Day 1 - Arrival Day
Tirana to Shkodra
Upon your early morning arrival at Tirana International Airport, we will commence our journey by heading towards the town of Lezha to pay homage to the Memorial of Scanderbeg, the renowned Albanian National Hero from the 15th century. Following this, we will go to Shkodra, where you will check in at a prestigious, time-honored traditional hotel. Take a moment to unwind and rejuvenate for 1-2 hours. In the afternoon, we invite you to explore the historic gems of Shkodra, including the captivating Rozafa Castle, offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, the charming Pedestrian Street in the historic center, and a visit to the Marubi Studio. Our first day culminates with a memorable dinner, promising to be a delightful introduction to your journey. (D)
Day 2
Lake Komani and Valbona Valley
After a sumptuous breakfast, we embark on a mesmerizing journey to Lake Komani, where you will be astounded by the ever-changing landscapes in the short distances traveled, a theme that will persist throughout this captivating tour. As we navigate the pristine waters of Lake Komani, you will witness the transformation of ancient valleys into fjords, a natural wonder that is sure to leave an impression. Upon reaching Valbona Valley, you are welcome to our Alpine-style hotel, where you will be surrounded by the untamed splendor of this "Gem of the Albanian Alps." The evening is a time to indulge your palate and nourish your soul. (B, D)
Day 3
Decan Monastery and Prizren
After a breakfast of local delights, the valley tour continues by bus, and we cross the border to continue the visit in Kosovo.
Few km in North direction to visit the Decan Monastery (XIII Century) and than back south direction off to the second biggest city of Kosovo (Prizren) – full of history and with an unique architecture, of the old town. Visit the House turned museum, where the League of Prizren was held (a milestone in the efforts toward the Independence from Otoman Empire) and than stroll in the cobblestone streets for the other highlights. Accommodation in a classic style hotel in the center and dinner in one of the restaurants next to the river. (B, D)
Day 4
Skopje
Today will cross another border and reach after 20 km the capital of North Macedonia. The local professional guide will be waiting for us at the hotel, so that the visit of the center and the old oriental Carshija, can start after the check-in and a short rest. Dinner will be served in a well known restaurant, where local dishes will be tested. (B, D)
Day 5
Lake Ohrid East & Ohrid Town return to Albania, Pogradec
After the delicious breakfast will start to drive south toward the eastern part of lake Ohrid (the oldest of the Balkans) and get lost in the Ohrid Old Town leaded again by our local Macedonian guide. In the afternoon will drive along the picturesque landscapes of the lake and reach Saint Naum Monastery, where history and nature mix together.
In the late afternoon cross the border to Albania to accommodate and have the dinner served in Pogradec, the Albanian town at the lake, opposite to Ohrid. One can walk after the dinner at the pedestrian street in and absorb the magic atmosphere of this place. (B, D)
Day 6
Korca and Voskopoja
Today will be visiting Korca, the most important center of the Southeast, 30 mins drive from Pogradec. A visit to the historical center, museum, the old bazaar and the many lovely enclaves of the city, including the oldest brewery of the country.
Visit Voskopoja, that was a big trade and cultural center by 17-18 century and have the accommodation and dinner, in a nice hotel immersed in pine trees and quiet nature. People can have short walks after dinner. (B, D)
Day 7
Vjosa Valley and Permet
One of the highlights of all the tour – the visit of a family run agro-tourism, Farma Sotira and the drive along the river Vjosa, which is thought to be the only wild river of Europe. Local and Intl activists achieved an important victory in defending it from the Government plans to license few dam projects. Leonardo Di Caprio put also his name behind this cause.
Upon arrival and after check-in in a traditional hotel in the small town of Permet on the bank of the river, will visit the thermal waters and the opening of the Lengarica Canyon. This area has a good name for some special dishes, and we will be able to test some of them during the dinner. (B, D)
Day 8
Gjirokastra, Blue Eye to Saranda
This morning we will transfer to Southen Albania, Gjirokastra (UNESCO Heritage) and visit the highlights of this beautiful city, a rare example of a well-preserved Ottoman town, built by farmers of large estate . After we will continue to reach the Blue Eye Nature Monument.
In the afternoon we will have a guided tour of Butrinti - the biggest archeological site of the country, including all area of Northern Greece and the nearby beach of Ksamil, symbol of the Albanian Ionian Coast. Check-in in Sarande in sea front view hotel and relax, before having the dinner served. (B,)
Day 9
Corfu Town, Greece
This day will jump to the Greek Island Corfu, just opposite of Saranda through a 40 mins ferry trip. Will spend a full day of touring its cultural heritage which reflects years spent under Venetian, French and British rule before it was united with Greece in 1864. Take a ferry back to Saranda in the late afternoon. (B, D)
Day 10
Albanian Riviera - Llogora
After breakfast, prepare to visit the entire Albanian Riviera from from Saranda to Llogora with stops in a few highlights like Porto Palermo, a beautiful and unspoiled bay, we will visit the Ali Pascha Castle and the Himara old village and Dhermi Beach. Please make sure to have enough memory and battery in your devices for this day. In the afternoon will reach the Llogora pass at 1,100 meters high, from which a wonderful view will be displayed. We will check-in at our hotel and you can opt to walk through the Caesar Path, that was used during the war againts the Pompei army. You can still find the roman staris remnants. We will dine at a Alpine style hotel and restaurant, listening to stories from the chef who used to be the chef for a submarine marines during the Cold War. (B, D)
Day 11
Berat
After a delicious breakfast prepared with local products we depart to the charming city of Berat (UNESCO World Heritage City) a historic city in Albania, located in the heart of the country's lush landscape and the most visited site of the country. Upon arrival visits to the castle and various splendid highlights, including Onufri Museum, accompanied by local professional guide.
Lunch in a traditional restaurant inside the castle, and learn about the owners story, while food is prepared. Listen to their adventures journey to Albania while enjoying a delicious meal.
Free afternoon and rest in Berat and overnight stay inside the Castle. (B, L)
Day 12
Durres and Tirana
As we make our way back to Tirana, we will take a different route, passing through the historic city of Durres. Though minimal remains survive, Durres stands as one of the oldest cities in Albania, founded as Epidamnos in the ancient region of Illyria in 627 BC. In the early afternoon, we will arrive at a charming resort on the outskirts of Tirana, where you can unwind and come together for a communal gathering in the spacious area dedicated to banquets and special occasions. The resort's restaurant is celebrated for its unique delicacies and dishes, as well as its fresh beer brewed on-site. (B)
Day 13
Tirana
This last day of the tour will be dedicated entirely to Tirana capital which is known for its colourful pastel buildings. We will go between visits and leisure. (B)
Day 14
Farewell and Departure
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and depending on your flight schedule take a free day sightseeing on your own before transferring to Tirana International airport for your departure back home. (B)
Choose your preferred dates and book your trip today
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For information please contact our office at info@ibmttours.com or call 1-877-977-4268
Services Included:
- Transfers from/to the airport
- 13 nights in 4* accommodation
- Daily Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 10 Dinners included
- Air-conditioned deluxe motor-coach
- English speaking Tour Director and local guides in Albania and Montenegro
- All transports and entrance tickets to the sites visited as per itinerary
- Boat tickets for Komani Lake, Ferry Saranda-Corfu tickets,
- Services charges & hotel taxes
Services Not Included:
- Airfare & Departure taxes
- Tips to guide/drivers & hotel staff
- Travel Insurance
- Entrance Tickets
- Personal extras on meals not mentioned above
