Exploring Albania in 5 Days: An Honest Look at the North & South Tour

If you’re considering a quick but comprehensive way to see Albania’s highlights, this North & South Albania 5-Day Tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t done it myself, based on the detailed itinerary and reviews, it seems like a smart option for travelers who want a good overview without spending weeks crossing the country.

What I particularly like about this tour is its efficient approach — it focuses on the most significant sights, cutting out unnecessary stops that could drag out your trip. Plus, the fact that it covers both North and South Albania in just five days means you get a sense of the country’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture in a relatively short time.

However, a key consideration is that the tour involves some bus travel and a one-hour hike, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a leisurely pace or have mobility issues. Still, if you’re reasonably fit and eager to see Albania’s highlights, this could be a very rewarding experience.

Overall, it seems like a good fit for adventurous travelers who enjoy group tours, want a structured itinerary, and appreciate knowledgeable guides. Let’s break down what makes this tour worth considering—or maybe passing on.

Key Points

Time-efficient exploration covering key sites in both the north and south of Albania
Includes major highlights like Kruja, Shkodra, Theth, Berat, Gjirokastra, and the Albanian Riviera
Comfortable transportation with a full-option vehicle and professional guide
Balanced mix of sightseeing, hikes, and cultural experiences
Food and drink included — traditional meals and optional wine tours
Not suitable for those with mobility issues or over 95 years old due to the hike and busy schedule

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the 5-Day Itinerary

One of the biggest selling points of this tour is how it packs Albania’s most important sights into a tight schedule. We’ll go through each day, highlighting what makes it special—and what to expect.

While in Tirana, here are other experiences we've covered

Day 1: Kruja and Shkodra – A Historic Beginning

The adventure kicks off with a visit to Kruja, a town famous for its 500-year-old bazaar and the castle of Kruja. These sites are not just tourist stops but gateways into Albanian history and culture. The bazaar offers traditional crafts and souvenirs, perfect for those wanting a tangible connection to the country.

Climbing up to Kruja mountain provides spectacular views—you’ll see Tirana, Durres, and even the Adriatic Sea on a clear day. This panoramic overlook is a highlight, giving you a sense of the country’s geography in one glance.

Next, the trip heads to Shkodra, often called the cultural capital of northern Albania. The Rozafa Castle is a must-see, with its 2000-year-old walls holding stories of ancient civilizations. We loved the way the guide explained the legends behind the castle, making history come alive.

Walking along the boulevard in Shkodra offers a relaxed vibe before heading to Theth. Staying overnight in Theth promises a cozy experience, with a chance to enjoy Albania’s mountain scenery.

Day 2: Theth – Mountain Adventure & Hidden Gems

Waking up in Theth is like stepping into a postcard. The setting is breathtaking, with alpine scenery all around. After a hearty local breakfast, the real fun begins.

The highlight here is the scenic hike—about an hour through lush forests—to discover Blue Eye of Theth, a stunning natural spring that’s perfect for photos. You’ll also visit Grunas waterfall, a peaceful spot that feels like a secret.

Many reviews mention the quality of the hike and the natural beauty, with one traveler noting the experience was “delightful” despite the one-hour walk. This part of the trip really showcases Albania’s raw, untouched nature.

Day 3: From Ancient Ruins to Wine & Culture

Leaving the mountains behind, the journey takes you to Ancient Apollonia, where Greek and Roman ruins offer a glimpse into the past. Walking among the stones, you can imagine what life was like millennia ago.

The afternoon is dedicated to Berat, a city famous for its castle and the 1001 windows neighborhood. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional family meal in the old castle, a genuinely authentic experience. The optional wine tour in Berat adds a nice touch, especially if you’re a wine lover. Many reviews praise the delicious local cuisine and the opportunity to meet a family living in the castle itself.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye

The trip continues south to Gjirokastra, known as The Stone City because of its distinctive architecture. The Gjirokastra Bazaar is vibrant and offers a variety of local crafts. Climbing Gjirokastra Castle reveals impressive views and the old prison, which adds a hint of history’s darker side.

Visiting the Zekate House offers a peek into the traditional lifestyle of wealthy families. For many, this is a highlight, as it adds depth to the cultural story.

A quick 30 km drive takes you to the Blue Eye—a must-see natural wonder. Visitors often describe it as “awe-inspiring”, and reviews emphasize how the natural beauty makes it worth the short detour. Staying overnight in Saranda, the coastal town, means you’re right on the water, ready to relax.

While you're exploring Tirana, here are other experiences we've looked into

Day 5: The Albanian Riviera & Ksamil Islands

The final day is all about coastal beauty. Visiting the Ksamil Islands gives you a chance to unwind by the sea and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The beaches are perfect for lounging or taking a quick swim.

Later, exploring Butrinti, a UNESCO heritage site, provides a peek into the ancient Greek and Roman presence in the area. The ruins offer both history and scenic views.

Driving along the Albanian Riviera, the landscape is striking—hills meeting the sea, dotted with beaches like Porto Palermo, Dhermi, Jale, and Qeparo. Each stop offers photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the breathtaking coastline.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price covers accommodation, breakfast, all entrance fees, and traditional lunch in Berat. Transportation is via a full-option vehicle, ensuring comfort during long drives. Plus, a professional English-speaking guide helps make sense of everything you see.

Not included are personal expenses, like souvenirs or extra snacks. If you’re interested, the optional wine tour in Berat is a nice way to add a local flavor to your trip without feeling like an extra expense.

Value for Money

Considering all the sites visited—ranging from ancient ruins to mountain waterfalls—and the comfort of included transport and guides, the overall value seems solid. The reviews praise the hotels and guides, with one reviewer noting “very good hotels and guides,” making the experience more enjoyable and relaxing.

The Experience of the Tour

One of the most praised aspects is the quality of the drivers and guides. As one traveler shared, “The drivers Enri and Toni were excellent,” which makes a huge difference when navigating such a packed itinerary. Smooth transportation, combined with knowledgeable guides, helps make the long drives more engaging.

The tour’s balance of sightseeing and free time seems well-designed. You get enough time at each stop to explore and take photos, without feeling rushed. The inclusion of traditional meals and optional wine tastings enhances the culture.

Possible Drawbacks

While the itinerary is packed, some travelers might find the schedule tight, especially with the one-hour hike in Theth. If you’re not comfortable with walking or have mobility issues, this could be a challenge.

Also, since the trip involves quite a bit of bus travel, it might not suit those who prefer a more relaxed, less structured experience. The time spent on the road can be long, but it’s all part of seeing the diverse landscapes of Albania.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural, historical, and natural sights. If you appreciate guided tours that manage logistics and want to maximize your time, it’s a practical choice. It’s also great for those interested in Albanian history, landscapes, and food, as these elements are woven into the itinerary.

It’s less ideal for travelers looking for a slow-paced, leisure-focused trip or those with significant mobility issues. But if you’re ready for a full-coverage, well-organized exploration of Albania in just five days, this tour offers a lot of value.

FAQs

How long is the tour each day?
Each day varies, but expect full days of sightseeing, driving, and some short hikes. The schedule is designed to cover key sites efficiently.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes good quality hotels, as noted in reviews praising the stay as “very good.”

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The tour uses a full-option vehicle and professional drivers, making long drives manageable.

Is there free time during the trip?
Yes, you will have some free time to explore each site and take photos, especially at places like Gjirokastra and Ksamil.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves a 1-hour hike and some uneven terrain, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What’s the main focus of this tour?
It’s designed for travelers who want a rundown of Albania’s highlights, from ancient ruins to mountain scenery and coastal spots.

✨ Book This Experience

North & South Albania: A 5 Day Tour

5.0

“The drivers Enri and Toni were excellent. With Enri we spent 4 days, very good hotels and guides”

— JOSE MIGUEL, November 14, 2024

Final Thoughts

This North & South Albania 5-Day Tour offers an impressive way to see much of what Albania has to offer in a relatively short time. The itinerary hits the major highlights, blending history, nature, and culture in a way that feels both exciting and manageable. The inclusion of local meals, a knowledgeable guide, and comfortable transport make it a practical choice for those wanting to maximize their trip.

If your travel style is about efficient exploration, you’re curious about Albania’s diverse landscapes, or you simply want to tick off a lot of sights quickly, this tour could be a smart fit. Just keep in mind the active elements and busy schedule if you prefer a more relaxed pace. For many, it seems to be a well-organized, rewarding journey through one of Europe’s lesser-known gems.