Visiting: Visiting: Apollonia Archaeological Ruins, Vlora City, Llogara Pass, Albanian Riviera, Dhermi village, Himare Beach, Porto Palermo castle, Saranda, Butrint Archaeological Park UNESCO, Gjirokaster old bazaar UNESCO, Gjirokaster Castle, Vlosa river valley, Kelcyre, Permet, Benja hot Springs.
An amazing journey that will take you through Albanian's spectacular Riviera, and Vjosa Valley with breathtaking scenery.
Take this journey through Albanian Riviera, a stunning coastal region with a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. You can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and soft sand of the beaches, such as Dhermi, Jale, and Himara. You will explore the picturesque fishing villages and ancient archaeological sites, such as Butrint and Apollonia. Continue your adventurous experience visiting Benja Hot Springs through the Vjosa river valley, the last remaining wild river in Europe, one of the most beautiful national parks of the Balkans. Through this beautiful Journey indulge yourself in Albanian traditional slow cooked food and local wine.
Itinerary.
Day 1
Pick up from Airport or hotel in Tirana.
Tour of Tirana (Albanian Capital) 120 minutes
City tour of Tirana. Visits of Tirana Skanderbeg Square, Heroes Boulevards, Tirana Pyramid, Mother Teresa square, Communist leader's (Enver Hoxha) former residence, Orthodox Cathedral, BunkArt 2 underground elite bunker turned in to museum, and Tirana Castle.
Transfer to Apollonia Archaeological Park (2 hours)
Visit of Apollonia Archaeological park. Over 2400 year old ruins. Visit of Apollonia Monastery, Museum of Archaeology, and 13th century chapel. Visit of ruins, city's Council where the iconic columns still stand, Library, Agora, and Acropolis,
Transfer to Vlora Beach City. Stay overnight.
Free evening to enjoy the beach in Vlora promenade with bars and restaurants.
Day 2
After hotel check out will pass through Llogara National Park,
Llogara National Park 30 minutes - 1 Hour
Option 1: Drive through the tunnel beneath Llogara pass, and reach the sounthern beach to enjoy more beach time.
Option 2: Pass through Llogara National Park, 1040 meters high directly above the sea. 40 minutes’ drive from Vlora, at the top of Llogara pass, we'll stop for coffee or tea to enjoy the spectacular view that can see all way to the Greek island of Corfu. After the break we'll drive through a scenic road towards the most beautiful part of Albania, - Albanian Riviera.
Dhermi town Albanian Riviera (short stop)
A short stop at picturesque town of Dhermi. Beautiful balcony looking on the Mediterranean Sea, full of narrow streets, stone houses with orange shingle roofs and wood windows.
Himare Beach 3 hours
Beach option 2: A stop on Himara Beach. Undoubtedly, it’s one of the best beach towns along Albanian’s beautiful coastline
Porto Palermo Castle 30 minutes
Visit of Porto Palermo Castle, This Venetian style castle stands on top of a small island looking west on the Mediterranean sea, surrounded by crystal blue waters.
Sranda City beachside. Staying overnight
Arrival and check in the hotel in Saranda. Free evening to enjoy Saranda promenade with many choices of bars and restaurants.
Day 3
Option 1: Relax for a couple of hours on the beach. Free beach in front of Saranda promenade or Ksamil beach a short drive away.
Option 2: Visit Butrint Archaeological Park 2 hours
We'll start the morning with a visit of Butrint Archaeological Park. Butrint was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992 and further a National Park in 2000. A walking tour of the ruins and the archaeological museum inside will take you back in time more than 2700 years.
Gjirokaster Castle and Bazaar 2.5 hours
Option 1: Roam through Gjirokaster old Bazaar paved with cobble stones full of artisans’ shops. Free for shopping or relax to enjoy a traditional meal from local restaurants.
Option 2: Visit of Gjirokaster castle. Perched atop Gjirokastër, the castle echoes tales of resilience. Re-erected by the Despot of Epirus in the 12th century on top of ancient castle ruins, it defied invaders, witnessed Ottoman grandeur, and sheltered rebels during turbulent times. During communism, it became a grim prison where dissenters faced torture. The citadel, a testament to indomitable spirit, stands as a guardian of Albania's storied past and unwavering fortitude.
Transfer to Permet. Staying overnight
Day 4
Përmet, a picturesque town nestled by the untamed Vjosa River (the las wild river in Europe), offers a tapestry of history and nature. This area boasts lush landscapes, thermal springs, and abundant wildlife. Adventures awaits exploring Europe's last wild river. Përmet's charm lies in its blend of pristine beauty and vibrant traditions, a testament to Albania's natural and cultural heritage.
- Visit of Permet City, and a short stop to satisfy your sweet tooth in one of the many family owned "Gliko" making shops.
- Transfer to Benja Hot Springs
- Free time to enjoy the hot springs of Benja 2 hours.
Transfer to Ardenica Monastery 2 hours,
Visit of 12th century, Ardenica Monastery. Ardenica Monastery, built in 1282, is a Byzantine treasure in Albania. Renowned for its historical significance, it hosted in 1451 the wedding of Skanderbeg, Albania's national hero (Military General and leader that stopped the Ottoman invasion towards Europe for 25 years). The monastery houses magnificent frescoes and rare manuscripts, showcasing the artistry of medieval times. As a cultural and spiritual beacon, it stands as a testament to Albania's rich religious heritage and architectural splendor.
Return to Tirana or drop off at the Tirana International airport!
Important information
Included in price:
- Guide, Driver
- All transfers with Air-conditioned vehicle
- Hotel accommodation 4* or similar
- Breakfast
- Entry tickets Apollonia Archaeological Park and museum.
- Entry tickets Porto Palermo Castle
- Hotel accommodation and per diem for the Guide/Driver
- Fuel and fuel surcharges
- All taxes
Not included in price:
- Meals
- Drinks
- Entry Fees in all castles, museums and parks that are not mentioned as included above.
- Sunbeds on the beach
Departure details
- Traveler pickup is offered.
- Guests must provide correct address or location for pick up.
- Start and end of tour with airport pick up and drop off per your flight schedule, (within the 4 day tour itinerary)
Duration
4 days
Return details
- Returns to original departure point
Additional information
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Infants must sit on laps