Description

Discover the best of Albania on this 6-day relaxing journey, thoughtfully designed to combine rich cultural experiences, historical exploration, and moments of tranquility. With all nights spent in Tirana, you can enjoy the ease of unpacking only once, returning each evening to the vibrant capital city where you can join optional events, explore Tirana’s nightlife, or simply unwind after a fulfilling day. Your adventure begins with a walking tour of Tirana, exploring its key landmarks like Skanderbeg Square, the Et'hem Bey Mosque, and the trendy Blloku District. For a unique experience, enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at an ex-military base, blending culinary delights with local stories. Each day unfolds a new chapter of Albania’s rich history and stunning landscapes: from the ancient Roman ruins of Durrës and the historic Kruja Castle, to the serene lakeside town of Belsh and the UNESCO treasures of Berat and Apollonia. Along the way, you’ll visit Shkodër, with its majestic Rozafa Castle and charming pedestrian streets, and enjoy an unforgettable dinner at a renowned Agrotourism Restaurant, sampling slow-cooked dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. You’ll also have time to relax at Gjiri i Lalzit Beach, indulge in a wine-tasting session at a premier vineyard, and stroll along Vlora’s Lungomare Promenade, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet. Each evening, return to Tirana for optional activities, whether it’s joining a cultural event, enjoying live music, or exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife and culinary scene. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, ensuring you experience Albania’s breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich traditions without the stress of constantly packing and moving. This all-inclusive journey, complete with authentic meals, 4-star accommodations, and expertly guided tours, showcases Albania at its finest. Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins, savoring local flavors, or simply soaking in the beauty of the coast, this trip guarantees unforgettable moments and a deeper connection to this hidden gem of Europe.

Itinerary

Day 1

• Morning: · Guided walking tour of Tirana, exploring the city’s main attractions: · Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum.
• · Et'hem Bey Mosque and the Pyramid of Tirana, highlighting Albania’s communist legacy.
• · A walk through Blloku District, once restricted to communist elites, now a trendy area with cafes and bars.
• Lunch: · Head to Ex-Military Base for a unique culinary and exploration experience in the outskirts of the city.
• · Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring traditional Albanian flavors.
• Guests can also explore the grounds and learn about the local farming community.
• Afternoon: · Free time to relax at your hotel or explore more of Tirana at your leisure.
• · Optional InAlb experiences: Join a Raki Tasting with Meze Pairing or other customized activities.
• Overnight: Tirana.

Day 2

• Morning: Head to Durrës, Albania’s ancient port city.
• Explore the Roman Amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans, and the Venetian Tower.
• Stroll along Durrës Promenade by the sea, and visit local cafes and shops.
• Afternoon: Continue to Kruja, the city of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg.
• Visit the Skanderbeg Museum inside Kruja Castle, and enjoy a walk through the Old Bazaar, known for traditional crafts and souvenirs.
• Overnight: Tirana

Day 3

• Morning: Travel to Shkodër, a city known for its cultural heritage and proximity to Lake Shkodër.
• Visit the Rozafa Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and lake.
• Explore the pedestrian boulevard and Marubi Photography Museum, home to some of the oldest photographs in the region.
• Evening: Return to Tirana, with a special dinner stop at a famous Agrotourism Restaurant, a slow food restaurant known for locally sourced ingredients and traditional Albanian dishes.
• Overnight: Tirana

Day 4

• Morning: Begin the day with a visit to Belsh, a hidden gem surrounded by lakes.
• Enjoy a stroll along the scenic lake and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
• Afternoon: Continue to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the City of a Thousand Windows.
• Explore Berat Castle, where people still live within the walls, and visit the Onufri Museum to see its stunning collection of Byzantine icons.
• Walk through the Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, connected by avhistoric bridge.
• Overnight: Tirana

Day 5

• Morning: Relax at Gjiri i Lalzit, a beautiful beach located along the Adriatic coast.
• Enjoy the sand and sea, with optional water activities.
• Afternoon: Head to one of Albania’s finest wineries.
• Take a guided vineyard tour and enjoy a wine-tasting session with local snacks.
• Learn about the wine-making process and relax in the vineyard surroundings.
• Overnight: Tirana

Day 6

• Morning: Travel to Apollonia, an ancient city and archaeological park, where you’ll explore ruins from Greek and Roman times.
• Visit the Monastery of Apollonia, which now houses a small museum.
• Afternoon: Continue to Vlora, a vibrant coastal city where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet.
• Stroll along the Lungomare promenade and enjoy a seaside lunch before heading back to Tirana.
• Evening: Return to Tirana for your final evening, with time to enjoy the city’s nightlife or a quiet dinner.