From The Alpine Peak to Albania Riviera
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
Journey South to Kruja
Start your day with a breakfast featuring local delicacies as we continue our valley tour by bus. We will cross the border and venture into Kosovo to visit Prizren, the second largest city, steeped in history and distinguished by its unique architectural center. Upon arriving in Kruja, we will explore its historical treasures, including the castle, the museum, the old bazaar, and the impeccably preserved ethnographic museum. Dinner will be a culinary delight featuring regional specialties in a reserved panoramic setting at the hotel restaurant, which shares the town's name. (B, D)
Day 4
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 5
Albanica Winery in Ardenica Hills to Vlora
Today will be visiting a nice Agro Tourism initiative in the hills of Ardenica and listen/talk to the owner. Participate in preparation of the dishes, with the recipes of the grandma and take a short tour of the Farm. Wine and cheese testing will be also part of the activity.
The visit of the old Monastery, only 500 meters from the farm will follow. Time to experience the sunset view and off to Vlora, visit the center and learn about the role that this city has played during the history, especially in the time of the declaration of the Independence in 1912. Overnight in Vlora. (B)
Day 6
Boat Tour to Sazan Island and Karaburun
After breakfast, we will start with another main highlights of the tour, the cruise to the only island of Albania (used to be the most advanced military base in the west, of the Soviet Block, during the Cold War era, and the marvelous beaches of Karaburun Peninsula (accessible only by sea), we will learn about its military history. The Pirates Cave Expediton is also in the list! Explore the beauty and hidden gems of this island! Dinner will be served in one of the numerous restaurants of Vlora Lungomare. (B, D)
Day 7
Albanian Riviera
Today will drive along the Ionian coast, or as it is better known, the Albanian Riviera. Will stop to in few highlights like Porto Palermo, a beautiful and unspoiled bay, we will visit the Ali Pascha Castle and you will have the option to swim in the turquoise waters. Continue to the Old Himare Village a lovely village built around a castle and wander around its narrow streets, we will then proceed to Dhermi Beach a beautiful beach with crystal clear and blue sea waters. Needless to mention, you should be prepared with enough memory and battery in your cameras.
Dinner & Overnight in a sea front view hotel in Sarande. (B, D)
Day 8
Blue Eye and Gjirokastra
This morning we will visit 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. Time to come back to Tirana, but from different route, more speedy and passing near Blue Eye Natural Monument, and the cultural town of Gjirokastra (UNESCO Heritage), visiting each of them for a short time.
It is forecasted to be in a nice resort in the periphery of Tirana, by early afternoon. Time to relax and have a joint reunion, in the beautiful grounds of the resort, enjoy the resort's unique delicacies and dishes or visit the resorts brewery and try their unfiltered or filtered beer. (B)
Day 9
Farewell and Departure
Before your flight departs, you have the option to explore Tirana's city center or visit a large shopping center, marking the end of our remarkable journey and Discovery of Albania. (B)
Choose your preferred dates and book your trip today
BOOK NOWDates & Rates
For information please contact our office at info@ibmttours.com or call 1-877-977-4268
Services Included:
- Transfers from/to the airport
- 8 nights in 4 - 4.5* accommodation
- Daily Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 5 Dinners included
- Wine & cheese tasting activity
- Air-conditioned deluxe motor-coach
- English speaking Tour Director and local guides
- All transport and entrance tickets to the sites visited as per itinerary
- Boat tickets for Komani lake and the Sea tour in Sazan Island and Karaburun Peninsula
- Services charges & hotel taxes
Services Not Included:
- Airfare & Departure taxes
- Tips to guide/drivers & hotel staff
- Travel Insurance
- Personal extras on meals not mentioned above
Hotels:
Shkodra - https://traditagt.com/
Valbona - https://bujtina.hotels-albania.net/en/
Kruja https://hotelpanoramakruje.com/
Berat -https:// https://hotelonufri.hotelscheck-in.com/al or https://beratcastlehotel.com/
Saranda - https://santaquaranta.com/
Tirana - https://hotelkotoni.com/ or https://testela.al/
