Discover Albania in depth on this immersive 13-day journey that takes you from the dramatic peaks of the Albanian Alps to the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Designed for travelers who want to see the real Albania — beyond the headlines and hidden from mass tourism — this experience blends nature, culture, history, and local life at a comfortable, well-paced rhythm.
You’ll hike to crystal-clear mountain springs, cruise through fjord-like lakes, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, relax in traditional villages, and follow one of Europe’s most scenic coastal roads. Along the way, enjoy authentic regional cuisine, historic towns, quiet countryside, and warm Albanian hospitality.
This tour is ideal for curious explorers who value meaningful experiences, stunning landscapes, and thoughtful pacing — without rushing or unnecessary hotel changes.
From the dramatic Albanian Alps to the turquoise Ionian coast, this journey explores Albania’s most iconic landscapes, UNESCO heritage towns, traditional villages, and scenic coastal roads — all at a relaxed, thoughtfully designed pace.
Tour Highlights
- Scenic mountain drives through northern Albania
- Hike to the Blue Eye of Theth, a hidden alpine spring
- Two nights in Shkodër for a relaxed alpine-to-lake transition
- Iconic Koman Lake ferry crossing through canyon landscapes
- Traditional guesthouse stays in Valbonë and Voskopojë
- Thermal waters stop in Përmet
- UNESCO-listed towns of Gjirokastër and Butrint
- Time to swim and relax in Ksamil’s turquoise waters
- Overnight stay in Himarë on the Albanian Riviera
- Coastal drive through Dhërmi and Llogara Pass
- Final night near the airport for a smooth departure
A 13-day journey across Albania, combining alpine nature, cultural heritage, local life, and seaside relaxation, traveling from the north to the south with comfort, flexibility, and depth.
Your journey begins in Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival at Tirana International Airport, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, there may be an opportunity for a gentle introduction to the city or simply time to rest after your travels.
Tirana offers a unique blend of Ottoman, Italian, and communist-era architecture, reflecting the country’s complex past and energetic present. This day is intentionally kept light, allowing you to recover from travel and prepare for the days ahead.
Overnight: Tirana
After breakfast, we leave Tirana and head north to the historic town of Krujë, one of Albania’s most important cultural landmarks. Here, we visit Krujë Castle and the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s national hero who led resistance against the Ottoman Empire. You will also have time to explore the old bazaar, lined with traditional shops and handicrafts.
In the afternoon, the landscape changes dramatically as we drive into the Albanian Alps. Winding mountain roads lead us deeper into remote northern Albania, where life moves at a slower pace. By late afternoon, we arrive in the mountain village of Theth, surrounded by towering peaks, forests, and fresh alpine air.
Overnight: Theth
This morning we explore one of the most beautiful natural sights in northern Albania: the Blue Eye of Theth. A scenic hike through forests and along rivers leads to this crystal-clear alpine spring, where icy blue water bubbles up from deep underground. There is time to relax, take photos, and for the adventurous, enjoy a refreshing swim.
After the hike, we depart Theth and descend from the mountains toward Shkodër. The drive offers striking contrasts, moving from rugged alpine terrain to open plains and lakes. By late afternoon, we arrive in Shkodër, a city known for its artistic spirit, cycling culture, and relaxed atmosphere.
Overnight: Shkodër
Today is a slower-paced day designed for rest and exploration at your own rhythm. Shkodër is one of Albania’s oldest cities and has long been a cultural center. You may choose to stroll along the shores of Lake Shkodër, enjoy the pedestrian streets of the old town, or visit Rozafa Castle, dramatically perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding rivers.
This relaxed day also serves as a natural pause before the scenic ferry journey ahead, allowing time to enjoy cafés, local cuisine, and the laid-back northern lifestyle.
Overnight: Shkodër
An early start takes us to Koman Lake, where we board a ferry for one of Albania’s most spectacular experiences. The boat journey winds through narrow canyons, steep cliffs, and calm emerald waters, often compared to the fjords of Norway. This unforgettable crossing offers countless photo opportunities and a unique perspective on Albania’s wild landscapes.
After disembarking, we continue by road into Valbonë Valley. This peaceful alpine region is known for its traditional guesthouses, open meadows, and dramatic mountain scenery. The afternoon is spent settling in and enjoying the serene surroundings.
Overnight: Valbonë
Leaving the northern mountains behind, we begin our journey back toward central Albania. The route showcases a changing landscape, from alpine valleys to rolling hills and agricultural plains. We make comfort stops along the way before arriving in Tirana in the late afternoon or early evening.
The remainder of the day is free to relax, enjoy dinner on your own, or take a short evening walk in the capital.
Overnight: Tirana
Today we travel southeast toward Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. Our first stop is Lin, a picturesque lakeside village with stone houses, narrow lanes, and beautiful views over the water.
We then continue to Tushemisht, a traditional village known for its local cuisine and slow-paced rural life. After lunch, the road climbs into the mountains toward Voskopojë, a historic village once considered a major cultural and religious center in the Balkans.
Overnight: Voskopojë
In the morning, we explore Voskopojë’s historic churches, admired for their frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. These churches tell the story of the village’s former importance as a center of learning and spirituality.
Later, we drive to Korçë, a refined city with a strong cultural identity. Here, we visit the cathedral, explore the old bazaar, and stop at a local museum. Korçë is also famous for its café culture, offering a pleasant setting to relax and observe local life.
Overnight: Korçë
We depart Korçë and travel south through scenic countryside toward the town of Përmet. Nestled along a river and surrounded by mountains, Përmet is known for its natural beauty and thermal waters. We stop to enjoy these warm springs, offering a relaxing break during the journey.
In the afternoon, we continue to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. The evening is spent wandering its cobbled streets and stone houses, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic town.
Overnight: Gjirokastër
After breakfast, we leave Gjirokastër and head to the Blue Eye, one of southern Albania’s most famous natural attractions. This deep, crystal-clear spring is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a striking contrast of blue and turquoise colors.
We then descend toward the Ionian Sea, arriving in Sarandë. The afternoon is free to enjoy the seaside promenade, relax by the water, or simply unwind after the journey south.
Overnight: Sarandë
The day begins with a visit to Butrint, an extraordinary archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking among its ruins, you’ll encounter layers of history spanning ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods.
From there, we continue to Ksamil, known for its clear waters and small islands just offshore. Time is given to swim, relax, and enjoy the coastal setting before continuing north along the Ionian coast to Himarë, a relaxed seaside town with beautiful sunset views.
Overnight: Himarë
Today’s journey follows one of Albania’s most scenic routes, the Albanian Riviera. We stop in Dhërmi, a coastal village backed by mountains, before climbing to Llogara Pass. From here, panoramic viewpoints offer sweeping views where the mountains drop dramatically into the sea.
In the afternoon, we descend toward central Albania and continue to Durrës, located close to Tirana Airport. This final evening offers time to reflect on the journey and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Overnight: Durrës
After breakfast, you are transferred to Tirana International Airport for departure. The journey through Albania comes to an end, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the country’s landscapes, history, and culture.
Inclusions / Exclusions
Includes
- Airport pickup on arrival and airport drop-off on departure
- 12 nights accommodation in carefully selected 3★–4★ hotels and traditional guesthouses
- Daily breakfast throughout the tour
- One farewell dinner on the final evening
- Private SUV transportation throughout the journey
- Professional driver-guide services for the duration of the tour
- Koman Lake ferry crossing (vehicle and passenger tickets)
- All fuel, tolls, parking, and road fees
- Entrance fees to included sites and attractions as per itinerary
- Personalized itinerary pacing and on-the-road coordination
- All local taxes and service charges
Excludes
- International flights to and from Albania
- Lunches and dinners not specifically mentioned as included
- Beverages during meals
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, laundry, etc.)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Tips or gratuities (optional and at your discretion)
Frequently Asked Questions
This itinerary is suitable for travelers with a normal level of mobility. It includes light walks, cobblestone streets in historic towns such as Gjirokastër and Korçë, and a moderate hike to the Blue Eye of Theth. The pace is relaxed and balanced with rest time, making it accessible for most guests.
Daily travel time varies depending on the route. Most days involve two to four hours of driving, broken up with scenic stops, village visits, and lunch breaks. Longer travel days are carefully balanced with slower days and two-night stays.
All transportation is provided in comfortable, air-conditioned Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs.
• Two to four guests travel in one SUV
• Larger bookings are accommodated with additional SUVs
• Each vehicle is driven by a professional driver-guide
Each SUV is dedicated to one booking party (family or friends). Vehicles carry a minimum of two and a maximum of four guests. For larger bookings, additional SUVs are provided to ensure comfort and space.
This tour is operated as a private-style journey with limited shared departures.
On select dates, another independent booking party may travel on the same itinerary in a separate vehicle with their own driver-guide. Guests are never mixed. An exclusive private departure for one party only is available on request.
Yes. Your drivers are also licensed guides who share insights into Albania’s history, culture, nature, and daily life throughout the journey.
We prioritize well-located four-star hotels whenever available. In destinations where four-star options are limited, high-quality three-star hotels or traditional guesthouses are selected for comfort, cleanliness, and character.
Daily breakfast is included throughout the tour.
You will also enjoy one complimentary farewell dinner on the final evening. Lunches and dinners are not included, allowing flexibility to choose local restaurants based on your preferences.
Yes. This tour is family-friendly and suitable for children who enjoy nature, light walking, beaches, and cultural sites. A child rate applies for children aged 2–12 when sharing a room with two full-paying adults.
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light hiking shoes (recommended for Theth)
• Swimwear and towel
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Light jacket for mountain areas
• A small day bag for daily excursions
This tour operates from March to November, offering the best balance of weather, road conditions, and coastal experiences.
Yes. We can adjust the pacing, add extra nights, include optional experiences such as boat trips, wine tastings, or guided hikes, and arrange upgraded accommodation upon request.
Yes. Entrance fees to included sites such as Krujë Castle, Butrint National Park, museums, and other scheduled attractions are included as per the itinerary.
Yes. Private airport pick-up on arrival and airport drop-off at the end of the tour are included.
The itinerary balances guided visits with free time. You will have opportunities to relax, swim, explore independently, or enjoy cafés in places such as Shkodër, Korçë, Sarandë, and Himarë.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all guests to cover medical expenses, cancellations, and personal belongings.
Expect fresh, regional cuisine including grilled meats, vegetables, seafood along the coast, local cheeses, and traditional desserts. Dietary preferences can be accommodated with advance notice.
Standard drop-off is in Tirana or at Tirana International Airport. Alternative drop-off locations such as Durrës can be arranged upon request.