South of Albania:A 3-Day Tour Through Albania’s Riviera Gems

South of Albania: A 3-Day Tour Through Albania’s Riviera Gems

If you’re dreaming of exploring the Albanian Riviera, this 3-day guided tour offers a well-paced, insightful glimpse into the region’s stunning coastlines, charming villages, and natural wonders. Starting from Tirana, it takes you through Durres, the Llogara National Park, and the picturesque Dhermi, before heading south to Porto Palermo, Saranda, the legendary Blue Eye, and the UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër.

What we love most? First, the way the tour combines spectacular scenery with cultural highlights, giving you a real taste of both nature and history. Second, the personalized small-group experience means fewer crowds and more interaction—perfect for travelers who prefer a more intimate, relaxed journey.

A potential consideration is the pace of the tour—with a packed itinerary, you might find yourself rushing through some sites if you’re a slow mover or want to linger longer. But overall, it’s a fantastic way to see Albania’s southern coast without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and want a balanced mix of beach time, cultural sights, and scenic drives. It’s especially good for those who value knowledgeable guides and want a comfortable, organized trip with a taste of the quieter, less touristy side of Albania.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery: Experience the Albanian Riviera’s pristine waters and rugged hills.
• Cultural richness: Visit historic sites like Gjirokastër and Porto Palermo Castle.
• Small-group intimacy: Only 6 participants for a more personal experience.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making each site come alive.
• Comfortable transportation: AC vehicle ensures a pleasant ride between sites.
• Value for money: Accommodation, transport, and site fees included, making it easy to budget.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Albanian Riviera Tour

Day 1: From Tirana to Dhermi via Durres and Llogara

We start our adventure with a pick-up at your preferred location in Tirana. From there, it’s a scenic drive towards the coast, with the first stop in Durres, a city with a lively Volga promenade perfect for a morning coffee and some light sightseeing. Durres is a city that offers a taste of Albanian urban life, with a historic center that’s worth exploring if you have time.

After Durres, we head into the Llogara National Park—a highlight for many travelers. The drive through the park offers breathtaking views of steep cliffs and lush mountains. Here, we enjoy a mountain-top lunch with panoramic views of the coast, a moment that truly captures the essence of Albania’s diverse landscape. This is a perfect spot for photos—and for appreciating how nature and human activity coexist here.

Descending from the heights, we arrive in Dhermi, a charming coastal village known for its beautiful beach and crystal-clear waters. The hotel where you’ll stay offers the chance to relax, swim, or simply soak in the quiet beauty of this less touristy corner of Albania. The optional beach time is a definite plus for those wanting some downtime after the drive.

Day 2: From Dhermi to Saranda via Porto Palermo

After a hearty breakfast, we set out for Porto Palermo, one of the tour’s top highlights. This small bay is famous for its Ali Pasha’s castle, perched atop a hill with sweeping sea views. The castle’s history adds a layer of intrigue, and the setting makes for great photos.

Post-visit, you’ll have time to swim in the clear waters, an experience many reviewers have cherished. The water here is famously transparent, perfect for a relaxing dip or some light snorkeling if you’re feeling adventurous. Lunch is at a traditional restaurant, where local flavors and fresh seafood shine.

In the afternoon, we head to Saranda, a lively seaside town. The rest of the day is yours—whether you want to explore the city, relax on the beach, enjoy a glass of local wine, or soak up the vibrant nightlife. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who prefer a mix of guided and free time.

Day 3: From Saranda to Gjirokastër via Blue Eye

The last day begins early with breakfast before we visit the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most iconic natural sights. A short walk leads you to this stunning water spring, whose vivid blue color and deep pool make it a must-see. The cool waters are refreshing after the walk, and the surrounding greenery adds to the tranquil atmosphere.

Next, we travel to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved old town and stone houses. Here, you can explore the historic bazaar and learn about the city’s past, which adds a cultural layer to your trip. The old town’s atmosphere is quiet and authentic, offering a stark contrast to the busy tourist spots.

Finally, we head back to Tirana, completing the circuit of southern Albania. The journey back allows you to reflect on the trip’s highlights and enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside.

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Authentic Experiences and What to Expect

This tour offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and seaside leisure. The small group size (limited to six participants) ensures more engaging conversations and personalized attention from your guide, who’s praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge.

The transport is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, essential for a region with varied terrain and warm weather. Since the price includes hotels, transport, and site fees, it’s a convenient way to see a lot without the hassle of organizing each element yourself.

While meals are not included, there are plenty of traditional restaurants along the way, letting you choose according to your taste and budget. The reviews mention hotels and restaurants as being very good, which adds to the overall value.

Travelers have enjoyed the fascinating views of the southern coast, with one reviewer noting the quieter aspects of the country—ideal for those seeking authentic, less crowded experiences. Some sites, like the Blue Eye, can get pretty busy, but you might find that visiting early in the day helps beat most crowds.

Transportation and Logistics

The duration is three days, with check availability for specific starting times. The tour operates in a small group, which makes for a more relaxed pace and better chances to ask questions. The pick-up and drop-off are flexible, based on your preferred location, which is very traveler-friendly.

When to Book and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility to your planning. This is perfect if you’re still finalizing your travel dates or want to secure your spot without immediate payment.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re looking for a well-organized introduction to Albania’s coastline and cultural sites, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, historical exploration, and some beach time without the stress of planning every detail. Travelers who appreciate engaging guides and prefer a small, intimate group will find this especially rewarding.

It’s also a good choice if you want an authentic experience away from overly crowded tourist spots—though some sites like the Blue Eye might be busier during peak times. The balance between guided outings and free time makes it suitable for both relaxed travelers and those wanting to see as much as possible.

Final Thoughts

This South of Albania 3-Day Tour offers a comprehensive taste of Albania’s stunning Riviera gems, blending natural beauty, history, and local culture. The inclusion of small-group dynamics, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transport make it a standout choice for travelers eager to explore without the hassle of self-organizing.

While it’s packed with highlights, it’s paced thoughtfully enough to allow for both sightseeing and relaxation. We appreciated the chance to see hidden beaches, historic castles, and spectacular viewpoints, all with a guide eager to share insights. For those keen to experience Albania’s quieter, more genuine side, this tour provides excellent value and unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride between sites, especially when traveling through varied terrain.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the price, but plenty of traditional restaurants are available at each stop. You’ll have the opportunity to choose local dishes and enjoy fresh seafood.

How small is the group?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, which helps create a more personal and relaxed experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What are the highlights of the itinerary?
Key highlights include the scenic drive through Llogara National Park, relaxing beach time in Dhermi, the historic Porto Palermo Castle, the Blue Eye natural spring, and the UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër old town.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues may want to consider the walking involved at sites like the Blue Eye and Gjirokastër’s old town, which involves some uneven surfaces.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of southern Albania’s coastal beauty and historic charm, perfect for travelers eager to see the region’s highlights with ease and insight.

You can check availability for your dates here: