7-Day Albania Tour Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Arrival in Tirana
Welcome to Albania! Upon landing at Tirana International Airport, our team will greet you with a warm welcome and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of the capital.

Free Time & Tirana City Tour
You’ll have free time to rest or explore the city on your own until 17:00, when we regroup for a guided city tour.

Tirana is a city of contrasts, where Ottoman, Italian, and communist architecture blend into a colorful and dynamic atmosphere. We’ll explore the city’s key landmarks in a slow paced walking tour.

Overnight in Tirana

Depart from Tirana
After breakfast, we begin our journey east toward the historic city of Elbasan. As we leave Tirana behind, the scenery opens into rolling hills, traditional villages, and beautiful mountain views.

Explore Elbasan
Our first stop is Elbasan, a city known for its rich Ottoman heritage. We’ll enter the historic Elbasan Castle, explore its charming old quarter, and walk through narrow cobbled streets lined with cafés and artisan shops.

Highlights of Elbasan include:

• The ancient walls of Elbasan Castle
• Traditional Ottoman houses inside the fortress
• Local cafés and handicraft stalls

Cross into North Macedonia – Arrive in Ohrid
We continue toward the border and enter North Macedonia, making our way to the UNESCO city of Ohrid. Known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans,” Ohrid is famous for its lakefront views, medieval churches, and atmospheric old town.

In Ohrid, we explore:

• The Old Bazaar and lakeside promenade
• Stunning viewpoints overlooking Lake Ohrid
• Optional visits to St. John Kaneo, Samoil’s Fortress, or the ancient amphitheater

You’ll have time to enjoy lunch by the lake or stroll through the historic center at your own pace.

Evening in Pogradec
In the late afternoon, we return to Albania and continue to the lakeside town of Pogradec. Known for its relaxing promenade, clear waters, and fresh fish specialties, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Overnight in Pogradec

Morning in Pogradec
We begin the day with a relaxing morning by the shores of Lake Ohrid. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Pogradec as the sun rises over the water, or take a short walk along the lakeside promenade before departure.

Drive Toward Korçë
After breakfast, we travel southeast toward Korçë, passing through charming villages and scenic landscapes. This region is known for its traditional houses, fertile fields, and cultural richness.

Explore Korçë – The Cultural Capital of Southern Albania
Upon arrival, we dive into the unique atmosphere of Korçë, often called the “City of Serenades.” The city is famous for its architecture, museums, and vibrant café culture.

Highlights of Korçë include:

• The historic Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjetër) – beautifully restored and perfect for photos
• The Museum of Medieval Art – home to an exceptional collection of Byzantine icons
• The Cathedral of Resurrection – one of the largest and most impressive churches in Albania
• Traditional stone alleys lined with cozy cafés and artisan shops

Free Time in Korçë
You’ll have time to enjoy a traditional lunch, taste local specialties such as “lakror” or Korça beer, or wander through the charming Old Bazaar district at your own pace.

Overnight in Korçë

Depart from Korçë
After breakfast, we begin our journey south, leaving behind the charming streets of Korçë. The road takes us through rural landscapes, traditional stone villages, and some of the most peaceful scenery in southeastern Albania.

Arrival in Përmet – The City of Roses
Our first stop is Përmet, a picturesque town known for its hospitality, beautiful river views, and natural hot springs. Përmet is also famous for its organic products, traditional cuisine, and stunning mountain surroundings.

Highlights in Përmet include:

• A walk through the tranquil town center
• Views of the Vjosa River – one of Europe’s last wild rivers
• Optional visit to the thermal springs of Bënjë with their iconic stone bridge
• Tasting local specialties such as gliko, mountain honey, or traditional raki

Continue Toward Gjirokastër
We continue our journey deeper into southern Albania, following scenic roads that lead us to the UNESCO city of Gjirokastër. Known as the “Stone City,” Gjirokastër impresses with its Ottoman-era architecture, tower houses, and dramatic castle rising above the old town.

Explore Gjirokastër
Upon arrival, we begin exploring the city’s historic heart.

Highlights of Gjirokastër include:

• The Gjirokastër Castle – offering panoramic valley views
• The Old Bazaar – full of traditional crafts and stone-built charm
• Typical Ottoman-style houses and narrow cobbled streets
• Optional visit to Skenduli House or Zekate House for an insight into local heritage

Overnight in Gjirokastër

Morning in Gjirokastër
We start the day with a final stroll through the stone streets of Gjirokastër. Enjoy the early morning atmosphere as the sun lights up the old town’s traditional rooftops and mountain backdrop.

Drive Toward Butrint National Park
After breakfast, we leave Gjirokastër and travel south toward one of the most important archaeological sites in the Balkans — Butrint National Park. The drive takes us through lush landscapes and coastal roads as we approach the Ionian Riviera.

Explore Butrint – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Butrint is an ancient city with over 2,500 years of history, shaped by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian civilizations. Set within a protected natural environment, the ruins and surrounding lagoon create a magical and peaceful atmosphere.

Highlights of Butrint include:

• The ancient Roman theatre
• The Lion Gate and Venetian Tower
• The Baptistery with its beautiful mosaic floor
• The ancient city walls, basilica, and acropolis
• Stunning views of the Vivari Channel

Continue to Sarandë
In the afternoon, we continue to Sarandë, the vibrant seaside town at the heart of the Albanian Riviera. Known for its crystal-clear waters, lively promenade, and Mediterranean charm, Sarandë is perfect for a relaxing evening by the sea.

Evening in Sarandë
You’ll have free time to walk along the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply unwind at your hotel while overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Overnight in Sarandë

Morning Departure from Sarandë
After breakfast, we leave the Ionian coast and begin our journey north. Enjoy the scenic drive as we travel through the heart of southern Albania, passing olive groves, mountain landscapes, and traditional villages along the way.

Arrival in Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows
By midday, we reach Berat, one of Albania’s most cherished UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Known for its hillside architecture and beautifully preserved Ottoman quarters, Berat offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery.

Explore Berat
We begin our visit in the historic center, where stone houses stacked on the slopes create the iconic “thousand windows” view. The city’s calm atmosphere and rich heritage make it a highlight of any Albanian journey.

Highlights of Berat include:

• Berat Castle – still inhabited and offering stunning panoramic views
• Mangalem & Gorica quarters – two traditional neighborhoods facing each other across the river
• Gorica Bridge – one of the most photogenic structures in the city
• Optional visit to the Onufri Museum inside the castle

Continue to Tirana
In the late afternoon, we drive toward Tirana, passing through the central Albanian countryside. As we approach the capital, the scenery shifts from rural landscapes to the lively energy of the city.

Arrival in Tirana
Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your hotel. The evening is free to relax, explore the city center, or enjoy Tirana’s growing culinary and nightlife scene.

Overnight in Tirana

Depart from Tiranë
We start the day by leaving the capital and heading toward the historic mountain town of Krujë. As we ascend toward the fortress, enjoy panoramic views over the valley and the Adriatic coastline.

Explore Krujë – The City of Skanderbeg
Krujë is one of Albania’s most symbolic destinations, known for its castle and its association with national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. The city offers a beautiful blend of history, tradition, and mountain scenery.

Highlights of Krujë include:

• Krujë Castle – standing proudly on the hilltop with sweeping views
• Skanderbeg Museum – dedicated to Albania’s most revered historical figure
• The Old Bazaar – ideal for traditional crafts, carpets, silverwork, and souvenirs

Continue to Shkodër
After exploring Krujë, we travel north to the vibrant city of Shkodër, one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Albania. Known for its cultural heritage, lakeside scenery, and Venetian influence, Shkodër is a key highlight of northern Albania.

Highlights of Shkodër include:

• A walk through the charming pedestrian boulevard
• Views toward Rozafa Castle (optional visit)
• Historic neighborhoods filled with cafés, art, and local life

Drive Toward Durrës
In the late afternoon, we head south toward the coast, arriving in Durrës, Albania’s second-largest city and one of the oldest ports on the Adriatic.

Evening in Durrës
Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxing walk along the seaside promenade or explore the city center with its mix of Roman, Byzantine, and modern landmarks.

Highlights of Durrës include:

• The Roman Amphitheatre – one of the largest in the Balkans
• The waterfront promenade lined with cafés and sea views
• Historical city center and ancient walls

Overnight in Durrës

Morning in Durrës
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Durrës, taking in the fresh sea breeze or having a final walk along the Adriatic promenade. Depending on your flight time, you may also enjoy a leisurely breakfast or a short stroll through the city center.

Transfer to Tirana International Airport
At the scheduled time, we depart from Durrës and drive toward Tirana International Airport (TIA). The journey takes around 30–40 minutes, offering a smooth and comfortable transfer.

End of the Tour
Upon arrival at the airport, your tour concludes. We wish you a pleasant flight and hope to welcome you back to Albania for more adventures in the future.