Details
Day 1: Tirana → Laguna e Karavastase → Berat
Your journey begins with a pick-up from Tirana International Airport or your hotel, where you will meet your guide and depart toward southern Albania. The first stop is Karavasta Lagoon, the largest lagoon in Albania and one of the country’s most beautiful natural reserves. Here you will enjoy a peaceful boat ride across the lagoon, surrounded by untouched landscapes and rich birdlife. The visit also includes the watchtower, offering beautiful panoramic views over the lagoon and the surrounding forest.
The tour then continues to the magical city of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” You will explore the impressive Berat Castle, a remarkable fortress where locals still live within its ancient walls, offering spectacular views over the Osum River and the historic city below. After visiting the castle, you will enjoy lunch at a renowned traditional Albanian restaurant, tasting authentic local cuisine. The experience continues with a walk through the historic quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, famous for their unique Ottoman architecture and picturesque scenery. The day concludes with an overnight stay in the beautiful city of Berat, allowing you to fully experience its timeless charm and atmosphere.
Day 2: Berat → Apollonia → Vlore
Begin the day with a visit to Apollonia Archaeological Park, one of Albania’s most important ancient sites. Explore the well-preserved ruins of this once-thriving Greek and Roman city, including temples, columns, and the historic monastery, while learning about its rich history and cultural significance.
Continue the journey toward Vlorë, a vibrant coastal city where history and modern life blend seamlessly. Upon arrival, visit Flag Square (Sheshi i Flamurit), the symbolic heart of Albania’s independence, and take time to explore the surrounding area. Proceed to Kanina Castle, located on a hill overlooking the city, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Vlorë, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains while discovering the castle’s historical importance.
Later, visit Zvërnec Island and Monastery, a peaceful and picturesque destination set within a lagoon. Walk along the charming wooden bridge through the pine forest to reach the island, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this unique and photogenic location. End the day by spending the night in Vlorë, relaxing by the seaside and enjoying the city’s coastal atmosphere.
Day 3: Vlore → Himare → Saranda
The day begins in Vlorë after breakfast, where you set off along the stunning Albanian Riviera. The journey offers breathtaking coastal scenery as you travel south, with dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and picturesque seaside landscapes along one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the Balkans.
The first major stop is Himarë, where you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the seaside promenade, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the town and stopping for a coffee or refreshing drink by the Ionian Sea. Afterward, the tour continues to the historic Porto Palermo Castle, a unique fortress built in the 18th century by Ali Pasha of Tepelena, located on a small peninsula surrounded by crystal-clear waters and offering spectacular coastal views.
From here, the journey continues further south along the Riviera toward Sarandë, one of Albania’s most vibrant coastal cities. Upon arrival, you will have time to explore its lively seaside promenade, enjoy fresh local seafood, and relax at the beach. Sarandë also offers a vibrant evening atmosphere with cafés, restaurants, and stunning views across the sea toward the island of Corfu.
Day 4: Saranda → Butrint → Ksamil → Blue Eye → Gjirokaster
The day begins with a journey to Butrint National Park, one of Albania’s most important archaeological treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the 8th century BC, Butrint has been home to several civilizations, including the Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. During a guided walk through the ancient city, you will explore impressive ruins surrounded by lush nature, where temples, theaters, and ancient walls reveal centuries of fascinating history.
After exploring Butrint, the tour continues to the beautiful beaches of Ksamil, famous for their white sand and crystal-clear waters. From here you can enjoy breathtaking views of the nearby Corfu Island, located just a few kilometers across the sea.
The journey then continues inland with a stop at the famous Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a natural spring known for its incredible deep blue color and refreshing atmosphere. This unique natural phenomenon is one of the most captivating sights in southern Albania. The day concludes in the historic city of Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-listed destination often called the “Stone City.”
Day 5: Gjirokastra (Free Day)
The day begins in Gjirokastër with breakfast before exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its unique Ottoman architecture and rich history. The visit starts with a walk through the charming Old Bazaar, the historic heart of the city filled with traditional stone buildings, small shops, and cafés.
The tour continues to the impressive Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest castles in the Balkans, offering spectacular views over the Drino Valley and the surrounding mountains. During the visit, you will also discover important landmarks such as the Bazaar Mosque and the Gjirokastër Obelisk, while experiencing the authentic atmosphere of this remarkable historic city.
Later in the day, you will have the optional opportunity to visit a renowned local vineyard, where you can enjoy a traditional lunch and wine tasting, discovering the rich flavors of southern Albania. The rest of the day will be free to relax or explore Gjirokastër at your own pace, before spending the night in this beautiful historic city.
Day 6: Gjirokaster → Vjosa Rafting & Benja Thermal Baths → Korce
After breakfast in Gjirokastër, the journey continues directly toward the Vjosa Valley, home to one of Europe’s last wild rivers. Here you can choose to experience Vjosa River rafting, an unforgettable adventure surrounded by untouched nature, deep canyons, and crystal-clear waters, offering both excitement and breathtaking scenery.
After the rafting experience, the tour continues to the nearby Benja Thermal Baths, a natural oasis famous for its warm healing waters and iconic Ottoman stone bridge. Set in a dramatic canyon landscape, this is the perfect place to relax, recover, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
In the afternoon, the journey continues toward Korçë, one of Albania’s most charming cultural cities. Known for its elegant architecture, lively boulevards, and rich traditions, Korçë offers a calm and authentic atmosphere. Upon arrival, you can explore the city center, enjoy local cuisine, and experience its vibrant evening life.
Day 7: Korce → Lake Ohrid → Tirana
The day begins in Korçë after breakfast, followed by a visit to explore this charming and culturally rich city. Known for its elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Korçë offers beautiful landmarks such as the Korçë Cathedral, the Old Bazaar, and its lively pedestrian streets filled with cafés and local life.
After discovering the highlights of Korçë, the journey continues toward Pogradec, located on the shores of the magnificent Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes and a UNESCO-protected natural treasure. Here you will enjoy the peaceful scenery of the lake and its surrounding landscapes.
The tour continues with a visit to the picturesque village of Tushemisht, a charming lakeside village known for its traditional houses, natural springs, and relaxed atmosphere. After the visit, the journey returns to Tirana, where the tour concludes with a hotel drop-off, marking the end of the trip.
