Arrive in Tirana, check in to the hotel and explore the capital city of Tirana.

Tirana is the beating heart of Albania – a dynamic city where history, politics, and creativity converge. Begin the exploration at Skanderbeg Square, surrounded by important landmarks that reflect the city’s Ottoman, Italian, and communist past. Visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque, a historic 18th-century religious site admired for its interior frescoes and cultural value.

Later, proceed to visit the National History Museum, the country’s largest museum offering a chronological journey through Albania’s history. Conclude the day with a walk through the Blloku area, once forbidden during communist rule, now a lively zone known for its cafés, nightlife, and street art.

Overnight stay at hotel in Tirana.

After breakfast at hotel, head north to visit the historic Krujë Castle.

Krujë, nestled in the mountains, is famous as the hometown of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. Explore Krujë Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and houses the Skanderbeg Museum and an old bazaar known for traditional crafts.

Later, proceed to visit Dajti Mountain via the Dajti Ekspres cable car. The 15-minute ride ascends to a scenic plateau offering breathtaking views of Tirana from above. At the top, enjoy some leisure time in the parkland, cafes, or take a short nature walk.

Overnight stay at hotel in Tirana.

After breakfast at hotel, depart for a full-day excursion to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Berat, also called the “City of a Thousand Windows,” is one of Albania’s oldest towns. It is celebrated for its white Ottoman-era houses stacked along the hills and its blend of Islamic and Christian cultural heritage. Visit the Berat Castle complex, where families still live and ancient churches and mosques coexist.

Later, proceed to visit the Onufri National Iconographic Museum inside the Dormition of St Mary Church. The museum houses beautiful religious art and icons from the 16th century. Walk through the old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica connected by the historic arched Gorica Bridge.

Overnight stay at hotel in Tirana.

After breakfast at hotel, begin the scenic journey to Sarandë, stopping at Apollonia and passing through the Llogara Pass.

Apollonia, an ancient Greek city, is a significant archaeological park that reflects the grandeur of Roman times. Explore the ruins of the city, the amphitheater, and the Byzantine monastery nestled within olive groves.

Later, drive along the Albanian Riviera and ascend the dramatic Llogara Pass, a high-altitude mountain road offering extraordinary views of the Ionian coastline. Arrive in Sarandë, a coastal city known for its turquoise beaches and lively promenade.

Overnight stay at hotel in Sarandë.

After breakfast at hotel, travel to Butrint and Ksamil for a day of culture and coastal beauty.

Butrint is one of Albania’s most important archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including an amphitheater, baptistery, and basilica surrounded by lush greenery.

Later, proceed to visit Ksamil, a coastal paradise with white-sand beaches and clear blue waters. Spend time relaxing on the beach or taking a dip in the warm Ionian Sea.

Overnight stay at hotel in Sarandë.

After breakfast at hotel, visit the natural spring of Blue Eye and the stone city of Gjirokastër.

Begin the day with a visit to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a dazzling natural spring where bright blue water bubbles from a depth of over 50 meters.

Later, proceed to visit Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-listed city known for its Ottoman-style architecture. Explore the Gjirokastër Castle, which dominates the town and houses military exhibits. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with traditional stone houses and visit the Ethnographic Museum located in the childhood home of former dictator Enver Hoxha.

Overnight stay at hotel in Sarandë.

After breakfast at hotel, enjoy a relaxed day in Sarandë.

Spend the day at leisure by the beach, exploring the waterfront promenade or enjoying a seafood lunch at one of the seaside restaurants.

SEGV RECOMMENDATION: Enjoy a full-day boat tour exploring hidden beaches and caves along the Albanian Riviera, including stops for swimming and snorkeling.

Overnight stay at hotel in Sarandë.

After breakfast at hotel, proceed to explore the southern coast with a visit to Himarë or Porto Palermo.

Himarë is a small seaside town known for its blend of Greek and Albanian cultures and serene beaches. Visit the old castle ruins on a hill offering panoramic views. Alternatively, visit Porto Palermo Castle, a well-preserved triangular fortress built by Ali Pasha of Tepelena, dramatically set on a small peninsula.

Overnight stay at hotel in Sarandë.

After breakfast at hotel, begin the return journey to Tirana with a stop in Vlorë.

Vlorë is a historic coastal city where Albania’s independence was declared in 1912. Visit the Flag Square and Independence Monument before continuing the journey north.

Later, proceed to Tirana. Arrive and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure, revisiting favorite spots or trying traditional Albanian cuisine.

Overnight stay at hotel in Tirana.

After breakfast at hotel, drive to Shkodër in northern Albania and explore the highlights.

Shkodër is one of Albania’s oldest and most culturally rich cities, located near the largest lake in the Balkans. Visit the impressive Rozafa Castle, perched on a hill with panoramic views of Lake Shkodër and the surrounding landscape.

Later, proceed to the lake promenade for a relaxed afternoon. Visit nearby cafes, rent a bicycle, or enjoy lakeside views.

Overnight stay at hotel in Shkodër.

After breakfast at hotel, embark on a full-day experience in Albania’s northern highlands.

Choose between a scenic journey to Theth, a remote village in the Albanian Alps known for dramatic mountain views, traditional guesthouses, and the iconic Blue Eye of Theth – or a ferry ride on Koman Lake, often called one of Europe’s most beautiful boat rides, with emerald waters winding between steep cliffs.

Overnight stay at hotel in Shkodër.

After breakfast at hotel, depart for Korçë with a stop at Pogradec.

Pogradec lies on the shores of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s deepest and oldest lakes, shared with North Macedonia. Enjoy lakeside views, walk along the promenade, and taste the local trout – a regional specialty.

Later, proceed to Korçë, a highland city known for its cultural refinement, traditional music, and French-influenced architecture.

Overnight stay at hotel in Korçë.

After breakfast at hotel, explore Korçë and its historic surroundings. Begin the day with a visit to the Korçë Cathedral and the National Museum of Medieval Art, housing over 7,000 artworks, mostly Orthodox icons.

Later, proceed to visit Voskopoja, a nearby mountain village once a flourishing center of culture and religion in the Balkans. Discover its 18th-century churches with impressive frescoes and enjoy the tranquil landscape.

Overnight stay at hotel in Korçë.

After breakfast at hotel, begin the journey back to Tirana.

Arrive in the capital and spend the final evening strolling along the Grand Park of Tirana or shopping for souvenirs in the Pazari i Ri market.

Overnight stay at hotel in Tirana.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Airport for your return flight to India.

Arrive home with pleasant memories of your Albania tour organized by State Express Global Voyages, which we are sure you will treasure for a lifetime.