Tour Albania from Theth to Butrint 9 days

Morning: Leave Tirana and head north toward Shkodër, one of Albania’s most important cultural and historical cities. Upon arrival, visit Rozafa Castle, an ancient fortress with Illyrian origins, dramatically overlooking Shkodër, Lake Shkodra, and the surrounding mountains. Discover the fascinating legend of Rozafa and its connection to the Albanian Epos, while enjoying spectacular panoramic views of the city and countryside. From the castle, admire views of Lake Shkodra and the historic Lead Mosque, one of the city’s most distinctive Ottoman-era landmarks.

Afternoon: Explore the historic center of Shkodër on a walking tour, discovering the city’s unique architecture, lively atmosphere, and famous local hospitality. Walk along the charming “Pedonale”, the city’s main pedestrian street, lined with cafés, bars, restaurants, and local shops. Continue toward the Old Bazaar area, where traditional crafts, local products, and everyday life offer an authentic glimpse into northern Albanian culture.

Depart Shkodër and continue into the spectacular Albanian Alps toward Theth National Park, following a scenic mountain road through dramatic landscapes and traditional alpine villages.

Overnight: Theth.

After a traditional breakfast in Theth ,continue the adventure with a hike to the Blue Eye of Theth, one of Albania’s most beautiful natural monuments. Follow a scenic trail through the mountains and forests to this mesmerizing natural spring, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise-blue waters. Take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and, during the warmer months, refresh yourself with a swim in its remarkably clear waters. On the return to the village, visit the historic Catholic Church of Theth and the traditional Lock-in Tower, a remarkable stone building with more than four centuries of history. Learn about its role in protecting local families and its connection to the traditional system of resolving blood feuds in northern Albania.
Depart Theth and drive back toward Tirana, enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Albanian Alps and the changing landscapes along the route.

Overnight: Tirana.

Morning:After breakfast at the hotel, we drive to Durrës, one of Albania’s oldest and most historically important cities.Known to Greek and Roman authors as the “Admirable City”, was once renowned for its temples, statues, and magnificent monuments. Explore the city’s fascinating archaeological heritage, including the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, the Venetian Tower, and the remains of the historic city walls.
Discover how centuries of earthquakes, development, and continuous habitation have shaped the city and transformed its ancient landscape.

Afternoon: After lunch, continue south along the Albanian coast toward Vlora, a lively seaside city and an important gateway to the Albanian Riviera. Known as the “City of Independence,” Vlora holds a special place in Albanian history as the city where, on 28 November 1912, Albania’s Declaration of Independence was proclaimed. With its long waterfront, Mediterranean atmosphere, and historic importance, Vlora is one of Albania’s most significant coastal destinations and an important port connecting the country with Italy and Greece.

Enjoy free time by the seaside, taking in the beautiful coastal atmosphere of Vlora, strolling along the promenade, or relaxing at one of the waterfront cafés.

Overnight: Vlora.

Morning: Continue the journey south along the spectacular Albanian Riviera, following the scenic coastal road toward Butrint. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, rugged mountains, secluded bays, and charming coastal villages as the landscape gradually changes from the vibrant seaside atmosphere of the Riviera to the peaceful Mediterranean surroundings of Butrint.

Afternoon: After the visit to Butrint, drive toward Gjirokastër, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Albania’s most distinctive historic cities. Upon arrival, discover the beautifully restored historic center, beginning at Çerçiz Topulli Square, named after one of Albania’s most prominent patriots of the 19th century.

Continue walking through the famous Gjirokastër Bazaar, a lively historic quarter filled with traditional shops, cafés, and local crafts. From the bazaar, ascend toward the imposing
Gjirokastra Fortress, positioned on the hilltop above the city.
Discover the centuries of history within this remarkable fortress, built in a naturally protected position and considered the original center around which the historic city developed.
Enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the stone rooftops of Gjirokastër and the
surrounding mountains.

Overnight: Gjirokaster.

Morning: Depart Gjirokastra and drive toward the fascinating Archaeological Park of Apollonia,
one of Albania’s most important ancient sites. Founded by Greek colonists and later developed into a major Roman city, Apollonia played an important role in the ancient world.
Discover its remarkably preserved ruins scattered across a peaceful landscape, surrounded by rolling hills and Mediterranean nature.
Learn about the city’s connection to Julius Caesar and Octavian Augustus, who studied here before becoming Rome’s first emperor. Explore the ancient temples, monuments, colonnaded streets, and the impressive remains of the historic city while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of this archaeological park.

Afternoon: After the visit to Apollonia, continue the journey toward Berat, one of Albania’s most beautiful historic cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside before arriving in the city known for its distinctive white Ottoman houses and dramatic hillside setting

Overnight: Berat.

Morning:Discover Berat, the UNESCO “City of 1,001 Windows.” Walking tour through the historic Mangalemi and Gorica neighborhoods. Ascend to the 4th-century BC fortress overlooking the Osumi Valley. Berat’s unique, white-washed houses appear stacked upon each other. The castle is Albania’s only inhabited fortress, where families live exactly as their ancestors did centuries ago.
Explore Byzantine churches within the fortress walls.

(Optional:Wine tour and lunch at a traditional winery in Roshnik village, one of Albania’s premier wine regions. (payment on spot for 20 Euro.)

Afternoon:Begin the journey back toward Tirana, with a stop in Belsh, a charming town at the heart of the Dumre Plateau, an area famous for its more than 80 small karstic lakes. Often referred to as the “Tuscany of Albania” for its rolling hills, lakes, and picturesque landscapes, Belsh offers a peaceful final stop before returning to the capital. Enjoy a short walk along the promenade overlooking Lake Belsh and take in the tranquil surroundings.

Evening: Tirana.

Morning: Depart Tirana for an exciting off-road adventure towards Bovilla Lake and the Gamti Mountain, following one of the most scenic panoramic routes around Tirana. Enjoy a photo stop overlooking the dramatic canyons, lake, and surrounding mountains of rural Tirana. Continue the safari-style off-road drive with several scenic stops along the way before reaching a local family-run café and restaurant perched on the mountain, offering spectacular views over Bovilla Lake.
From the restaurant, take a short hike of approximately 20 minutes to the Gamti Mountain viewpoint. At the top, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Bovilla Lake, the surrounding mountains, and the rugged landscape. This spectacular viewpoint offers one of the most memorable natural experiences near Tirana—something that truly has to be experienced rather than described.

Afternoon: Continue to Kruja, the legendary center of Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Empire under our national hero, Skanderbeg. He successfully resisted the Ottoman armies for 25 years, preventing their advance further into Western Europe and earning the papal title “Athleta Christi.” Visit the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to his life, legacy, and the history of Albania’s resistance. Afterwards, explore Kruja’s famous Bazaar, filled with traditional handicrafts, antiques, souvenirs, and local products. Enjoy some free time to wander through the historic streets and experience the atmosphere of this unique mountain town.

Overnight: Tirana

Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy some free time in Tirana for last-minute souvenir shopping, shopping, or simply exploring the city at your own pace.

Transfer: At the appropriate time, enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to Tirana International Airport (TIA) for your return flight.