7 Day Tour of Albania, North Macedonia & Kosovo

Traveling through the Balkans is always a fascinating journey, full of surprises and stories etched into every stone and street corner. This 7-day private tour covering Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo promises an immersive experience, ticking off some of the region’s most iconic spots. It’s designed for travelers who enjoy sightseeing with a camera in hand and want a flexible itinerary, thanks to the option to customize your trip.

What we really like about this experience is the focus on photography—it’s not just about ticking off landmarks, but capturing the essence of each place, whether through architecture, landscapes, or local life. Plus, the hassle-free logistics like hotel pickup and an air-conditioned vehicle make the trip easier and more comfortable.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite packed with stops—if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace or indepth exploration of fewer sites, this might feel a little rushed. Also, the cost might seem high for some, but considering the included accommodations, transportation, guides, and tickets, many will find the value aligns well with the price.

This tour is great for culture seekers, history buffs, and photographers looking to see a diverse slice of the Balkans in just a week. It works especially well if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and appreciate guided insights.

• Comfortable and convenient logistics with hotel pickup and an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Focus on photography, making it ideal for capturing the region’s beauty.
• Flexible itinerary allowing customization based on your interests.
• Cultural and historical highlights across three countries in a compact schedule.
• Cost includes accommodation, guides, and entry tickets, making it a straightforward package.
• Good for energetic travelers ready to explore multiple sites in a week.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Balkans, blending historical sites, stunning landscapes, and vibrant towns. We found that the itinerary is thoughtfully designed, giving travelers a chance to experience not just the major highlights but also the unique flavor of each destination. If you’re someone who loves to blend sightseeing with photography, this trip is especially appealing.

The fact that it’s a private tour means you get a bit more personalized attention, and the flexibility to tailor the experience makes it feel less like a rigid schedule and more like a curated adventure. The reviews consistently emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of the guide, which can really elevate the experience, especially in regions where local insights add depth to the visit.

The 7-day length strikes a good balance—long enough to see a variety of places but not so long that it becomes exhausting. The tour starts in Tirana and ends back there, with the itinerary weaving through some of the most iconic and historically rich towns and cities in the region.

Day 1: Berat and Durres

Your journey kicks off with a 09:00 departure from Tirana, heading toward Durres. Durres is a fascinating city with remnants of Roman times, including a Roman Amphitheater and a medieval market. We loved the way the city’s layers of history are visible in its architecture and ruins. Then, you’ll visit Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its Ottoman-style buildings and vibrant neighborhoods like Kala, Mangalem, and Gorica. The city’s blend of influences creates a visual mosaic that’s perfect for photography. A highlight is the Orthodox Monastery and the Onufri Museum of Iconography, which offer a glimpse into religious art and history.

Optional: If you’re into wine, a visit to a local winery in Berat can add a tasty touch to the day, available for an extra €20.

Day 2: Saranda and Butrint

After breakfast, you’ll head to Saranda, a coastal town on Albania’s Riviera. The scenery here is simply beautiful—sea views, rugged coastlines, and the chance to snap some great photos of the landscape. From Saranda, you’ll explore Butrint, an archeological site on UNESCO’s list, famous for its Greek and Roman ruins and prehistoric roots. The site is extensive, and wandering around the ancient city will give you plenty of material for photos and stories alike. On the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Ksamil Islands, a set of three small, picturesque isles that are perfect for a quick photo stop.

Day 3: Gjirokaster and Ohrid

Gjirokaster is a city straight out of a fairy tale—stone houses, cobblestone streets, and a fortress that dominates the skyline. The city’s medieval charm has inspired writers like Ismail Kadare, who describes it as a city where “the soft and vital flesh of life” swarms beneath the grey stones. The tour includes a walk through the old town, soaking up the atmosphere and capturing it through your lens. After lunch, you’ll travel to Ohrid in North Macedonia, a city famed for its lakeside beauty, historic churches, and the fortress offering panoramic views.

Day 4: Ohrid and Skopje

Ohrid is often called the “Jerusalem of the Balkans” for its religious and cultural significance. The tour covers key sights like the Samuil Fortress, St. Sofia Church, and the Greek Theater—each offering excellent photo opportunities. The blend of history, culture, and scenery makes this city a highlight. Afterward, you’ll drive to Skopje, North Macedonia’s capital, known for its mix of old and new architecture, including statues and bridges that tell stories of national pride.

Day 5: Matka Canyon and Pristina

In Skopje, the tour explores the vibrant city core before heading out to Matka Canyon, a natural gem with dramatic canyons, monasteries, and lakes. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and take some nature shots. Later, crossing into Kosovo, you’ll arrive in Pristina, a city with a distinct Yugoslavian vibe, where Ottoman, brutalist, and modern architecture coexist. The city’s vibe is lively, and it’s a good chance to explore urban life with a backdrop of history.

Day 6: Kosovo’s Cultural Hotspots

Your day begins in Pristina with a city tour that highlights its mix of architectural styles. Then, a short drive takes you to Gracanica Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in a Serbian community, known for its stunning Byzantine frescoes. The afternoon is dedicated to Prizren, which is often called Kosovo’s cultural capital. The city’s fortress, traditional houses, and the Ethnographic Museum inside the House of the League make for engaging visits. The whole city offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially around the river and the castle.

Day 7: Kruje and Return to Tirana

Your final day takes you to Kruje, a medieval town famous for its castle and bazaar—places that evoke a sense of history and craftsmanship. The Skenderbeu Museum ties in stories of resistance and resilience. The tour concludes back in Tirana, wrapping up a week filled with diverse sights and stories.

This tour emphasizes ease and flexibility. From hotel pickups to a private vehicle, you won’t have to worry about logistics. The guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, brings a personal touch that makes each location come alive with stories and insights. The inclusion of entry tickets means you won’t be caught off guard, and the accommodations are part of the package, simplifying planning.

The focus on photography isn’t just marketing—many travelers have told us they appreciated the opportunity to capture stunning landscapes, vibrant streets, and historical sites without feeling rushed. Whether it’s the colorful houses of Berat or the panoramic views from Ohrid fortress, there’s plenty for photography lovers.

In terms of pacing, the itinerary is quite full—each day involves multiple stops, often with 6-8 hours of activity. Some travelers might find that a bit intense, especially if they prefer leisure over multiple sightseeing stops. However, for those eager to see as much as possible in a short time, this schedule hits the mark.

Cost-wise, at $1,845.52 per person, the price covers most essentials: accommodation, transportation, guides, and tickets. While it might seem high, the convenience of staying in quality hotels and having a knowledgeable guide makes it a good value for travelers wanting a comprehensive Balkan experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

This tour is perfect if you’re eager to see several key destinations across Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo in one go. It suits travelers who enjoy guided trips that combine sightseeing with photo opportunities, and who are comfortable with a relatively busy schedule. If you’re a history enthusiast or someone who loves capturing scenic views, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding.

It’s less ideal for those seeking a deeply relaxed experience or those who want to explore fewer sites in greater depth. But for adventurous spirits wanting a taste of the Balkans’ diverse culture and landscapes, this itinerary offers a well-balanced, immersive experience.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The itinerary involves walking through old towns and sites with cobblestone streets, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

How many people are in each group?
It’s a private tour, so the group size is typically up to 15 travelers, but you can customize the experience for just your party.

Are there opportunities for wine tasting?
Yes, there’s an optional wine tasting at a local Berat winery for €20, which is highly recommended if you enjoy local wines.

What’s included in the price?
Accommodation for 6 nights, breakfast, professional guide, transportation via air-conditioned vehicle, and entry tickets to sites.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local dining options.

What time does the tour start and end?
It starts at 7:00 am in Tirana and ends back there at the conclusion of the 7th day.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible—discuss your interests with the guide to tailor the experience.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
Most travelers go during the warmer months, but check the weather forecast for comfort during your trip.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 86 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start, receiving a full refund.

This 7-day Balkan adventure offers a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated experience that balances cultural highlights, scenic landscapes, and photography opportunities. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want the convenience of guided exploration and the flexibility to capture the region’s beauty through their lens.

While the schedule is full and the price might be on the higher side, the inclusion of accommodations, tickets, and guided insights makes it a solid option for those seeking a hassle-free, comprehensive Balkan trip. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, medieval towns, or mountain vistas, this tour covers a diverse range of experiences, providing a memorable snapshot of the region in just a week.

If you’re ready for a busy, enriching journey through some of the Balkans’ most captivating spots, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.