Trip to Visit the Beautiful Albanian Riviera

Ionian Coast Tour 8 Days / 7 Nights

Rinas Airport – Tirana – Vlora – Sazan Island – Karaburun Island – Vlora – Llogara – Dhermi – Porto Palermo – Saranda – Ksamil – Butrint – Blue Eye – Gjirokaster – Vlora – Rinas Airport

This 8-day, 7-night itinerary starts from Tirana, the capital of Albania, and continues to the most fascinating areas of Albania, the Albanian Riviera, part of the Mediterranean coast that runs through southern Europe. During this trip we will see the most wonderful beaches of Saranda, the islands of Ksamil, as well as the beautiful coast of Vlora, located between the Ionian and Adriatic seas, as well as the UNESCO monuments of Butrint, Gjirokastra, Ali Pasha Castle and the Blue Eye, natural parks and fortresses along the Ionian coast. Part of this trip will also be an unforgettable boat excursion around the islands of Karaburun, Sazan, as well as the beautiful island of Zvernec and the Narta Lagoon.

Tourists will travel along the Ionian coast with stunning views from Llogara, with an incredible horizon. Here the adventure begins through the beautiful beaches of Ionia, Palasa, Dhermi, Jala, Himara, Qeparo, Borsh, Bunec, Lukova, and then Saranda and Ksamil.

About the Activity

  • Number of Days
    8

Itineraries

Day 01

Arrival at Tirana International Airport (Rinas) and transfer to the city center, about 30 minutes by car.
The day's program begins with a visit to the historic center of Tirana and the National History Museum. Then, the exploration of the capital's main landmarks continues, including Skanderbeg Square, home to the Et'hem Bey Mosque (built between 1798–1812) and the 35-meter-high Clock Tower, built in 1822 with a dome in the style of San Marco.

The visits continue with the Pyramid of Tirana, the monumental Mausoleum of Kapllan Pasha and the Tabak Bridge, a bridge built in the early 19th century, located on “Jeanne D'Arc” Boulevard. Free time for a walk in the pedestrian area near the Tirana Castle, where Bunk'Art 2 is also located. The evening can be spent in the former Blloku area, one of the liveliest areas of the city, with the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views.

Day 02

Departure from Tirana to Vlora, with a journey lasting about 2 hours. Upon arrival, lunch at one of the city's coastal restaurants. In the afternoon, accompanied by local guides, visit the beautiful bay of Vlora, including an excursion to Zvërnec Island and the Medieval Byzantine Monastery of Zvërnec, as well as the Narta Lagoon.
The program continues with a guided walk in the city center of Vlora, in the Muradie neighborhood, the Independence Monument, “Ismail Qemali” Boulevard and the Lungomare promenade.

Day 03

During this day, a boat trip is organized to the hidden bays of the coast and the Karaburun Natural Park. The trip starts with a cruise to the Pirate Cave of Haxhi Ali, exploring the bays with small beaches and impressive natural beauty, as well as a walk to Sazan Island. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Free evening in the city of Vlora.

Day 04

Departure from Vlora towards Saranda via the Llogara road, where the adventure along the magical Ionian Riviera begins. Short stop at the Llogara National Park, about 800 meters above sea level, among pine forests and characteristic fauna.
During the descent from the Llogara Pass, one of the most beautiful panoramas of tourist Albania appears: a coastline of about 120 km with characteristic bays of the Albanian Riviera. The road continues through Palasa, Dhërmi, Himara, the Bay and Castle of Porto Palermo, Qeparo, Borsh, Bunec and Lukovë, until arriving in Saranda. Accommodation in a hotel along the coastline.

Day 05

Morning free time to relax on the coast, take a boat trip or taste the famous mussels of Butrint. Afternoon, accompanied visit to the Archaeological and Natural Park of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an ancient city with monuments and ruins representing different periods of antiquity.
Return to Saranda, dinner at traditional restaurants along the promenade and accommodation at the hotel.

Day 06

Day dedicated to relaxation near the islands of Ksamil, just 6 nautical miles from Corfu. The area offers beautiful beaches and restaurants specializing in seafood cuisine. In the evening, opportunity for dinner near the Lëkurës Castle, enjoying the panoramic view over the city and the bay of Saranda.

Day 07

Departure from Saranda towards Gjirokastra via the Muzina Pass or the Kardhiq–Delvinë tunnel. Morning stop at Syri i Kaltër, a protected natural monument and one of the most visited attractions in southern Albania.
Continue the journey to Gjirokastra, the stone city and part of the UNESCO World Heritage. After accommodation at the hotel and lunch at the traditional restaurants in Qafë e Pazarit, the afternoon is dedicated to a visit to the historic center, the characteristic alleys and monuments of the Ottoman period, including the Argjiro Castle.

Day 08

The last day of the trip begins with the return from Gjirokastra to Vlora via the Tepelenë–Vlora road, with a stop in the Uji i Ftohtë area in Tepelenë. Along the way, panoramic views of the villages and landscapes of the Tepelenë and Vlora areas are enjoyed.
Arrival at the Port of Vlora or continuation of the journey to Tirana International Airport, concluding the tour.

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