If you’ve ever envisioned exploring a country where azure beaches coexist with snow-peaked mountains, where past lives in every stone road, and where hospitality equals home, Albania awaits. With its unspoiled nature, centuries-old heritage, and Mediterranean heart, this tiny Balkan country has some of Europe’s most intriguing travel experiences.
Below you’ll find the Top 5 multi-day tours designed to help you experience the very best of Albania, from North to South, in every season.
North & South Albania in 5 Days
Perfect for travelers who want a complete yet compact journey, the North & South Albania in 5 Days tour is a brilliant way to capture the essence of the country in just under a week.
Day 1: Kruja and Shkodra
Kick off with a scenic visit to lovely Kruja to see historic sites related to national hero Skanderbeg. Walk through the castle and museum to hear stories from Albania’s historic past. Next, continue to Shkodra, the lovely northern city sitting on the Lake Shkodra, with the Rozafa Castle in the background. The first day will feature strolling through old, scenic streets and a lovely traditional dinner.
Day 2: Theth Village, and the Albanian Alps
Explore into the Albanian Alps and visit the lovely site of Theth Village. The scenery includes picturesque waterfalls along the pristine and raw nature. The mountain views and stone houses are striking.
Day 3: Belshi and Berat
The tranquil lakes of Belsh creates a peaceful landscape, and then visit Berat, the famed “city of a thousand windows.” Wander the Mangalem quarter of the old town and explore the Berat Castle for a fully engaged experience in history.
Day 4: Gjirokastra and Saranda
Next is the museum-city of Gjirokastra with cobblestone streets and stone homes, and then finish in Saranda, as one of the many cities on the Albanian Coast of the Ionian Sea. The mix of views from the sea and the beach life creates culture and relaxation.
Day 5: Ksamil and the Albanian Riviera
Conclude your journey in Ksamil, known for its clear blue waters and little islands. Spend some time lounging on the unspoiled beaches and visiting the interesting area around the coastline. The Albanian Riviera features breathtaking scenery and quaint towns and is a great place to rejuvenate before your journey ends.
Full Albanian experience: A 10 Day Tour
Day 1: Kruja and Shkodra
Your ten-day Albania Experience begins in the town of Kruja and the city of Shkodra. Explore the old bazaar located in Kruja, which is home to a number of artifacts and specialty shops. Explore the impressive Kruja Castle. Travel to Shkodra and visit Rozafa Castle and walk the charming streets of this northern city. On your first day you will be introduced to authentic Albanian food and hospitality.
Day 2: Theth Village and the Albanian Alps
Explore Theth Village and the Alpine region of Albania, fill your day with waterfalls, a mountain landscape, and granite houses. You will gain an experience of peace and the ability to connect with nature, far removed from the distractions of life.
Day 3: Komani Lake and Shala River
Experience Komani Lake in a small boat. Komani Lake is well known for fjords and jaw dropping landscape views. After your boat ride you will venture upstream on the Shala River. The Shala River is hemmed in by mountains and the waters are an emerald green, scenic in every direction. It should come as no surprise if you spend almost all of your time taking photos.
Day 4: Tirana – E-Bike tour and BUNK’ART 1
Travel by electric bike throughout the capital city, and then into locals-only important zones, seeing all the major landmarks and fun areas along the way. You will stop by BUNK’ART 1, an underground museum which educates visitors about Albania’s communist period. You will see Tirana, it’s many parks and unique blend of history, art, and urban modern life.
Day 5: Berat city and local winery tour
Today you will visit Berat, with its steep hillside village, experience historic quarters with a visit to Berat’s Castle. After touring the historic area, enjoy a visit to a local winery for tasting sessions.
Day 6: Apollonia and Gjirokastra
Discover the ancient remains of the Apollonia, a city with a Greek and Roman past. Continue on to Gjirokastra to experience its status as a museum-city, the houses from its Ottoman era, and the city’s historic castle. This day is a combination of archaeology and cultural discovery.
Day 7: Rafting in the Vjosa River and Thermal Baths in Permet
Experience some adventure with the exciting rafting on the Vjosa River while taking in very scenic landscapes. Once you finish the activity, you will relax in the thermal baths of Permet, taking in the warm and lovely water and ambiance.
Day 8: The Blue Eye of Saranda
Gaze at The Blue Eye, a captivating natural spring with spectacular blue, clear waters. Nothing beats walking the nearby forest trails or just soaking in the view of this special natural treasure. Plan some time to sit back and absorb the area’s peaceful ambiance.
Day 9: Ksamil Islands and the Albanian Riviera
Explore the always stunning Ksamil Islands, swim in the turquoise sea, and relax on incredible beaches. Then continue your journey along the Albanian Rivera by stopping at beautiful coastal towns and amazing landscapes.
Day 10: Back to Tirana
Travel back to Tirana, taking time along the way to stop at vantage points or local highlights. Reflect on the varying landscapes, astonishing history, and incredible experiences you’ve come across over the past ten days.
Day 1: Kruja and Shkoder
Experience the beauty of Kruja and Shkoder, seeing the castles, museums, and local outdoor markets. Immerse yourself in the delightful customs of the culture and traditions of Northern Albania.
Day 2: Theth Village and the Albanian Alps
Spend the day at the village of Theth, and in the Albanian Alps. Hike to the waterfalls, walk through traditional stone houses, and relax in the peaceful mountains.
Day 3: Komani Lake and Shala River
Enjoy a relaxing boat trip over Komani Lake, and hiking on the lovely valley of Shala River. The emerald water and steep cliffs are ideal for taking photographs and enjoying nature.
Day 4: Berat and Local Winery
Stroll the historic city of Berat, and the picturesque quaint street of Mangalem and Gorica. Attend a wine tasting in a local winery to learn about their wine making tradition.
Day 5: Apollonia and Gjirokastra
Explore the ancient archaeological site of Apollonia, and then continue to Gjirokastra. Walk through the old stone houses and cobbled streets and visit the old castle to complete your day’s cultural experience.
Day 6: Rafting adventure in the Vjosa River and Thermal Bathing
Partake in a thrilling rafting expedition on the majestic Vjosa River. Follow this with a soothing thermal bath in a natural outdoor bathing source in Permet with unspoiled environments abound.
Day 7: The Blue Eye and the Islands of Ksamil
Go to the stunningly beautiful spring, called the Blue Eye, and end a day at the islands of Ksamil for swimming or snorkelling.
Day 8 – Albanian Riviera
On your last day, experience the Albanian Riviera and its beaches, coastal towns, and delicious food. Your adventure will end with a relaxing day and beautiful views of the coastline.
Day 1 – Kruja and Shkodra
You will start your journey to northern Albania in the town of Kruja and Shkodra. Visit the Kruja Castle and the old bazaar before proceeding to Shkodra, where you will walk up to the Rozafa Castle and explore the lovely little town.
Day 2 – Theth and the Albanian Alps
On the second day of you are in the mountain town of Theth and exploring waterfalls, trails, and traditional stone houses. Nature is all around you, and the atmosphere is calm and peaceful in the Alps.
Day 3 – Komani Lake and Shala River
Finally, you will take a boat ride on Komani Lake along the Shala River valley. The emerald color of the water, steep and rugged cliffs rising above you, and thriving nature are magical. You will finish your quick adventure in northern Albania.
Visit the Balkans in 3 Days
Day 1: Enter North Macedonia
Cross into North Macedonia, visiting the evocative lakeside city of Ohrid. Steeped in history, Ohrid’s quaint streets and ancient churches, lakeside promenade, and old bazaar charm visitors.
Day 2: The Capitals – Skopje & Pristina
Innovatively revamped architecture from both Ottoman and modern eras define Skopje – from the Stone Bridge, to the Alexander the Great monument, to the national museum. Proceed to Pristina, walking down Mother Teresa Boulevard and enjoying a Kosovar meal.
Day 3: The Cultural Capitals – Prizren & Kruja
The culturally rich Prizren houses an old fortress, bridges, and cobbled streets. Then, you will finish your visit with Kroja, Albania, exploring the castle, the bazaar, and panoramic views over the Adriatic coast.
Book now and experience Albania!
Albania is more than just a travel destination; it’s a journey that ignites the senses, where memories are made. From the majestic mountains of the north to the pristine beaches of the Riviera, each day promises something new and stunning. Take the first step in discovering this amazing place, and allow Albania’s history, tastes, and sites to enrich every moment of your adventure. Book now with Albania Inbound and we’ll begin facilitating the journey you’ve always dreamed of!