Welcome by our local guide at the airport and transfer to Tirana, the never-ending movement and energy city. The key spots such as Sheshi Skënderbej, Mosque of Et’hem Bey (built between 1798 and 1812), the Clock Tower, Castle of the Roman Emperor Justinian (A.D. 520), the monumental Tomb of Kapllan Pasha, the Ura e Tabakëve and the National History Museum will leave you wonderful memories.
Overnight in Tirana.
In the morning, transfer to visit Berat, the 2,413-year-old city, known as “Antipatrea” (UNESCO Site). It is a treasure trove of Albanian history, culture and a testament to the country’s tradition of religious harmony. Then on the way to Ohrid, stop and visit Elbasan, the ancient Scampini which was a typical Roman fortification. Today, tourists can visit the Church of Saint Mary, and the king’s mosque—the Mosque of Naziresha (very rare because of its feminine name).
Overnight in Ohrid.
In the morning, visit Ohrid, a proclaimed UNESCO World Heritage region for its cultural and natural legacy. Situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, the town is one of the oldest human settlements in Europe. After those of the Tretiakov Gallery in Moscow, this is considered to be the most important collection of icons in the world. In the afternoon, boat tour to St. Naum Monastery. Back in Ohrid for overnight.
In the morning, transfer to Bitola or historically known as “Manastır”. It has been recognized since the Ottoman period as “the City of the Consuls” for the reason, many European countries have consulates in Bitola. It is one of the oldest cities in Macedonia founded as “Heraclea Lyncestis” in the middle of the 4th century BC by Philip II of Macedon. Visit the ancient town Heraclea Lyncestis, famous for its dazzling mosaics, ancient theater, and Roman baths. Afternoon arrival and overnight in Skopje.
In the morning, visit Skopje—the city which lays in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula. The town with the beautiful quay of the Macedonian River “Vardar”, the narrow streets in the Old Bazaar, which is the biggest bazaar preserved in the Balkans. Today, the town is internationally famous for being the birthplace of Mother Teresa. Then, drive to Matka Canyons, where except for the beauty of nature and a short boat tour, we will also visit the Monastery of Matka located on the left bank of the River Treska. It was built around 1337. Proceed to Prizren (Kosovo) for overnight.
Among the most visited places in Prizren are: Shatirvan Square, the Fortress and the surrounding compounds, Church of Saint Premta, Church of Saint Saviour, Bajrakli Mosque, Safi Sinan Pasha Mosque, city’s Hamams (Turkish public baths), city’s water sources, and the Stone Bridge. Next stop will be Decane Monastery, one of Kosovo’s absolute highlights. This ancient monastery is in an incredibly beautiful spot beneath the mountains and surrounded by a forest of pine and chestnut trees. Final destination for today will be Peja where we will visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Peć Patriarchate.
Early in the morning, transfer back to Albania passing through Bajram Curri City to the Port of Fierza, where we will get the ferry for an unforgettable journey to Koman Lake. This ride will leave you in awe as you tug on through the narrow, rocky cliffs and mountains surrounded by nothing but untouched and wild beauty; as it widens, the occasional farmhouse or small village. Late in the afternoon, arrive in Shkoder for overnight.
Today, we will explore the heart of Albanian Alps, and Theth National Park. Due to the road conditions, we will take local minivans and transfer to Theth, the best-preserved alpine village in Albania. We will start walking downhill from the house (850m), and visit the attractions in and around the village, such as: the church (750m), the Kulla e Ngujimit (a tower house used in the past by men as a shelter against ongoing vendettas), the Theth Waterfall, ect. Back to Shkoder for overnight.
In the morning, visit Shkodra—known as the “Capital of North Albania” and one of the oldest cities in the country. Founded in the 4th century B.C., Shkodra’s main tourist attraction is Rozafa Castle, rising majestically on a rocky hill, on the west of the city surrounded by the waters of the three rivers; the Drini, Buna, and Kiri. Then, we continue to the medieval town of Kruja, one of the principal historic cities in Albania.
Overnight in Kruja.
Check out and transfer to the airport. End of our services.