Discover the Best of Albania: 7 Days of Highlights & Hidden Gems

Traveling through Albania often feels like uncovering a well-kept secret. This 7-day tour offers a fantastic way to see the country’s must-visit spots alongside some hidden treasures, all while giving you the flexibility to customize your experience. If you’re someone who loves a mix of guided insights and personal exploration, this tour could be a great fit.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances structure with freedom—you’re not locked into a rigid schedule, but instead can choose from a range of highlights. Plus, the inclusion of private transport and knowledgeable guides makes logistics much easier, especially if you’re traveling with friends or a small group. One thing to consider is that the tour is capped at 4 travelers, which keeps things intimate but might mean less flexibility if you’re traveling solo.

This tour works best for curious travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate local food, scenic views, and a relaxed pace that lets you soak in Albania’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just want a taste of authentic Albanian life, you’ll find this tour offers a little bit of everything.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: Mix and match various highlights to tailor your trip.
• Private Guide & Transport: Personalized service keeps things convenient and intimate.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: From stunning castles to breathtaking parks, there’s plenty to see.
• Cost-Effective: At around $196 per person, it offers good value for a 10-day experience.
• Small Group: Max of 4 travelers, ideal for personalized attention.
• Optional Extras: Upgrades available for lunch and activities to enhance your experience.

An Overview of the 7-Day Albania Tour

This tour is designed for those who want to see Albania without the stress of organizing every detail. It’s a completely customizable adventure that begins from either Tirana or Saranda, giving you the freedom to focus on your preferred destinations. With prices around $196.05 per person, this is an accessible way to explore a country that’s often overlooked but packed with charm.

What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You select the stops that appeal most, and the guides handle the transportation and logistics. This freedom means you can spend more time exploring favorite spots or discovering new ones.

The tour features private transportation, which means you won’t be stuck with strangers or on a bus with a large group. The guides are experienced and eager to share their knowledge, helping you understand the history and culture of each site. Plus, the inclusion of bottled water, soft drinks, and snacks keeps you refreshed throughout.

Daily Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Tirana to Kruja, Durres, and Tirana

The journey kicks off with a visit to Kruja, a city rich in history and tradition. You’ll stroll through the old Bazaar, where vendors sell handmade souvenirs—a perfect spot to pick up unique gifts or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how much visitors love the friendliness of local vendors and the authenticity of this place.

Next, the tour moves to Durres, a city that once served as Albania’s capital. Though not as bustling as it once was, Durres offers glimpses of its past with a relaxed walk along the coast and city streets. It’s a good introduction to Albania’s long history, even if not much remains from ancient times.

Finally, you’ll end the day in Tirana, exploring Skanderbeg Square, Toptani Castle, and the artificial lake. These spots give a quick yet charming overview of the capital’s vibe—perfect for those arriving in the country and wanting a taste of urban life.

Day 2: From Shkodra to Kruja

The second day takes you northwest to Shkodra, a city with a scenic Rozafa Castle overlooking Lake Shkodra. This site is often praised for its panoramic views and historic significance. Visitors mention enjoying strolls around the lake and wandering the charming streets.

Afterward, the tour visits Lezhe to see Mrizi i Zanave, a spot renowned for its green tourism. It’s a quieter stop, perfect for those interested in local agriculture and authentic Albanian cuisine.

The day concludes back in Kruja, the birthplace of Albania’s national hero. The Ottoman market and castle offer insight into the country’s historical layers, with many travelers appreciating the mix of history and vibrant local life.

Day 3: From Durres to Berat

Today, the focus shifts south to Berat, one of Albania’s most iconic cities, known as the City of a Thousand Windows. Walking through its cobbled streets and past traditional houses perched on the hillside, you get a real sense of history and charm. Berat’s castle is a highlight, and many reviews rave about the delicious food and local Raki—definitely a taste of authentic Albanian hospitality.

Returning to Tirana in the evening, you get a chance to explore the stone city and enjoy more local cuisine.

Day 4: The Coast and Monasteries

This day is a lovely mix of history, nature, and coastal scenery. Starting in Vlorë, the city where Albanian independence was proclaimed, you’ll get sweeping views of the sea and mountains. The Zvërnec Monastery offers a peaceful break, and many say it’s a beautiful spot to relax and reflect.

Later, the tour takes you to Llogara National Park. The views from the Llogara Valley are often described as breathtaking—mountains meeting the sea, a sight that’s hard to beat.

Day 5: Natural Wonders and Gjirokaster

The Blue Eye spring is a highlight—not just for its vivid blue waters but for how mesmerizing it is to watch the water spring up from deep underground. Many travelers find it to be a magical experience.

Next, you’ll visit Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle, old bazaar, and museum are must-sees, and many reviews mention how much they enjoy walking on the thousand stairs and soaking in the atmosphere of this historic town.

You’ll also stop at Ksamil, often called one of the hidden gems of the Ionian coast, and Saranda with its castle and lively vibe.

Day 6: Cultural and Scenic South-East

The southeastern part of Albania offers a more rural, traditional feel. Korca is known for its lively old bazaar and craft shops, while Voskopoje offers a glimpse into Albanian traditional life with its homemade food and relaxed pace.

Pogradec and the Drilon National Park give you a chance to enjoy lakeside scenery and local villages, rounding out the day with a peaceful, scenic experience.

Day 7: UNESCO Heritage and Vjosa Canyons

Gjirokaster returns for a more in-depth look at its UNESCO site, and then the journey takes you to Këlcyrë to see the dramatic Vjosa River and its canyons—an absolute highlight for nature lovers.

Finally, you’ll relax in thermal baths at Bënjë, ideal for unwinding after days of sightseeing.

Days 8-10: Coastal and Natural Finales

The last days bring you back to the coast, revisiting favorite spots like Llogara National Park, Vlora, and the Albanian Riviera. The Borsh beach and the Byzantine monastery of St. Mary’s offer peaceful, scenic spots to finish your trip.

The repeated visits to Blue Eye and Gjirokaster highlight their importance as must-see highlights, with many travelers remarking on their beauty. Ending with Ksamil islands gives a perfect, relaxing finale—crystal waters and quiet beaches.

What We Love About This Tour

The guides are clearly knowledgeable—they’re passionate about Albania and eager to share stories, which many reviews reflect. The small group size ensures you’ll get personalized attention, and the private transportation makes the journey smooth and comfortable.

The diversity of sites—covering cities, castles, mountains, and beaches—means you get a well-rounded experience. Plus, the optional upgrades for lunch and activities allow you to tailor the trip even more, which is a thoughtful touch.

And the value for money is solid, given the number of sights visited, the private transport, and the local guides. It’s a chance to see a country that many travelers find surprisingly beautiful, with a good balance of guided insight and free time.

A Minor Consideration

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is limited to maximum 4 travelers, which is fantastic for intimacy but might make it less flexible if you prefer larger groups or solo travel. Also, since it requires booking 32 days in advance on average, it’s best to plan ahead if you want to secure a spot.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who want a flexible, personalized itinerary without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s well-suited for small groups of friends or couples who appreciate a mix of culture, nature, and scenic beauty. If you love discovering local cuisine, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find this tour hits all those notes.

It’s not geared specifically toward families with young children, but older kids or teens interested in history and nature could enjoy it. The pace is relaxed, and many sites are outdoor or cultural, which keeps things engaging.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation is included throughout the entire tour, ensuring smooth and comfortable travel between sites.

Can I join the tour from Tirana or Saranda?
Yes, pickups are offered from both Tirana and Saranda, so you can start your journey from either city.

What’s the cost of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $196.05 per person, which covers a wide array of highlights, guides, and transport.

Are lunch and activities included?
Lunch and additional activities are optional and available for extra payment. You can choose to upgrade your experience to include meals or specific activities.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Most sites involve walking on cobbled streets or uneven terrain, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

How many people will be in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, making it very personalized.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are meals provided?
Meals are not included in the base price but can be added as an upgrade.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for families, the mix of outdoor, historical, and scenic sites could be enjoyed by older children interested in exploring.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera to capture the stunning sights.

Final Thoughts

This customizable 7-day Albanian tour offers a thoughtful way to see the best and the hidden sides of a fascinating country. Its flexibility, small group size, and knowledgeable guides make it a strong choice for travelers who enjoy tailored experiences without the hassle of constant planning.

If you’re eager to explore diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture in a relaxed, intimate setting, this trip could be just what you’re looking for. The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and natural wonders ensures you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of Albania—an underrated gem worth discovering.

Whether your focus is on historic castles, stunning coastlines, or local food, this tour adapts to your interests, making it a worthwhile adventure for curious travelers.