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Classic Albania
Example Itinerary
Overview
From the vibrant capital of Tirana, you’ll explore a wealth of cultural and historical treasures, including the Ottoman-era town of Berat and ...
From the vibrant capital of Tirana, you’ll explore a wealth of cultural and historical treasures, including the Ottoman-era town of Berat and the stone city of Gjirokastër, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Discover ancient ruins such as Butrint, wander through traditional villages, and take in sweeping views across the Albanian Alps and along the stunning Riviera coastline.
Travelling through dramatic mountain passes and fertile valleys, you’ll uncover hidden churches, castles and archaeological sites, while also experiencing Albania’s warm hospitality and great food culture.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Arrive Tirana
On arrival into Tirana you will be greeted by your Wild Frontiers representative and transferred directly to your hotel for check in. Discover Skanderbeg Square and key historic buildings in Tirana before enjoying a welcome dinner.
Day 2 Tirana: Bunk'Art, Mount Dajti & House of Leaves
Today is a half-day exploration of Tirana and surroundings. A short drive brings you to the foothills of Mount Dajti, where you will visit Bunk'Art, a vast underground complex originally built to shelter the Communist leadership in the event of foreign attack. From here, take the Dajti Express cable car up into the mountain national park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the sweeping views from the panoramic terraces.
On your return to the city, visit the fascinating House of Leaves, now transformed into the Museum of Secret Surveillance, offering insight into Albania’s recent past. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace, perhaps wandering through the lively Blloku district or relaxing in the peaceful surroundings of Tirana’s Grand Park.
Day 3 Tirana - Valbona Valley: Road of Nation Highway & Visoki Decan Monastery
Today you journey north along the scenic “Road of Nation” highway, carved through the dramatic landscapes of the Mirdita Mountains. Crossing briefly into Kosovo, visit the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Visoki Dečani, one of the region’s most cultural and spiritual landmarks.
Returning to Albania, continue towards the breathtaking Valbona Valley, where towering limestone peaks and unspoilt natural beauty create one of the country’s most spectacular settings. There will be free time to explore the peaceful rural surroundings before enjoying a traditional dinner showcasing local flavours.
Day 4 Valbona Valley: Walk a Centuries' old Shepherd Trail
Today we set out on foot towards the small hamlet of Kukaj, following a centuries-old shepherd’s trail through a secluded side valley leading towards the high pastures of Mount Rosi. Along the way, the surrounding peaks open up dramatically, with views towards the striking rocky dome of Jezerca, the highest peak in the Albanian Alps.
Ahead, the jagged ridgeline of Grykat e Hapta frames the landscape, adding to the sense of remoteness and grandeur that defines this region. In the afternoon, we make a gentle return to Valbona, where the evening is spent at leisure with dinner and an overnight stay in the valley.
Day 5 Valbona Valley - Shkoder: Lake Koman Boat Ride
Today we descend back through the valley and continue to the ferry docks, where we embark on a spectacular boat journey through the dramatic gorge of Lake Koman. A highlight of the day is the turquoise waters and white beaches of the Shala Canyon, where we pause for a relaxed lunch surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.
Reaching the Koman Dam, we pass through a mountain tunnel and continue along the shores of Lake Vau Dejes towards Shkodër, the historic capital of northern Albania and one of the country’s oldest towns.
On arrival, visit the imposing Rozafa Fortress, dramatically set above the meeting of three rivers, before continuing into the pedestrian centre, where Italian architectural influences remain visible. The day concludes with a visit to the Marubi Museum of Photography, offering a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s visual and cultural history.
Day 6 Shkoder - Vlore: Kruje & Durres Amphitheatre
Heading south this morning across the plains of western Albania, our first stop is the charming hill town of Krujë. Here we visit the imposing castle, home to the acclaimed Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s national hero, whose legacy shaped the country’s fight for independence.
We then continue towards the coastal city and port of Durrës, where we explore the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, built in the 2nd century and once the largest of its kind in the Balkans. From here, the journey continues south along the Adriatic coast to Vlorë, the birthplace of Albanian independence.
On arrival, there is time to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade before sunset, taking in the relaxed coastal atmosphere of this historic seaside city.
Day 7 Vlore - Himare: Llogora National Park & Albanian Riviera
Today we ascend into Llogora National Park, a refreshing mountain pass blanketed in Mediterranean pine forest. From here, enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the Ionian coastline, with the dramatic Çika Mountains rising to over 2,000 metres above sea level, often referred to as the “Lightning Mountains”.
We take a leisurely walk through this remarkable landscape, pausing to appreciate the sweeping scenery before enjoying lunch in this peaceful alpine setting. In the afternoon, we descend towards the coastline and continue along the celebrated Albanian Riviera.
Our journey includes a visit to the hilltop citadel of Himarë Castle, where narrow alleys and stone walls evoke the feeling of an open-air museum overlooking the sea. We then continue to the waterfront, where the coastal atmosphere is best enjoyed as the sun sets and evening falls over the Ionian.
Day 8 Himare - Gjirokaster: Mussel Boat Tour & Butrint Park
Today the scenic drive continues south towards the lagoon of Butrint, where we board small boats for a traditional mussels tour, sampling one of the region’s most celebrated local specialities.
Following the tour, we visit the UNESCO-listed Archaeological Park of Butrint, a remarkable site where ancient ruins are set within a rich and beautifully preserved natural landscape, reflecting centuries of Greek, Roman and Byzantine influence.
In the afternoon, we continue inland towards Gjirokastër, arriving in this striking Ottoman-era town. We settle into the historic quarter, where stone-built houses and cobbled streets create an atmospheric setting for the evening.
Day 9 Gjirokaster: The City of Stone
The UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastër, birthplace of writer Ismail Kadare and former home of dictator Enver Hoxha, is renowned for its distinctive Ottoman-era architecture and dramatic hillside setting. Today we explore its historic cobbled streets, visiting the Museum of Ethnography and the imposing Gjirokastër Fortress, while discovering the town’s unique stone-built houses.
Along the way, we pause in a local home to enjoy a taste of Albanian hospitality, with gourmet coffee, tea, and homemade snacks, including cheese and jam.
After some free time, we continue in the afternoon to the hilltop fortress, where we learn more about its long and layered history while taking in sweeping views across the Drino Valley and the surrounding Lunxhëri Mountains.
Day 10 Gjirokaster - Berat: Onufri Icons Museum
Today we leave Gjirokastër and follow the valleys of the Drino and Vjosa rivers towards Berat, widely regarded as the best-preserved historic town in Albania and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On arrival, there is time to explore this atmospheric city before visiting the fortified citadel, home to the outstanding Onufri Icon Museum. From the ramparts, enjoy sweeping views across Mount Tomorr and the Osum Valley, and the town below.
In the afternoon, we continue exploring Berat’s historic quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, with their distinctive Ottoman-era houses cascading down the hillside. Overnight in Berat.
Day 11 Berat - Tirana: Uka Farm Wine Tasting
Following a relaxed morning, our final journey takes us along a scenic inland route back towards Tirana. En route, we pause for a wine tasting and light lunch at Uka Farm, a pioneering Albanian agrotourism project known for its sustainable approach and contemporary interpretation of traditional farming, where we sample some of the country’s finest local wines.
Arriving in Tirana, we have some time at leisure to further explore the city's lively streets, cafes and neighbourhoods.
Day 12 Depart Tirana
Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Sar'Otel Boutique Hotel, Tirana
Located in the heart of Tirana, the Sar'Otel Boutique is a lovely 4* hotel, perfectly located to explore the vibrant city of Tirana. All 19 rooms come with comfortable beds, air conditioning and have a bright and modern feel to them. Within the property, there is also a bar and outdoor terrace, the perfect place to enjoy a local cake and a coffee after a day of exploring.
Hotel Tradita, Shkodër
This 64-room characterful hotel offers one of the most memorable stays in the country. It houses a locally famous restaurant and bar as well as a spacious terrace. The reception area serves also as an ethnographic museum of sorts and all rooms are fitted with traditional furniture and feature original Albanian decorations.
Hotel Partner, Vlore
The modern four-star hotel offers stylish, contemporary rooms that are well furnished with neutral décor and a good amount of space. You can expect amenities of an international hotel including Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and flat-screen T.V. Hotel Partner's central location means that the beach is only a 15-minute walk away and there are plenty of options for dining, however guests also have the choice to stay in for lunch or dinner as the restaurant and cocktail bar serve Mediterranean and international dishes.
Hotel Chimaera, Himare
Set along the beautiful Ionian coast, hotel Chimaera is located conveniently just steps from the promenade and clear blue seas. With only 56 spacious, carefully designed guest rooms, the property offers a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The on site Chimaera Restaurant offers a blend of Mediterranean and Albanian cuisines, with dishes making use of local, seasonal ingredients. The property is also home to a beautiful outdoor swimming pool and sun loungers, the ideal place to relax.
Hotel Bineri, Gjirokastër
Hotel Bineri offers a delightful blend of traditional charm and modern comfort, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking an authentic Albanian experience. Situated in the heart of the UNESCO-listed old town, the hotel is just a stone's throw from the bustling bazaar and historic sites like the Gjirokastër Castle. Housed in an 18th-century building, its interiors showcase beautifully restored woodwork and locally crafted decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The on-site restaurant, Veranda, serves a delectable array of Mediterranean and Albanian dishes, and the rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding valley.
Hotel Mangalemi, Berat
Hotel Mangelami is a traditional family-owned hotel built on the ruins of an 18th century palace in the heart of the UNESCO protected area of Berat. Its 26 fully renovated rooms, split over two nearby buildings are all unique and have been furnished with many original features and furniture. Walter and his family are deservedly proud of what they’ve achieved and offer a heartfelt welcome to all their guests.
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MEALS
TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.OTHER ITINERARIES IN ALBANIA
Check out our group tours in Albania
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to Albania. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in Albania