Full Albanian Experience: A 10 Day Tour
+ 14 more
Item Code: 16-103
1500.00€
Overview
This tour stands out for its ability to provide travelers with a FULL Albanian experience, encompassing the breathtaking natural wonders of Albania, the rich tapestry of Albanian culture and historical landmarks, traditional cuisine, beverages, and attire.
Participants will have the opportunity to meet a local family residing in Berat Castle, among numerous other memorable experiences.
The tour meticulously covers all major tourist attractions in Albania, along with hidden gems known only to our expert local guides. For those seeking to immerse themselves fully in Albanian life, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Details
Day 1: Visit Kruja and Shkodra
- Begin your exploration with a visit to the remarkable Kruja Bazaar, a 500-year-old market.
- Embark on a walking tour within the castle’s wall.
- Ascend to the summit of Kruja mountain, 1100 meters elevation, where Tirana, Durres, Kruja and the Adriatic sea will be in the palm of your hands.
- Continue your journey to Shkodra. You will first visit the castle of Rozafa, where the 2000 year old history of the city is hidden in the walls of the castle.
- Enjoy a traditional lunch in Shiroka neighborhood by the lake of Shkodra.
- Explore the cities boulevard before heading to the hotel.
Day 2: Explore Theth Village and the Albanian Alps
- Explore the Church of Theth and experience the captivating Reconciliation Tower.
- Find the beautiful Grunas waterfall, hidden in the mountains that surround the village.
- Follow the river and take a 45 minutes hike through the jungle to reach the Blue Eye of Theth.
- Enjoy your time by the river in the forest.
- During the road by the Alps, you will have a few stops in locations with excellent panoramic views.
Day 3: Komani Lake and Shala River
- Embark on a 90 minutes breathtaking boat tour through the Albanian Fjords via Shala River.
- Explore the wild nature of the area in Zgiboze, referred also as the Thailand of Albania.
- Enjoy 5 hours exploring the wilderness of the region.
- Take a small coffee break by Vau Dejes and a walking tour of Tirana City Center
Day 4: Tirana E-Bike Tour & BUNKART 1 Bunker
- You will start your day in the city center, the E-bikes will be ready.
- We will have a moment to adapt the bikes for more comfort during the ride. E-bike day in Tirana surroundings, we will be passing near the pyramid of Tirana and climb the stairs to have a great upper view of the capital, we will enter in the Bloc area, (the place reserved for the communist leaders of Albania during the regime) than we pedal at the artificial lake park and the hills around the city.
- We stop at the Farka Lake for a picnic near this beautiful and peaceful place, than we head back towards the center where we end the e-bike tour.
- Visit the famous BUNKART 1, a communist 5 story tall bunker inside a hill. Take a 2 hour tour of the bunker and learn about the Albanian Communist era.
Day 5: Berat City and Local Winery Tour
- Today your journey commences in Tirana. In Belsh town you’ll pause for a brief coffee beside the largest of the towns 84 lakes.
- Ascend the castle hill for a visit to the castle itself. On the walking tour of the castle we will learn the history of this ancient city while visiting several sites.
- Enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch with a local family residing within the castle.
- Descend to the city center and explore the renowned Mangalemi neighborhood.
- Explore significant landmarks such as: The city gate and former Pasha’s residence, The Sultan’s Mosque, Berat’s bustling boulevard, and more.
- Pass by the famous Gorica Bridge and explore the old Gorica neighborhood.
- Take some time to relax in the hotel to prepare for an exceptional Wine Tasting Tour at one of the local wineries in Berat.
Day 6: Discover Apollonia and Gjirokastra
- Depart Berat for Apollonia, a vital center for education, philosophy, and arts in antiquity.
- Explore the ancient archeological park and visit several landmarks like: Temple of Apollonia, the
- Amphitheatre of Apollonia, Triumph Arch, the museum of Apollonia and much more.
- Your first stop upon arriving in Gjirokastra will be the bustling Gjirokastra Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace where local crafts, textiles, and traditional Albanian products beckon visitors.
- Ascend the winding road leading to the magnificent Gjirokastra Castle, a true architectural marvel.
- Within its walls, you’ll discover the castle’s museum and the castle’s notorious old prison.
- Continuing you journey within the castle, you’ll make our way to its highest point, where the iconic clock tower is located.
- A last stop is made in the Zekate House, a local fortress house where you can learn how the rich families used to live back in the day.
Day 7: Rafting in Vjosa River with Thermal Baths ending in Permet
- Meeting our fellow adventurers at our rafting center, conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from the heart of Permet at 09:30.
- Our expert guides will outfit you with professional rafting gear, ensuring your safety and comfort for approximately 30 minutes.
- Our rafting guides provide detailed instructions and insights into rafting for about 40 minutes.
- The two-hour rafting experience along the Vjosa includes refreshing stops for washing and invigorating rock jumps.
- Cold beers and juice to celebrate our Rafting Day, offered from our team.
- Return to hotel during lunch time to restore your energies.
- Explore the hidden hot springs of Benja.
- Enjoy the 28°C natural sulfur springs with water rising through deep tectonic cracks and the
- scenic views it offers.
Day 8: Discover The Blue Eye of Saranda
- A mere 30 kilometers from Gjirokaster, a hidden gem awaits you within the heart of the forest. Explore the awe-inspiring natural wonder of the Blue Eye.
- Ascend to the highest hill in Saranda and visit the Lekursi Castle, overlooking the city.
- Enjoy the vibrant beach of Saranda and water activities around the area.
Day 9: Explore the Ksamil Islands and the Albanian Riviera
- Very close to Saranda you will come across Ksamil Village. Experience the breathtaking shoreline of the village, encompassing three islands situated just 100 meters from the coast.
- Enjoy your time by the sea.
- Discover the ancient Greek Colony and Roman city of Butrinti, a UNESCO protected site.
- As you journey back to Tirana, your route will take you through the enchanting Albanian Riviera. Revel in the awe-inspiring landscapes where hills meet the shoreline.
- Take a break at various beaches, including Porto Palermo, Dhermi, Jale, Qeparo, and more.
- Enjoy the beautiful beach village of Himare, where you will stay overnight.
Day 10: Return to Tirana. Exploring attractions by the road.
- As you return, stop by the port city of Vlora. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the famous Lungomare.
- Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Lagoon of Karavasta and observe the wild animals in this enchanting setting.
- Delight in a private boat ride, marveling at the diverse array of bird species such as swans, flamingos, and pelicans that call this lagoon home.
- Visit Durres City. Explore the Durres amphitheater, the largest Roman amphitheater ever build in the Balkans, having the capacity of 20000 people.
- Discover the abandoned King’s Villa, a vacation house of the first and last Albanian ruler, King Zogu.
Included
- Accommodation + breakfast (9 nights)
- Private English Tour Leader
- Comfortable transportation (8+1 van Mercedez Benz Viano)
- Car WIFI
- Entrance fees (tickets to castles, museums, parks etc)
- Wine Tasting
- Boat Tour in Shala River
- Rafting Tour in Permet
- E-Bike Tour in Tirana
Tour Essentials: What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes and clothing.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Lightweight backpack
- Protection from sun