Heart of Albania

Welcome to Albania. Upon arrival at Tirana Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to Shkoder.

Shkodër, in northern Albania, is a city full of charm, history, and natural beauty. From the ancient Rozafa Castle with its stunning views to the lively pedestrian street lined with shops and eateries, there is plenty to explore. Whether you're visiting mosques and museums or simply enjoying local cuisine at cosy cafes, Shkodër offers something for everyone. It's a place where you can fully immerse yourself in the diverse and captivating culture of Albania.

This afternoon, visit Rozafa Castle, a stunning ancient fortress that showcases Albania's rich history. From its ancient Illyrian walls and the medieval ruins of the Balshaj to the Towers of the Bushatllinj, the castle is steeped in ancient history. Perched on a hill, enjoy amazing views of Lake Shkodra and the surrounding area. It's a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the beauty and history of the region.

Afterwards, enjoy a free time exploring the city at your own pace. Later, return to your hotel for dinner. (None)

After breakfast, depart for Theth, nestled in the breathtaking Albanian Alps, where you'll discover a fascinating tangle of natural wonders and cultural treasures.

Explore the Lock-in Tower of Theth, an iconic landmark which rises majestically in the centre of the picturesque alpine village. This historic tower proudly showcases the rich history of the entire region. Here, you'll have the opportunity to hear fascinating stories from one of the descendants of the tower owners, sharing valuable insights into the area's heritage.

Enjoy lunch at restaurant guesthouse Fatmir Berishta. After lunch, you have time at leisure to explore at your own pace (and walk off that lunch!) Discover hidden alleys and laneways of cultural beauty within the village, admire the stunning landscapes, and embrace the peaceful atmosphere. Return back to your hotel. (B/L/D)

This morning you will transfer to Koman. Upon arrival, board a ferry to Fierze. Soak in the beauty of the Albanian landscape as you cross the water. On arrival, take a bus to Valbone where you will enjoy lunch at Neokulla Hotel-By Kol Gjoni.

Following lunch, transfer to Bajram Curri. Check in to your hotel and the rest of the day is yours at leisure. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart for Valbonë, a village nestled in the Albanian Alps famous for its picturesque landscapes, with towering peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams. Upon arrival, you will explore the charming village of Valbone. Discover its unique culture, architecture, and natural beauty as your guide shares insights about the area.

Lunch today is at Restaurant Guesthouse Kol Gjoni. Enjoy local cuisine and hospitality in the tranquil surroundings of Valbone. Following lunch, take a scenic dive back to Bajram Curri. The rest of the day is yours at leisure to explore the town. (B/L/D)

This morning, it is time to cross into Kosovo. Despite its small size, Kosovo is rich in history, with ancient monasteries, Ottoman-era architecture, and vibrant cities.

Enjoy a scenic drive to Decani Monastery also known as the Visoki Decani Monastery, a medieval Serbian Orthodox monastery located in the Decan, Kosovo. The monastery was founded in the early 14th century by Serbian King Stefan Uros III Decanski, after whom it was named. Construction began in 1327 and continued for several decades, resulting in a magnificent complex that showcases the finest examples of medieval Serbian architecture and artistry.

The interior of the church is adorned with vibrant frescoes that cover almost every inch of its walls and ceilings, depicting scenes from the Bible, the lives of saints, and various religious motifs. These frescoes are considered among the finest examples of Byzantine art in the Balkans and have earned Decani Monastery a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Decani Monastery as you learn about its history and cultural significance.

Continue to Prizren and enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way. Make a stop at Restaurant Marashi for lunch. Following lunch, explore Prizren, a captivating city steeped in history, culture, and scenic beauty. Prizren is renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era buildings, including mosques, churches, and traditional stone houses, which reflect its diverse history and multicultural heritage.

Visit Sinan Pasha Mosque, dating back to the 17th century which stands as a symbol of the city's Ottoman heritage. Named after its patron, Sinan Pasha, a prominent Ottoman military commander, this mosque is renowned for its elegant design and historical significance. Sinan Pasha Mosque has served as a spiritual and cultural centre for the Muslim community of Prizren. Today, it continues to be a cherished landmark and a symbol of religious tolerance and diversity in Kosovo. Please ensure you carry a headscarf.

Continue to the Prizren Castle for a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. This medieval fortress, also known as Kalaja Fortress, dates back to the Byzantine era, with subsequent additions made during the Ottoman period. Its strategic location played a vital role in guarding the city and controlling trade routes throughout history. Explore the well-preserved ruins of the fortress walls and towers, providing insight into Prizren's military past.

Continue to explore the rich history of the Albanian League at the Albanian League Complex. Home to a small museum showcasing a wealth of artefacts, photographs, documents, and cultural relics from the time of the League of Prizren. Despite facing destruction by Serbian forces in 1999, the complex has been meticulously restored. Amongst its treasures is the exquisite 15th-century Bajrakli Mosque, a symbol of Prizren's cultural heritage. Explore the complex's restored architecture and learn about the league's efforts to preserve Albanian identity and autonomy during the late 19th century.

This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Later return, to your hotel. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart for Krujë, a historic hilltop town in Albania known for its captivating Krujë Castle and vibrant Old Bazaar. Upon arrival, enjoy free time exploring Krujë before indulging in lunch at Restaurant Bardhi.

Visit Kruje Castle for impressive views of the surrounding landscape. Perched on a hilltop, this historic fortress played a crucial role in Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, led by national hero Skanderbeg. Within its walls, explore the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to his legacy, and the Ethnographic Museum, showcasing traditional Albanian life. The castle's well-preserved ruins and its strategic location make it a significant cultural and historical site, offering a glimpse into Albania's proud past.

Later, explore the bustling atmosphere of the Old Bazaar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and banter with the locals. Continue to Tirana, vibrant capital city blending rich history with modern development. Check in to your hotel and the remainder of the day is yours at leisure. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, depart for Berat, known as Albania's “City of a Thousand Windows,” a historic town renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Explore Berat's well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Walk across the ancient Gorica Bridge and through the charming Mangalem Quarter, admiring the city's distinctive, white-washed houses with large windows climbing up the hillside.

Visit Guesthouse Mishaxhiu Gardens to enjoy homemade raki, Turkish coffee, and traditional jams, embracing you with local hospitality. Lunch today is at Restaurant WilDor & Chef Toska, located near the Osumi River.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a visit to Berat Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its ancient walls, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman-era buildings. Ascend to the Gorica Viewpoint for breathtaking views of the city and the Osumi River below. Visit a local family in a traditional house in Berat, where you will have time to understand the more traditional side of life still lived in this region on Albania.

Return to Tirana. This evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at Restaurant Marchesi, set among the hills outside Tirana. This chic restaurant offers an elegant dining experience inspired by the world-renowned chef Gualtiero Marchesi. (B/L/D)

Following breakfast, explore Tirana. Centred around the bustling Skanderbeg Square, Tirana features a mix of Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet-era architecture, alongside contemporary buildings and colourful street art from urban beautification efforts.

Visit the Skanderbeg Square, the vibrant heart of Tirana, named after Albania's national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, this expansive square is adorned with statues, fountains, and colourful flowerbeds.

Explore the historic Ethem Bey Mosque, a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture built in the late 18th century, it is one of the oldest mosques in the city and the mosque is named after its founder, Et'hem Be, a prominent Albanian nobleman. Explore its elegant design features a graceful minaret and a beautifully adorned prayer hall with intricate frescoes and decorative motifs. Please ensure you are carrying a headscarf.

Continue to pass the city's administrative buildings, which reflect Albania's diverse architectural heritage. From elegant neoclassical structures to modernist designs, these buildings offer a glimpse into Tirana's evolving identity as a capital city.

Finally, visit the newly reconstructed Pyramid of Tirana, also known as the Enver Hoxha Museum, originally built as a museum for Albania's communist leader, Enver Hoxha. Today, the pyramid has been repurposed into a multifunctional cultural centre, hosting exhibitions, events, and performances. The pyramid's design is striking, featuring a sleek, angular exterior made of white marble panels. Its distinctive design and controversial history make it a fascinating landmark in Tirana's urban landscape, symbolising the city's transition from communism to democracy. Later, it's time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)