Albanian Trip
“Wandering the Ancient Trails of Epirus”
This itinerary represents a suggested route showcasing the diverse landscapes, rich history, and authentic experiences of Albania and Northern Greece. It is designed to offer a taste of the region’s unique charm, but we are happy to customize it to meet your specific interests and preferences. Whether you’d like to extend your stay, add destinations, or focus on particular activities, we can tailor the tour to create the perfect travel experience for you.
Day 1: Arrival in Tirana – Stroll through the City
- Arrival: Upon arrival in Tirana, the capital of Albania, we’ll meet at the airport and transfer to your hotel.
- Afternoon: After check-in, we’ll start exploring Tirana with a relaxed walking tour. We’ll visit the old and new neighborhoods generally built since Tirana became a capital of Albania in 1920 and stroll along Blv. Dëshmorët e Kombit, the main avenue, lined with cafes and vibrant buildings.
- Dinner: Enjoy a welcome dinner in one of Tirana’s top restaurants, offering a taste of Albanian cuisine, including the fërgesë (a rich tomato and pepper dish).
- Overnight: Stay overnight in Tirana.
Day 2: Korça – Lunch in Ersekë – Stay in Nature in Leskovik
- Morning: After breakfast, we’ll depart for Korça, also known as the “City of Roses.” Upon arrival, we’ll explore the city’s charming streets, visit the Gjon Mili Museum (showcasing the works of the famous Albanian-American photographer), and stroll through the Korça Bazaar.
- Lunch: We’ll continue to Ersekë for a delicious traditional lunch at Maqo’s Tavern, where you’ll enjoy local specialties of Southern Albanian cuisine.
- Afternoon: We’ll then head to Leskovik, nestled in the heart of the Albanian highlands. Here, we’ll embrace the tranquil beauty of nature with a stay in a rustic guesthouse or eco-lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.
- Evening: Dinner will be served in the guesthouse or a local restaurant, featuring traditional Albanian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Overnight: Stay in Leskovik, surrounded by nature.
Day 3: Leskovik – Aristi (Greece)
- Morning: After breakfast, we’ll head towards the Greek-Albanian border and cross into Greece. The drive will take us through the mountainous landscape of Zagori.
- Afternoon: We’ll arrive in Aristi, a charming village nestled in the Zagori region of Greece. This picturesque village is known for its traditional stone houses and breathtaking views of the Vikos Gorge.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local taverna in Aristi, where we’ll savor Greek specialties like souvlaki, moussaka, and tzatziki.
- Overnight: Stay in Aristi, a peaceful village offering a perfect mix of nature and culture.
Day 4: Rafting on the Voidomatis River – Exploring the Villages of Zagori
- Morning: After breakfast, we’ll begin the day with an exciting rafting adventure on the Voidomatis River, located in the stunning Vikos Gorge. The Voidomatis River is known for its crystal-clear waters and is one of the cleanest rivers in Europe. Professional rafting guides will lead us through the rapids, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery.
- Late Morning: After rafting, we’ll return to Aristi for lunch and a short break.
- Afternoon: After lunch, we’ll explore the Zagori villages. We’ll start with Vitsa, a picturesque village known for its cobbled streets and traditional architecture. Then we’ll visit Kipi, home to ancient stone bridges, and finish with Metsovo, a village famous for its rich cultural heritage and local crafts.
- Evening: Return to Aristi for a relaxing evening and enjoy a traditional Greek dinner at a local taverna.
- Overnight: Stay again in Aristi.
Day 5: Aristi – Kakavia Border – Gjirokastër
- Morning: After breakfast, we’ll depart from Aristi and head back towards Albania. We’ll cross the border into Albania at the Kakavia Border and drive towards the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastër.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Gjirokastër, also known as the “City of Stone.” We’ll take a guided tour of the city, visiting the impressive Gjirokastër Castle and exploring the narrow, cobbled streets lined with traditional stone houses.
- Lunch: Enjoy a delicious traditional lunch in one of Gjirokastër’s atmospheric restaurants, sampling local dishes such as qifqi (rice balls) and tavë kosi.
- Evening: Free time for shopping or further exploration of the city’s old town before we gather for dinner.
- Overnight: Stay overnight in Gjirokastër.
Day 6: Gjirokastër – Butrint – Saranda
- Morning: After breakfast, we’ll head south towards Butrint, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Butrint is an ancient city with roots dating back to the Greek and Roman periods, with well-preserved ruins including a theater, temples, and a Roman villa.
- Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Butrint or Saranda, before continuing our journey along the beautiful Ionian coast.
- Afternoon: After lunch, we’ll explore the coastal city of Saranda, enjoying its picturesque harbor and relaxed atmosphere.
- Evening: Free time to relax by the sea or explore the town’s cafes and boutiques.
- Overnight: Stay in Saranda, with stunning views over the Ionian Sea.
Day 7: Saranda – Vlora – Return to Tirana
- Morning: After breakfast, we’ll head back up the Albanian coast, passing through the beautiful beaches of the Ionian Coast on our way to Vlora.
- Lunch: Stop for lunch in Vlora, where you’ll have the opportunity to taste fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes.
- Afternoon: Continue the journey to Tirana.
- Evening: We’ll arrive in Tirana, where the tour ends, or you may choose to extend your stay in Albania.
Optional Extra Day: Meteora & Ioannina
- If you wish to extend your stay in Greece, we offer an optional extra day to explore Meteora and Ioannina.
- Meteora: Visit the famous Meteora Monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations, offering spectacular views and an enriching cultural experience.
- Ioannina: Explore the beautiful city of Ioannina, known for its medieval castle, beautiful lake, and rich Ottoman heritage.
- Overnight: Stay in Ioannina before continuing as best for your itinerary to Tirana the next day.