Albanian culture

Tirana -Kruja
This tour starts at 8:30 meeting up at  the Skanderbeg Square, Tirana. The capital has a little something for everyone. With a mashup of old and new, Historic Museum, the last traces of the Ottoman Empire, Et’hem Bey Mosque and the Clock Tower, as well as the New Bazaar have so much to offer.
Further we will drive to Kruja town. Kruja is your ticket to go back in medieval history by visiting the castle and Skanderbeg Museum and the unique bazaar. 

The medieval hero Gjergj Kastrioti called “Scanderbeg” is considered not only by Albanians as a symbol of resistance and savior but also by ottomans who believed that a supernatural force dwelt in him. The museum carrying his name is a piece of history brought in time. The walk in the Old Bazaar full of old shops that sell traditional handmade items will keep you back in time as if the years didn’t pass by.We will spend the night in Kruja. 

Elbasan-Pogradec-Korçë
The very next morning we’ll find us driving from Kruja through Elbasan & Pogradec. Short stops to enjoy the view and have snacks will be made accordingly. Korca, Albania’s sweetheart, will be our final destination. The city is the most important cultural center in Albania.
It is known for its typical quarters with narrow cobblestone streets, low houses and villas as well as beautiful churches. You can enjoy some free time on your own along the “Bulevardi Republika” or visiting the Old Bazaar the most interesting part of the city. Overnight in Korca.

Përmet-Gjirokastër
From Korça we’ll drive to the small little town of Përmet. Lunch break in Përmet. We’ll continue our trip to Gjirokastër, part of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Known as the “City of Stones”, is a rare well-preserved Ottoman town that will take you back in time with its vintage vibes full of unforgettable sights.

While visiting the old Bazaar with its cobblestone streets, you’ll get the chance to go through local artisan shops. The typical old houses are the jewel of the city itself. Zekate House, one of the biggest ones now open to the public carries a part of the history inside.

The highlight of the visit will for sure be the fortress of Argjiro.With outstanding views and a legend behind its name, Argjiro will leave you breathless. Overnight in Gjirokastër.

Blue Eye- Butrint Archaeological Park-Sarandë
From Gjirokastër you’ll drive towards Blue Eye – a water spring and a popular tourist attraction as deep as 50 m is an open air natural pool. You next stop will be Butrint’s Archeological Park. You’ll take a guided tour to see preserved monuments  such as the Venetian tower, temple of Asclepius and Agora. Visit the remains of the Baptistery, Episcopal Palace and more.  The Park as big as 9,424 hectares encompasses hilly terrain with freshwater lakes, wetlands, salt marshes, open plains, reed beds and islands.

After Butrint Park, breathtaking views of the sunset await for you on top of Lekursi Castle in Saranda. Despite its history, within the castle you can enjoy a glass of wine from local vineyards while facing the city and its magnificent shores. Overnight in Saranda.

Albanian Riviera-Apollonia- Berat
From Saranda we’ll drive through the amazing shores of the Albanian Riviera. Breathtaking views and Palermo Bay will be your first stop for the day. You’ll keep going through Llogara Pass a spectacular winding road to arrive in Vlorë, the city of the Albanian Independence Proclamation in November 28-th 1912. Lunch break in Vlorë.
From Vlorë you’ll go to the archeological site of Apollonia. Visit the amphitheatre, Portic, Odeon, the Monastery and the archaeological museum. You’ll drive towards Berat, for a quiet evening and accommodation.

Berat – Tirana
After breakfast, you’ll have a chance to explore the Onufri Museum inside of the Cathedral of Saint Mary Assumption (18th century) and admire the icons of the mysterious work of the Onufri painter. You will get the chance to visit the castle, one of the most marvelous sights of the city and one of the biggest inhabited castles with many Byzantine churches. Your next stop will be the old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica connected with each other by the Gorica Bridge over the Osumi River. Both quarters take pride in their architecture and the rare shapes of their houses, part of UNESCO World Heritage site. Finally, return to Tirana.

WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU

Participants on the tour are advised to bring:

• Snacks
• Lightweight waterproof/windbreaker jackets
• Water Bottles
• Sunglasses
• Camera 🙂

*We advise you to take the least amount of baggage that you possibly can. 

*Please inform us about any existing medical conditions in your booking form.

*This tour is operative all year round on the selected dates. Kindly check the calendar or contact us for any questions.