Experience Albania: Culture & Traditions in 8 Days

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ID: GYG1188457-1822915
Category:
Country: Albania

Duration: 8 days


Description

Discover the rich history and culture of Albania on an 8-day guided tour. Visit the Castle of Kruja, the Skanderbeg Museum, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Venetian Tower.
Day 1: Arrival – Kruja
After arrival at Tirana Airport, you will be transferred to Kruja, a historic town symbol of Albanian resistance. Visit the Castle of Kruja and the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to the national hero. Continue to the Ethnographic Museum to learn about 18th-century traditional life, then stroll through the Old Bazaar, filled with colorful carpets, silverwork, and local handicrafts. From the castle walls, enjoy a magical sunset over the Adriatic. Traditional dinner and overnight in Kruja.

Day 2: Kruja – Durrës – Berat
In the morning, travel to Durrës, Albania’s oldest coastal city. Explore the Roman Amphitheatre, the Venetian Tower, and walk along the seaside Lungomare. After lunch, continue to Berat, the UNESCO-listed “City of a Thousand Windows.” Visit the castle, the Church of St. Mary, and the Onufri Museum. Walk through the historic quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, beautifully illuminated at night. Dinner and overnight in Berat.

Day 3: Berat – Apollonia – Gjirokastra
Drive to Apollonia, one of the most important ancient cities of the Adriatic, once linked to Emperor Augustus. After the visit, continue to Gjirokastra, the UNESCO-listed “Stone City,” known for its cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and atmospheric bazaar. Dinner and overnight in Gjirokastra.

Day 4: Gjirokastra – Blue Eye – Saranda
Visit the impressive Castle of Gjirokastra, featuring the Arms Gallery and panoramic views. After lunch, stop at the Blue Eye, a stunning karst spring with crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery. Continue to Saranda, a lively coastal town with a modern promenade and Mediterranean charm. Dinner and overnight in Saranda.

Day 5: Saranda – Butrint – Ksamil – Saranda
Explore the UNESCO Archaeological Park of Butrint, showcasing layers of history from ancient Greek and Roman times to the Middle Ages. Afterward, enjoy lunch in Ksamil, famous for its white sandy beaches and small islands. Free time for swimming or an optional boat trip before returning to Saranda for dinner and overnight.

Day 6: Saranda – Riviera – Vlora
Travel along the spectacular Albanian Riviera, one of the Mediterranean’s most scenic routes. Stop at Porto Palermo to visit Ali Pasha’s Castle, then cross the Llogara Pass at 1,000 meters above sea level. After a traditional lunch, arrive in Vlora, the city where Albanian independence was declared. Visit Flag Square, the Muradie Mosque, and the historic quarter. Dinner and overnight in Vlora.

Day 7: Vlora – Tirana
Drive to Tirana, Albania’s capital. Visit Skanderbeg Square, the Clock Tower, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the New Bazaar. In the afternoon, enjoy free time in the Blloku district, once closed to the public and now the city’s most vibrant area. Farewell dinner and overnight in Tirana.

Day 8: Tirana – Airport
After breakfast, transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.

Highlights

  • Discover the rich history and culture of Albania on a guided tour
  • Explore the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Visit the Castle of Kruja and the Skanderbeg Museum in Kruja
  • Admire the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea from the castle in Kruja
  • Enjoy a traditional dinner and overnight stay in Kruja, Berat, and more

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces
Weather can vary, so pack accordingly
Some sites may have limited accessibility for those with mobility issues
INCLUDED
  • 7 nights accommodation (boutique or premium 4★)
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Guided tours
  • Entrance fees to attractions mentioned in the program
NOT INCLUDED
  • International and domestic flights
  • Travel insurance (mandatory and to be arranged by the customer)
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, minibar, laundry, etc.)
  • Drinks during meals, unless otherwise stated
  • Optional activities and excursions (e.g. boat trips in Ksamil, additional beach activities)
  • Tips and gratuities for the guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
  • Any meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees to attractions not listed in the program
  • Additional services requested outside the planned itinerary

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.