On this 7-day tour, you will explore the archaeological sites of Albania and learn more about the archaeological changes and civilizations that Albania has undergone, including the ancient regions of Illyria and Epirus, as well as the Ignatian Way, which connected the two imperial capitals, Rome and Constantinople.
Day 1: Tirana
Arrival in Tirana at the “Mother Teresa” International Airport. After transfer to the city center, the day’s program continues with a panoramic and cultural tour of the capital. The visit includes the National History Museum, the country’s main museum institution, which offers a complete overview of Albanian history from the prehistoric, ancient and medieval periods to the developments of recent centuries, through thematic pavilions and archaeological, historical and ethnographic collections.
The program continues with the Archaeological Museum of Tirana, which presents important findings from the Illyrian, Greek and Roman civilizations, helping visitors to better understand the early development of the Albanian territory. During the day, walks are also planned in the central areas of the city, getting to know the architecture, public spaces and urban life of Tirana up close. Finally, accommodation at a hotel in Tirana and free time to enjoy the gastronomic and cultural offer of the capital.
Day 2: Tirana – Kruja – Durres
Kruja is one of the most important cities in Albanian history which offers a historical and cultural environment with the old bazaar, the ruins of the castle, the Skanderbeg Museum dedicated to our national hero and the reconstructed Ethnographic Museum. The journey continues towards the city of Durrës, an important port city throughout history. There you will visit the Roman amphitheater, the archaeological museum and the Venetian Tower on the Taulantia promenade by the Adriatic Sea.
Day 3: Durres – Apolloni – Vlora – Saranda
A visit to the monuments of the Apollonia Archaeological Park in Fier and its museum located next to the Orthodox monastery, dating back to the 11th century, remains one of the most favorite cultural heritage destinations. The journey continues from Vlora to Saranda along the coastal road, offering one of the most beautiful panoramas of Albania and the wonder of the Albanian Riviera.
Day 4: Saranda – Butrint – Gjirokaster
Butrint is the first of three UNESCO-protected sites in Albania to be included in this trip. The Archaeological Park of Butrint is a true microcosm of the Mediterranean, as it offers a series of discoveries and monuments from the 7th century BC to the 19th century. After visiting all the archaeological discoveries of Butrint, your trip continues towards the city of Gjirokastra, the second Albanian UNESCO-protected site, which offers a historical panorama of the coexistence of the past and the present.
Day 5: Gjirokaster
During your stay in Gjirokastra, the day's program includes visits to some of the most important archaeological sites in the area. The first stop is the Archaeological Park of Antigonea, an ancient city founded in the 3rd century BC by King Pyrrhus of Epirus, who named it in honor of his wife, Antigone. This site offers a clear overview of Hellenistic urban planning and the strategic role it played in this region.
The journey continues towards Adrianople, an important urban center of the Roman period, founded by Emperor Hadrian. The preserved ruins testify to the development of the city as an administrative and cultural hub, further enriching the knowledge of the archaeological heritage of the Dropulli area. Visits to these sites complete the cultural experience of staying in one of the most important museum cities of Albania.
Day 6: Gjirokaster – Berat
On the way to Berat, you will also have the opportunity to visit the ancient site of Bylis. Berat is a beautiful city that enjoys the status of UNESCO World Heritage. The visit begins with the famous Mangalem neighborhood, where the Berat Castle is located, characteristic cultural objects, the Onufri Iconographic Museum and the ethnographic museum. Also on this tour, each visitor can visit the Gorica Bridge, the promenade and the Osum River that runs through the city.
Day 7: Berat – Selce – Lin – Tirana
Departure from Berat towards the southeast of Albania, with a stop in Selca e Poshtme, an area of important historical and archaeological value, known for its Illyrian monumental tombs carved into the rock. This site represents an important testimony of the Illyrian civilization and offers opportunities for close acquaintance with the country's early cultural heritage.
The journey continues to Lin, one of the most picturesque villages in Albania, located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Lin is characterized by traditional stone architecture, narrow cobblestone streets and houses built on terraces, which descend towards the lake. During the stay, time is provided for walking in the village center, getting acquainted with local traditions and enjoying the panorama over the lake.
In the afternoon, departure for Tirana. Arrival in the capital and accommodation at the hotel. The evening is free for walking and experiencing the urban atmosphere and gastronomic offer of Tirana.
Day 8: Tirana – Shkodra – Tirana
Returning to Tirana, a stop in the north, in Shkodra, is recommended as a place rich in traditions and culture. During this 4-day trip, you will visit the historic Rozafa Castle, which rises above the Drin and Buna rivers as a symbol of Shkodra's history and tradition. Shkodra's turbulent 2400-year history is very interesting and there is much to learn to this day. Meanwhile, the surrounding panorama is stunning for every visitor, as well as the Marubi Museum and the beautiful and characteristic neighborhoods of Shkodra, the city of religious coexistence and beautiful traditions.
