Explore Balkans
FACTS
Regions/Countries covered: Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastër, Kruja with day trips to neighbouring countries Kosovo, Northern Macedonia
Capital of Albania: Tirana
Location:
Albania is located in Southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. It is bordered by Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, North Macedonia to the east, and Greece to the south. To the west, Albania has a coastline along the Adriatic Sea, while the Ionian Sea lies to its southwest.
Climate:
Albania has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters along the coast, while the inland and mountainous regions experience continental influences with colder winters and occasional snowfall.
Coastal areas (e.g., Tirana, Durrës, Vlora) enjoy warm temperatures in summer (25–35°C or 77–95°F) and mild winters (5–15°C or 41–59°F).
Mountainous regions (e.g., the Albanian Alps) have cooler summers and cold, snowy winters, making them ideal for winter sports.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit is April to October, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall
Time Zone:
Albania: GMT +1
It is 4.5 hours behind India Time
Currency:
Albanian Lek (ALL)
1 ALL = 0.92 INR (approx.1 Rupee) | 1 EUR = 99.15 ALL
Note: The rate of exchange keeps on changing every day. The above rate of exchange is just for estimate purpose
Languages:
The official language of Albania is Albanian (Shqip). The secondary languages English, Italian and Greek are spoken especially in touristic areas.
Dialing code: +355
Inclusions:
- 7 Nights Twin Share accommodation in Hotel Boutique Senator or similar Standard hotel in Tirana
- Daily Breakfast in hotel (except first day)
- Daily Traditional dinner for every day (except last day)
- Private Vehicle with English speaking driver for Airport transfers & Tours
- Local guide in each historical site
- Local guide in Berat
- Local guide in Shkoder
- Local guide in Ohrid
- Local guide in Prizren
- Rafting in Vjosa River Permet.
- Entrances that are included: Ef Gjirokaster castle, Ef Onufri Museum Berat, Jam and Rakia Degustation in Librazhd, Ef Skanderbeg Museum in Kruja, Ef BunkArt2 Tirana, Ef Et”hem Beu Mosque, Decani Monastery in Kosovo, St Sofia Cathedral of Ohrid, Venetian Masque Factory in Shkoder, Rozafa castle Shkoder
.
Exclusions
- GST, TCS, Bank Transfer Fees, Credit Card Charges
- Local City Taxes to be paid extra directly to hotels (approx. EUR 2-4 per person per day)
- Flights (International or domestic)
- Lunches
- Early Check in / Late Check out
- Tips, Shopping, Room Service
- Baggage assistance in hotels, airport, tours, transfers
- Extra waiting charges for Private transfers in case flight is delayed OR Extra vehicle use outside mentioned itinerary
- Extra luggage in vehicles (only 1 carry + 1 large suitcase is allowed per person)
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Rates:
• Based on group of 4: From EUR 1470 Per Person in twin Share
• Based on group of 6: From EUR 1190 Per Person in twin Share
• Based on group of 8: From EUR 1040 Per Person in twin Share
• Single Supplement Extra: From EUR 330 Per Person
From our gallery
Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia
Tour Plan
Arrival at Tirana
- Upon arrival at the Tirana Airport, meet driver for transfer to your hotel in Tirana.
- In the afternoon, visit the fascinating Former Cold War Bunker, now transformed into an underground contemporary art and history museum spanning several floors. Explore the unique exhibits that provide insight into Albania's Cold War era.
- End the day with a short, guided walking tour of Tirana, where you will be introduced to the city's vibrant culture, history and landmarks.
Scenic full-day excursion - Kosovo
- Depart for a scenic full-day excursion to the neighbouring country of Kosovo.
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Monastery of Decani, nestled in a tranquil location surrounded by pine and chestnut trees. Explore the church, renowned for its stunning floor-to-ceiling Biblical murals, offering a breath-taking glimpse into the medieval era.
- Continue to Prizren, where you will visit the iconic Stone Bridge, the vibrant Old Bazaar and the impressive Catholic Cathedral of Prizren. Known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, Prizren beautifully blends Ottoman, Byzantine and Balkan influences.
Explore Northern Albania
- Begin your adventure to explore the stunning landscapes of Northern Albania.
- Explore Shkoder, a city rich in history and culture, with visits to Rozafa Castle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Venetian Masque Factory, where you can admire unique local craftsmanship. Stroll through the charming Venetian Street Area, a historic part of the city.
- Afternoon, Head to the picturesque Shiroka Village, located along the serene shores of Lake Shkodra. Enjoy the stunning landscape and peaceful atmosphere.
- Final stop is Fishta, a village renowned for its thriving agro-tourism, where you will experience local farming traditions and regional specialties.
Explore Berat and Belshi Region
- Drive towards Albania’s largest lagoon, where you will have the chance to spot the famous pelicans that inhabit the area.
- Continue your journey to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “City of a Thousand and One Windows. Stroll through the ancient Acropolis, Gorica Quarter and Mangalem Quarter, where time seems to stand still. Admire the charming Stone Bridge, an architectural gem.
- Visit the historic Berat Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city.
- Afternoon, drive back to Tirana, passing through the picturesque Belshi Region, renowned for its 80+ karstic lakes - a beautiful and lesser-known part of Albania.
Explore Northern Macedonia
- Depart for Ohrid, often referred to as the Tourism Capital of North Macedonia and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the charming Ohrid Old Town, a maze of narrow streets, traditional houses and rich history.
- Visit the impressive Samuel’s Fortress, which offers stunning views over the town and the lake.
- Explore the Roman Amphitheater, an ancient site that once hosted gladiator games.
- Admire the historical Saint Sofia Church, known for its beautiful frescoes.
- Stroll down the vibrant Shopping Street of Ohrid, filled with local crafts and souvenirs.
- On your way back to Albania, make a stop in Elbasan to explore its historical landmarks like Elbasan Fortress, ruins of a Paleo-Christian Church & more.
Explore Southern Albania
- Travel south to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
- Visit the majestic Gjirokastër Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and valley. Explore the Skenduli House, a traditional 1700s residence showcasing the rich cultural history of the region.
- Wander through the bustling Bazaar of Gjirokastër, where you can find local crafts and souvenirs. (Time permitting, you may also visit other key sites, or younger guests can opt for a more adventurous exploration of Gjirokastër’s hiking route)
- Continue your journey to Përmet, where the real adventure begins. Rafting on the Vjosa River, known as the "Last Wild River of Europe," offers an exciting and scenic experience through unspoiled nature.
Explore Kruja
- Spend your last day in Kruja, a historic town located just outside of Tirana.
- Visit the lively Old Bazaar, renowned for its silver products and traditional handicrafts.
- Discover the rich history of Kruja Castle, a symbol of Albanian resistance.
- Explore the National Museum of Skanderbeg, dedicated to the legendary Albanian national hero.
- Drive to the serene Lake Bovilla, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty—an iconic symbol of Tirana's nature.
- Evening, Return to Tirana and immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of the Blloku Quarter, once off-limits to the public during the communist era. This area is now the heart of Tirana’s nightlife, with a variety of cafes, bars and restaurants to enjoy.
Departure Day
Tour Location
Albania, a hidden gem in the Balkans, boasts stunning landscapes, from pristine beaches along the Ionian and Adriatic Seas to rugged mountain ranges. Rich in history, the country is home to ancient ruins, Ottoman-era architecture, and vibrant cultural traditions.
Gallery
Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia
