Experience an unforgettable journey to a vibrant and optimistic region that exudes positivity and a determination to forge ahead. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the land by visiting the ancient remains of once-great civilizations. Marvel at breathtaking panoramas as you explore the wild mountains and national parks through exhilarating hikes and drives. Connect with the local communities, appreciate their art, witness their farming techniques, and learn about their strong community spirit. Make the most of your trip by participating in a variety of engaging activities and fully embracing the unique culture of the region.
Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver and guide. Then, you will travel along the highway towards the beautiful coastal city of Vlora, making occasional stops for refreshments and coffee breaks before finally arriving. Your coach will take you on an orientation tour of the city, where you will visit the Muradie Mosque, Flag Square, and the renowned Lungo Mare. Once the tour is complete, you can check into your hotel and unwind.
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
After breakfast, you will embark on a journey towards the mesmerizing Albanian Riviera. As you travel, you will witness the stunning sight of clouds descending onto the mountains, shepherds guiding their herds across the plains, and thick forests where wild boars, deer, and wolves roam freely in the mountainside national park above the Albanian Riviera. Driving through this breathtaking scenery along the coastal road south from Vlora to Dhërmi, you will come across several excellent roadside restaurants where you can take a break and indulge in a mouth-watering roast lamb lunch. Make sure to take a short stop for photos at the Balcony and to admire the Borshi waterfall before heading to Saranda to visit Butrint. As you explore the ruins of Butrint, which are part of a 29-sq-km national park and date back 2500 years, you may feel as though the ancient walls are whispering secrets of long-past lives. This largest and most beautiful of Albania's ancient sites is a must-see for any traveler. Reserve at least two hours to fully experience and appreciate the ruins. Afterward, you will return to Saranda to relax and enjoy the stunning sunset at Lekursi Castle while sipping coffee. Spend the night in Saranda.
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
Your day will commence with a brief visit to the stunning Blue Eye Spring, a mesmerizing pool of deep blue water surrounded by electric-blue edges that resemble an eye's iris. Next, you will make your way to Gjirokaster, with an optional stop at the Cheese Factory (known as Baxho in Albanian) near the renowned village of Lazarat. Upon arrival in Gjirokaster, you will have the opportunity to explore the old town, also known as "Qafa e Pazarit," which is defined by its castle, imposing slate-roofed houses, chunky limestone and shale-paved streets, and breathtaking views of the Drina Valley. This hillside town has been inhabited for over 2500 years, with the 600 Ottoman-era houses being the primary attraction for visitors. Notably, Gjirokastra holds significance for Albanians as the birthplace of former dictator Enver Hoxha, although there are no memorials to him in the town today. Optional visits to the castle of Argjiro are also available, and you can enjoy free time for shopping at the old bazaar before the final transfer to Berat, where you will spend the night.
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
After breakfast, the day will commence with a delightful exploration of Berat. This enchanting town is one of the must-see destinations in Albania, known for its unique and captivating charm. Its most notable feature is the stunning white Ottoman houses, which climb the hill up to the castle, earning it the nickname of the 'town of a thousand windows.' Berat, along with Gjirokastra, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. Its rugged mountain setting adds to its appeal, especially when the clouds gather around the minarets, or part to reveal the snow-capped peak of Mt Tomorri. Despite becoming a significant tourist hub in Albania, Berat has maintained its laid-back ambiance and welcoming atmosphere. You may opt to visit the castle of Berat, Salomoni Museum, and the renowned Onufri Museum with its impressive collection of icons. Enjoy a complimentary lunch inside the castle and a relaxing afternoon exploring the Gorica and Mangalemi districts at your leisure. Overnight stay in Berat.
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
After breakfast, you will be transferred first to the Dumreja region, which is renowned for having 84 lakes. In the past, the main lake Belshi was even suggested to become the capital of Albania. Take in the pristine beauty of the area before moving on to Elbasan for a visit to the old town and castle. After that, continue your journey towards North Macedonia, enjoying the views of the Shkumbini river along the way. You can also opt to visit Struga and the Kuratica spring. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Ohrid for check-in at your hotel and free time to explore the city. Overnight in Ohrid.
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
This day is dedicated entirely to exploring Ohrid. Your first stop will be a walking tour of the old town, led by a local guide. Along the way, you'll have the option to visit St. Sofia church, as well as the theatre and Samuel fortress. Ohrid, situated on the edge of serene Lake Ohrid, is North Macedonia's most captivating destination. Its atmospheric old quarter spills down steep streets, dotted with stunning churches and crowned by the remnants of a medieval castle. Traditional restaurants and cafes line the cobblestone streets. After reaching St. Kaneo for a breathtaking view, you'll return to the city center before heading to Sveti Naum Monastery. Naum was a contemporary of St. Kliment, and their monastery served as an educational center. The iconostasis inside the church dates back to 1711, and the frescoes were added in the 19th century. It's well worth paying the entrance fee to enter. Sandy beaches flank the monastery on two sides and are some of the best places to swim around Lake Ohrid. You'll have some free time for lunch, as well as the option to visit the Church of St. Naum (with an additional entrance fee payable on the spot) and take a boat trip to the spring of Black Drin. Afterward, you'll return to Ohrid for a free evening to spend as you please. Overnight in Ohrid
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
After breakfast you will depart in direction of Skopje via Kercova and Tetovo. Upon arrival in Skopje meet and greet with your guide for the sightseeing of the capital of North Macedonia. Skopje has plenty of charm. Its Ottoman- and Byzantine-era sights are focused around the city's delightful Čaršija, bordered by the 15th-century Kameni Most (Stone Bridge) and Tvrdina Kale Fortress – Skopje's guardian since the 5th century. Don't miss the excellent eating and drinking scene in Debar Maalo, a lovely tree-lined neighborhood. For most of its existence, Skopje has been a modest Balkan city known for its rich local life, but the last decade has seen its Centre transformed into a bizarre set design for an ancient civilization. Towering warrior statues, gleaming, enormous neoclassical buildings, marble-clad museums, hypnotic mega fountains…and plenty of lions. This is the result of a controversial, nationalistic project called 'Skopje 2014' implemented by ex–Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski. You finish the walking tour at the memorial house of Mother Teresa- free entrance, then enjoy free evening at Carshia how is called the old bazaar (second biggest in the Balkan after the one of Istanbul) Overnight in Skopje
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
This morning you will be transfer to Matka Canyon, enjoy the breathtaking canyons and also additional to be payed cash on the spot boat trip to Cave velo. Teams of scuba divers from Italy and Belgium have explored Matka's underwater caverns to a depth of 212m and still not found the bottom, making these caves among the deepest in Europe. Cave Vrelo is open to the public – you can enter the inky depths of the bat-inhabited cave by boat (a popular excursion) or hired kayak. Then ahead to Kosovo territories passing close to Gjakovo and we finish in Bajram Curri. Visit of the charming local town and the market. Free dinner and overnight in Bajram Curri.
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
This morning we will transfer via Bajram Curri and make many stops on the way to enjoy the river of Valbona. Upon arrival light hiking in the village Optional Visit also to the waterfall of Valbona (approximately 3.5hrs walking) or you can shorten by using the local minivan-additional 5Euro/person still is around 40min walk to reach the spot. Enjoy the pristine nature and interact with the locals. Many trails for you to enjoy other walking as to Jema Lake (like walk). Free afternoon and late afternoon back to Bajram Curri for overnight.
(No meals or entrance fee included in the quotation: Only breakfast)
After breakfast, transfer to Fierza to take the ferry in Direction of Fierza. The two distinctly flimsy craft that conduct people through the mountains along the vast man-made Lake Koman – a 1970s electrification pet project of Albania’s former dictator Enver Hoxha – barely look seaworthy. What they do offer, however, are spectacular views of the craggy limestone gorges and thickly forested mountains, as well as a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the hardy people who call them home. It’s immediately apparent from their size and impenetrability why the Albanian Alps are more commonly known to locals as Bjeshkët e Namuna, or ‘the Accursed Mountains’. When you reach Komani you will get of the ride which will last approximately 3hrs and then a short stop on the way to visit the National hero Scanderbeg tomb (Optional-not included to be payed cash on the spot) and transfer to Kruja when you will visit the old bazaar, the castle. Optional meet with a famous family who has been hidden Jewish community during WW2. Farewell dinner with Folk show performance all together. Overnight in Kruja.
(Included: Ferry Fierza-Koman, Farewell dinner with Folk Show performance and breakfast at hotel)
Depending on your departure flight you can visit additional in the morning the Ethnographic museum and Scanderbeg Museum. Transfer to Tirana International Airport for your departure flight- TBA. Meet and greet with your driver and guide.
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