An Albanian Odyssey: From the Alps to the Ionian with Nikki

Arrive in Albania’s energetic capital, where an English-speaking guide will meet the group at Tirana International Airport and transfer you into the city. As you drive through Tirana, you’ll begin to notice the contrast between communist-era architecture, colourful modern buildings, and lively streets filled with cafés and local life. After checking in at the hotel, the remainder of the afternoon is free to rest after your journey or head out for a first wander around the New Bazaar area.

In the evening, the group officially comes together for a welcome meeting and included dinner at Restogrill by Luara. Here, you’ll enjoy traditional Albanian dishes accompanied by local music, setting the tone for the cultural experiences and connections to come throughout the trip.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Bazaar ⭐⭐⭐⭐ or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

• Dinner

✅ Activities

• Airport Arrival and Group Transfer
• Free Time to Explore Tirana
• Welcome Dinner with Traditional Albanian Food and Music

After breakfast, depart Tirana and travel north toward Komani Station, passing through changing landscapes as flat farmland gives way to rugged mountains and deep valleys. This scenic drive offers a glimpse into Albania’s rural life before reaching the shores of Lake Koman, one of the country’s most striking waterways.

Upon arrival, board a small boat for the Natyra Boat Tour, cruising through narrow passages framed by steep cliffs and lush greenery. Continue on toward the Shala River, often referred to as the “Fjords of Albania,” where the crystal-clear waters and dramatic alpine surroundings create a sense of complete remoteness. The afternoon is spent enjoying the river at your own pace, swimming, relaxing, or simply taking in the scenery.

🏨 Accommodation

• Livadhi Guest House or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Scenic Drive Through Northern Albania
• Natyra Boat Tour on Lake Koman
• Leisure Time at the Shala River

Enjoy breakfast featuring traditional northern Albanian specialties before a full day dedicated to exploring the landscapes surrounding the Shala River. Today offers a choice of activities, allowing you to tailor the experience to your comfort and energy levels while still making the most of this remote alpine setting.

Those seeking a gentler option can follow the Balcony Trail, an easy hike along a lush path that rewards you with sweeping views of turquoise water below. For more experienced hikers, a guided trek to the isolated village of Molla e Shoshi provides insight into traditional mountain life, passing through forests and along mountain slopes. After the hike, the remainder of the day is free to relax, swim, or unwind back at the guesthouse.

🏨 Accommodation

• Livadhi Guest House or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Optional Balcony Trail Hike
• Optional Guided Hike to Molla e Shoshi
• Free Time at the Guest House

Following breakfast, depart the Shala River by boat, retracing your journey across Lake Koman before continuing by road toward the village of Fishtë. This change in scenery marks a transition from wild alpine landscapes to fertile farmland and culinary tradition.

Arrive at Mrizi i Zanave, Albania’s first Slow Food Convivium, where you’ll enjoy a memorable lunch showcasing authentic regional dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. In the afternoon, continue to the historic town of Kruja, closely tied to Albania’s national hero Skanderbeg. Spend time wandering the old bazaar, browsing handicrafts, and soaking up the town’s layered history before checking into your hotel.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Mervin ⭐⭐⭐⭐ or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast
• Lunch

✅ Activities

• Return Boat Journey Across Lake Koman
• Slow Food Lunch Experience at Mrizi i Zanave
• Explore Kruja Old Bazaar and Historic Area

After breakfast, visit a local workshop to observe the traditional hand-making process of Albanian hats (Qeleshe) and slippers (Papuce), offering insight into cultural practices passed down through generations. From here, travel onward to Durrës, Albania’s oldest port city, where ancient history blends with modern coastal life.

Enjoy free time to explore the city’s landmarks, relax along the seafront, or simply take in the lively atmosphere before continuing south. Later, arrive at Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, one of Albania’s most important wetland ecosystems. Meet local scientist Altini and embark on a scenic boat trip through the park’s waterways, known for their rich birdlife, including the Dalmatian pelican.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Different⭐⭐⭐ or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Traditional Craft Demonstration
• Free Time in Durrës
• Boat Trip in Divjakë-Karavasta National Park

This morning begins with an immersive cultural experience in the Myzeqe region, offering a deeper look into local traditions and daily life. Through historical storytelling, informal conversations, and a traditional cup-reading ritual, you’ll gain personal insight into the region’s cultural identity.

Hands-on craft activities follow, using materials such as clay, wood, stone, and straw. In the afternoon, travel south toward the Ionian coast, arriving in the Bay of Vlora where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. The remainder of the day is free to relax, swim, or enjoy a peaceful walk along the coastline.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Britania ⭐⭐⭐⭐ or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Cultural Presentation and Local Rituals
• Hands-On Craft Workshops
• Free Time on the Ionian Coast

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring to the Port of Vlora for a coastal boat adventure. Today’s Mogila Ship Tour offers the chance to explore some of Albania’s most beautiful and least developed coastline.

Sail to Sazan Island and along the Karaburun Peninsula, stopping at unspoiled beaches and clear waters ideal for swimming and relaxation. Return to Vlora in the afternoon, with the rest of the day free to enjoy the city, dine by the sea, or simply unwind after a day on the water.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Britania ⭐⭐⭐⭐ or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Mogila Ship Tour
• Visit to Sazan Island
• Karaburun Peninsula Beach Time

Depart Vlora after breakfast and travel inland to the UNESCO-listed city of Berat, famously known as the City of a Thousand Windows. Explore Berat Castle, wandering ancient stone pathways and discovering layers of history while enjoying panoramic views over the surrounding valley.

After free time for lunch, return to Tirana via the peaceful lakes of Belsh, a scenic stretch dotted with small villages and reflective waters. In the evening, gather for a final farewell dinner at Traditional Restaurant Oda, celebrating the journey and the connections formed along the way.

🏨 Accommodation

• Hotel Bazaar ⭐⭐⭐⭐ or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast
• Dinner

✅ Activities

• Explore Berat Castle
• Scenic Drive via Belsh Lakes
• Farewell Dinner in Tirana

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel and some unhurried time in Tirana. This last morning offers a chance for a final stroll, a relaxed coffee, or a quiet moment to reflect on the landscapes, culture, and shared experiences of the past nine days.

At the scheduled time, a group transfer will take you to Tirana International Airport, bringing your Albanian adventure to a close and sending you home with lasting memories.

🍽️ Included Meals

• Breakfast

✅ Activities

• Free Time in Tirana
• Group Transfer to Tirana International Airport