South Albania: 5 Day Tour from Tirana

Discover Durrës: Albania’s Ancient Seaside City

After breakfast, we leave Tirana and make our way to Durrës, one of the oldest cities in Albania and a vibrant coastal hub along the Adriatic Sea. Known for its blend of history and beachside charm, Durrës offers a perfect mix of culture and relaxation.

Highlights in Durrës:

Roman Amphitheatre – the largest in the Balkans, dating back to the 2nd century AD.

Venetian Tower & City Walls – reminders of Durrës’ medieval past.

Seaside Promenade – enjoy a peaceful walk along the Adriatic coast, lined with cafés and sea views.

You’ll have free time to explore, enjoy a coffee by the sea, or simply soak in the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Journey to Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows

In the afternoon, we continue toward Berat, one of Albania’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. Famous for its perfectly preserved Ottoman architecture and hillside houses overlooking the river, Berat is a photographer’s dream and a treasure for history lovers.

Upon arrival, we’ll take a leisurely walking tour through the charming old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, known for their traditional white stone houses stacked along the hillsides — the reason behind Berat’s nickname, City of a Thousand Windows.

Evening in Berat:
The evening is free for you to wander the cobbled streets, enjoy local cuisine, or relax in one of the city’s traditional guesthouses.

Departing Berat

After breakfast in Berat, we begin our journey south toward Albania’s beautiful coastline. Leaving behind the stone houses and hilltop views of the “City of a Thousand Windows,” the scenery gradually shifts into vineyards, olive groves, and Mediterranean landscapes.

Visit Vlorë

Our first stop is Vlorë, the city where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. We take a relaxed walk along the seaside promenade and enjoy the coastal atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the journey.

Wine Tasting Experience

On the way, you’ll have the chance to stop at a local winery to taste regional Albanian wines, a pleasant and authentic introduction to the wine culture of southern Albania.

Riviera Coastal Drive

From Vlorë, we follow the iconic Albanian Riviera road, known for its dramatic cliffs, panoramic viewpoints, and stunning blue waters. The coastal scenery becomes increasingly striking as we approach the southern Riviera.

Arrival in Sarandë

By late afternoon, we arrive in Sarandë, the Riviera’s lively seaside hub. The evening is free to explore the waterfront, enjoy dinner by the sea, or simply relax and take in the views.

Departing Sarandë

After breakfast, we leave the coastal town of Sarandë and begin our journey inland toward one of Albania’s most atmospheric UNESCO cities.

Arrival in Gjirokastër

Entering Gjirokastër, often called the “Stone City,” you’ll notice its distinctive Ottoman-era houses, stone rooftops, and dramatic hillside setting.

Exploring the Old Bazaar

We walk through the historic bazaar, where cobbled streets, traditional shops, and centuries-old architecture create a setting full of charm and authenticity.

Visit Gjirokastër Castle

Dominating the city from above, Gjirokastër Castle offers panoramic views of the Drino Valley. Inside, you’ll explore fortifications, historical exhibits, and stories that reveal the city’s rich past.

Evening in Gjirokastër

The evening is free to enjoy at your own pace, whether discovering local cuisine, wandering through stone alleys, or relaxing in this beautifully preserved UNESCO town.

Leaving Gjirokastër

After breakfast, we depart Gjirokastër and head deeper into southern Albania, traveling through a landscape of mountains, valleys, and traditional villages.

Stop in Përmet

Our journey brings us to Përmet, a town known for its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and the Vjosa River flowing right alongside it. We take time to explore the town’s peaceful center and enjoy the scenery that makes Përmet one of Albania’s greenest and most inviting destinations. Depending on the day’s flow, you may also have time to visit the nearby thermal springs for a relaxing break surrounded by nature.

Scenic Drive to Korçë

Continuing north, we travel through winding mountain roads and rural landscapes as we make our way toward Korçë. The changing scenery—from river valleys to highland views—makes this one of the most scenic drives of the journey.

Arrival in Korçë

By late afternoon, we arrive in Korçë, a city known for its cultural heritage and elegant architecture. After settling in, you have free time to explore the old town, visit the Cathedral, or stroll along Korçë’s charming pedestrian boulevard.

Evening in Korçë

The evening is yours to enjoy the city’s cozy cafés, traditional restaurants, and relaxed atmosphere before resting for the next day’s adventures.

Departing Korçë

After breakfast, we leave Korçë and journey toward the tranquil lakes of eastern Albania. The drive takes us through gentle hills and scenic countryside, offering glimpses of rural life along the way.

Visit Lake Prespa

Our first stop is Lake Prespa, a peaceful destination shared with North Macedonia and Greece. Known for its crystal-clear waters and rich birdlife, the area provides an ideal spot to connect with nature and enjoy the serenity of Albania’s lesser-visited landscapes.

Arrival in Pogradec

Continuing along the route, we reach Pogradec on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This charming lakeside town is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoying panoramic views of the water and the surrounding mountains.

Evening drive back to Tirana.