Small Group Tour Albania, N. Macedonia & Greece from Tirana

Explore the Balkans on a 7-Day Small Group Tour from Tirana

This 7-day small group tour from Tirana offers a detailed journey through the Balkans, covering Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece for $2,112 per person. Participants are guided to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, charming towns, and impressive monasteries, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to experience the region’s history, culture, and scenic beauty.

The tour features visits to Ohrid, Berat, Gjirokaster, Ioannina, and Meteora, with a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and stunning landscapes. The journey concludes in Kalabaka, with optional drop-offs in Athens or Corfu, including ferry tickets. This tour suits those who appreciate organized travel with quality accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on UNESCO-listed sites, though it involves some travel between destinations and moderate walking.

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Key Points

• 7-day journey through Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece starting from Tirana
• Visits UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Ohrid and Gjirokaster
• Explore mountain monasteries of Meteora and historic towns like Berat and Gjirokaster
• Includes breakfast daily and hotel accommodations in 3-star hotels
• Ferry tickets included for travel to Corfu or Athens at the end
• Led by professional tour guides with private transportation throughout

Visiting Tirana’s Cultural Highlights and Bunkart Museum

The tour begins in Tirana, where a local guide offers a unique city exploration. Travelers enjoy tasting Byrek, experiencing Albanian coffee culture, and sitting down for a traditional Albanian lunch. An important stop is BUNKART, a museum that sheds light on Albania’s history with a focus on its underground bunkers. This introduction provides context and background to the country’s recent past, making Tirana more meaningful before heading into the wider Balkans.

Overnight stays are in Tirana, giving travelers the chance to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere before venturing further.

Cross into North Macedonia: Struga and Ohrid

On Day 2, the journey continues into North Macedonia, with a quick visit to Struga. Here, travelers can admire the source of the Drini River, one of the longest rivers in the Western Balkans. A brief stop offers a chance to enjoy a refreshing drink and take in the scenic surroundings.

Next, the group heads to Ohrid, a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is famous for its historic architecture and lakeside views, offering a captivating atmosphere. The visit to St. Naum monastery, situated at the source of Lake Ohrid, allows travelers to see a holy site with picturesque surroundings. Crossing the border into Albania to visit Tushemisht adds a cultural layer before arriving in Berat.

Discovering Berat: The Town of 1001 Windows

Berat is celebrated for its medieval architecture and narrow stone streets. Known as the Town of 1001 Windows, it features old houses with distinctive windows that seem to pile onto each other. Walking through these streets, travelers experience a medieval ambiance and gain insight into Albanian history. The highlight here is the UNESCO-listed old town, where medieval houses and fortifications create a captivating scene.

An overnight stay in Berat provides ample time to explore this historical hub and appreciate its unique charm.

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From Berat to Gjirokaster: The Stone City

The tour advances to Gjirokaster, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated on the eastern side of Mali i Gjere mountain, Gjirokaster is famed for its stone houses and hilltop fortress. Its traditional architecture and historic streets create an authentic experience. This Stone City offers sweeping views and a chance to understand Albania’s rural heritage.

Spending the night in Gjirokaster, travelers can enjoy a relaxed exploration of the town’s museum districts and cultural sites.

The Journey to Greece: Ioannina and Meteora

On Day 6, the trip crosses into Greece, with a stop in Ioannina. Known for its rich history and lake views, Ioannina features historic sites such as Kastro (castle), and offers a glimpse into Greece’s cultural mix.

The group then visits the monasteries of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The dramatic cliffs and monastic complexes perched atop rock formations provide some of the most stunning vistas in Greece. Visitors often cite the spectacular sunsets here as a memorable highlight. The overnight stay in Kalabaka allows for a relaxed exploration of this spectacular landscape.

Final Day: From Meteora to Athens or Corfu

On the tour’s last day, participants transfer from Kalabaka to either Athens or Igoumenitsa Port for onward travel. The ferry tickets to Corfu are included for those choosing the latter. The end of the journey marks an opportunity for travelers to reflect on the diverse history, landscapes, and cultures experienced over the seven days.

This final transfer wraps up the adventure, offering options to continue exploring Greece’s mainland or islands.

Practical Details and Included Amenities

The tour includes accommodation in 3-star hotels with breakfast provided each morning. Transportation is handled via private vehicles, ensuring comfort and efficiency across all stops. A professional tour leader accompanies the group, providing clear explanations and cultural context.

Entry tickets to all visited sites, tourist taxes, road taxes, and international car insurance are all covered, simplifying logistics and budgeting. The hotel drop-off in Athens or drop-off at Igoumenitsa Port with ferry tickets to Corfu makes ending the tour flexible for travelers.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers comprehensive sightseeing, it does involve moderate walking in historic towns and sites. Comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain and site access limitations. Travelers should also remember they are responsible for own health and travel insurance.

The group size is kept small or private, allowing for a more intimate experience, but this also means availability can fill quickly. Flexibility in payment is offered with the option to reserve now and pay later, which is helpful for planning.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This 7-day Balkan exploration provides a well-rounded itinerary with UNESCO heritage sites, charming towns, and breathtaking landscapes. The inclusion of ferry tickets, local guides, and quality accommodations creates a smooth travel experience. The journey’s focus on UNESCO sites like Ohrid and Meteora ensures travelers encounter some of the most significant cultural landmarks in the region.

Most notably, the expert guides and stunning vistas at Meteora are often highlighted as memorable parts of this tour. The ability to explore multiple countries in one organized trip offers excellent value for those seeking an immersive Balkan adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this Balkan tour?
The tour costs $2,112 per person, covering all accommodations, transport, site tickets, and ferry rides.

How long is the tour?
It spans 7 days, with starting times available upon checking availability.

What sites are included in this itinerary?
Travelers visit Ohrid, Berat, Gjirokaster, Ioannina, and Meteora, along with Tirana’s BUNKART museum and other cultural highlights.

Are meals included?
Only breakfast is included; lunches, dinners, drinks, and snacks are not covered.

What’s the typical group size?
Small groups or private tours are available, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a passport or ID card are essential, as well as any personal travel documents.

Is there any physical requirement for this tour?
The tour involves some walking in historic sites, so travelers should be able to manage moderate activity; it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, participants are responsible for their own health and travel insurance.

What languages are used during the tour?
The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring smooth communication.

How do I end my trip?
Participants are dropped off in Athens or at Igoumenitsa Port, with ferry tickets to Corfu included for those continuing on to the Greek islands.

This detailed 7-day Balkan adventure offers an enriching mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery, ideal for travelers ready to explore this fascinating region with expert guidance and comfort.

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