6 Days of History, Nature & Charm in Albania

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, set out on a scenic drive to Kruja, one of Albania’s most iconic and historically significant towns. Perched on a hillside with stunning views, Kruja was the stronghold of national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, who led the resistance against the Ottoman Empire. Step back in time as you wander through the Old Bazaar, a charming cobblestone marketplace lined with traditional wooden shops selling handmade crafts, carpets, silverwork, and souvenirs. Your journey into the past continues with a visit to the Skanderbeg Museum, located within the restored Kruja Castle, where powerful exhibits and panoramic vistas bring Albania’s medieval resistance to life. After some leisure time for shopping and lunch (not included), enjoy a relaxed return to Tirana. The late afternoon is yours to explore the capital at your own pace—sip coffee at a local café, visit the Blloku district, or simply unwind before another exciting day.

Begin your day with breakfast before departing for Shkodra, one of the oldest and most culturally rich cities in Albania. Located in the country’s northwest, Shkodra is often called the cradle of Albanian art, literature, and religious harmony. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely city tour, starting with a walk along Kole Idromeno Street, the city’s charming pedestrian boulevard lined with colorful buildings, quaint cafés, and centuries-old churches and mosques standing side by side. Feel the Mediterranean flair and absorb the vibrant local life as your guide shares the stories of a city where Catholic, Muslim, and Orthodox communities have long coexisted peacefully. After some free time for lunch (not included), the journey continues to the scenic village of Shiroka, nestled along the shores of Shkodra Lake — the largest in the Balkans. Take a relaxing lakeside stroll, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the views across the shimmering water. In the afternoon, return to Tirana with time to enjoy the city at your leisure, perhaps revisiting a favorite café or trying a new Albanian dish for dinner.

Fuel up with breakfast before setting off on a journey through Albania’s past and present, beginning with a visit to Berat, the UNESCO-listed “City of a Thousand Windows.” This extraordinary town, with its white Ottoman houses cascading down the hillside, offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and spiritual heritage. Climb the cobblestone paths to explore the mighty Berat Castle, one of the largest inhabited fortresses in the Balkans, where you’ll discover ancient churches, traditional homes, and spectacular panoramic views of the Osum River valley. After some free time for lunch (not included) in the old town, your guide will lead you through Berat’s architectural gems, including its Byzantine churches and historic mosques that together reflect centuries of coexistence.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Durres, Albania’s oldest port city, rich in Roman and Venetian heritage. Explore the Roman Amphitheater, once home to 15,000 spectators, the remains of the Byzantine forum, and the sturdy Venetian Tower guarding the coastline. Enjoy a relaxed walk along the seafront promenade and take in the Adriatic breeze as you reflect on the layers of civilizations that have passed through this ancient coastal city. Return to Tirana in the evening with unforgettable memories from two of Albania’s most iconic destinations.

After breakfast, leave the city streets behind and ascend into nature with a short drive to the Dajti Express cable car station, where you’ll board the longest cable car in the Balkans. As you glide above pine forests and rugged hillsides, the city slowly disappears below, revealing panoramic views that grow more breathtaking with every passing minute. At 1,400 meters above sea level, you’ll reach the summit of Dajti National Park, known as the “Balcony of Tirana.” Here, you’ll find fresh mountain air, scenic walking paths, and peaceful viewpoints that make it a perfect escape from the urban buzz. Whether you prefer to stroll, enjoy a coffee with a view, or engage in light outdoor activities, the mountaintop offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

After descending back to the city, spend your afternoon unwinding in the Grand Lake Park of Tirana, a tranquil green space beloved by locals. Walk along shaded trails, enjoy lakeside views, or simply sit back and observe daily life in the capital. As the sun sets on your final full day in Albania, enjoy a free evening to explore Tirana one last time—perhaps with a farewell dinner in the trendy Blloku district or a relaxing moment in a rooftop café under the city lights.