Explore Albania a Cultural and Adventure Tour from Corfu
Explore Albania a Cultural and Adventure Tour from Corfu
From
1665 €
Your Package Price
Day 1: Corfu Airport –Corfu Old Town UNESCO (approx. 15 minutes’ drive)
We welcome you at Corfu Airport and drive to Old Town of Corfu - UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Explore the charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and Venetian architecture. Overnight in Corfu at CITY MARINA HOTEL or similar.
Day 2: Corfu Old Town – Terminal – Saranda - Butrint Archaeological Park (UNESCO) - Ksamil - Porto Palermo - Llogara National Park-Vlora (approx. 3.4 hours’ driving 2hours ferry - walking tour 4 approx. hours for all day) B
After breakfast drive from Corfu old town and head to the ferry terminal to Sarand than drive to the ancient city of Butrint a UNESCO world heritage site and the most important archaeological discovery in Albania. The city is thought to have been continuously inhabited for centuries, influenced by the most important civilizations of the Mediterranean region. Apart the beautiful antique ruins it is situated in lush peninsula, rich in flora and fauna. After a thorough visit we make a quick stop at Ksamil Beach one of the most beautiful in this region, locally known as the Bahamas of Albania or Maldives of Southern Albania due to its white sand and beautiful turquoise sea color. After this visits drive to Porto Palermo which is a picturesque bay in southern Albania with a historic castle overlooking the crystal-clear waters. Then continue to Dhermi known for their white sandy shores and turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming if weather allows. After those visits we drive throw Llogara National Park which is a mountainous paradise offering breath-taking views of the Ionian Sea and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers (no hiking here today), we only stop to take some pictures. And drive to Vlora to visit city Center, Independence Museum, Independence square, old town Ismail Kemal Boulevard. Overnight at Kater Stinet Hotel in Vlora or similar.
Day 3: Vlora- St Mary's Monastery, Zvernec - Apollonia Archaeological Park- Karavasta Lagoon- Ardenica Monastery – Berat UNESCO (approx. 4.1 hours’ driving - walking tour 4.5 hours for all day) B
After breakfast drive to St Mary's Monastery in Zvernec which is a peaceful and historic site located on a small island off the coast of Albania. The monastery dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Next comes Apollonia Archaeological Park is a must-visit destination for history buffs, with its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Illyrian city. The park is home to a theatre, temples, Church and other structures that offer a glimpse into the past. From here we continue driving to Karavasta Lagoon a beautiful natural area that is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including flamingos and pelicans. Visitors can explore the lagoon by boat or on foot, taking in the serene surroundings and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. After this spectacular view drive to Ardenica Monastery a historic religious site that dates back to the 13th century. The monastery is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to explore Albania's rich cultural heritage. Now we have another one hour driving to reach Berat a UNESCO World Heritage site for overnight at BORKLAD Hotel or similar in a traditional Albanian house converted to hotel old town of Berat.
Day 4: Berat - Elbasan – Tirana (approx. 2 hours’ driving - walking tour 5 hours for all day) B
After breakfast we take a walking tour starting with Berat Castle a historic fortress located in the city of Berat. And It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved castles in the country. We explore the ancient walls and towers of this well-preserved fortress, which dates back to the 13th century. Inside the castle, there are several historic buildings to visit, including the Red Mosque, the Church of Saint Mary Blachernae, and the Onufri Museum. View Point, the water cistern that was filed with rain water collected. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding city and countryside, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and photographers alike. Walking down to visit the Ethnographic Museum and learn for the way of live of Albanians in the past. Further down it is the Osumi river, here we will cross the famous bridge of Berat, which divides the city in two. The two main neighbourhoods Gorica and Mangalem. We will also visit Gorica. After this visit we take a drive to Elbasan city and Castle a historic site that offers a glimpse into the past with its ancient walls and towers. The Clock Tower is a prominent landmark in the city, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. A visit to Elbasan offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. After visiting Elbasan, we drive for an hour to the capital city of Albania Tirana for our overnight at Hotel Opera or similar, central location.
Day 5: Tirana (No driving - walking tour 4 hours for all day) B
Today after breakfast we explore Tirana, the vibrant capital city of Albania, offers a mix of history, culture, and modernity. Start our walking tour with: Skanderbeg Square, Opera House, Clock Tower Palace of Culture, Orthodox Catholic cathedral. National Martyrs’ Boulevard. Next is Bunkart2, a former nuclear bunker turned museum that provides a fascinating insight into Albania's communist past. Next, visit the National Museum, which showcases the country's rich history and cultural heritage. Don't miss the stunning Ethem Bey Mosque, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture located in the heart of the city. Continue your tour to Piramida, a controversial pyramid-shaped structure that was once a museum dedicated to the country's communist leader, Enver Hoxha. Today, it stands as a symbol of Albania's tumultuous past. Finally, explore the trendy Blloku neighbourhood, once a restricted area for high-ranking officials during the communist era. Now, it is a bustling district filled with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, offering a glimpse into Tirana's modern and cosmopolitan side. Overnight in Tirana at Hotel Opera or similar, central location.
Day 6: Tirana – Kruja - Shkodra - Theth (approx. 4 hours’ driving - walking tour 4.5 hours for all day) B
After breakfast we drive from Tirana to visit the historic castle complex of Kruja a must-visit destination in Albania, featuring the Skanderbeg museum, Old Bazaar, and the medieval fortress of Skanderbeg. This site offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture, with stunning architecture and artefacts that tell the story of Albania's legendary hero, Skanderbeg. Visitors can explore the museum, shop in the bazaar, and wander through the ancient fortress, making for a memorable and educational experience. After this visit we will drive to Shkodra to take a walking tour and visit: Marubi Museum of Photography, Leaden Mosque, Old Town, Orthodox Church, Catholic Cathedral. after these visits we drive to the Albanian Alps, where we will stay for one night in Theth at Polia Guest House or similar. Overnight at Polia Guest House or similar in Theth.
Day 7: Theth - Valbona / Hiking (B)
Today we start incredible hike with a mountain guide from Theth to Valbona. It’s a beautiful and challenging route which starts in the mountain village of Theth and heads over a mountain pass and into Valbona National Park. Distance: 17km - Time: 6-8 hours hiking. Difficulty: Medium (moderate level of fitness required) Water: Streams and small stalls/cafes available every 2-3 hours. If someone in your group is unable to hike, we offer alternative transportation options with a Jeep 4x4. Should you need to arrange this transfer, please contact us for pricing details. The luggage will be transfer with mules or horses. Accommodation: Guesthouses in Valbona.
Day 8: Valbona - Fierza Ferry terminal – Komani Lake - Durres (4hour drive 2 hours’ ferry ride) (B)
After an early breakfast we drive to Fierza ferry terminal where will take the ferry to Koman on the lake with the same name. A magnificent two hour ride where the beauty of the high pointed mountains falling sharply into the waters of the artificial lake of opal green waters, forms a natural panorama which will leave you gasping for air. After this spectacular experience drive to Durres and take a walking tour include highlights such as: Durres Amphitheatre: One of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the Balkans, dating back to the 2nd century AD. It is a stunning archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the city's ancient past. Then, Durres Castle: A medieval fortress built in the 5th century AD, offering panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. The castle is a great place to explore and learn about Durres' history. Next will be, Durres Archaeological Museum: A must-visit for history buffs, this museum houses a collection of artefacts from ancient times, including Roman and Byzantine relics. Walk along the bustling promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and take in the sights and sounds of the city. After exploring the city's historical sites, we take a leisurely stroll along Durres Beach evening, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea breeze, if whether allows take a swim. Overall, a walking tour of Durres offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a memorable experience for visitors. Overnight in Durres, at Bonita Hotel Beach view or similar.
Day 9: Durres – Gjirokastra (UNESCO) - Saranda (3.2-hour drive - walking tour 4.5 hours for all day) (B)
After breakfast drive to Gjirokastra and take a walking tour of the city of UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Here, you will visit the Gjirokaster Castle and the Ethnographic Museum, Citadel, Weapons museum, Skenjuli house, which is housed in a traditional Ottoman-style house. The walking tour offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of this fascinating city. From here drive to Saranda for about 1 hour. Overnights in Saranda at Alpha Hotel or Similar in Saranda.
Day 10: Saranda - Saranda Terminal - Corfu Ferry Terminal – Corfu International Airport (2.3-hour drive and ferry) (B)
Today is departure day. End of our services, after transfer to Corfu International Airport according to your flight schedule. Please note: If your flight departs before 13:00, you will need to add an extra night in Corfu and travel the following day. This is due to the ferry journey from Saranda, Albania to Corfu, which includes border controls on both sides.
Prices
1665 Euro per person sharing a double or twin room for 9 -10 participants
1830 Euro per person sharing a double or twin room for 7 - 8 participants
1880 Euro per person sharing a double or twin room for 5 - 6 participants
2190 Euro per person sharing a double or twin room for 3 - 4 participants
3435 Euro per person sharing a double or twin room for 2 participants
5950 Euro for one person using a double room for single use
Single supplement = 250 Euro.
Please note: Single rooms will always be double or twin for single use.
Included:
- Transfers from and to Corfu International Airport with A/C vehicle / Minibus / Bus, depending on the size of the group
- All Transportation with good condition a/c vehicle depending on the size of the group as per program
- Accommodation in very good standard: central location hotels, traditional houses turned to boutique hotels and Guesthouses, with breakfast. (B) The standard of the hotels are: 3+ and 4 stars
- Experienced English speaking tour guide for the whole tour (for less than 7 people in the group or private departures will be only one person as guide/driver)
- Luggage transfer on day 2 with mules or horses
- Toll road payments
- Entrance fees as per program
- Corfu to Saranda ferry ticket for the clients and vehicle
- Saranda to Corfu ferry ticket for the clients and vehicle
- Koman ferry ticket for the clients and vehicle
- Local guides (Only on the places that are mandatory by law)
- Bottle of water per person per day while driving
- All taxes
Not Included:
- Flight Tickets
- Lunches and dinners
- Gratuities/Tip to Guide, Driver, hotel, and restaurant staff.
- Everything else not mentioned in the included section
Best months for tours
We recommend you booking this tour for one of the months: May, June, September or October. However, this tour can be booked also in other months as per your request.
This tour is not feasible during January, February, March, April, November, and December due to snow blocking access to certain areas in the northern Albanian mountains and the unavailability of ferries for larger groups to Corfu.
Cancellation Policy
Payment Conditions for Group Departure dates, for clients that book directly at our website.
1.1. THE CLIENT is required to pay Balkan Destination a deposit of 30% of the total amount at the moment he/she book the tour as per departure dates or Private tour (FIT) at our website.
1.2. The remaining 70% of the total amount must be paid to Balkan Destination LTD, no later than 30 days prior to start date of services of this tour group departure or Private (FIT) tour.
1.3. If you book this tour within 30 days before the tour starts according to the group departure dates or as per your departure date as a private (FIT) tour, we will require from you to pay 100% whole amount before the tour starts.
Cancellation Policy for Group Departure dates and Private Tours
For group tours of 6 people or more, the following cancellation policy will apply:
a. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 45 days or more, prior to the arrival date, then a full refund will be given, minus a bank transaction charges.
b. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 44 to 30 days, prior to the arrival date, a 10 % penalty of the total amount will apply.
c. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 29 to 21 days, prior to the arrival date, a 30 % penalty of the total amount will apply.
d. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 20 to 15 days, prior to the arrival date, a 50 % penalty of the total amount will apply.
e. If the reservation is cancelled/amended 14 to 7 days, prior to the arrival date, a 70 % penalty of the total amount will apply.
f. If the reservation is cancelled/amended less than 7 days prior to the arrival date a non-refund will apply.
g. In case of no shows or early interruption of services a strict non-refund rule will apply.
Cancellation for FIT/Individuals private bookings. FIT tours of 5 participants or less which have been confirmed paid and Invoice settled, can be cancelled without penalty up to 10 days prior to arrival date. Cancellations after this deadline will be charged 100% in full. Bank transfer for refunds will be the recipients’ responsibility.
Balkan Destination reserve the right to cancel any of the published tours on our site only according to fixed dates that are published for groups. When there are not enough participants on the relevant dates, in such cases, we may cancel the departure date by notifying the clients that already booked in a written notice, no later than 30 days prior to the start of the tour departure date. In such cases when we cancel a departure due to insufficient participants on the due date, the clients will be refunded all the money 100 % they have paid to us in total.
Total number of reviews:
Average stars of reviews: