Southern Albania in 4 Days: Riviera Beaches, UNESCO Cities & Europe's Last Wild River

Discover Albania's Most Iconic South — Riviera, Heritage & Wild Nature

Explore the best of southern Albania on this unforgettable journey through the Albanian Riviera and the untamed Vjosa Valley. From the vibrant capital Tirana to the turquoise waters of Ksamil and Saranda, this tour takes you through some of the Mediterranean's most breathtaking landscapes.

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Butrint Archaeological Park and Gjirokastër's historic Old Town and Castle, marvel at ancient ruins at Apollonia, and soak in the natural thermal springs at Benja. Cross the legendary Llogara Pass, explore the whitewashed village of Dhermi, discover the mystery of Porto Palermo Castle, and walk the banks of Europe's last wild river — the Vjosa.

This expertly curated southern Albania tour blends pristine Ionian beaches, dramatic mountain scenery, Roman and Illyrian ruins, traditional stone towns, and authentic Albanian cuisine into one complete and deeply memorable adventure.

Day 1 – Tirana City Tour – Apollonia Archaeological Park – Vlora Beach
• Pick up from Tirana Airport or hotel • Morning city tour of Tirana including Skanderbeg Square, Heroes Boulevard, Tirana Pyramid, Mother Teresa Square, former Enver Hoxha residence, Orthodox Cathedral, BunkArt 2 underground bunker museum, and Tirana Castle • Transfer to Apollonia Archaeological Park (approx. 2 hours) • Visit Apollonia ruins, Monastery, Archaeology Museum, 13th-century chapel, Agora, Council Hall, Library, and Acropolis • Transfer to Vlora • Free evening on Vlora promenade and beach • Overnight in Vlora

Day 2 – Llogara National Park – Dhermi – Himara Beach – Porto Palermo – Saranda
• Scenic drive through Llogara National Park with stop at Llogara Pass for coffee and panoramic sea views • Short stop in Dhermi village • Beach time in Himara (approx. 3 hours) • Visit Porto Palermo Castle • Continue to Saranda • Free evening along Saranda promenade • Overnight in Saranda

Day 3 – Butrint UNESCO Site – Gjirokastër Castle & Bazaar – Përmet
• Morning visit to Butrint Archaeological Park and Museum, UNESCO World Heritage Site • Guided walking tour through ancient ruins and museum • Transfer to Gjirokastër • Visit Gjirokastër Castle • Walk through Old Bazaar with artisan shops and optional Army Museum visit • Transfer to Përmet • Overnight in Përmet

Day 4 – Përmet – Benja Hot Springs – Ardenica Monastery – Return to Tirana
• Morning visit of Përmet City with stop at traditional gliko-making shops • Transfer to Benja Hot Springs • Free time to enjoy thermal waters (approx. 2 hours) • Transfer to Ardenica • Visit Ardenica Monastery (12th century) • Return to Tirana or drop off at Tirana International Airport.

Important Information

Included in price!

• 3 Nights accommodation in hotel 4* or similar
• Breakfast
• Private transportation, Air-conditioned, 1-3 people standard car, 4+ people Van-Bus 
• Personal Driver (Not a tour Guide)
• Pick up from hotel in Tirana, Durres, and Tirana International Airport.
• Fuel & Fuel Surcharges
• Tolls
• All Taxes

Not Included in price!

• Meals
• Drinks
• Entry Fees in all castles, museums and parks (estimated cost about 35 euros in total per 1 person)
• Guide (Extra cost for English speaking guide 150 euro per 1 day)
• Sunbeds on the beach
• Guide

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
• Not suitable for Infants