Small Group Tour of Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo & N. Macedonia

Discover the Balkans with a 5-Day Small Group Tour

This 5-day small group tour offers a comprehensive journey through Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia for $1,786 per person. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience promises an intimate exploration of key destinations like Kotor, Ohrid, Berat, and Prizren. The tour starts in Tirana, Albania, and includes private transportation, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and entry tickets to major sights, offering solid value for a multi-country adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who want an organized, cultural deep dive with a mix of UNESCO heritage sites and scenic views, though it involves some long days and walking.

While the tour covers a lot in just five days, it emphasizes highlights like Sveti Stefan, Kotor, and Ohrid, making it suitable for those with a keen interest in history, architecture, and Balkan landscapes. A proficient tour leader guides you through each destination, sharing stories and insights, with reviews praising their knowledge and friendly approach. The only consideration is the full itinerary, which includes some busy days and multiple stops, so travelers should be comfortable with a fast-paced schedule.

Key Points

• Includes UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Kotor and Ohrid
• Private transportation and hotel pick-up/drop-off in Tirana
• Visit multiple countries—Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia—within 5 days
• Maximum 10 travelers ensures an intimate group experience
• Guided visits to historic sites such as Rozafa Castle, Sinan Pasha Mosque, and Berat
• Cost is $1,786 per person, covering entrance fees and local taxes

Highlights of the Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo & North Macedonia Tour

Starting Point in Tirana with a Scenic Drive to Sveti Stefan

The tour begins in Tirana, with a hotel pick-up by the professional tour leader. The first scenic stop is near Sveti Stefan, a small island once a fishing town, now a private resort. While visitors can’t access the island, the coastal views offer excellent photo opportunities. This site provides a glimpse of Montenegro’s exclusive resorts and charming coastline.

Exploring Budva’s Old Town and Modern Streets

In Budva, the tour splits between the old town, with its cobbled streets, medieval churches, and St. Ivan and St. Mary sights, and the new part, featuring contemporary buildings, shopping malls, and cafes. The Old Budva offers a sense of history with its well-preserved architecture, making it a favorite spot for those interested in Balkan history and charm.

UNESCO UNESCO Site of Kotor and Its Medieval Charm

The UNESCO-listed city of Kotor stands out for its labyrinth of cobblestone streets and well-preserved fortifications. The city’s walls and buildings tell stories of past invaders and merchants. Visitors get an hour to wander, with plenty of plaques indicating the historical significance of various structures, making it a perfect stop for history buffs.

Visiting the Church of St. Luke in Kotor

A visit to Saint Luke’s Church reveals its importance to locals as a symbol of unity. The church’s architecture and interior reflect the historical layers of the city, and the guide shares stories behind this notable site.

The Albanian North-West: Shkodra and Rozafa Castle

In Shkodra, the tour explores one of Albania’s oldest cities, with roots stretching back over a thousand years. Key highlights include Rozafa Castle, offering panoramic views of Lake Shkodra and the confluence of rivers. The Venetian influence in Shkodra’s architecture and the chance to see handmade Venetian masks contribute to the city’s distinctive character, especially during February’s carnival.

Visiting the Balkans’ Top Agro-tourism Farm at Mrizi i Zanave

A highlight is the visit to Mrizi i Zanave, one of the best slow food farms in the Balkans. The farm showcases regional, bio-produced foods and explains how they create local jobs. Visitors have time for a traditional lunch or to purchase fresh products, adding a culinary dimension to the trip.

Cultural Capital Kosovo: Prizren’s Old Town and Fortress

Prizren combines history, culture, and lively streets. Its medieval houses, bridges, and rivers provide a picturesque setting. The Sinan Pasha Mosque offers insight into Ottoman architecture, while the Prizren Fortress affords spectacular views over the town. The city’s medieval charm is perfect for wandering and photography.

Kosovo’s Capital: Pristina’s Iconic Monuments

In Pristina, the Newborn monument signals Kosovo’s independence. The tour also passes Skanderberg Square, with its statue of the Albanian hero, and strolls along Sheshi Nena Tereza, a lively street with cafes. The short visit provides a glimpse of Kosovo’s modern identity and history.

North Macedonia’s Capital: Skopje’s Mix of Cultures

The visit to Skopje features iconic sights such as the Stone Bridge, Alexander the Great Statue, and the Old Bazaar—the largest in the Balkans. The art bridge and the mountain cross add visual appeal, while the city’s diverse influences from European, Ottoman, and Asian cultures shine through the architecture and street life.

The UNESCO Heritage City of Ohrid and Its Lake

Ohrid impresses with its UNESCO World Heritage status and ancient architecture. The city’s Orthodox monasteries and churches reflect its spiritual significance. Ohrid Lake, one of Europe’s oldest inhabited areas, provides stunning natural scenery, perfect for a relaxed exploration.

Berat: The Town of 1001 Windows

The final stop is Berat, a UNESCO site known for its medieval houses with steep roofs and numerous windows. The castle and old churches within the walls reveal a city that has preserved its history since Illyrian times. Walking its narrow stone streets offers a memorable glimpse into Albania’s ancient past.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs from Choose Balkans’ office in Tirana at 8:00 am and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. The package covers breakfast, entry tickets, tourist taxes, and transportation. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, fostering a friendly, small-group atmosphere.

Accommodation and Pricing

All overnight stays are in 3-star hotels with breakfast included. The price of $1,786.33 covers double occupancy, with a single room option available for an extra 45 Euros per night. The tour features private transportation, ensuring comfort and efficiency during long days of sightseeing.

Additional Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive itinerary, expect long days and multiple stops, which may be tiring for some. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with walking and fast-paced travel. Tips are not obligatory but are recommended for the tour leader and driver.

Why Choose This Balkan Tour?

This small group experience excels in covering key UNESCO sites and scenic locations across the Western Balkans in just five days. The knowledgeable guides share insights into the region’s history and culture, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and culture lovers. The inclusion of local food experiences, such as the agro-tourism farm, adds a culinary highlight.

However, the busy schedule and extensive travel mean that travelers should be prepared for some long days and early mornings. The limited group size enhances interaction and personalized attention, fostering a friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $1,786?
The price covers overnight accommodations, breakfast, private transportation, professional tour leader, hotel pickup and drop-off in Tirana, entry tickets to major sites, tourist taxes, insurance, and fuel.

Are lunches and dinners included?
No, lunches, dinners, drinks, and personal expenses are not included. Travelers should budget additional funds for meals and souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour involves some walking and long days, so it’s best suited for adults comfortable with active travel. No specific age restrictions are mentioned.

What language is the tour conducted in?
While not specified explicitly, it is led by a professional tour leader, likely speaking English.

Can I book a single room?
Yes, single occupancy is available for an extra 45 Euros per night.

How much free time is there during the tour?
Each day includes some free time for independent exploration, such as in Prizren and Skopje, especially in the afternoons.

What are the main highlights I should look forward to?
Expect to see UNESCO sites like Kotor and Ohrid, cenic views of Sveti Stefan, the medieval charm of Berat, and the cultural mix in Prizren and Skopje.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, making long drives manageable.

What makes this tour different from other Balkan excursions?
Its focus on UNESCO heritage sites, small group size, and multi-country coverage in just five days set it apart. It combines cultural history, scenic landscapes, and local food experiences efficiently.

This 5-day Balkan tour offers an economical, enriching way to explore some of the most fascinating parts of the region, blending history, culture, and stunning scenery into a manageable itinerary.