Southern Albania: Culture and nature adventure

Discover Albania’s hidden paradise, where breathtaking nature meets rich culture. This journey takes you from stunning UNESCO sites to the untouched beauty of southern Albania’s countryside, offering authentic hospitality at every step. Perfect for friends, families, and couples, you’ll explore historic gems, walk through serene rural landscapes, and marvel at the dazzling Ionian coast and majestic Albanian mountains.

Highlights:

• Explore Berat and Gjirokaster old town (UNESCO city)
• Learn about ancient history in Apollonia & Butrint archeological parks
• Drive along the Albanian Riviera coastline
• Discover Qeparo and Voskopoje old villages
• Swim in the outdoor sulphur baths of Benje
• Walk in Nivica canyons and Peshtura waterfalls

Itinerary

Tirane – Karavasta Lagoon – Berat

1. Laguna e Karavastase · 1 h

   Meet your expert guide at your hotel and embark on a journey to Berat, with a scenic stop in Karavasta, the largest lagoon in Albania. Take a boat tour to admire the serene beauty and diverse birdlife.

2. Berat · 4 h

   Continue to Berat's ancient castle, wander its charming cobblestone streets, and marvel at the blend of St. Mary church, King’s Mosque, Halveti Tekke, and enchanting views of the Tomorr mountain. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Osum River, soaking in the vibrant local history of Mangalem and Gorica quartiers.

Berat - Apolloni - Vlore

1. Apollonia Archaeological Park · 3 h

   After a delightful breakfast, we journey to the ancient city of Apollonia, a rare blend of Greek and Illyrian heritage, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes unlike anywhere else in the Mediterranean.

2. Vlore · 2 h

   Later we transfer to the city of Vlore, remarkably known as the place where the independence of Albania from the Ottoman Empire took place. The city has a lot to offer with its beautiful coast. The walking tour with our guide will continue to Independence square and the promenade by the sea.

3. Narta Lagoon · 1 h

   To top off the day, we’ll visit the serene Narta Lagoon and Zvernec Island, home to stunning wildlife like Dalmatian pelicans and flamingos amidst the lush Mediterranean pine forest.

Albanian Riviera

1. Dhermi · 1 h

   Through the coastal road, we continue to visit lots of villages with amazing vacation atmospheres and rich history. Dhermi village is one of the most famous for its beautiful beaches and the old town.

2. Qeparo · 1 h

   Qeparo is another unique village. The old houses built on the top of the hill look mysterious and stay grandiose facing the Ionian Sea.

3. Himare · 40 min

   Himare is a small town with friendly locals who host thousands of vacationers during the summer season.

4. Porto Palermo Castle · 1 h

   Porto Palermo castle is built as a defensive fortress by Albania ruler Ali Pashe Tepelena during the 18th century.

5. Saranda · 2 h

   This is the most visited place on the coast and the vibes are different. You can enjoy the nightlife, local seafood or walking in the city.

Butrint – Gjirokaster

1. Butrint National Park · 2 h

   Today is dedicated to the history of the area. We will drive further south to visit the archeologic park of Butrint. The ruins found here date back to the 8th century B.C representing a long living history of the Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantine empires. A walk inside the city guided by our knowledgeable guide, surrounded by beautiful nature and ruins will make you feel like you are in another past world.

2. Ksamil · 1 h

   Not far from the park are located Ksamil Islands which are so well-known for their sandy beaches and views of Corfu Island located only 4km across the sea.

3. The Blue Eye · 1 h

   On the way to Gjirokaster, we stop for a refreshment at the Blue Eye springs.

4. Gjirokaster · 3 h

   The next destination is the city of Gjirokaster, a site listed under UNESCO World heritage in Albania. The town hosts unique local architecture which has been nicknamed Stone City. The walking tour will include a visit to the old bazaar, the castle, the bazaar mosque, and Gjirokaster Obelisk.

5. Gjirokaster Castle · 1 h

   Argjiro castle stands with pride at the top of the hill and can be seen from all over the city and the valley.

Nivice – Permet

1. Tepelene · 1 h

   Leaving behind popular destinations, we head to the more rural countryside. Today we drive to Nivice village, a place discovered lately and slowly be part of tour packages. On the way, we will stop at the birthplace of Ali Pasha, the city of Tepelene. The viaduct of Ali Pasha built in the 19th century is proof of development that received the area during his reign.

2. 2 h

   Hidden in the mountains is located Peshtura Waterfall. It takes only a short walk from the village of Progonat to explore these karstic springs and those adventurous spirits can dive in the blue clear waters.

3. Nivice · 1 h

   The adventure is not over yet as we drive to the village of Nivice to enjoy the views of deep canyons and have a delicious lunch.

4. Permet · 2 h

   After lunch, we leave the mountains to get to the amazing valley of the Vjosa River. Permet is a lovely little town with friendly people and relaxed nature. It is known for great raki, gliko (typical fruit jam), and rose flowers.

Permet – Voskopoje - Korce

1. Benja Thermal Baths · 1 h

   We will explore the area of the thermal baths, swim inside, and walk by Kadiu bridge

2. Germenj · 1 h

   The route encircles around green valleys, deep forests, and rural mountains. This is a part of Albania less habited, yet a dream to be. We will stop at a small local farm to try some local fresh products and play with horses.

3. Voskopoje · 2 h

   Voskopoje is a small village with big history and culture. It used to be the center of civilization of southeast Albania during medieval times. Walking around the village, you will explore lots of orthodox churches and the spirit of the locals.

Korce – Tirane

1. Korce · 2 h

   With the journey coming to the end, we will leave the mountains and get to the city of Korce. It is known as “The Little Paris” due to its mystic history of the First World war, old bazaar, and stylish houses.

2. Lake Ohrid · 2 h

   We make a stop to enjoy the Albanian shores of Lake Ohrid, the village of Tushemisht and Lin.

What's included

• Entrance fee Porto Palermo Castle
• English speaking tourist guide/driver
• Entrance fees Gjirokaster fortress and Museum of Weapons
• Accommodation in shared rooms. If you are booking together, you will be paired with your partner.
• Entrance fee Iconographic Museum of Onufri
• Transportation with comfortable car/minivan
• Entrance fee Butrint archeological site
• Entrance fee Skenduli’s house in Gjirokaster
• Breakfast
• Entrance fee St. Nicholas church in Voskopoje
• Entrance fee Apollonia archeological site
• Entrance fee Medieval Art Museum

What's not included

• Lunch and Dinner
• Tips (optional)

Languages

In-person guide: English

Travellers

• Adult (8–88)

Options

• Tour in shared twin room

  Standard 3* hotels

  Pickup included

  In-person guide: English

Additional information

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.

If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.

If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.