Tirana is a fantastic starting point for 2-day tours that showcase not only its own vibrant culture but also the surrounding Balkans’ gems. Thanks to its central location and excellent roads, you can easily escape into nearby mountains, historic towns, or neighboring countries. For instance, a Tour of North Macedonia and Kosovo offers a rich mix of UNESCO sites like Ohrid Lake and Skopje’s architecture—ideal for those eager to see a bit of history and culture without spending more than a weekend. Meanwhile, outdoor lovers may prefer hiking in the Small Group Hiking Tour of Theth & Blue Eye, which takes you into the Albanian Alps for breathtaking scenery.
This list is made up of a variety of tours, from cultural explorations to mountain hikes and even river adventures. Whether you want to learn about history, trek rugged landscapes, or relax on pristine beaches, there’s something for every traveler. Below, I’ve broken down each tour with details that help you decide the best fit for your interests and pace.
1. Tour of North Macedonia and Kosovo in two days from Tirana
Starting from Tirana, this tour takes you across borders to UNESCO-listed Ohrid and Ohrid Lake, then through Skopje’s lively streets. On day two, you’ll visit Pristina, Kosovo’s capital, and Prizren, a town bursting with history. This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a quick yet comprehensive look at two countries that often get overshadowed by their neighbors. The highlight for many is the UNESCO sites like Ohrid Lake, with its clear waters and ancient churches, and Skopje’s mix of Ottoman and modern architecture. The guides are praised for their knowledge and punctuality—“Endri was on time and drove safely,” reports one reviewer. At $462.73, it’s a bit pricier but includes comfortable transport and a local guide for an intimate experience. This tour is ideal if you want to see major cities and UNESCO sites in just two days.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, cultural sampler of North Macedonia and Kosovo with a good balance of sightseeing and comfort.
2. Small Group Hiking Tour of Theth & Blue Eye in 2 Days
For those craving outdoor activity, this tour offers a true mountain experience. It starts early, with hotel pickup, heading into the Albanian Alps. You’ll visit Shkodra, and then drive rugged roads to Theth, where hiking and fresh mountain air are the focus. The highlight is the hike to the Blue Eye—a stunning turquoise natural pool—plus a visit to Grunasi Waterfall. The tour is led by a guide who’s praised for their local knowledge, and accommodations in Theth are cozy, authentic bed and breakfasts. The adventure is suitable for moderate fitness levels, and the scenery is breathtaking. At $494.52, this tour provides a full immersion into nature, with transport, guide, and overnight stay included.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers eager to explore Albania’s mountains and waterfalls in a small, intimate group.
3. Explore Thethi, the unknown part of Albania in two days
If you prefer to skip the crowds and venture into less touristy areas, this tour offers an authentic stay in a guesthouse in Theth. It begins in Lezha, then crosses the Thore Pass to reach the village. Highlights include the Tower of Thethi, the church, and local hospitality with homemade Albanian food. The guide shares stories about the region’s culture, and you’ll stay overnight in a charming guesthouse rather than a hotel. The tour costs $332.31 per person, making it a more budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice immersive experiences. It’s particularly suited for those interested in history, local customs, and stunning mountain vistas.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culture-minded travelers who want to experience remote Albania with personalized service and authentic lodging.
4. 2-Day Private Ohrid Tour in Skopje, Prishtine Trip and Prizren
This private tour offers a tailored experience across North Macedonia and Kosovo, with flexible routes and personalized attention. It includes visits to Ohrid’s UNESCO sites, like the Church of St. John Kaneo, and the historic fortress of Tsar Samuel. The second day covers Prizren’s castle, Stone Bridge, and local bazaars. The private guide adapts the itinerary, so you can focus on your interests. At $462.58, it’s more expensive but offers the comfort of private transport and the ability to customize. Guests rave about the driver and guide, especially their deep knowledge. Best for travelers who prefer a flexible schedule with a personal touch.
Bottom Line: For a more personalized, luxury experience, this private tour suits those wanting to tailor their itinerary.
5. Private 2 day Tour of Kosovo and North Macedonia from Tirana
This comprehensive private trip combines the highlights of both countries with a customizable schedule. Your journey includes Prizren’s historic sites, Pristina’s landmarks like the Kosovo National Library, and Skopje’s architecture, plus Ohrid. With $439.59, this tour is a bit more budget-friendly than the fully private options and includes overnight accommodation. Travelers love the knowledgeable guides and smooth transportation. It’s perfect for those who want in-depth cultural experiences with the flexibility of a private tour.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a flexible, private experience that covers the main sights in two days.
6. Small Group 2-Day Tour: Highlights of N. Macedonia & Kosovo
This tour takes you through Ohrid, Skopje, Prizren, and Pristina in a small group, making it ideal for those who prefer more interaction and personalized attention. You’ll see UNESCO sites in Ohrid, learn about Skopje’s eclectic architecture, and stroll through Prizren’s streets. It’s priced at $647.91 per person, reflecting the small group size and guided experience. Guests mention the driver, Gjenc, as a highlight for his knowledge and friendliness. The itinerary includes detailed city tours and cultural highlights, providing a well-rounded experience of North Macedonia and Kosovo.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting an intimate group setting with in-depth city exploration.
7. Explore South Albania in 2 Days
This tour offers a different flavor—combining natural beauty with cultural sites. Starting with the Llogara National Park, it continues to beaches like Dhermi and Borsh, then explores the historical ruins of Apollonia and the Ardenica Monastery. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of beaches, hiking, and history in southern Albania. At around $400.88, it’s a good value considering the variety of sites and experiences. Travelers love the combination of relaxing at beaches and sightseeing in ancient ruins.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a broader southern Albanian experience, blending beaches with cultural history.
8. 2 days tour in Central and North of Albania
This tour covers Durres, Kruja, and Shkodra, taking you from the ancient Roman amphitheater to Skanderbeg’s fortress. It’s a solid option for those interested in history and local culture on a budget ($336 per person). The itinerary includes visits to Fushë Kruja, the castle of Kruja, and the scenic Shkodra Lake. It’s a good fit for travelers short on time but eager to see a mix of Albania’s historical highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an efficient historical overview with scenic stops.
9. 2 Days Into the North: Theth & Valbona Explorer with Lunch
This tour combines hiking in Theth with a challenging trek to Valbona Pass. It features the iconic Blue Eye, Grunas Waterfall, and the chance to see Albania’s rugged peaks. At $253.20, it’s the most affordable option here, focusing heavily on outdoor adventure. The guide is praised for their expertise, and the hikes are suitable for those with some fitness. The trip is best for active travelers who want to explore the Albanian Alps in depth.
Bottom Line: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a physically engaging two days in the mountains.
10. Kosovo and North Macedonia 2-Day Tour from Tirana
This tour covers major cities—Prizren, Pristina, Skopje, and Ohrid—offering a comprehensive Balkan experience. The itinerary includes visits to Prizren’s castle and the Kosovo National Library, as well as Skopje’s old bazaar. The $838.11 price reflects its private, all-inclusive nature, suited for travelers who want a thorough exploration with a guide handling logistics. Reviews mention the excellent driver and the deep local knowledge.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking an extensive, guided Balkan trip with maximum comfort.
11. Theth and Shkoder, 2 Days Tour from Tirana
This tour features the stunning mountains around Shkodra and Theth, including a hike to the Blue Eye and visits to the Blood Feud Museum and Rozafa Castle. It’s a balanced mix of mountain activities and cultural visits, priced at $300.96. The guide is noted for sharing local history, and the overnight stay in Theth provides an authentic mountain village experience. It’s perfect for those wanting both outdoor and cultural experiences in one trip.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want to combine mountain scenery with cultural insights.
12. 2-Day Tour: Palasë Beach, Vlorë, Apollonia & Wine Tasting
This tour blends beach relaxation with cultural visits, including Palasë Beach, the ancient city of Apollonia, and wine tasting in the Fier region. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the sea and explore history without missing out on local gastronomy. With flexible starting times, it offers good value, especially for those who prefer a mix of relaxation and cultural sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for those wanting a laid-back, cultural, and wine-tasting experience in southern Albania.
13. Adventure Tour – 2-Day Rafting and Scuba Diving in Albania
For adrenaline junkies, this tour offers rafting in Osumi Canyon and scuba diving in the Albanian Riviera. It’s designed for active travelers, with 3 hours of rafting and multiple hours of diving, plus guided tours and safety briefings. Priced on request, it’s the most adventure-focused option here, with professional guides leading the way. It’s best suited for those who love water sports and want to experience Albania’s wild side.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers, this is a two-day splash of adventure and exploration.
14. From Tirana: 2-Day Albanian Riviera & Dhermi Guided Tour
This tour explores the southern coast, from Dhermi’s beaches to ancient ruins at Apollonia. It combines swimming, sightseeing, and cultural visits, including the Ardenica Monastery. The scenic drive along the Ionian coast makes this a relaxing yet active trip. The rental price varies with availability, but the highlights include blue-flag beaches and historic sites.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beach lovers and history enthusiasts wanting a scenic coastal escape.
15. From Tirana: 2-Day Komani Lake, Shala River & Theth Tour
This trip takes you through some of Albania’s most striking landscapes: a ferry across Komani Lake, swimming in Shala River, and hiking to Grunas Waterfall. The overnight in Theth adds authenticity, and the Blue Eye is a must-see. At $253.20, it offers a well-rounded blend of outdoor activities and cultural sights, suited for those wanting an immersive mountain experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for nature lovers seeking a full day of scenic adventure and mountain charm.
How to Choose the Best 2-Day Tour in Tirana
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. Want a cultural trip with UNESCO sights? The Tour of North Macedonia and Kosovo offers a rich mix of history and city life. Prefer outdoor activities? The Small Group Hiking Tour of Theth & Blue Eye provides mountain hikes and waterfalls. For a tailor-made experience, the Private Ohrid Tour offers flexibility and personalized attention.
Think about how much time you want to spend on travel versus activities. Budget travelers may find the Explore South Albania or Central and North Albania tours a good fit. For adventure lovers, the Rafting and Scuba offers adrenaline-packed days, while those seeking scenic relaxation might prefer the Albanian Riviera & Dhermi.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred dates and ensure availability of accommodations and guides.
Final Thoughts
Tirana’s location makes it a superb hub for a diverse range of 2-day tours—whether you want to explore bustling cities, hike rugged mountains, or relax on pristine beaches. Options like the North Macedonia and Kosovo tour and the Theth mountain hikes highlight the region’s variety and accessibility.
For different traveler types—cultural explorers, outdoor adventurers, or luxury seekers—there’s a perfect fit. Be sure to match your choice with your interests, budget, and fitness level. And remember, booking early helps you lock in the best dates for your Albanian adventure.