Discover the Best of Albania: 7 Days of Highlights & Hidden Gems

Experience Albania on Your Terms: A 7-Day Customizable Adventure

Imagine exploring Albania’s most iconic sites—like the ancient Berat Castle or the scenic Blue Eye spring—at your own pace, with knowledgeable guides who bring the country’s stories to life. For $196.05 per person, this seven-day tour offers a flexible way to see both well-known highlights and lesser-known treasures, starting from Tirana or Saranda. With private transportation and the freedom to choose your activities, it’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances structure and flexibility—you get to see the must-see sights while having options to upgrade with meals or activities. Plus, the small group size—capped at four travelers—means more personalized attention and a more intimate vibe. The only thing to keep in mind is that, since it’s customizable, you’ll need to book in advance—most travelers plan about a month ahead.

If you’re someone who loves authentic culture, stunning landscapes, and a bit of adventure without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself, this tour fits the bill. It’s also suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and local insights, as highlighted by many glowing reviews.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: Mix and match from a curated list of experiences to craft your ideal trip.
• All-Inclusive Transfers: Transportation from Tirana and Saranda are always included.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit historic sites, scenic parks, and hidden gems like Blue Eye.
• Personalized Service: Small group size (max 4 travelers) and private guides enhance the experience.
• Value for Money: With many free attractions and optional extras, this tour delivers a lot for the price.
• Culinary Delights: Optional traditional lunches offer a taste of Albanian cuisine.

Discovering Albania: What to Expect

This tour, carefully designed by Private Tours Albania, takes you through a mix of famous sites and off-the-beaten-path spots, all at a relaxed pace. Starting from Tirana, you’ll visit historical towns, stunning coastlines, and hidden natural wonders, with the ability to customize each day depending on your interests. The tour is built around private transportation and guiding, which means you won’t be stuck in a crowded bus, and your experience is tailored to your preferences.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Tirana, Kruje, and Durres
Your journey begins with a visit to Kruje, a hilltop town with a charming old bazaar and the birthplace of Albania’s national hero. Walking through the cobblestone streets and browsing traditional souvenirs gives you a real flavor of local craftsmanship.
Next, you’ll head to Durres, a city with a proud maritime history. Although only fragments of its past remain, walking along the coast and enjoying the views makes it worthwhile.
Finally, we spend two hours exploring Tirana’s lively Skanderbeg Square, the colorful Toptani castle, and the artificial lake, giving you a good introduction to Albania’s capital.

Day 2: Shkoder, Lezhe, and Kruje
The next day immerses you in northern Albania’s history and scenery. In Shkoder, the Rozafa Castle offers sweeping views over the Shkodra Lake, while the old city center invites a leisurely stroll.
A quick visit to Lezhe introduces you to the local Mrizi i Zanave green tourism initiative—perfect for those interested in eco-friendly practices and local produce.
Back to Kruje, you’ll revisit the Ottoman market and castle, learning about Albania’s national identity.

Day 3: Durres and Berat
Returning to the coast, you’ll revisit Durres to enjoy a different perspective. Later, the highlight is Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site often called the “City of a Thousand Windows.” Walking its cobblestone streets among white Ottoman-era houses and climbing Berat Castle makes for a memorable day.
The local food and homemade Raki are as much a part of the experience as the historic sights.

Day 4: Vlore, Zvërnec Monastery, and Llogara National Park
A day dedicated to nature and history. Vlore is where Albania declared independence, and its coastal charm is clear. The Zvërnec Monastery on a tiny island near Vlore adds a peaceful, scenic stop.
Then, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over mountains and sea from Llogara National Park, one of the most beautiful panoramas Albania offers.

Day 5: The Blue Eye and Gjirokaster
The Blue Eye spring is a magical spot, with crystal-clear water bubbling from underground springs—an absolute must-see.
Later, Gjirokaster—another UNESCO site—welcomes you with its fortress, Ottoman bazaar, and old houses. You may even have a chance to enjoy a traditional lunch with a local family, a highlight praised by many travelers.

Day 6: Korça, Voskopoje, and Pogradec
In the southeast, Korça is famous for its friendly vibe, vibrant old bazaar, and craft beer. Nearby, Voskopoja offers a traditional atmosphere with homemade food and drinks.
The day ends at Pogradec, with the Drilon National Park and lakeside village, perfect for relaxing and absorbing Albanian countryside.

Days 7-10: Gjirokaster, Ksamil, and the Albanian Riviera
The final days continue to highlight Gjirokaster’s UNESCO status, along with dramatic canyons at Këlcyrë and the thermal baths in Bënjë.
On the coast, Ksamil’s islands and the Borsh beach showcase Albania’s stunning Riviera, with options to relax or explore coastal towns.
Repeated visits to Blue Eye and Bënjë thermal baths offer time for unwinding after days of sightseeing.

Why This Tour Works

The small group size and private guides (like Ari and Valentina, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge) make the experience more engaging. We loved the flexibility to choose activities—adding a traditional lunch or skipping a stop if you prefer—giving you control over your time. The quality of local guides means you’ll learn more than just dates and facts; they share stories, local tips, and sometimes even the best places to taste authentic Albanian raki.

One of the standout features is the stunning scenery at sites like Llogara Valley and Blue Eye, which are as breathtaking as the photos suggest. Traveling in a private vehicle means you can stop for impromptu photo shoots or snacks, making the journey part of the fun.

The value is impressive, considering many attractions are free or included in the optional meal upgrades. The price also covers all fees and taxes, with the convenience of pick-up and drop-off included, although those outside Tirana or Saranda might pay extra.

A Few Caveats

Since the tour is customizable and runs with a small group, it might require more planning on your part before booking. The itinerary is flexible, but you’ll want to communicate your interests beforehand to ensure your preferred stops are included.

Plus, the tour depends on good weather—bad weather could affect some outdoor stops like Borsh or the canyon visits, though the tour provider offers options for rescheduling or refunds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers who enjoy tailoring their trips and don’t mind a small-group setting. It suits those eager to see Albania’s key sights and hidden treasures without the hassle of organizing transport and guides on their own. If you’re a lover of authentic culture, scenic landscapes, and local cuisine, you’ll find this tour offers a comprehensive and rewarding introduction to Albania.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
  Yes, most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it easy to connect with others or enjoy a private experience if you prefer.

• Are transportation and guides included?
  Private transportation and a local guide are included in the price, with pick-up and drop-off from Tirana or Saranda.

• Can I upgrade the tour with meals or activities?
  Absolutely, you can choose to include traditional lunches and activities, which are optional and paid separately.

• What about the cost of entry fees?
  Most attractions are free or have their fees included in the itinerary, like Berat Castle. Some sites, like Gjirokaster Castle, are free.

• How far in advance should I book?
  Most bookings are made about 32 days ahead, but early booking is recommended to secure preferred dates.

• What is the maximum group size?
  The tour caps at 4 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

• Is the tour physically demanding?
  Most stops involve walking and some cobblestone streets, but the pace is relaxed and manageable for most travelers.

• Will I have free time during the tour?
  Yes, the itinerary balances guided visits with free time, especially in towns like Berat and Gjirokaster.

• What if the weather is poor?
  The tour requires good weather, but if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
  Be sure to communicate any allergies or dietary needs before the tour begins.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Albania tour delivers a well-rounded experience, combining cultural sights, natural beauty, and local flavor. The ability to customize your journey—adding meals or skipping certain stops—means you’ll leave with a sense of personal connection to the country. The small-group setup and knowledgeable guides make it more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an opportunity to truly get to know Albania.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, this tour offers a balanced, authentic, and affordable way to explore Albania’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility, personalized attention, and meaningful experiences over cookie-cutter packages. If that sounds like your style, this could be your ideal Albanian adventure.