Grand Albania Explorer

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 in Shkodër. Guests may choose to visit Rozafa Castle for panoramic views over the rivers and Lake Shkodër, walk along the pedestrian streets of the old town, or relax at a café. This day allows time to recover from the mountain travel before continuing deeper into northern Albania.

Overnight: Shkodër

After breakfast, we drive north toward the Kelmend region, one of Albania’s most scenic and less-visited alpine areas. The road follows rivers and mountain valleys, passing small villages and wide open landscapes.

We arrive in Tamare, a quiet mountain village surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks. The afternoon is spent enjoying the fresh mountain air, walking along the river, and experiencing traditional highland life.

Overnight: Tamare

Leaving the northern mountains behind, we begin our journey back toward central Albania. The drive offers changing scenery, from rugged alpine terrain to rolling hills and agricultural plains. Comfort stops are made along the way before arriving in Tirana in the late afternoon.

The evening is free to relax or enjoy the city independently.

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 discover layers of history spanning ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods, set within a beautiful natural landscape.

After the visit, we pass through Ksamil, enjoying views of its turquoise waters and nearby islands, before continuing north along the Ionian coast. In the afternoon, we arrive in Himarë, where there is time to swim, relax by the sea, and enjoy the slower pace of this coastal town. The day ends with free time to watch the sunset and enjoy dinner by the waterfront.

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.