Mini-Classic Tour

Upon arrival at the airport, meeting with guide , and head towards Vlora, enroute stop at Apollonia, once a thriving center in ancient Illyria. Explore the renowned Via Egnatia and discover the rich Roman heritage, where even Emperor Augustus Octavian once studied. Admire the remnants of temples, a grand theater, and the renowned Bouleuterion. Continue the exploration at the onsite museum, where the city's narrative unfolds, offering insights into its history and showcasing the artifacts unearthed during meticulous excavations. Continuing your adventure, you will reach Vlora, a coastal city founded in the 6th century BC, known as the "City of the Flag." This significant town holds a special place in Albania's history, as it was here that the nation declared its independence on November 28, 1912. Enjoy n overnight stay in the charm of this beautiful coastal town. Overnight in Vlore – 4 * Hotel ( )

After breakfast, continue on a scenic drive through the picturesque Llogara pass, where terraced citrus groves and olive trees create a patchwork of greenery against breathtaking mountain and sea backdrops. Next, the journey continues with a captivating visit to Porto Palermo, home to the formidable Ali Pasha Fortress. It features well-preserved walls, cannons, and surrounded by turquoise coastal waters. Our journey' continues towards Butrint, founded over two millennia ago, this UNESCO World Heritage Site gracefully straddles eras - from its earliest Greek settlements to later Roman domination. Marble pillars and mosaic floors silently narrate Butrint's storied past amid a lush natural oasis. Return to Saranda for an overnight stay Overnight in Saranda – 4 * Hotel ( B)

After breakfast, we begin our journey to the charming town of Gjirokastra, a well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique stone architecture. Within the towering walls of its hilltop fortress, we'll explore the Castle. Stroll through the Stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the city, where every step echoes the tales of bygone eras. We'll also visit the Ethnographic Museum housed in the birthplace of Enver Hoxha, Albania's communist-era dictator. Next we continue on to Berat, also protected by UNESCO for its cultural significance. Referred to as the "City of a Thousand Windows", Berat is beautifully situated along the Osumi River valley. Its historic neighborhoods of Gorica and Mangalemi cling to the steep hillsides, their stone buildings cascading down the slopes. Free time to explore the city on your own. Overnight in Berat – 4 * Hotel ( B)

After breakfast, we head to the Berat Castle, a magnificent fortress that dates back to the 13th century, with its origins tracing all the way back to the 4th century BC. Next up is the Onufri Museum, located within the castle. Inside the iconic church of the dormition of St Mary, which was built in 1797 atop an earlier chapel from the 10th century, you'll find the Onufri Museum. This museum showcases the spectacular 16th-century religious paintings by Onufri, displayed alongside the church's gilded 19th-century iconostasis. Don't forget to explore the chapel behind the iconostasis and admire the faded frescoes on its painted cupola. The journey continues toward Durres, one of the oldest and most significant port cities in the Balkans, with nearly 3,000 years of rich history, it stands as Albania's oldest city or the eternal city by the Adriatic Sea. We will visit the most prominent tourist attraction in Durrës is the Roman amphitheater of Emperor Hadrian, with 15,000 seats, the second-largest amphitheater in the Balkans. It is a testament to the ancient city's grandeur and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. You can also explore the Durrës Castle, a medieval fortress with origins dating back to the Byzantine era. After the visit we continue towards Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, where we jump on a walking tour of the center, unveiling the charm of Scanderbeg Square, ministerial buildings, and a visit to Bunkart 2—a museum nestled within a bunker. Overnight in Tirana – 4* Hotel (B)

After breakfast, ( if time permits) , further explore the city on your own, and then board the bus and transfer to the airport for your flight back home.