 days and is perfect for travelers seeking an independent yet guided experience. Known for its high ratings of 5.0 out of 5 based on 25 reviews, this tour is highly recommended, with 100% of participants endorsing it. Booking occurs on average 32 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity and the need for early planning.

What sets this tour apart is its customizable nature. Starting from either Tirana or Saranda, travelers select from a list of options to craft their ideal itinerary, with transfers included. The tour features private transportation and a local guide, ensuring a tailored experience. Additional options include lunch and activities, which can be added for extra enjoyment. With group discounts and a mobile ticket, this experience combines flexibility with convenience, making it suitable for individuals, couples, or small groups.

Key Points

• Flexible, customizable itinerary starting from Tirana or Saranda
• All transfers included, eliminating transportation worries
• Expert local guides lead you through Albania’s diverse highlights
• Optional upgrades for meals and activities enhance the experience
• Private tours ensure personalized attention and comfort
• Affordable price point of $196.05, with most bookings made 32 days early

Starting Point Options in Tirana and Saranda

This tour begins at convenient locations in Tirana or Saranda, with pickup offered to streamline the start of your journey. If needed, additional charges apply for transportation from other locations, simplifying logistics for travelers arriving in Albania. The tour’s private transportation makes moving between the stops comfortable and efficient, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without hassle.

The flexibility to choose your starting point means you can tailor the trip to your arrival plans or preferences. Whether arriving directly in Tirana or staying in Saranda, travelers gain easy access to Albania’s most captivating sites.

Exploring Kruje and Durres on Day 1

The tour kicks off with Kruje, a historic town where the old Bazaar is a highlight—selling traditional and handmade souvenirs. The walk through the town takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, and admission is free, making it a low-pressure start to the adventure.

Next, the group visits Durres, a city that was Albania’s capital a century ago. The walk around Durres offers scenic views of the old city, with 50 minutes allocated for exploration. As an ancient city with limited remaining structures, Durres provides a glimpse into Albania’s past without overwhelming history overload.

Finally, in Tirana, visitors see the Skanderbeg Square, Toptani castle, and the artificial lake. Over 2 hours 20 minutes, these highlights showcase the city’s blend of history and modern life. All sites are free to visit, making this introductory day both affordable and engaging.

Day 2: Visiting Shkodra, Lezhe, and Kruje’s Historic Sites

The second day focuses on Shkodra, home to the Rozafa Castle and Shkodra Lake. The 2 hours 30 minutes spent here include exploring the castle, which offers stunning views and a chance to learn about local legends. The lake adds a peaceful backdrop and photo opportunities, providing a relaxed yet enriching experience.

Next, the tour visits Lezhe at Mrizi i Zanave, a site dedicated to green tourism. This stop lasts 50 minutes and emphasizes Albania’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism.

In the afternoon, Kruje—the birthplace of Albania’s national hero—is explored again. The Ottoman market and the castle are key attractions, with a total of 3 hours 20 minutes allocated. The visit allows for walking through cobbled streets and absorbing the local atmosphere, with no entrance fees.

Day 3: From Durres to Berat and Tirana

The third day returns to Durres for another walk through the city, highlighting its historical legacy, with 2 hours dedicated to exploring.

The focus then shifts to Berat, often called the City of a Thousand Windows. The Berat Castle, atop a hill, offers sweeping views and is more than 2,000 years old. Walking through the cobblestone streets between traditional houses provides a picturesque scene. The admission fee is included, and 3 hours 40 minutes are set aside for this visit. Local food, including Raki, is highly praised, adding to the authentic experience.

The day concludes back in Tirana with a 4-hour exploration of the stone city, characterized by its cobbled streets and welcoming atmosphere, all free to walk through.

Day 4: Exploring Vlore and the Llogara National Park

In Vlore, the tour takes in The City of Independence, where Albania’s flag was first raised by Ismail Qemali. The city’s scenic beauty is a highlight, with 2 hours allocated for sightseeing.

A visit to Zvërnec Monastery offers a peaceful, spiritual experience, with 50 minutes dedicated to viewing the monastery’s architecture and surroundings.

The day’s most breathtaking view comes from Llogara National Park, specifically the Llogara Valley. Standing amidst mountains and the sea, visitors enjoy a 1-hour stop to take in the awe-inspiring landscape, perfect for photography and soaking in natural beauty.

Day 5: The Blue Eye and Gjirokaster’s Cultural Riches

Blue Eye, a natural water spring with crystal-clear water, is a major highlight. The 1-hour visit features approximately 18 water springs, with the most attractive one drawing attention for its vibrant, blue color.

Next, Gjirokaster—the City of a Thousand Stairs—offers several attractions: Argjiro Castle, Old Bazaar, the museum, and the Skenduli house. Visitors spend about 4 hours exploring the historical sites and enjoying a traditional lunch with a local family, which provides insight into Albanian lifestyle. The admission is free.

The afternoon includes a visit to Ksamil, a set of small islands often called the Ionian Pearl, with a 1-hour stop to enjoy the beach and scenic views. The day ends with Saranda, where Lekursi Castle and the city provide a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 6: Discovering Korça, Voskopoje, and Pogradec

The southeastern part of Albania is highlighted today, starting with Korce. The city’s Old Bazaar and the Cathedral are key sites, and Korça beer is noted as particularly good. The 3 hours 20 minutes allow for a thorough look at local culture.

Nearby, Voskopoje impresses with its traditional foods and homemade drinks. The 2 hours 10 minutes here include tasting local cuisine and exploring the town’s charming streets.

In Pogradec, the Drilon National Park and the village of Tushemisht are the final stops, each offering scenic views and a peaceful vibe. This section lasts 50 minutes.

Day 7: Gjirokaster and Këlcyrë’s Natural Wonders

Returning to Gjirokaster, the UNESCO heritage site, visitors can explore the fortress, bazaar, and museums again, with 3 hours 20 minutes allocated.

The tour then moves to Këlcyrë, famous for the Vjosa River and its dramatic canyons. The 50-minute stop allows for brief sightseeing of this striking landscape.

The day concludes with a visit to Bënjë Thermal Baths, where relaxing in natural thermal waters is the perfect way to unwind. This activity takes 2 hours.

Days 8-10: Revisiting the Blue Eye, Saranda, and Bënjë’s Baths

The final days repeat some of the earlier highlights, emphasizing the Blue Eye with a 50-minute visit showcasing its crystal waters.

Gjirokaster is revisited, with a focus on the castle, museum, and Ottoman bazaar—spending nearly 4 hours 10 minutes exploring.

Bënjë Thermal Baths and Kelcyre’s Vjosa River are also included again, with respective durations of 2 hours and 20 minutes. These stops highlight Albania’s natural relaxation spots surrounded by striking scenery.

Personal Guides and Tour Experience

The tour is led by Ari and Valentina, who are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate approach to guiding. Their storytelling enhances the experience, making historical and cultural sites come alive. The small group size (maximum 4 travelers) ensures plenty of personalized attention and flexibility.

The private guide and local insights are key strengths, and the free cancellation policy adds reassurance. Snacks, bottled water, and fruits are provided, with optional traditional lunch available for an extra fee.

Final Thoughts on the Albania Tour Experience

This 7-day tour offers a comprehensive way to see Albania’s highlights and lesser-known treasures at a very reasonable price. The customizable itinerary allows for a tailored experience, whether you prefer cultural exploration, natural beauty, or a mix of both.

The expert guidance, combined with private transportation and flexible stops, makes the tour comfortable and engaging. With top ratings and glowing reviews, it’s clear that the tour’s focus on authentic experiences and personalized attention resonates well with travelers.

While the itinerary covers a lot, the tour’s small group size and flexibility are ideal for those who want a more intimate, curated journey through Albania. It’s especially suited to independent travelers who enjoy a guided framework but also value customization and local insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, private transportation is included throughout the tour.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is customizable, allowing you to select stops and add optional lunch and activities.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 4 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Most stops, such as Berat Castle and the Blue Eye, have free admission, but some activities like thermal baths may be free as well—check specific stops.

Is pickup offered from my location?
Pickup is offered from Tirana and Saranda. Additional charges apply if pickup from other locations is needed.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long are the stops at major sites?
Stops vary from about 50 minutes to over 4 hours, depending on the location and activity.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most stops involve walking on cobbled streets or gentle exploration, suitable for most, but consider your mobility for uneven surfaces.

Are meals included?
Lunch is optional and paid separately; snacks and drinks are provided during the day.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The customization, small group size, expert guides, and reasonably priced package make this tour a standout choice for exploring Albania.

This detailed review captures what makes Discover the Best of Albania an appealing, flexible, and enriching way to see Albania’s highlights and secret corners with comfort and expert guidance.