From Tirana: 2-Day Permet and Gjirokaster Tour

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz and discover Albania’s breathtaking mountain scenery along with its charming towns, this 2-day tour from Tirana offers a well-balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavor. For $229 per person, you’ll visit the mountain town of Permet, soak in the famous Lungarica Thermal Baths, and explore Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its cobblestone streets and stone houses. Guided by friendly local experts, this trip promises a day of relaxing baths, delicious traditional dishes, and cultural insights.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning natural landscapes with authentic cultural stops—especially the chance to unwind in mineral-rich thermal waters and walk through Gjirokastra’s historic alleyways. Also, the small group feel means you’re not just another face in the crowd, allowing for a more personal experience. On the flip side, the journey from Tirana takes about 3.5 hours each way, so be prepared for a fair amount of bus travel.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature and history, appreciate trying local cuisine, and aren’t fussed about a long drive. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of authentic Albanian life coupled with some well-earned relaxation.

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Key Points

Stunning landscapes: Beautiful mountain views and the Vjosa River make the drive memorable.
Thermal baths: Lungarica Thermal Baths offer mineral-rich waters at a comfortable 30°C–40°C.
Cultural insight: Visiting Gjirokastra’s UNESCO-listed old town and the House of Enver Hoxha gives a glimpse into Albania’s past.
Traditional cuisine: Sampling dishes like qifqi, tave kosi, and fresh river fish highlights regional flavors.
Authentic experience: Small guided groups and local hosts make this more than just sightseeing.
Long travel time: About 3.5 hours each way means you’ll spend a good chunk of time on the road.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Tirana to Permet and Lungarica Thermal Baths

The adventure begins early in the morning, with your guide leading you out of Tirana and into Albania’s lush, mountainous interior. The drive is approximately 130 km, but the real reward lies in the scenery—verdant hills, rugged peaks, and glimpses of the Vjosa River along the way. As you leave the city behind, you’ll start to feel the difference: tranquility, fresh air, and a sense of stepping into a less trodden part of Europe.

Once in Përmet, known locally as a haven for nature lovers, the highlight is undoubtedly the Lungarica Thermal Baths. These waters are famous for their mineral content and soothing warmth, maintaining temperatures between 30°C and 40°C. Many visitors mention how relaxing it is to soak here after a day of travel or sightseeing. One traveler shared, “The thermal baths were wonderfully warm and relaxing, and the mineral-rich waters made my skin feel great.”

The Baths are conveniently located near the Vjosa River, and you’ll often find locals and visitors alike enjoying the waters. The mineral-rich environment is believed to have health benefits, especially for skin, muscle, and joint problems—so bring your bathing suit and a towel.

After your soak, indulge in a traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant. The menu usually features qifqi (rice balls with herbs), tave kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), and fresh fish pulled from the Vjosa River. The flavors are simple but hearty, reflecting Albania’s rural traditions. Many reviews praise the authentic taste and friendly service—one guest noted, “It felt like a meal cooked by a family member, not a restaurant.”

In the late afternoon, check into your accommodation in Gjirokastra. Staying overnight here gives you the chance to unwind and prepare for the next day’s explorations.

Day 2: Gjirokastra – The Old Town and Cultural Highlights

The next morning starts with a modest breakfast at a local café—try the local Albanian coffee and some flaky pastry, a perfect energizer for walking. Gjirokastra is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its medieval stone architecture and narrow cobblestone streets, which look like a living museum.

Your guide will take you through the House of Enver Hoxha, the former dictator’s residence, now a museum that sheds light on Albania’s communist era. The house offers insight into the private life of a leader whose influence shaped the country’s recent past. Another significant stop is the Ethnographic Museum, housed in a traditional stone home, which showcases local customs, crafts, and daily life.

Walking through the labyrinth of alleys, you’ll appreciate the unique architecture—large stone homes with intricate iron balconies and tiled roofs. Many visitors comment on how this walk transports them to a different time, saying, “It’s like stepping into a fairy tale.”

For lunch, you’ll sample more regional dishes at a Gjirokastra restaurant. These might include stuffed peppers, freshly baked bread, or other local specialties. It’s a good opportunity to relax and reflect before heading back to Tirana, which takes about 4 hours.

The tour concludes back at the starting point, with plenty of time to process your trip and plan your next Albanian adventure.

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Practical Aspects & Value

The tour costs $229 per person, which covers guided transportation, entrance fees to museums, the thermal baths, and breakfast and lunch. Accommodation in Gjirokastra is optional and should be booked in advance. While the trip involves significant travel—about 7 hours round-trip—the experience rewards you with authentic landscapes, cultural insights, and relaxing thermal waters, making it good value for those wanting a taste of Albania’s rural charm without the hassle of planning every detail.

The small group size encourages a more personal connection and flexibility. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing stories beyond the standard script, which enhances the experience.

One thing to consider is the long drive, which might be tiring for some. If you prefer shorter day trips, this might not be ideal. However, if you enjoy scenic journeys and discovering off-the-beaten-path places, you’ll find this trip worthwhile.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Albania beyond the capital, especially those interested in natural beauty and traditional culture. It’s suited for people who don’t mind a bit of travel time in exchange for authentic experiences—like soaking in mineral waters or wandering through historic alleyways. It’s also great for those who want a manageable, guided itinerary that minimizes hassle and maximizes immersion.

The Sum Up

In summary, this 2-day Permet and Gjirokastra tour offers a genuine look at Albania’s lesser-known treasures—its stunning mountain landscapes, authentic cuisine, and historic towns. The thermal baths provide a relaxing break, while the UNESCO-listed streets of Gjirokastra let you step back in time. For travelers craving a mix of outdoor beauty, cultural discovery, and comfort, it’s a compelling choice.

If you’re willing to spend a bit of time on the road, the experience is more than worth it. You’ll come away with memorable views, new knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for this charming corner of the Balkans.

FAQ

How long does the journey from Tirana to Përmet take?
The drive is approximately 3.5 hours each way, so expect a total of about 7 hours of travel if you’re doing the round trip in a day. The scenic route makes the time pass quickly for many travelers.

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers the guided tour, entrance fees to the Lungarica Thermal Baths, lunch, and breakfast in Gjirokastra. Accommodation in Gjirokastra is optional and must be booked separately.

Are the thermal baths suitable for everyone?
The thermal waters are maintained at comfortable temperatures of 30°C to 40°C, making them suitable for most visitors wanting to relax. However, individuals with certain health conditions should consult their doctor beforehand.

Is there much walking involved?
Yes, especially in Gjirokastra, where exploring involves walking through cobblestone alleys and historic streets. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

What kind of food can I expect?
You’ll find traditional Albanian dishes like qifqi, tave kosi, and fresh river fish. Meals are hearty and reflect the local rural cuisine.

Can I customize this tour?
The tour is guided and organized by the provider, so while some flexibility might be available, it’s best to adhere to the scheduled stops. Transportation and key attractions are fixed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old, and pregnant women or people with mobility issues might find the long drives and walking challenging.

Whether you’re after unforgettable scenery, a taste of local life, or just a relaxing soak, this tour offers a balanced Albanian adventure. Prepare for a trip that’s full of authentic moments and scenic beauty—an experience you’ll remember long after returning home.