Balkan Tour – Visiting Kosovo, N Macedoni & Albania from Montenegro

Departure from Podgorica

We will begin our journey from Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, in the early morning. Heading towards Kosovo, we will drive through picturesque landscapes and arrive in Prizren, Kosovo’s cultural capital. The city, known for its Ottoman heritage and stunning setting along the Bistrica River, is a key historical and political site.

Exploration of Prizren

Visit Prizren’s Castle, which offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding area. We will also visit the House of the Prizren League, a historically significant site for the independence movement, and explore the Ethnographic Museum housed in the League’s former building. Afterward, we’ll stroll through the old town, enjoying the Stone Bridge of Love and visiting the Traditional Bazaar for a taste of local craftsmanship and souvenirs.

Drive to Pristina

We continue our journey to Pristina, the bustling capital of Kosovo. On arrival, you will have a city tour, including visits to the National Library (famous for its unique architecture), the Mother Teresa Cathedral, and the charming old neighborhoods that reflect the city’s Ottoman and modern influences.

Overnight in Skopje

After our day in Kosovo, we head to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, for an overnight stay.

Explore Skopje

Start the day with a guided city tour of Skopje, one of the most fascinating cities in the Balkans. Known as the “City of Statues,” we will visit the Stone Bridge, the Main Square, and the House of Mother Teresa. We’ll also see the Skopje Fortress and experience the religious diversity in the city, visiting both the St. Clement of Ohrid Church and the Mustafa Pasha Mosque.

Drive to Ohrid

After exploring Skopje, we will drive south to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site located by the serene Lake Ohrid. The city is often called “The Jerusalem of the Balkans” due to its role in the spread of Christianity in the region.

Tour of Ohrid

We will begin with a visit to the Old Town and Samuil Fortress, followed by a walk down to Kaneo Bay – the site of the famous Church of St. John. Ohrid’s mix of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, along with its rich religious and cultural history, will leave a lasting impression. The tour of Ohrid highlights the city’s role as a crossroads of cultures, where Christianity and Islam co-exist peacefully.

Overnight in Berat

After the tour, we will drive to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Town of a Thousand Windows.” Overnight in Berat.

Explore Berat

Start your day in Berat with a visit to the Berat Castle, which offers sweeping views of the town and the surrounding landscapes. We will also explore the Onufri National Iconographic Museum and take a stroll through the Mangalem and Gorica quarters, famous for their unique Ottoman-era architecture.

Visit Durres

In the afternoon, we continue our journey to the coastal city of Durres, one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in Albania. We will visit the Roman Amphitheater and enjoy a relaxing time by the Adriatic Sea before heading back to Tirana for the evening.

Overnight in Tirana

Free time for dinner and exploration in Tirana.

Morning: Explore Tirana

Start the day by exploring Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania. We will begin with a tour of Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city, where you’ll see the iconic Equestrian Statue of Skanderbeg and important buildings like the National History Museum and the Et’hem Bey Mosque.
We will also visit Tirana’s Pyramid, a unique structure that was originally built as a museum and is now a symbol of the city’s history.

As we wander through the city, we will explore the Blloku area, once restricted to communist party elites but now one of the liveliest neighborhoods with trendy cafes, shops, and vibrant street art. The Grand Park of Tirana is another highlight, offering a peaceful escape with stunning views of Lake Tirana.

Drive to Shkoder

In the afternoon, we will depart from Tirana and drive towards Shkoder, located in northern Albania. The drive will take around 2 hours, passing through scenic countryside and small Albanian villages. Upon arrival in Shkoder, we will explore this historical city.

Explore Shkoder

In Shkoder, we will visit Rozafa Castle, an ancient fortress overlooking the city and Lake Shkoder. You will hear the famous legend of Rozafa and see some of the oldest structures in the region.
We will also visit the Shkoder Historical Museum and have some time to walk around the Pedestrian Zone in the city center, where you can enjoy the local vibe and take in the views of the Buna River.

Drive to Podgorica

After our exploration of Shkoder, we will head towards Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro. The drive will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival in Podgorica, the tour will conclude.

End of Tour

We will drop you off at your accommodation or any other preferred location in Podgorica, marking the end of your 4-Day Tour of Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Albania.