Albania, Macedonia, and Kosovo: 10-Day Tour with Hotels

Traveling across the Balkans is like flipping through a vibrant storybook filled with history, natural beauty, and warm local hospitality. This 10-day tour offered by Albania Tourism covers some of the most captivating spots in Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo. It promises a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural landmarks, and authentic experiences—and from what we’ve gathered, it’s a solid choice for those who want an immersive taste of these diverse countries.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on stunning landscapes and historical highlights—think boat rides on Koman Lake or wandering through UNESCO-listed Old Towns. Another plus is the expert guidance provided in English and Italian, which can make navigating unfamiliar places much smoother. The only thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a leisurely, slow-paced trip—there’s quite a bit of travel involved, with some moderate walking at sites, so it suits those comfortable with a full schedule.

This experience would suit travelers who love history, scenic drives, and exploring off-the-beaten-path areas with a group. If you’re eager to see a mix of natural beauty and cultural treasures while enjoying comfortable hotels, this tour hits many of those marks. But if you prefer lounging in one place or are traveling with very young kids needing a slower pace, you might look for something more relaxed.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From Albanian Alps to Ohrid Lake and Blue Eye, the scenery is a major highlight.
• Cultural stops: Multiple historic towns and landmarks like Prizren, Skopje, and Berat make this a history lover’s dream.
• Comfortable hotels included: Each night’s stay is covered, giving you a good base after busy days.
• Moderate activity level: Expect some walking tours and boat rides, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Guided experience: Live guides speak English and Italian, making it easier to connect and learn.
• Flexibility in booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours and pay later options add peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Dive into the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience on This 10-Day Journey

Day 1: Arrival and Shkoder

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from the airport, followed by a transfer to the charming city of Shkoder in Albania. It’s a peaceful start, giving you time to settle in and get a sense of Albanian hospitality. Staying the night here is a good way to beat jet lag and prepare for the scenic days ahead.

Day 2: Scenic Journey to Valbona National Park

The highlight of this day is the boat trip across Koman Lake. We loved the way the tour guides described the views—the Albanian Alps blend beautifully with the water, creating a picture-perfect moment. This part of the trip is all about the stunning natural scenery. You’ll then head to Valbona National Park for a traditional dinner and an overnight stay. The park’s rugged beauty and fresh mountain air genuinely make this a memorable stop.

Day 3: Exploring Valbona and Moving Toward Kosovo

A visit to the Old Mill in Valbona offers a glimpse into local life and history. Afterwards, the journey continues into Kosovo, stopping at Prizren. Known as the cultural capital, Prizren’s Old Town is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, mosques, and Ottoman architecture. Many reviews note this as a favorite part, with several commenters mentioning the charm of the Old Town and the vibrant atmosphere.

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Day 4: From Kosovo to Skopje, North Macedonia

In the morning, the tour moves to the main square of Pristina, where the Newborn Monument is a must-see—an iconic symbol of independence. Then, the group heads to Skopje, North Macedonia, famous for its mix of historic and modern influences. The main square and old bazaar are highlights, and some reviews describe Skopje’s city center as lively with a unique blend of architecture.

Day 5: Ohrid and St. Naum Monastery

Today is dedicated to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ohrid, often called the “Jerusalem of the Balkans,” with its beautiful lake setting. We loved the way the tour guides painted a picture of Ohrid’s historical and spiritual significance. A walking tour and lunch give you a taste of the local vibe, and a visit to St. Naum Monastery adds a peaceful, scenic stop.

Day 6: Relaxation and Cultural Excursions

The day begins with a stroll through Korca’s bazaar and Orthodox Cathedral, offering insights into local tradition and craftsmanship. Afterwards, the tour takes you to Benja Thermal Waters in Permet—perfect for a relaxing break after days of sightseeing. Reviewers often mention the soothing nature of the thermal waters as a highlight.

Day 7: Gjirokaster and Saranda

Gjirokaster, a Stone City, is a UNESCO site with well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Exploring the castle and the famous 300-year-old Ottoman house feels like stepping back in time. The journey continues to Saranda, with a stop at the Blue Eye, a striking natural spring with vivid blue waters—a favorite spot for many travelers for its photogenic quality.

Day 8: Beach and Ancient Ruins

Today is about the Butrint Archaeological Site, a UNESCO treasure that’s rich with history. Following that, lunch at Ksamil offers a chance to enjoy the beach vibe. Spending the night in Saranda means you can truly relax by the sea after days packed with exploration.

Day 9: Berat and Cultural Heritage

The final full day takes you to Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” Exploring its Old Town, castle, and mosques reveals a well-preserved taste of Ottoman-era architecture. Many appreciate this as a fitting cultural finale.

Day 10: Departure or Optional Extensions

The trip concludes with a transfer to Tirana or your next destination, depending on your plans. The tour offers a chance for a final taste of Albania’s capital or a relaxing departure plan.

Transportation and Group Experience

You’ll be traveling in a private group, which makes for a more personalized experience. The transportation is comfortable, and guides are fluent in English and Italian, helping you appreciate each site’s story. Expect moderate walking, so comfortable shoes are essential—especially since many of the sites involve cobblestones and uneven terrain.

Cost and Value

While the total cost isn’t specified here, the inclusion of hotels, guided tours, and transportation suggests good value for those wanting a hassle-free itinerary. The comfort of staying overnight after long sightseeing days adds to the overall experience, especially since many reviews mention the quality of the accommodations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded experience of the Balkans, blending nature, history, and culture. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and enjoy guided group tours, you’ll likely find this engaging. It’s particularly suited for those interested in stunning views like the Albanian Alps and Blue Eye, as well as cultural sites like Old Towns and UNESCO locations.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed trip or traveling with very young children, the moderate walking and busy itinerary might be less suitable. Keep in mind that some days involve quite a bit of moving around and sightseeing, so it’s best for active travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who prefer leisurely travel?
This tour involves some moderate walking and a packed schedule, so it’s better suited for those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing rather than lounging.

Are hotels included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes hotel stays for each night, providing a comfortable base after busy days exploring.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Italian, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour uses private transportation, which is generally comfortable and suitable for long drives and scenic routes.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and don’t forget your passport or ID card.

Are meals included?
Meals are not explicitly detailed, but the tour mentions traditional dinners and lunch stops, so expect some meals to be on your own.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for families, the moderate activity level and scenic stops can be enjoyed by travelers of most ages, provided they’re comfortable with walking and travel.

Do I need a visa?
Check visa requirements for Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo ahead of time, as they vary depending on your nationality.

What’s the booking process like?
You can reserve now with the option to pay later, and cancellation is flexible up to 24 hours before the trip.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day tour of Albania, Macedonia, and Kosovo is a well-structured journey that combines scenic landscapes, cultural gems, and comfortable accommodations. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to see a bit of everything without the hassle of planning each detail. The focus on stunning views like Koman Lake and Blue Eye, combined with historic sites like Prizren and Ohrid, means you’ll walk away with a rich tapestry of memories.

If you’re looking for an adventure that balances natural beauty with cultural depth, and you’re okay with a full schedule, this tour offers solid value. It’s especially suitable for those eager to see UNESCO sites, explore scenic towns, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Balkans.

For anyone ready to embrace a lively, scenic, and culturally immersive experience—this could be your next Balkan adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: