Albania Riviera Tour

Arrival at Tirana airport where we'll meet our guide and transfer to our hotel. We'll take a walking tour of Albania's colorful capital including: Skanderbeg Square with its equestrian statue of national hero Skanderbeg; the 18th century 35m tall Clock Tower; Et’hem Bey Mosque, one of the country's oldest and most iconic Ottoman mosques; the National Library and Palace of Culture buildings; and the renovated pedestrian New Bazaar lined with cafés and shops near the ruins of the old Tirana Fortress. Welcome dinner in local restaurant. Overnight in Tirana – 4 * Hotel (D)

Our day begins with a transfer to Gjirokastër, known as the “City of Stone”, with its origin dating back to the 12th century. Perched on the slope of the Drino Valley, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 500 traditional houses with distinct architecture. Step into the two-story Skenduli House, an exemplary model of Ottoman architecture built in the 18th century. Listen as the 10th generation of the Skenduli family recounts the importance of this historical landmark. Soak in over 20 centuries of history at Gjirokastër Castle, one of the biggest castles in the Balkans. This fortress has great military significance even till this day. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city's unique stone rooftops and cobblestone streets. Pass through the Historic Bazaar, an iconic Ottoman-era stone marketplace, on the way to the 19th century Gjirokastër Obelisk. This monument signifies the opening of the first girls' school in the city. Take in stunning 360° views around. Enjoy a tasty traditional Albanian lunch at one of the city's many local restaurants. The afternoon brings more delights as you transfer to the coastal town of Sarandë, gateway to the Albanian Riviera. Dinner in a local restaurant. Overnight in Saranda – 4 * Hotel (B,D)

After breakfast, we depart for Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site bursting with over 2,500 years of history and tranquil natural beauty. Wander through ancient ruins dating back to the Greek and Roman empires of the 4th century BC, once a major city and religious center. Marvel at preserved artifacts and imposing structures like the Roman theater and Baptistery, showcasing Butrint’s grand past. We continue to Ksamil, cherished as the “Pearl of the Albanian Riviera” with its sparkling turquoise waters and three picturesque islands. Spend the day at a beachfront resort, soaking up the sun and swimming along sandy coves. After a lunch of fresh seafood, we ascend the 16th century Lëkurësi Castle, a historic Venetian fortress. From its ruins lie sweeping panoramas of the harbor down below. Stay and bask in the golden hour as the sunset illuminates the terracotta roofs of the town, the illuminated bay, and the moonrise over the glittering sea. We return to Sarandë for the night, with charming coastal scenes and rich history as wonderful memories. Overnight in Saranda – 4 * Hotel (B,L)

Breakfast at the hotel and free time to spend at the hotel beach or on the other beaches of Saranda. In the late afternoon, we will move to Butrint Lake where we will take a guided boat tour to visit the mussel farms that breed the royal mussel found in the lake. This will be followed by a tasting dinner based on fresh mussels bred in the lake. Return to Saranda, overnight stay at the hotel. Overnight in Saranda – 4 * Hotel ( B/D)

After breakfast we depart from Saranda, overlooking Corfu island across the Ionian sea. We drive along the breath-taking coastal road to Borsh, where we take a coffee break surrounded by peaceful waterfalls. We continue to Porto Palermo to see the Ali Pasha castle standing like a barrier protecting the rocky bay. We learn this bay once served as a secret WWII submarine base before driving on to Qeparo for a seaside lunch. In the afternoon we reach the crystal clear waters of Dhermi beach for a quick swim. We make a scenic stop at Llogara National Park to admire the dramatic Mediterranean mountains and sea views. In the evening we arrive in Vlora, founded in the 6th century BC as Aulona, Vlora earned the title "City of the Flag." It's a place of historical significance where Albania declared its independence on November 28, 1912. Dinner after a day along the stunning Albanian Riviera. Overnight in Vlora – 4 * Hotel ( B, D)

Breakfast at the hotel and departure for a splendid day by the sea. Boarding at the port of Vlora and start of the boat excursion with a visit to the museum island of Sazan, the pirate Haxhi Ali cave and a stop at an enchanting beach, will have lunch and enjoy the sea day until the scheduled return time in the late afternoon. Dinner on your own. Overnight in Vlora – 4 * Hotel ( B,L)

Start the day, visiting the iconic Flag's Square and the Independence Monument, learning about the proud history of Albania. Next stroll through the charming Muradie Neighbourhood, where we'll discover the city's main mosque, a remarkable Albanian National Monument erected in 1537. Admire the beauty of the mosque, an impeccably preserved Ottoman gem that has stood the test of time for almost five centuries.. Afterwards , head towards to Apollonia, an ancient city nestled near the town of Fier. Once a thriving center in ancient Illyria, Apollonia promises a profound historical encounter. Traverse the archaeological site, immersing yourself in 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. Free time for lunch on your own. Heading towards the Monastery of Ardenica, an Eastern Orthodox monastery. Enjoy the captivating interiors of the 18th-century Church of St Mary, where the iconostasis graces the nave, and the golden pulpit, adorned with intricate details, stands as a breathtaking spectacle. Admire the frescoes by the Zografi brothers displayed upstairs, adding a touch of artistic brilliance to this historical site. Next, continue our drive to Tirana where we spend the night. Dinner in local restaurant. Overnight in Tirana – 4* ( B,D)

After breakfast, we visit the the Bunk’Art, a museum in a giant Cold War bunker examining Albania's past. Afterwards board the bus and transfer to the airport for your flight back home.