Comfort Version: Self Guided Tour in Albania

-Arrival at Tirana International Airport Welcome to Albania! Upon arrival at Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, you will be greeted in the arrivals hall by our company representative holding a sign with the name of the person who made the reservation. You will receive the keys and documents for your rental vehicle, which you will use throughout the entire journey. After a brief introduction and travel instructions, you will begin your self-drive journey to your hotel in Tirana. -Hotel check-in & time to rest Arrive at your hotel in Tirana and proceed with check-in. -Afternoon: Tirana city discovery Spend the afternoon discovering Tirana at your own pace. -During your visit you may explore: *Skanderbeg Square *Et’hem Bey Mosque *Tirana Pyramid Optional – Cable car ride to Dajti Mountain You may choose to take the cable car to Dajti Mountain, located within Dajti National Park. Relax with a coffee while enjoying the fresh mountain air. -Overnight in Tirana.

-Breakfast & departure from Tirana After breakfast at your hotel, begin your journey southeast toward one of the most scenic regions of Albania. The drive follows sections of the ancient Via Egnatia, the Roman road that once connected Rome with Constantinople. Along the way, landscapes gradually transform from rolling hills to dramatic lakeside scenery. -Stop in the village of Lin Your first stop is the charming village of Lin, located on a small peninsula on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This peaceful village is known for its cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and breathtaking views over the lake. Enjoy a relaxing walk through the narrow lanes and take time to appreciate the authentic atmosphere of one of Albania’s most picturesque lakeside settlements.

Visit to Tushemisht village Continue the journey toward Tushemisht, a picturesque village near the North Macedonian border. Famous for its natural springs and traditional fishing culture, the village offers a glimpse into the daily life of the local community. Here you may observe local fishermen and learn about the long-standing traditions connected to Lake Ohrid.

-Afternoon arrival in Korça In the afternoon, arrive in Korça, often considered Albania’s cultural capital. The city is known for its elegant architecture, tree-lined boulevards, and strong artistic traditions. During the city exploration you will visit: *The National Museum of Medieval Art – one of the most important museums in Albania, home to an impressive collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons. *The Orthodox Cathedral of the Resurrection – one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the Balkans. *The French Soldiers’ Cemetery – commemorating French troops who fought in the region during World War I. -Evening at leisure in Korça In the evening, enjoy free time to experience the relaxed atmosphere of Korça. You may wish to stroll through the Old Bazaar area where cafés and restaurants create a warm and welcoming local ambiance. -Overnight in Korça.

-Morning departure to Prespa After breakfast, depart for a short drive toward the untouched landscapes of Prespa National Park. Located at the meeting point of Albania, Greece, and North Macedonia, this remarkable natural area is known for its pristine lakes, rich biodiversity, and peaceful traditional villages. -Boat trip on Lake Prespa Begin your visit with a boat trip on Lake Prespa. While navigating the calm waters, enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and observe the diverse birdlife that inhabits this protected ecosystem. -Traditional lunch with a local family Following the boat excursion, enjoy a home-hosted lunch with a local family. This special experience offers the opportunity to taste homemade Albanian dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients while learning more about rural traditions and daily life in the Prespa region.

-Afternoon hike to a panoramic viewpoint In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic hike from the village of Gollomboc to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Lake Prespa. The walk lasts approximately 2–3 hours and rewards visitors with spectacular views across the lake and surrounding landscapes.

Return to Korça Later in the afternoon, return to Korça where you can relax and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight in Korça.

-Morning drive through southern Albania After breakfast, begin your journey through the mountain landscapes of southern Albania toward the town of Përmet. The scenic drive reveals dramatic valleys, rivers, and traditional villages that characterize this beautiful region. -Visit to the village of Leüs From Përmet, continue to the hillside village of Leüs hidden among forested hills. Here you will visit the Church of St. Mary (Kisha e Shën Marisë), known for its colorful interior frescoes and peaceful natural surroundings.

Arrival in Gjirokastër Continue the journey toward the UNESCO World Heritage town of Gjirokastër. Famous for its distinctive Ottoman-era stone houses, the town offers one of the most authentic historical atmospheres in Albania. Gjirokastër city exploration Upon arrival, explore the cobbled streets of the old town and discover its historical landmarks. Highlights include: *Gjirokastër Castle – a massive fortress dominating the skyline and offering panoramic views over the Drino Valley. *The Ethnographic Museum – located in a traditional Ottoman house and offering insight into the region’s cultural heritage. Evening in the old town Spend the evening enjoying the charming atmosphere of Gjirokastër’s historic center. Overnight in Gjirokastër.

-Breakfast at the hotel -Butrint National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Depart for Butrint National Park, one of the Mediterranean’s most important archaeological treasures. This UNESCO-listed site reflects layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian civilizations. During your guided exploration, discover the well-preserved Greek theater, Roman baths, early Christian basilica with intricate mosaics, Venetian fortifications, and the impressive Lion Gate — all set within a lush landscape of wetlands and lagoons.

-The Blue Eye Spring Continue to the natural wonder known as the Blue Eye. This powerful underground spring forms a mesmerizing deep-blue pool, with water so clear that its true depth remains unknown. Enjoy time for photographs and relaxation in the serene forest setting. -Return to Sarande Return to Sarande in the afternoon. The remainder of the evening is at leisure. -Overnight in Sarande.

-Journey to the Albanian Riviera After exploring Butrint and Blue Eye, continue the journey north along the spectacular Albanian Riviera. -Arrival in Qeparo Arrive in the charming coastal village of Qeparo. Known for its traditional stone houses with red tile roofs and beautiful seaside scenery, the village offers a peaceful and authentic Riviera atmosphere. -Afternoon at leisure by the sea Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming in the clear Ionian waters, or strolling through the village streets. -Overnight in Qeparo.

-Morning transfer to Himara After breakfast, take a short drive to the coastal town of Himara. -Boat trip along the Ionian coast Board a boat for a scenic coastal trip along the Albanian Riviera. Cruise past dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and secluded beaches accessible only by sea. Enjoy time for swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters and relaxing in peaceful bays -Seaside lunch During the excursion, stop in a secluded bay to enjoy a simple seaside lunch featuring fresh grilled fish and local specialties -Visit to Himara Castle In the afternoon, visit Himara Castle located on a hill above the town. From here you can enjoy panoramic views over the Ionian coastline. -Return to Qeparo Later in the afternoon, return to Qeparo for a relaxing evening by the sea. -Overnight in Qeparo.

-Scenic drive toward Berat After breakfast, depart from the Riviera and drive inland toward the historic city of Berat. Exploration of Berat – the “City of a Thousand Windows” Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its distinctive Ottoman architecture. Highlights include: *Berat Citadel – a remarkable fortress where people still live within the ancient walls. *Onufri Museum – located inside a historic church and displaying beautiful religious icons. The traditional neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica with their famous hillside houses. -Wine tasting experience In the afternoon, enjoy a wine tasting experience in a local winery. Here you will have the opportunity to sample regional Albanian wines and learn about the country’s long wine-making traditions.

-Return to Tirana Later in the day, return to Tirana for the final evening of the tour. -Overnight in Tirana.

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Drive to Tirana International Airport where you will return your rental vehicle before your departure flight