An 8-day Albanian adventure

Tirana Airport - Tirana

Day 1: Welcome to Albania!

On arrival at Tirana International Airport, meet your guide, who will transfer you to your hotel in the heart of Tirana. Explore the city's transformation from a grey post-communist city to a colourful and lively metropolis. Take in the unique atmosphere of the city and its fascinating blend of past and future. This evening, explore the city to find a welcoming place to enjoy a drink and dinner, where you can taste the flavours of Albanian cuisine and soak up the city's vibrant energy.

Tirana - Divjakë - Vlora

Day 2: Lagoon adventure & ancient Greek ruins

After breakfast, you'll begin your journey to the north of Albania with a stop at the Karavasta Lagoon in Divjakë, the largest lagoon in Albania. Climb to the top of the panoramic tower to enjoy a splendid view of the lagoon and spot birds such as pelicans, pink flamingos, swans and great cormorants. Spend the rest of the morning kayaking and swimming in the lagoon, then visit the pine forest, looking out for more wildlife to spot.

Afterwards, take the road to Apollonia d'Yllirie, the largest ancient Greek city in Albania, founded in 625 BCE. Immerse yourself in history and explore the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, the Odeon, and the Roman Baths.

In the afternoon, arrive at the Albanian riviera's port city of Vlora. Once you've checked into your hotel, enjoy free time to rest or stroll along the beautiful waterfront and find a scenic spot for dinner tonight.

Vlora - Karaburun - Këlcyrë

Day 3: Exploring the hidden gems of Albania

After breakfast, set off by boat to explore the beautiful Karaburun Peninsula, including the Karaburun and Sazan National Marine Park, to discover a reserve that is little understood. Explore the mysterious Haxhi Ali Cave, once used by smugglers and pirates, and enjoy free time for snorkelling and sunbathing on a secluded beach, followed by a picnic lunch.

Afterwards, depart for the village of Këlcyrë - your home for tonight. Here, you'll experience authentic Albania by visiting a small farmhouse in the countryside run by a French-speaking Albanian woman. Enjoy breathtaking views off the beaten track, natural wonders seldom experienced by tourists and meet locals who will show you a new side to Albanian culture.

Këlcyrë

Day 4: Eating from farm to table

After breakfast this morning, join your host for a guided hike through the scenic Albanian countryside to a picturesque lake, where you can pause and take in the stunning views.

Back at the farm, don your apron for a traditional cooking class and learn how to make mouthwatering Albanian dishes like Flia or Pita, then savour the delicious meal you made from fresh local ingredients.

After lunch, head to awe-inspiring Langarica Canyon and immerse yourself in the thermal baths or Benja of Permët. Soak in the therapeutic thermal waters amidst stunning natural surroundings.

On your way back to the farm, stop at a unique cheese factory housed in an old bunker and witness the local cheese-making process while indulging in some delicious examples of their products. 

Later this evening at your accommodation, it's time for some more local delicacies for dinner. 

Këlcyrë - Gjirokastra - Berat

Day 5: A day of history & wine tasting

This morning, head to the historical city of Gjirokastra for a guided tour of the town. Admire the unique architecture of its two-storey houses dating back to the 17th century. Next, visit the Gjirokastra Citadel overlooking the city before continuing on to Fier to enjoy lunch.

Next, Head onto Berat, your home for tonight. Known as the ‘city of a thousand windows’, the city provides a magnificent example of the architectural style of the Ottoman period. Along the way, visit a family vineyard, Çobo Winery, for a wine tasting where you'll discover the wine heritage of Albania.

This evening, relax in your hotel or head out and explore Berat at your own pace, finding a scenic spot for a drink or dinner. 

Berat

Day 6: Adventure in the Osumi Canyon

After breakfast, get ready for an exciting adventure in the Osumi Canyon. If you're visiting between December to July, start your day with a river hike through the canyon. Along the way, you'll have the chance to jump from the rocks and swim in the natural pools.

If you're visiting between July to December, go on a thrilling rafting excursion through the canyon. You'll pass through natural wonders like the champagne waterfall, the devil's gate and the love waterfall, where legend has it that those who kiss below will remain in love forever.

This afternoon, return to Berat for a guided tour of the city which will take you to the UNESCO World Heritage fortress ‘Kala’, as well as the church of the Holy Trinity overlooking the city and the iconographic museum. 

The rest of the evening is yours to spend at leisure. 

Berat - Tirana

Day 7: Discover the Best of Tirana

After breakfast, you'll head back to Tirana. Once you've settled into your hotel, it's time to get to know the capital city with a guided tour that takes in the historic Skanderbeg Square, the stunning Mosque of Et'hem Bey and the impressive Clock Tower, all while enjoying the unique architecture and bustling energy of the city.

In the afternoon, visit the fascinating Bunk'art museum, showcasing the history of Albania during the oppressive communist regime of Enver Hoxha. Finally, after a day of exploring, enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the trendy Blloku district and sample some of the best Albanian cuisine.

Tirana

Day 8: One last stroll in the city

Today is at leisure to explore Tirana before your flight home, so spend the day exploring the city, its museums and local cuisine. Sample some of the country's famous raki, and drink in the vibrant atmosphere of the city one last time. This will be an unforgettable end to your Albanian adventure.

When it’s time to leave for the airport, your driver will meet you at your hotel to transfer you to your flight home.