4 Day Tour of Albania from North to the South

Tirana- Kruje-Shkoder

Kruja Historical City Tour

On our way north the first visit would be at the historic city of Kruja where we will visit the old Bazaar , the medieval castle and the museum of the Albanian National Hero Skanderbeg

Tirana to Shkoder- Visiting Rozafa Castle

As we set out on our journey from Tirana, we are headed towards the beautiful North of Albania, with the majestic Castle of Rozafa as our first destination. Perched atop a hill, overlooking the city, the Castle is steeped in Albanian history, from antiquity to the Iliryan-Roman wars. Cascaded with legends, the Castle stands as a reminder of the timelessness of Albanian Epos.

Shkodra City Tour

Leaving the Castle, we travel down to the vibrant city of Shkoder! With its unique architecture, hilarious sense of humour, and warm hospitality, this city is an essential part of Albania’s history. It is also a place of great religious tolerance, with a Catholic Church, Orthodox Church, and Muslim Mosque all in close proximity. Let’s embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the most exciting parts of Shkoder, including the illustrious “Pedonale”!

On the lake shores of Scadar Lake- Shiroke Village

When we have finished exploring the beauties of Shkodra city we can pay a visit to a small touristic village on the Shkodra Lake Shores famous for the traditional fish restaurant where we can also enjoy our lunch.

Accommodation

Overnight in Shkodra

DAY 2

Shkoder-Durres-Berat

Durres City

we will be travelling to the coastal city of Durres, a unique blend of culture and nature. Here, we will be able to take a leisurely stroll on the main promenade and witness the serene beauty of the sea, as well as visit the historic amphitheatre which has long been home to the battles of Gladiators.

Berat Historical Town

We shall set forth from Durres and make our way to Central South Albania, to the City of Many Windows, Berat. Since 2008, it has been inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list, and continues to be a significant city even today, boasting a remarkable history of over two millennia. Despite the passage of time, life has remained persistent here, and the Castle or “Kalaja” is the oldest district of the city. Predominantly inhabited by the Christian Orthodox population, this part of the city features a remarkable assemblage of churches, some of which date as far back as the 14th century.

Accommodation

Overnight in one of the 3 star hotels in the heritage neighbourhood of Mangalem.

DAY 3

Berat-Gjirokaster-Sarande-Blue Eye-Himare

Gjirokastra UNESCO World Heritage Site

We shall journey towards Gjirokastra, a place 230 kilometers away, renowned for its remarkable preservation of the Ottoman architecture and its prominent agricultural land. We will traverse through the depths of Southern Albania, admiring the green fields that the countryside has to offer. Along our path, we shall be accompanied by the Vjosa River, one of the few untamed rivers of Albania and the surrounding Balkan region.

Gjirokastra Bazaar, Old town

Once we arrive in the city, you will soon recognize that this metropolis is unlike any other. At the heart of the city lies the main square, proudly named after the renowned Albanian Patriot of the 19th century, Cerciz Topulli. Here, the cobblestone streets culminate in a splendid spectacle, their journey from the castle’s lofty heights finally at an end.

Dating back to the 17th Century, the Ottoman era saw the flourishing of a bustling epicenter that sent its vitality reverberating throughout the city. A hub of economic activity, this was the place where news, gossip and rumors were propagated with remarkable swiftness. All manner of transactions were conducted here, as well as leisurely gatherings over coffee. Countless unions were arranged here, providing the perfect milieu for families to come together prior to the wedding rites.

This day, the city proudly displays its history to all who visit, with a splendid array of souvenirs and stories shared by the affable inhabitants.

The Blue Eye

.One must traverse the verdant parkland to behold the grandeur of the “Blue Eye” spring – an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon and popular tourist attraction. The river’s crystalline depths can be viewed from more than fifty metres below, and the refreshingly clear blue waters are a sight to behold. The journey to the springs is well worth the fifteen-minute walk through nature’s finest.

Saranda

After the Blue eye we drive to the first city of The Albanian Riviera. A beautiful picturesque city on the shores of the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

A walk on the main promenade and lunch on the small boat port to try some delicious sea food.

Accommodation

Overnight in Himare on a 3 star hotel near the beach.

DAY 4

Himare-Llogara National Park-Zvernec-Tirane

Himare

You can enjoy some free time on the small coastal city of Himare on the first part of your day. Sunbathing if its hot enough or just to enjoy the nature beauty of the town.

Llogara National Park

We drive through the Albanian Riviera leaving Himara behind and passing by the village of Dhermi . After a stop for photos we head to Llogara National Park , we will have a stop on the same place where paragliders start their flight with some amazing view to enjoy.

Vlore Independence City

Our way goes through Vlore , the city of Independence, with the beautiful “Lungomare” the promanade by the coast where two seas emerge with each-other

Zvernec Island

Zvërnec Island is an island within the Narta Lagoon connected to the mainland by a 270m long wooden bridge.

If lucky enough we can have a look on the migrating flamingos calmly occupying the shallow waters.

The island contains the well preserved 13th-14th century Byzantine Zvërnec Monastery which we can visit.

We head back to Tirana where the tour finishes.