RED LINE: VIP daily tour with SUV: Vlore-Gjirokaster-Permet

Discover the vibrant landscapes and historic sites of southern Albania on the VIP daily tour with SUV offered by AIDA VOYAGER. Starting from Vlora, this 12-hour guided excursion takes you through Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, onward to the thermal waters of Benja Baths near Permet, with additional stops in Kelcyre and Këlcyrë. This tour combines cultural exploration, relaxation in natural hot springs, and scenic drives, making it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive day trip.

With a small group limit of 10 participants, the experience remains personal and relaxed, with guides speaking multiple languages including English, Italian, French, and Albanian. The tour’s high praise from travelers, who highlight the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious local food, underscores its quality. However, it involves moderate walking and is not suited for those with mobility issues. This tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, nature, and culture for curious travelers eager to explore Albania’s highlights.

Key Points

• Guided VIP tour in a comfortable SUV from Vlora to remarkable sites in southern Albania.
• Includes visits to UNESCO-listed Gjirokaster, with time for exploring its cobblestone streets and castle.
• Relaxation at Benja Thermal Baths, known for their therapeutic waters amid mountain scenery.
• Traditional Albanian lunch in Permet, featuring local specialties like gliko and raki.
• Multiple stops in scenic towns such as Kelcyre and Këlcyrë, with a coffee break at waterfalls.
• Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure and Transport Logistics

The tour departs early from Vlorë, allowing ample time to explore. The journey involves van transfers totaling approximately 4 hours across the day, with the entire itinerary designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a manageable pace. Travelers should be ready 10 minutes before pickup at their hotel lobby and wear comfortable walking shoes for exploration.

Visiting Gjirokaster: The UNESCO “City of Stone”

Arriving in Gjirokaster, the tour guides lead a guided tour through its cobbled streets and historic district. The highlight is the Gjirokaster Castle, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings, and the Ethnographic Museum housed in the former home of dictator Enver Hoxha. Visitors appreciate the chance to shop for handmade crafts in the Old Bazaar, which adds a personal touch to the visit.

Relaxing at Benja Thermal Baths

After exploring Gjirokaster, the tour moves to the thermal baths of Bënja near Përmet. The natural hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic waters and surrounding mountain scenery. Visitors can enjoy a soak in the warm waters, with views of the Langarica Canyon and the Ottoman stone bridge nearby. The baths offer a chance to unwind before the afternoon activities.

Lunch in Permet: Tasting Local Flavors

The traditional lunch in Permet emphasizes local Albanian dishes and specialties like gliko (fruit preserves) and përmet’s renowned raki. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty provide an authentic setting for a memorable meal. The lunch complements the cultural theme of the tour and offers a taste of regional cuisine.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Coffee Break in Kelcyre

After lunch, the tour makes a brief stop in Këlcyrë, famous for the Vjosa River waterfalls. Here, travelers enjoy a coffee break surrounded by serene nature, offering a relaxed moment before returning to Vlora. The stop provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Albania’s lush landscapes.

Return Journey and Final Relaxation

The trip concludes with a scenic drive back to Vlora, arriving around 7:30 PM. Travelers can opt for a light dinner in town or a leisurely stroll along the Vlorë promenade to end the day. The relaxed pace and beautiful scenery make the return enjoyable and stress-free.

Suitability and Practical Tips

This tour suits travelers interested in culture, history, and nature, with moderate walking involved, so wear comfortable shoes. It is not recommended for visitors with mobility impairments. Tourists should bring swimwear for the thermal baths and a camera to capture scenic moments. The small group size ensures personal attention, while the multilingual guides make communication effortless.

Why Choose This Tour: Strengths and Considerations

The high ratings and positive reviews reflect the expertise of the guides, notably Kleard and Gladiola, whose friendly manner and local knowledge enhance the experience. The beautiful landscapes and historic sites like Gjirokaster Castle provide a memorable backdrop. Travelers praise the delicious local food and the well-paced itinerary.

However, the tour involves long drives and some walking. It is designed for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and outdoor activities. The availability of free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure** offers flexibility for spontaneous plans.

Final Thoughts on the Vlora-Gjirokaster-Permet Tour

This VIP day trip offers a comprehensive introduction to southern Albania, blending cultural discovery, natural relaxation, and scenic drives in a single day. The small group size and multilingual guides ensure a personalized, engaging experience. While it involves some physical activity and a full schedule, it provides great value for travelers seeking to see Albania’s highlights without the hassle of independent planning.

Suitable for history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies, this tour delivers a satisfying mix of sights and experiences. The combination of UNESCO sites, thermal baths, and charming towns makes it an appealing choice for those wanting to explore Albania’s diverse landscape and cultural richness in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The tour covers transportation in a VIP SUV, guides speaking multiple languages, visits to Gjirokaster, thermal baths, lunch, and coffee breaks.

How long is the drive from Vlora to Gjirokaster?
The drive from Vlora to Gjirokaster takes approximately 2.5 hours each way.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, there is moderate walking during the guided tours and exploring the sites, especially within Gjirokaster and the thermal baths.

Can I bring swimwear for the thermal baths?
Absolutely, swimwear is recommended to enjoy the hot springs comfortably.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Albanian, English, Italian, and French.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
This tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking involved and the nature of the locations.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby