- Visit Unesco World Heritage sites: Pogradec, Butrint, Berat and Gjirokaster
- Journey through the beautiful Albanian Riviera
- Discover historic monuments, including Durres Amphitheatre and Korce Museum of Medieval Arts
- Explore Llogora National Park
Highlights of Albania
10 Days
Excluding Flights From
10 Days
from
Incl. taxes
Excl. flights
Culture
Activity Level
Moderate
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you
Comfort Level
Classic
Discover the Land of Eagles before everyone else
Albania has a history to rival its better-known (and busier) neighbours and an equally impressive wild landscape. Past civilisations have left their mark here, mainly the Romans and Byzantines, which we see throughout the tour, including at the ancient Greek colony of Butrint and the 13th-century Berat Castle, both UNESCO listed. We also discover modern Albania, visiting the cities of Tirana, Korçë, Durrës and foodie-favourite Përmet. Expect a warm welcome wherever we go.
Highlights
Key Information
- Accommodation: 1 Superior night (hotel), 8 Classic nights (hotels)
- Travel by air-conditioned private bus
- Group normally 6 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
- Countries visited: Albania
What's Included
- All breakfasts and one lunch included
- All accommodation
- All transport and listed activities
- Tour leader throughout
- Group arrival and departure transfers available
What's Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Single accommodation (available on request)
- Visas or vaccinations
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Optional Single Supplement
Friday Friday
26 Sep 2025 26 Sep 2025
Sunday Sunday
05 Oct 2025 05 Oct 2025
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 1 space left!
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 418
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 1 space left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
03 Oct 2025 03 Oct 2025
Sunday Sunday
12 Oct 2025 12 Oct 2025
Availability Sold Out
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 418
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
10 Oct 2025 10 Oct 2025
Sunday Sunday
19 Oct 2025 19 Oct 2025
Availability Sold Out
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565
Optional Single Supplement
+CAD 418
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
17 Oct 2025 17 Oct 2025
Sunday Sunday
26 Oct 2025 26 Oct 2025
Availability Sold Out
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 418
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
24 Oct 2025 24 Oct 2025
Sunday Sunday
02 Nov 2025 02 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 2 spaces left!
Land Only Trip Price Usually CAD 2563Now CAD 2320Saving CAD 243 Usually CAD 2563Now Saving CAD 243
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 418
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 2 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
20 Mar 2026 20 Mar 2026
Sunday Sunday
29 Mar 2026 29 Mar 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
10 Apr 2026 10 Apr 2026
Sunday Sunday
19 Apr 2026 19 Apr 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
01 May 2026 01 May 2026
Sunday Sunday
10 May 2026 10 May 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
15 May 2026 15 May 2026
Sunday Sunday
24 May 2026 24 May 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
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Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
22 May 2026 22 May 2026
Sunday Sunday
31 May 2026 31 May 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
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Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
05 Jun 2026 05 Jun 2026
Sunday Sunday
14 Jun 2026 14 Jun 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
12 Jun 2026 12 Jun 2026
Sunday Sunday
21 Jun 2026 21 Jun 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
19 Jun 2026 19 Jun 2026
Sunday Sunday
28 Jun 2026 28 Jun 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2720 Book with CAD 680 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
28 Aug 2026 28 Aug 2026
Sunday Sunday
06 Sep 2026 06 Sep 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
04 Sep 2026 04 Sep 2026
Sunday Sunday
13 Sep 2026 13 Sep 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
11 Sep 2026 11 Sep 2026
Sunday Sunday
20 Sep 2026 20 Sep 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
18 Sep 2026 18 Sep 2026
Sunday Sunday
27 Sep 2026 27 Sep 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
25 Sep 2026 25 Sep 2026
Sunday Sunday
04 Oct 2026 04 Oct 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
02 Oct 2026 02 Oct 2026
Sunday Sunday
11 Oct 2026 11 Oct 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
09 Oct 2026 09 Oct 2026
Sunday Sunday
18 Oct 2026 18 Oct 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
23 Oct 2026 23 Oct 2026
Sunday Sunday
01 Nov 2026 01 Nov 2026
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price CAD 2565 Book with CAD 641 deposit Book with CAD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 475
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip Notes
Itinerary
Tirana Kruje
Adventure starts in Tirana
Begin your adventure in Tirana, the capital of Alania.
At 4.30pm, say hello to your tour leader and fellow travellers at our hotel, where we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. That’s followed by an orientation tour of the renovated New Bazaar, located near our hotel.
Your tour leader then ensures a big welcome by arranging an optional group dinner (this will be included for all in 2026).
Want to explore Tirana further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.
Accommodation: Hotel La Favorita/Sky 2 Hotel (or similar)
Visit Elbasan Fortress en route to Pogradec
After an early breakfast, we take a walking tour of Tirana, which was made the capital of Albania in 1920, visiting the remains of an old castle; the modern Pyramid of Tirana, which was opened as a museum and served as a NATO base during the Kosovo War; and the Prime Minister’s Office. We will also visit Bunk Art 2 or 1 (depending on seasonality), which is an Albanian history museum inside a preserved, Communist-era nuclear pit bunker.
Afterwards we reach the Blloku neighbourhood, where villas were once occupied by members of the Politburo, a former leading group of the Albanian Labour party. It is now the nightlife hub of Tirana, home to trendy bars, cafes and clubs.
We then drive to Pogradec (approximately 2hr 30min), making a short stop at the 15th-century fortress of Elbasan. Pogradec is one of the most charming resort cities in Albania, next to beautiful Lake Ohrid and surrounded by mountains. On the way we will stop in Lin to walk through the village and have a coffee in one of their bars.
Accommodation: Hotel Pogradeci (or similar)
Transfer to the artists village of Voskopojë; continue to Korçë
This morning, we drive for about an hour to Voskopojë Village (formerly known as Moscopole), an important and well-known centre for the arts, where many talented Albanian icon painters worked. The village has suffered over the years, with many treasures stolen during the second half of the 18th century and this continued during the world wars. We take a 40-minute walk to visit one of the oldest churches representing Voskopoja religious art.
Another drive (approximately 30 minutes) takes us to Korçë, the largest city in southeast Albania, which sits at the foot of Moravia Mountain, 2,625ft (800m) above sea level. This city became an important trading and handicraft centre in the 18th century and has also been referred to as the City of Museums. Make sure to try the renowned local beer.
*Please note during March, April, October and November, the visits to the Medieval Arts Museum in Korcë and the visit to Voskopoja will be done in reverse order due to opening times of the museum.
Accommodation: Hotel Christi Borova/Hotel Kocibelli (or similar)
Drive via the mountain village of Ersekë to the gastronomic city of Përmet
Our drive through the mountains today is truly spectacular, with sweeping views across the Gramos and Nemercka mountains. Along the winding route, we enjoy a short stop in Ersekë, which at 3,445ft (1,050m) is the highest town in Albania. This 17th-century town is surrounded by the beautiful green pastures of the Gramos Mountains. Continuing to beautiful Përmet, we make a stop at the hot springs, where we have time to relax and swim. After quite a long day (approximately five hours’ drive in total), we arrive in Përmet, in the heart of the white mountains on the Vjosë River. This evening you’re in for a treat: Përmet is celebrated for its food and wine, including gliko sweets and raki.
Accommodation: Hotel Alvero (or similar)
To Gjirokastër via the characterful village of Dhoksat
We drive (approximately two hours) to the beautiful town of Gjirokastër, pausing at the traditional village of Dhoksat for a homecooked lunch. For this, we visit the home of a local family, who cook our meal using produce from their land. They’ll also share their culture and customs with you, providing a valuable insight into their life and traditions.
In the afternoon, we enjoy a guided visit around mountainside Gjirokastër, where cobbled streets wind between old houses with interesting architectural features including medieval towers. The castle is the standout landmark here, with panoramic views of the landscape. We also visit Skenduli House, a centuries-old building and magnificent example of the local architectural style.
Please note: Lunch with the local family can sometimes be changed to dinner dependent on their availability.
Accommodation: Argjiro Hotel/Hotel Bineri (or similar)
Visit Butrint, continue to Llogora National Park
After an early breakfast, we travel to Unesco-listed Butrint National Park, an area that rose to fame in the fourth century BCE when it became home to a sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, god of medicine. The sanctuary was located on the south slope of the acropolis (hill) and was visited by worshippers to be healed. The city developed during the Roman period, but fell into decline after an earthquake and was abandoned towards the end of the Middle Ages. After our visit, we drive to Llogora National Park stopping along the coast on the way.
Accommodation: Llogora Tourist Village Hotel (or similar)
Llogora National Park walk and visit Apollonia
Head into Llogora National Park to follow in the footsteps of Julius Caesar, enjoying a 2.5mi (4km) round-trip hike along Caesar’s Path, possibly to Caesar’s Field – the Roman general is said to have marched through this area during his campaign against Pompey in 48 BCE. Along the way, there may be the opportunity for a refreshing swim in the Ionian Sea,.
Next, we stop at the wonderful ruins of Apollonia (approximately 1hr 30min to two hours’ drive). Originally occupied by Illyrian tribes and then colonists from Corfu and Corinth around 600 BCE, Apollonia flourished in the Roman period and was home to a renowned school of philosophy (emperor Augustus studied here) but began to decline in the third century CE when its harbour started silting up as a result of an earthquake. After Apollonia, we transfer for just over an hour further inland to the Unesco-listed town of Berat, where we spend the night.
Accommodation: Hotel Onufri/Berati Castel Hotel (or similar)
Day in Berat
Today is dedicated to Berat, the gem of Albania. This morning, we enjoy a guided tour around the old district, with pretty white buildings perched on the hill amid pine forests. We walk through the narrow cobbled streets and reach Berat Castle on the slopes of Mount Tomorr, where we are rewarded with breath-taking views (and we find out why Berat is known to Albanians as the City of a Thousand Windows). Within the castle walls are dwelling houses and the Onufri Museum (Museum of Iconography), which we have time to visit. On the way back to the hotel, we also visit the House of Cac Dollani. The rest of the day is free to explore the town.
Accommodation: Hotel Onufri/Berati Castel Hotel (or similar)
Drive to amphitheatre and port of Durrës; continue to Krujë
From Berat, we drive to the port of Durrës (approximately two hours), the second-largest city in Albania and home to the largest amphitheatre in the Balkans. The amphitheatre dates to the second century CE, seats 15,000 people and contains an early Christian crypt with rare wall mosaics. The city was colonised by people from Corinth and Korkyra in 627 BCE and was named Epidamnus, but later became Dyrrachium.
We then drive to the medieval citadel of Krujë (approximately 45 minutes), where the national hero, Skanderbeg, led the resistance against the Ottomans. He kept them from crossing into western Europe for 25 years, earning the title Champion of Christ.
We check in at the hotel and in the afternoon visit the Skanderbeg Museum, from which you can enjoy inspirational views to the Adriatic Coast. We also have time to wander through the medieval bazaar of Krujë, which is stocked full of souvenirs and handicrafts.
Accommodation: Hotel Panorama (or similar)
Adventure ends in Kruje
You’ve seen the beauty of the Albanian Riviera, walked in the footsteps of Julius Caesar, and witnessed magnificent monuments from civilisations past, but now it’s time to begin your return journey home.
Alternatively, if you’d like to extend your adventure, speak to your sales representative to discuss our large range of extension options.
Essential Info
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel La Favorita or Sky 2 Hotel
Recommended arrival time: There’s a welcome briefing at 4.30pm, followed by the orientation tour
Airport: Tirana Airport (TIA)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 35 minutes’ drive from the airport. We provide one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for those booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Tirana
Location end: Kruje
Hotels
We aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines.
Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. Speak to your sales representative to book.
Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we room solo passengers together. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement. Speak to your sales representative to book.
Reviews
Add your own reviewA fascinating trip
We took this trip in September. From the moment we arrived we knew we would have a good time. Our guide Artur made us feel very welcome, with his knowledge and humour. I didn’t know what to expect with Albania, only that it was a beautiful country and it was opening up for tourism. Despite some negative reports of crime etc, we wanted to go before it got to busy.. the history of the county is fascinating. There is so much to see and learn and Artur was a font of knowledge. We became engrossed in the history, the different periods of time with castles and ruins to it up back up, to the present time.
Our driver Diu was brilliant at traversing the very high and winding roads. He was very helpful to us all and great at taking group photographs.
We loved the food and there was a great choice, all freshly cooked. The hotels were very comfortable.
And the views. After each view, we didn’t think they could get better, but the did.
A wonderful place to visit. We loved Albania. I could write more, as there is so much to say about Albania.
Most Inspirational Moment
There were many inspiring moments, from the welcomes we received, views and the fight from communism. And seeing the vision of Albania in the future. Driving though the mountains, seeing these hugh edifices were awesome and inspiring.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Artur, our group leader was very inspiring. He has great knowledge of the history of Albania, some of which affected his own family. He was very safety conscious and made sure we were comfortable. He recommended great places to eat, mainly as a group and arranged little treats for us. I was unwell at one time and he went out of his way to make sure I was comfortable and had everything I needed. I couldn't have asked for more. He was very patient and answered all our questions fully., sending us more information via WhatsApp. He had a great driver in Dion, who worked well with Artur. Artur is a great asset to Exodus. An excellent guide, with a great sense of humour.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take sturdy shoes, as there are many ups and downs, steps and worn, shiny cobble paths. Be prepared for beautiful views.
A fascinating trip
We took this trip in September. From the moment we arrived we knew we would have a good time. Our guide Artur made us feel very welcome, with his knowledge and humour. I didn’t know what to expect with Albania, only that it was a beautiful country and it was opening up for tourism. Despite some negative reports of crime etc, we wanted to go before it got to busy.. the history of the county is fascinating. There is so much to see and learn and Artur was a font of knowledge. We became engrossed in the history, the different periods of time with castles and ruins to it up back up, to the present time.
Our driver Dion was brilliant at traversing the very high and winding roads. He was very helpful to us all and great at taking group photographs.
We loved the food and there was a great choice, all freshly cooked. The hotels were very comfortable.
And the views. After each view, we didn’t think they could get better, but the did.
A wonderful place to visit. We loved Albania. I could write more, as there is so much to say about Albania.
Most Inspirational Moment
There were many inspiring moments, from the welcomes we received, views and the fight from communism. And seeing the vision of Albania in the future. Driving though the mountains, seeing these hugh edifices were awesome and inspiring.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Artur, our group leader was very inspiring. He has great knowledge of the history of Albania, some of which affected his own family. He was very safety conscious and made sure we were comfortable. He recommended great places to eat, mainly as a group and arranged little treats for us. I was unwell at one time and he went out of his way to make sure I was comfortable and had everything I needed. I couldn't have asked for more. He was very patient and answered all our questions fully., sending us more information via WhatsApp. He had a great driver in Dion, who worked well with Artur. Artur is a great asset to Exodus. An excellent guide, with a great sense of humour.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take sturdy shoes, as there are many ups and downs, steps and worn, shiny cobble paths. Be prepared for beautiful views.
Fantastic Highlights Tour of Albania
I encourage anyone who wants to learn more about Albania to take this cultural tour. I hope you are lucky and get Artur as your guide and Diu as your driver. These men are pros. I loved traveling around the country to visit several UNESCO World Heritage sites, small towns, the national forest, and the coast line. Albania is changing so quickly as it commercially develops. You can still experience the old Albania through its traditional costumes, dances, and small towns.
Most Inspirational Moment
Standing at the panoramic viewpoint before the National Park and watching a paraglider sail off into air!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Artur is a true professional. He loves his country and shares all the ways that it has changed since the times of the fascist government and communist regime. I learned so much. He had a wonderful way to draw our group together so we felt like family. I also wanted to mention our excellent driver (Diu) who made us feel so safe in the way he drove the mountaineous roads.
Advice for Potential Travellers
You’ll spend some long days on the bus. You’ll need to get Albanian currency or euros to pay for your meals and drinks in the small towns. They often don’t take credit cards.
Highlights of Albania
Excellent educational historical scenic Albanian journey. Our group leader Ed was extremely knowledgeable and shared stories of living under communism. Our driver Di Di was a joy to be around. Not only was he an excellent driver on the long windy roads but he brought so much fun and joy to our group.
Albania: Europe’s Best-Kept Secret (But Not for Long!)
From ancient ruins to alpine peaks, Albania swept me off my feet with its wild beauty, warm hearts, and unforgettable surprises at every turn.
Most Inspirational Moment
It is rather difficult for me to pinpoint the most inspiring moment of this trip as I was totally blown away everyday. Albania is still a hidden gem in Europe — rich in history, unspoiled landscapes, and warm hospitality. Everyday of this trip provided a different landscape - who knew there was mountains in Albania - I know I didn't.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader Artur - was such a genuine person, he was so open and honest with the Group on how Albania was, is now and looking to the Future , which gave me a deeper understanding of the country, that I know I would not have found had I chosen to go on my own. Everything about him and how he presented epitomized the Albanian hospitality we felt everywhere we went. Artur, conducted a wine tasting in Berat, found the most wonderful places to eat, often off on backroads of towns - which were more authentic. He could work out bills at the end of the evening like a proper accountant and genuinely enhanced the trip. The other part of any group road tour that is exceptionally important is the Driver. On our trip this was Diu. His masterful driving skills gave myself and the group complete peace of mind on every journey, even on the more adventurous routes. More than just getting us from A to B, Diu consistently showed a real concern for our well-being and enjoyment of his country. Always on hand to assist members of the group on and off the bus, offering help and suggestions on local food to try and ensuring everyone felt looked after throughout the trip. He truly made the logistical aspects of the tour seamless and enjoyable and between him and Artur we could not have asked for more.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Packing for variety is key here - exploring cities, hiking in mountains, and relaxing on the coast. Layers, comfy walking shoes and something for the cooler evenings in the mountains. Sunscreen as it gets hot even in June Cash is King - While cards are accepted in bigger towns, many places (especially rural ones) prefer cash. Bring some euros or withdraw lekë locally. Try Everything Once – Albanian cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavours. Don’t miss Byrek, grilled meats, and fresh seafood! and remember the Albanian Saying Raki is Love! Brush Up on History – Albania’s past is fascinating and complex, and varied with Byzantine, Greek, Roman, Fascist, Communism and Ottoman all mixed in here. A little reading beforehand will make visits to places like Butrint, Berat and Gjirokastër even more meaningful. Stay Connected - or Don't - wi-fi is decent in most hotels, but can signal can be patchy in remote areas. As Albania is not in the EU a lot of data roaming packages will not work as in the EU and you may need to buy a pass
A great fun group tour
Our group was fourteen on an excellent new minibus. None of the days driving were too long in distance and the roads were mainly excellent.
The weather in early June was hot (28/32 degrees). Stunning scenery and very interesting archaeological sights, incredible ancient churches and mosques.
Good food although variable. Hotels were good, some excellent. Albania is a rapidly expanding tourist destination with huge coastal developments – go now.
Most Inspirational Moment
We loved Korce, Permet, Gjirokaster Castle and beautiful Berat and finally Kruje - there were not many places we didn't like! Lunch with a family up in the mountains was relaxed and much appreciated. Towards the end of the holiday it was fantastic to swim in the sea at Porto Palermo
Thoughts on Group Leader
Ed (Edon) was a very enthusiastic and incredibly knowledgeable guy with boundless energy. Briefer info stops would have been appreciated sometimes as he did ramble on occasionally but great historic and current day insights including tales of his growing up. Super rapport with our driver Dui (DiDi) who was super - a brilliant, careful and safe drive but also helpful, kind and funny and he kept an immaculate bus :) What a team.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Two extra night in Tirana at the start is good. Take a cooking class (book through Viator - class with Sindi) and a trip up the mountain cablecar. Prepare for hot weather with sun umbrella and hats. Medieval streets are sometimes steep shiny cobbles so have shoes with good non-slip treads. Possibly a walking pole if unsteady. Get your currency there and be prepared to pay cash mainly. Take Euros which are widely accepted or can be exchanged. Prices are rising and it is no longer a cheap destination. If you are adding an extra day before flying home then stay another nights at the Panorama Hotel -great hotel, rooftop pool and lounging area and right by the Bazaar and restaurants.
Highlights of Albania
Very interesting country with a deep history and much to offer the traveller. Majestic scenery, good food and friendly people
Most Inspirational Moment
Amazing views at Kruje and the ancient city of Berat.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Out group leader was Edjon. He was fantastic. Passionate about his country and a fountain of knowledge on history and culture. He has an infectious humour and together with our driver Medi made our tour unforgettable. I have been on many tours and I can say Edjon was the best leader and Medi the safest, considerate and professional driver I have met.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Go now before the country becomes popular and prices increase
An Adventure Through Hidden Gems and Warm Hospitality
This fast-paced journey through Albania gave us a great feel of Albania and covered most of the South. From morning swims in Lake Ohrid to soaking in the hot springs near Permet at sunset and exploring the Adriatic at Porto Palermo. Each day offered something new, with just one night in most hotels to maximize our time. Exploring Berat’s castle in the evening, spotting bunkers across the countryside, and ending in the picture-perfect town of Krujë made for unforgettable moments. Our guide was wonderful—his deep love and knowledge of Albania brought each stop to life.
Most Inspirational Moment
Swimming in the 'hot' (warm) pools at golden hour was unforgettable. With the iconic stone bridge arching over leading to the springs and the group in high spirits after our picturesque drive through the mountains, it felt like a hidden oasis—even with a few other travellers around. You can tell this spot will eventually develop, but for now, it feels like a secret discovery.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our guide was exceptional—he was so proud of his country and shared information with a historian’s passion. He was like a walking fact book, sometimes going off on tangents, but his enthusiasm was contagious. Behind his easygoing style, he had carefully planned every stop, ensuring perfect timing without it ever feeling rigid. He looked out for each traveller, making sure everyone felt safe, engaged, and valued.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Albania is still primarily a cash-based country, so be prepared. Prices are lower than in neighboring countries, though they’re gradually rising. The service here is friendly but still developing, so expect a few quirks with timing and bill splitting. Lastly, if you’re prone to car sickness, consider bringing medication for the winding mountain roads!
Fantastic experience
It’s a fascinating country with a lot to offer. There is so much history and the people are very friendly and genuinely interested in you. I would recommend this trip to anyone.
Most Inspirational Moment
For me, the most amazing place was Kruje. Sitting on the terrace looking at the views of the castle and the Skanderberg museum was fantastic.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader, Edjon was the best. He was so knowledgeable and friendly. He kept us informed and amused all day. Medi our driver was very professional and a lot of fun. He's also a good driver so you feel safe with him
Advice for Potential Travellers
Do the your but ask for Medi and Edjon.
Fabulous.
An enlightening, entertaining experience in a country with a past that most of us can barely begin to comprehend.
Stunning scenery, some ancient architecture, mixed with the more mundane day to day reality of life.
Most Inspirational Moment
The view over lake Ohrid, lunch in a private garden, ancient ruins, the views, the Albanian people…
Thoughts on Group Leader
Ed, our guide gave us an enthusiastic and detailed insight into both recent and ancient history with passion, whilst ensuring the welfare and comfort of the group. He was both friendly and professional. Di Di (Medi) our driver was enthusiastic, entertaining and caring. His driving made the travelling exceptionally comfortable. The rapport between the guide and driver certainly added value to the trip and helped to bond the group and ensure that we were comfortable.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Albania is developing rapidly.
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Highlights of Albania
10 Days
Excluding Flights From
10 Days
from
Incl. taxes
Excl. flights