| Southern Albania Journey – A Tapestry of History, Nature & Traditions

Between mountains and sea, between empires and eternity, this journey invites you to discover the true soul of the Balkans. From vibrant Tirana to the stone cities of Berat and Gjirokastra, from the ancient ruins of Butrint to the spiritual shores of Ohrid, this cultural roundtrip unfolds like a living chronicle of 2,500 years of history. Illyrian foundations, Roman roads, Byzantine churches, Ottoman bazaars and modern Mediterranean life blend seamlessly into one unforgettable experience. Travel along the turquoise Ionian coast, cross the panoramic Llogara Pass, follow the wild beauty of the Vjosa River, and stand before the crystal depths of the Blue Eye. Each day reveals new landscapes — from dramatic mountain ranges to serene lakeshores — and each evening brings the warmth of local hospitality, traditional cuisine, and authentic Balkan charm. This is more than a journey through places. It is a journey through time, culture, and emotion — a carefully curated experience where history is alive, nature is untouched, and every step tells a story.

Highlights

Berat, the Castle,  historic neighborhoods, Medieval Art Musem in Berat ( UNESCO World Heritage Site) , Medieval Musem in Berat,  Bridge of Gorica, Apollonia arceological site and the Church of Saint Mary, Llogara National Park, Ali Pasha Castle and the U Boat Bunkers, driving along the Albanian Riviera of the Ionian Coast,  Archeological City of Butrint ( UNESCO World Heritage Site)  , Ksamil Beach, Blue Eye Carstic Springs, Gjirokastra Castle and Bazar ( UNESCO World Heritage Site) , Driving along Vjosa River ( the Blue Heart of Europe ) , Germenji National Park, Old Bazar of Korca and the old Mosque, St Naum Monastery, Ohrid Lake, City of Ohrid,  Shkumbini Valley, Elbasan Castle with the Old Mosque and the medieval Church, Tirana Scanderbeg Square Main Boulevard, Old Amphiteater of Durres, Kruja Fortress and Kruja Medieval Bazar.

Itinerary daily

Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana · Journey to Berat (UNESCO World Heritage)

Your journey begins in Tirana, where the group gathers and the spirit of discovery awakens. From the capital, we travel south to Berat, a city shaped by 2,400 years of history and light, known as the City of a Thousand Windows. A UNESCO World Heritage treasure, Berat welcomes us with its white stone houses cascading beneath the ancient castle. After settling into our hotel, we wander through its historic quarters, and as evening falls, we raise a glass of local wine beneath the quiet majesty of the castle walls.

Day 2 – From Berat to Saranda · Through Time and the Riviera

After breakfast, we ascend to Berat Castle, one of the rare fortresses in Europe still inhabited today. Inside its walls, centuries unfold—stone houses, churches, and the Onufri Iconographic Museum, were sacred art glows with medieval color and devotion.

Leaving Berat behind, we travel to Apollonia, where Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines once crossed paths. Among ancient columns and olive trees, history breathes softly.
Our journey continues to Vlora, where the Adriatic Sea meets the promenade, before climbing the Llogara Pass at 1,100 meters. From this natural balcony, the Ionian Sea stretches endlessly below, Corfu shimmering on the horizon. Descending along the Riviera through olive groves and coastal villages, we pause at the elegant Porto Palermo Castle, before arriving in the lively seaside town of Saranda.

Day 3 – Butrint · Blue Eye · Gjirokastra (UNESCO World Heritage)

The morning leads us to Butrint, one of Albania’s most precious UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nestled between lagoon and sea, this ancient city tells stories of empires long gone, wrapped in lush Mediterranean nature.

We continue to the white sands of Ksamil, then journey inland to the magical Blue Eye Spring, where crystal-clear water rises from the depths in hypnotic shades of blue. By afternoon, we reach Gjirokastra, the legendary stone city. From its imposing castle, views stretch across the Drino Valley, while the old town invites us to wander its cobbled streets. Like Berat, Gjirokastra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserved in stone and memory.

Day 4 – Along the Vjosa River to Korça

Today we follow the wild course of the Vjosa River, Europe’s last free-flowing river and a symbol of untouched nature. Flowing through deep valleys and fertile plains, the Vjosa reveals the raw heart of southern Albania.

Crossing mountain ranges near the Greek border—Gramoz, Nëmërçka, and the forests of Gërmenj National Park—we arrive in Korça, the city of serenades. The evening unfolds gently in the old bazaar, where flavors, music, and quiet elegance define the atmosphere.

Day 5 – Korça · Saint Naum · Ohrid (UNESCO World Heritage)

Crossing into North Macedonia, we visit the serene Monastery of Saint Naum, perched above the springs of Lake Ohrid. A place of pilgrimage and peace, it offers silence broken only by water and prayer.

We continue to Ohrid, known as the Jerusalem of the Balkans. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, both city and lake carry millennia of spiritual and cultural history. Strolling its streets and lakeshore, we discover why this place has captivated travelers for centuries.

Day 6 – Ohrid · Elbasan · Tirana through the forrmer Via Egnatia

Our return to Albania follows the Shkumbin River Valley, tracing the path of the ancient Via Egnatia, once linking Rome to Constantinople. In Elbasan, we visit a centuries-old mosque and the Church of Saint Mary—symbols of Albania’s deep-rooted religious harmony.

By afternoon, we reach Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital. A guided city tour reveals layers of history—from Roman and Ottoman traces to Italian architecture and modern life. The day ends in Blloku, once closed to the public, now alive with cafés and culture, where we toast the journey with a glass of wine.

Day 7 from Durres one of the oldest cities in Europe to the historic capital of Abania in Kruja

We travel west to Durres, Albania’s ancient gateway to the Adriatic, where the Roman amphitheater tells stories of a 3,000-year-old past. From the coast, we head inland to Kruja, the historic heart of Albanian resistance. Walking through its medieval bazaar and castle, we honor the legacy of Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero.
In the evening, we return to Tirana for a farewell dinner featuring traditional Albanian cuisine.

Day 8 – Departure from Tirana

As the journey comes to an end, we say goodbye with hearts full of memories—shared stories, exchanged photos, and the quiet promise to return. Albania lingers long after departure, a land not just visited, but felt.

Transfer to Tirana Airport · 17 km

The package includes: 

8 days Excursion in a rich cultural roundtrip through the Main historical and Landscape Attractions in Albania and into North Macedonia — a seamless blend of history, landscapes, spirituality, and authentic local life.

All the transfers and the fully Transport during the Tour with commode minibus

Guided Tour starting from 4 People

7 Nights in commode Hotels, 3* or 4 *

all descripted entries

7 breakfasts, 

What to Expect: 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites & Ancient Civilizations
Explore the timeless beauty of Berat and Gjirokastra, wander through the archaeological wonders of Butrint, and discover the spiritual heritage of Ohrid. Walk among Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman legacies that shaped the Balkans.  Spectacular Landscapes traveling from the Adriatic to the Ionian coast, cross the dramatic Llogara Pass, follow the wild course of the Vjosa River, and admire the crystal waters of the Blue Eye. Gramoz Mountains Chain, rivers, and coastline unfold in ever-changing scenery. Historic Towns & Living Traditions. Stroll through medieval bazaars in Kruja, explore the Roman heritage of Durres, and experience the elegant charm of Korça. Visit castles, monasteries, churches, and mosques that reflect Albania’s remarkable religious harmony. Taste regional cuisine, enjoy local wines, and connect with the warm hospitality of the Balkans. Evenings offer relaxed walks, shared meals, and authentic atmosphere in historic settings. Cultural Encounters & Local Flavors. Taste regional cuisine, enjoy local wines, and connect with the warm hospitality of the Balkans. Evenings offer relaxed walks, shared meals, and authentic atmosphere in historic settings. Comfortable Travel & Balanced Pace. A well-paced cultural program combines guided visits with free time for personal exploration. Comfortable accommodations, scenic drives, and short walks make the journey enriching yet relaxed.

When shall i plan a Tour in South Albania 

Best Time to visit is from April till to the Beginning of November. 

How It Looks with Images of the Previous Experiences

Note:

Our guided tours can be confirmed for groups of up to four (4) people till to twelve (12) Persons. Our guides are bilingual speakers, English and another language. For Groups less than 3 Persons the guiding will be with English speaking local guide. Group with more than 4 persons can book a Guide for all days during the Trip. Due to the mountainous environment, weather conditions may occasionally cause delays or changes to the hiking schedule.  This Tour can be changed up to the needs of our guests. can also be booked as self driver

General Information

This hiking tour is rated challenging for beginners and moderate for experienced hikers. Participants should be in good physical condition, as the route involves sustained walking across mountainous terrain with significant elevation changes. The trail passes through a diverse and spectacular alpine landscape, featuring steep ascents and descents, deep valleys shaped by mountain rivers, rugged rocky peaks, and stretches of hardy mountain pine forest. Despite the dramatic scenery, the selected routes are generally stable and reliable underfoot, offering a well‑balanced combination of challenge and safety.

Hiking days often include sharp inclines and declines, and weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly—even during the summer months. Sudden shifts in weather may increase the difficulty of the hike and, in some cases, require route adjustments, particularly in remote areas.

Each participant is required to carry their own daypack during the hike. Main luggage will be transported separately by mule or horse; therefore, luggage must be packed in a soft bag or duffel. Suitcases are not suitable for this terrain

Clothing Sugestion

For an extensive hiking tour we recommend hiking boots, a lightweight jacket and emergency rainwear. Sunglasses, a sun hat, and good pair of walking shoes or sneakers are also advised for sightseeing and exploring in non-hiking days. 
From April to October light clothing that provide comfort are advised. Sunglasses, a sun hat, and good pair of walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for sightseeing. A lightweight jacket and emergency rainwear are also advised. 

Cuisine

Fertile climate, closeness to the sea and history have had an impact on diversity of Albanian cuisine. In Albania, the cuisine varies by region, but basic components of most dishes are meat and vegetables. In the Northern regions grinned corn is very popular and it is used from baking bread to making various types of sweets and salty national dishes. Characteristics of the central part are poultry and fish dishes. The climate favours the growth of almost all vegetables and fruits so delicious desserts and various types of byrek (salty cakes) are a must. The Southern regions are known for growing citrus cultures and olives and also for using plenty of milk and other dairy in traditional dishes. Albania’s national drink is grape brandy “Raki” but also wines are appreciated for their taste and quality. 

Prefer to explore on your own way?

You can also book this tour as self-guided.

Travel whenever you want and with whomever you choose. Our self‑guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, allowing you to move independently and enjoy each day on your own terms.  Self‑guided travel is a budget‑friendly alternative to a private guided tour, without compromising on comfort or organization. We take care of all the planning and reservations, so you can focus entirely on the journey and the experience. Accommodation, transfers, and luggage transport are fully arranged in advance. You will receive a detailed roadbook with comprehensive information on routes, daily logistics, and your hosts along the way. To support your navigation, we provide the GPX files are also available for use with your preferred GPS navigation app.

For any Question or Information please write or call us