10 Days Guided Tour Around Albania (Half Board Base)

If you’re considering an adventure through Albania, this comprehensive 10-day guided tour offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and local culture. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s an itinerary packed with memorable sights and enriching experiences. From the bustling streets of Tirana to untouched beaches along the Albanian Riviera, you’ll get a taste of everything.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert local guides bring the country’s stories and secrets alive. Second, the stunning scenery — think lakes, mountains, and pristine beaches — is truly breathtaking. Third, the carefully balanced half-board basis provides good value, including dinners that let you sample authentic Albanian cuisine.

One thing to keep in mind: the journey involves some long drives, though frequent stops make it manageable. This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of culture, history, and nature, and who are comfortable with a fair amount of travel over the course of 10 days. If you’re after a well-organized, immersive experience with a small group, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covering Albania’s most iconic sites and lesser-known spots
• Expert guides with local knowledge enhance the experience
• Comfortable transportation including 4×4 SUVs and minibuses
• Cultural and natural highlights—Castles, UNESCO sites, lakes, and beaches
• Value for money with half-board accommodations and included entrance fees
• Small group size (10-16 participants) promotes a personalized experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the 10-Day Albania Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour is designed to show you Albania’s diverse charm, from its historic castles to its stunning coastline and lakes. It’s a well-rounded trip that balances sightseeing, relaxing, and culture.

Day 1: The Arrival and First Impressions in Tirana

Your adventure kicks off with a warm welcome in Tirana, the lively capital. The airport pickup ensures a smooth start, where you’ll be transferred to Bovilla Lake via a 4×4 offroad SUV — a fun way to begin, especially if you enjoy scenic drives. The route offers glimpses of the Albanian countryside, with a stop at Gamti Mount for panoramic views.

You’ll also get a chance to visit Bovilla Lake and enjoy some free time for lunch. Afterward, a walking tour of Tirana’s center takes you through the city’s vibrant streets, where you’ll see the blend of old and new. The evening concludes with dinner at a traditional restaurant—a great way to taste authentic Albanian dishes.

Note: If your flight arrives after 1 pm, you’ll skip Bovilla Lake and head straight to Tirana, which might cut down on the scenic drive but still allows you to enjoy the city.

Day 2: From Tirana to Kruja, Lezha, and Shkodra

The journey continues with a comfortable drive to Kruja, famous for its Ottoman-era bazaar and castle, where guides often share stories of Albania’s resistance history. Then, heading to Lezha for a taste of rural life at an agrotourism site—think farm-fresh meals and countryside tranquility.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore Shkodra—a city rich with history and culture. The Shkodra Castle offers stunning views of the lake and the city. Guides frequently highlight the significance of this location, making it more than just a photo stop. Dinner and overnight in Shkodra complete this day.

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Day 3: From Shkodra to Durres

The day begins with a lakeside visit at Shiroka and a walk along Shkodra Lake, one of the largest in the Balkans. The visit to Rozafa Castle provides insight into local legends and stunning vistas.

Later, you’ll travel to Durres, a coastal city with a lively port and Roman amphitheater. Check-in at your hotel—many reviewers mention the good quality, centrally located accommodations—then enjoy dinner on your own or at the hotel.

Day 4: From Durres to Apolloni, Zvernec, and Vlore

This day highlights ancient ruins at Apolloni, a site steeped in history and mythology, perfect for history buffs. Coffee breaks along the way give you a chance to relax and soak in the scenery. Visiting Zvernec Monastery offers a peaceful retreat amid lush surroundings.

In the afternoon, you reach Vlore, where the coastline and seaside promenades await. Many travelers love the Lungo Mare walk for its sunset views and local cafes.

Day 5 & 6: Exploring the Albanian Riviera and Saranda

As you head south along the Albanian Riviera, Dhermi and Himare towns provide stunning coastal views and inviting beaches. Lunch in Himare is a highlight, offering fresh seafood and a chance to relax by the sea.

The next day, in Saranda, you’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Butrint archaeological site—an essential stop for history lovers. The Ksamil Islands are often called the Maldives of Albania, with clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Guide comments suggest that “visiting Butrint was like stepping into a living museum,” and the boat trips to Ksamil are well worth it if weather permits.

Day 7: Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye

Before leaving Saranda, a visit to Lekurës Castle provides panoramic views of the coast, which many describe as unforgettable. The Blue Eye natural spring, with its mesmerizing blue waters, is a must-see, often praised for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil environment.

In Gjirokastra, the old town’s cobblestone streets and traditional architecture make it a highlight, with guides eager to share stories of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 8: From Gjirokastra to Berat via Cold Water Tepelen

This day takes you inland to Cold Water Tepelen, a natural water spring with a relaxing atmosphere, followed by a scenic drive to Berat—known as the “town of a thousand windows.” Its Ottoman-style houses and hilltop castle make for memorable photos and insights into Albanian architecture.

Day 9: From Berat to Tirana via Karavasta Lagoon

A jeep safari at Karavasta Lagoon offers a chance to see wildlife and the stunning landscape from an off-road perspective, which many find adds an adventurous touch to the trip. The day ends back in Tirana, where you can explore the city’s lively center and enjoy a final dinner that highlights Albanian cuisine.

Day 10: Farewell in Tirana

Your last morning includes a visit to Tirana Lake before heading to the airport. The itinerary ensures you get a taste of the city’s recent developments and relaxed vibe before departure.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

Travelers consistently mention the comfort and reliability of the transportation. The first day’s scenic drive is in a 4×4 SUV, which makes the ascent to Bovilla Lake especially fun and adventurous. For the rest of the trip, AC minibuses or semi-buses keep everyone comfortable during long drives, with stops every couple of hours to stretch and enjoy the scenery.

The group size is small—ranging from 10 to 16 travelers—which enhances the experience, allowing for a more personal connection with guides and fellow travelers. Many reviews praise the guides for their local knowledge and friendly demeanor, making complex history and cultural sites more accessible and engaging.

Accommodation and Meals

Most accommodations are rated around 4 stars, often centrally located, and provide a good balance of comfort and convenience. The half-board arrangement—breakfast and dinner—means you’ll sample local dishes regularly, with some reviews noting that dinners often include regional specialties like grilled meats, fresh seafood, and traditional Albanian sides.

Cost and Value

The tour’s pricing reflects a well-organized, all-inclusive experience that emphasizes comfort, expert guidance, and a diverse itinerary. Entrance fees for key attractions like Kruja Castle and Gjirokastra Castle are included, which helps with budgeting. The half-board basis offers good value for travelers wanting to experience authentic cuisine without the hassle of planning meals.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This 10-day guided tour is perfect for travelers eager to see a broad swath of Albania without the stress of planning each detail. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or someone who simply wants to explore a beautiful country with a small group and expert guides, this trip offers a comprehensive and comfortable way to do so.

If you love discovering UNESCO sites, relaxing on pristine beaches, and exploring charming towns with local insights, you’ll find this tour incredibly rewarding. However, be prepared for some long drives and a busy schedule—this is a trip that maximizes sightseeing in a limited timeframe.

For those who prefer flexibility or are sensitive to tight schedules, it might be worth considering how structured the itinerary is. But for anyone wanting a blend of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
No, the tour involves some walking and uneven surfaces, especially at historical sites and natural parks, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
Transportation (including 4×4 SUVs and minibuses), 9 nights of accommodation with breakfast, dinners every night, lunch at an agrotourism site, guide services, and entrance fees to major sites are included.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides can be requested in German, Italian, French, or Spanish upon request, but the default is English.

What is the group size?
The group generally ranges from 10 to 16 participants, fostering an intimate group experience.

Do I need to bring my own meals?
Breakfast and dinner are covered by the tour. Lunches are generally included at specific spots, like the agrotourism in Lezha, but you might want to carry some cash for additional snacks or drinks.

Are accommodations centrally located?
Yes, most hotels are positioned in good locations—either in city centers or within walking distance—making exploring on your own easy.

Can the tour accommodate children?
Children must be accompanied by at least two adults in a room to qualify for a 20% discount, making it suitable for family groups.

What should I pack?
Bring essentials like passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, hiking shoes, sports shoes, cash, and warm shoes for cooler evenings or visits to natural sites.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour is designed for adults and children capable of walking and handling travel days. It’s not wheelchair accessible.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this 10-day guided tour around Albania offers an excellent way to see the country’s varied landscapes, historic sites, and charming towns with the ease of organized travel. Highly recommended for those who want a balanced itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and authentic experiences—all packed into a manageable schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: