Tradition, Hospitality, and Authentic Albanian Flavors
This tour is designed to offer you an authentic and profound Albanian experience. A journey that combines the best of urban and rural life, where hospitality, traditional gastronomy, and family joy are expressed through Albanian music, dance, and traditions.
Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana and Traditional Evening
Arrival in Tirana and start of the panoramic city tour. Visit the historic center, the New Bazaar, and the most famous areas. The evening will be filled with a festive atmosphere with an “Albanian Night”: a traditional dinner, live music, dancing, and the opportunity to wear traditional costumes, accompanied by rituals such as the dollia, according to ancient customs.
Overnight: Tirana
Day 2 – Tirana – Apollonia – Divjakë – Vlorë
After breakfast, depart for Apollonia, an ancient city with Illyrian and Roman ruins. After the visit, stop in Divjakë, a protected area famous for its pristine nature. Lunch will be served at a restaurant offering traditional local dishes. In the afternoon, continue to Vlora for a short hike and overnight stay.
Overnight: Vlora
Day 3 – Vlorë – Llogara – Himarë – Sarandë
After breakfast, depart for Llogara, a scenic high-altitude stop with spectacular views of the Albanian Riviera, where you can enjoy yogurt with honey and walnuts. Lunch will be served in Himar, near Porto Palermo Bay. Arrive in Saranda in the afternoon, check-in, and overnight stay.
Overnight: Saranda
Day 4 – Sarandë – Gjirokastër
Departure for Gjirokastër, the “City of Stone” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Castle, the bazaar, and the typical local houses. Lunch will be served in a traditional home in a surrounding village, featuring homemade dishes and fresh local produce. The afternoon is free to explore the city at your leisure.
Overnight: Gjirokastër
Day 5 – Gjirokastër – Bylis – Berat
In the morning, visit Bylis, an ancient city with one of Albania’s most beautiful amphitheaters and breathtaking views of the Vjosa Valley. Lunch will be served in a family restaurant with organic dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from the family garden. Afterwards, continue to Berat, visiting the old town of Mangalem and Gorica, the Castle, and the typical houses. The evening includes dinner in a family home in Berat, followed by a tasting of traditional 18th-century sweets in an authentic home.
Overnight: Berat
Day 6 – Berat – Krujë
After breakfast, depart for Krujë. Visit the Castle, the characteristic bazaar, and the Skanderbeg Museum. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Albanian music evening, with typical dishes and the welcoming atmosphere of the city.
Overnight: Krujë
Day 7 – Krujë – Lezhë – Patok Lagoon – Shkodër
The day begins with a drive to Lezhë, where we’ll stop for a leisurely lunch at Patok Lagoon, surrounded by nature and the sea. Afterwards, arrive in Shkodër to visit Rozafa Castle, the Historical Museum, and the city’s pedestrian area. The evening is free.
Overnight: Shkodër
Day 8 – Shkodër – Airport 2.5 h
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight.
End of tour.
Included in the Price
- 7 nights in hotels or traditional guesthouses
- 6 traditional lunches in family restaurants, as indicated in the itinerary
- 3 business dinners, including:
- “Albanian Night” with dinner, folk music, and dancing in Tirana
- Homemade dinner in a family home in Berat
- Dinner with music in Krujë
- Private transportation for the entire tour
- English-speaking guide for all 8 days
- Entrance fees to all sites and monuments included in the program
- Cultural experiences: wearing traditional costumes during the “Albanian Night,” visits to villages and family homes, tasting traditional products
- Bottled water during transfers
Not Included
- International flight to and from Albania
- Meals not specified in the program (3 dinners and any other snacks or drinks)
- Personal expenses and purchases
- Tips
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Price
The price and detailed description of this tour vary depending on the season and preferred accommodation level. Contact us for a personalized quote.
