ALBANIA CLASSIC TOUR - 8 DAYS

DURATION – 7 NIGHTS/ 8 DAYS

STARTING POINT : TIRANA

FINISHING POINT : TIRANA

COUNTRIES : ALBANIA

THEME : CULTURE & HISTORY

OVERVIEW

8 Days of Unforgettable Discovery and Cultural Marvels. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders that make Albania a truly remarkable destination in the heart of the Balkans. Get ready to be enchanted as you explore the incredible stories that have shaped these lands.

HIGHLIGHTS

 Explore Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, with its disintegrating soviet-era buildings, brand new projects and proud historic monuments side-by-side, and a wonderful upland scenery.

 Wander through Berat, “The city of Thousand Windows”, an UNESCO World Heritage Site

 Visit Vlore, where the Albanian Independence was proclaimed.

 Drive along the breathtaking Albanian Rivera

 Explore the traces of different ancient civilization through visiting Butrint Archeological Park

 Stroll through the old town in Gjirokastra, “The City of Stone”, an UNESCO World Heritage Site

 Feel the unique Albanian spirit in Shkodër

ITINERARY OUTLINE

DAY 1 () TIRANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – TIRANA ( APPROX – 20 KM )

Upon arrival at the airport, meeting with our assistant and transfer to the hotel. Free time to relax until dinner time organized in a local restaurant.

Overnight in Tirana – 4 * Hotel ( D)

DAY 2 () TIRANA -DURRES – BERAT ( APPROX – 135 KM)

Begin your day with a captivating exploration of the historic city of Tirana, immersing yourself in the rich narrative of the country's past. Our morning unfolds with a visit to the National History Museum, an architectural gem that unfolds the captivating tale of Albania. Marvel at the intricate details of the Et'hem bey mosque, stand in awe of the Clock Tower, and delve into the profound history encapsulated within the walls of Bunk'art 2 museum—a bunker constructed during the era of Enver Hoxha's communist dictatorship.

After the visit, transfer towards Durres, a vital port city in Albania. Upon arrival, we admire the grandeur of the Amphitheatre, the largest on the Balkan peninsula, bearing witness to centuries of history etched into its stones.

The journey then continues to the picturesque Berat, acclaimed as the "City of a thousand windows," where architectural charm harmonizes with a rich cultural tapestry.

A delectable dinner awaits, punctuating our day of exploration with culinary delights.

Overnight in Berat – 4 * Hotel ( B,D)

DAY 3 () BERAT – GJIROKASTER ( APPROX – 160 KM)

This morning, we embark on a walking exploration, ascending to the fortress to marvel at the painted icons and frescoes adorning the Church of Saint Mary—one of the seven churches nestled within the citadel walls. Our journey also includes visits to the Red Mosque, the oldest mosque in Albania, and the Onufri Icon Museum.

Free time for lunch on your own, before departing towards Gjirokastra , another site part of UNESCO world heritage, and often dubbed as the “Stone City” unfolding a medieval charm. a city that gracefully balances on a hill, offering enchanting vistas of valleys and majestic mountains.

Dinner and overnight in Gjirokastra

Overnight in Gjirokastra – 4 * Hotel ( B,D)

DAY 4 () GJIROKASTER

After breakfast, we explore the city, first heading to the castle —an elevated vantage point that unveils the city and its scenic surroundings in all their splendor. Within the castle's walls lies a captivating weapons museum, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region's military history.

Stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the city, where every step echoes the tales of bygone eras.

Next, a scenic drive leads us to Dhoksat village, where a warm, homemade lunch awaits at a charming family house.

The afternoon program includes a visit to Ethnographic Museum, housed in the former residence of the dictator Enver Hoxha—a unique journey into history and culture awaits. Next is the visit to Skenduli Mansion, an authentic glimpse of 19th-century local architecture. Built in 1823 and over 300 years old, it stands as the best-preserved house in the old city. Owned by Nasip Skenduli, a descendant of the original builders, he passionately shares the house's history. Formerly the Ethnographic Museum, it's now open to visitors, showcasing its opulence with 9 fireplaces, 6 bathrooms, 12 rooms, 44 doors, 64 windows, and 4 Turkish baths—a true gem of Gjirokastra's architectural richness.

Dinner on your own.

Overnight in Gjirokaster – 4 * Hotel ( B,L)

DAY 5 () GJIROKASTER – BUTRINT – PORTO PALERMO – VLORA ( APPROX – 210 KM)

Our adventure kicks off with a scenic drive to the ethereal Blue Eye, a mesmerizing karstic spring.

Then, we head to the UNESCO-listed Butrint, a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. Unearth the tales of Butrint's vibrant history, from the Roman theater to the mosaic-floored baptistery, all set against the serene bend of the Vivari River.

Free time for a lunch on your own.

Next, the journey continues with a captivating visit to Porto Palermo, home to the formidable Ali Pasha Fortress. It features well-preserved walls, cannons, and surrounded by turquoise coastal waters.

Continue on a scenic drive through the picturesque Llogara pass, where terraced citrus groves and olive trees create a patchwork of greenery against breathtaking mountain and sea backdrops. As the day winds down, our final destination is the vibrant city of Vlora, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas converge. This city, renowned for its consistent warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, stands as a beloved destination.

Founded in the 6th century BC as Aulona, Vlora earned the title "City of the Flag." It's a place of historical significance where Albania declared its independence on November 28, 1912.

Dinner and overnight in Vlora – 4* Hotel (B,D)

DAY 6 () VLORA – APOLLONIA – ARDENICA- TIRANA (APPROX – 170 KM)

We start the day, visiting the iconic Flag's Square and the Independence Monument, learning about the proud history of Albania. Next stroll through the charming Muradie Neighbourhood, where we'll discover the city's main mosque, a remarkable Albanian National Monument erected in 1537. Admire the beauty of the mosque, an impeccably preserved Ottoman gem that has stood the test of time for almost five centuries. Your journey promises a perfect blend of history and architectural splendor in the heart of Vlora.

After breakfast, head towards to Apollonia, an ancient city nestled near the town of Fier. Once a thriving center in ancient Illyria, Apollonia promises a profound historical encounter. Traverse the archaeological site, immersing yourself in the remnants of temples, a grand theater, and the renowned Bouleuterion. Continue the exploration at the onsite museum, where the city's narrative unfolds, offering insights into its history and showcasing the artifacts unearthed during meticulous excavations.

Free time for lunch on your own.

Heading towards the Monastery of Ardenica, an Eastern Orthodox monastery. Immerse yourself in the captivating interiors of the 18th-century Church of St Mary, where the iconostasis graces the nave, and the golden pulpit, adorned with intricate details, stands as a breathtaking spectacle. Admire the frescoes by the Zografi brothers displayed upstairs, adding a touch of artistic brilliance to this historical site.

Next, continue our drive to Tirana where we spend the night. Dinner in local restaurant.

Overnight in Tirana – 4* ( B,D)

DAY 7 () TIRANA – KRUJA – TIRANA ( APPROX – 80 KM )

After breakfast, head to Kruja, a historical haven that stands as the heartbeat of Albanian resistance against the Turks, led by our revered national hero, Scanderbeg. For a remarkable 25 years, Scanderbeg thwarted the Turks, earning the esteemed title "Champion of Christ" bestowed by the Pope of that era. Our journey includes a visit to the Skanderbeg Museum, offering profound insights into this national hero's legacy.

Afterwards, explore the Old Bazaar, a treasure trove of the finest handmade souvenirs.

Upon returning to Tirana, the adventure continues with a captivating walking tour of the center, unveiling the charm of Scanderbeg Square, ministerial buildings, and a visit to Bunkart 2—a museum nestled within a bunker. As the day winds down, relish the freedom of the evening to immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of the capital. Fairwell dinner organized

Dinner and overnight in Tirana – 4* Hotel (B,D)

DAY 8 () TIRANA – DEPARTURE

After breakfast, ( if time permits) , further explore the city on your own, and then board the bus and transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

(B)

**** END OF OUR SERVICES****

PRICE

GROUP

(MIN) PRICE IN DBL/TWN ROOM

HB BASIS

5 PAX minimally 1200 EUR

10 PAX 1120 EUR

15 PAX 1040 EUR

20 PAX 960 EUR

25 PAX 880 EUR

30+PAX 800 EUR

INCLUDED :

 Transfers and round trip in an air-conditioned coach according to the itinerary including entrance fees

 Accommodation for 7 nights in carefully sought after 4*, with breakfast

 Meals : dinners, lunches ( full menu, all included)

 Licensed English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Arabic Speaking guide throughout the whole itinerary

 City taxes

 Entrances :

TIRANA - NATIONAL MUSEUM OF HISTORY

TIRANA- BUNK'ART 2

KRUJA - MUSEUM OF SKANDERBEG

SHKODRA - ROZAFA CASTLE

DURRES - ROMAN AMPHITHEATER

ARDENICA - ORHODOX MONASTERY

BERAT - ONUFRI ICONOGRAPHY MUSEUM

GJIROKASTER - CASTLE

GJIROKASTER - SKENDULAJ HOUSE

APOLLONIA - ARCHEOLOGICAL PARK

BUTRINT - ARCHEOLOGICAL PARK

BLUE EYE SPRING

PORTO PALERMO - ALI PASHA FORTRESS

EXCLUDED :

 Flight Tickets

 Other meals not specified in unches and dinners

 Gratuities/Tip to Driver, Guide

 Everything else not mentioned in the included section