Pogradec is a charming town that offers more than just scenic views of Lake Ohrid—it’s a hub for memorable tours and experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, indulging in local culture, or taking part in guided day trips, Pogradec has plenty to offer. One of our favorites is the Tirana: Lake and Town Ohrid Day Trip—it combines a UNESCO World Heritage site visit with a walking tour of Ohrid, complete with a paper workshop demonstration []. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded taste of the region in just one day.
Another standout is the Day Tour to Korçë & Pogradec—a 17-hour journey that covers two Albanian cities, including time at the Old Bazaar in Korçë and a scenic stop at Lake Ohrid []. If you’re after a more flexible, comfortable transfer experience, the Bovilla Lake bus service from Golem/Durres offers a reliable way to explore the area without the hassle of planning every detail yourself [].
For those who want an active day of sightseeing combined with local flavor, the From Tirana/Durrës Day Tour Pogradec, Korçë & Dardha Skiing combines lakeside sights with a visit to the Bigëll Ski Resort in Dardha []. Lastly, travelers interested in cultural heritage should consider the UNESCO Heritage Tour: Ancient Lin & Royal Tombs of Selca, which explores ancient Illyrian sites and fascinating tombs [].
Below, we’ll break down each of these tours to help you decide which fits your interests and schedule best.
1. Tirana: Lake and Town Ohrid Day Trip
This day trip offers a seamless journey from Tirana or Durrës to Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO site known for its crystal-clear waters and ancient towns. The trip includes a guided tour of Ohrid’s main sites, like the Church of Saint Sophia and Samuil’s Fortress, with plenty of opportunities for photos and wandering. One unique feature is a Paper Workshop Demonstration, giving you a glimpse into traditional crafts.
What makes this tour special is its well-paced itinerary—starting with pick-up options in Tirana or Durrës, then a guided walk through Ohrid’s historic streets, with stops at iconic sites like the Church of St John and the Ancient Theatre. The guide, Flori, receives high praise for her knowledge and care, making the experience more personal.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a manageable day trip without sacrificing depth. The 2-hour walking tour covers both natural and cultural highlights, with time for lunch and photos. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a guided experience but also want free time to explore on their own.
Bottom Line: A balanced, well-reviewed trip perfect for a day of sightseeing and cultural discovery that doesn’t demand too much time away from your base.
2. Day Tour to Korçë & Pogradec – Discover Eastern Albania
At number 2, this 17-hour tour from Ohrid is a deep dive into eastern Albania’s historic towns of Korçë and Pogradec. It’s a full-day adventure that combines sightseeing, local culture, and scenic drives. Starting at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel, the tour makes several stops, including a guided walk around Pogradec, perched on Lake Ohrid’s shores, and a visit to the Old Bazaar in Korçë.
The highlights include exploring the Medieval Museum, and a stop at the first Albanian primer site, which reveals the country’s educational roots. The tour focuses on cultural stories, with a traditional lunch by the lake, making it a well-rounded experience. The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge get rave reviews.
What sets this tour apart is its length and depth—if you have a day to spare, it offers a thorough look at regional history, architecture, and local life. It’s perfect for history buffs or those wanting a comprehensive Albanian experience with plenty of photo opportunities and shopping time.
Bottom Line: A lengthy, rich tour suited for travelers eager to explore beyond Pogradec, with a focus on culture, history, and authentic cuisine.
3. Bovilla Lake bus service, guide day trip
For travelers who prefer convenience over a self-planned itinerary, the Bovilla Lake bus service from Golem or Durres offers a straightforward way to visit one of the region’s most picturesque lakes []. This option is more about transportation than guided sightseeing, but it includes the possibility of a guided tour at Bovilla Lake itself.
The service emphasizes reliable, comfortable transfers with amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and air conditioning. It’s ideal for those who want to visit Bovilla without the stress of organizing transport or who appreciate flexible schedules. The short, 2-hour window makes it perfect for a quick escape or a half-day outing.
While it doesn’t include extensive sightseeing, the benefit is in the ease of reaching Bovilla’s stunning scenery, often called one of Albania’s hidden gems. It suits travelers on limited time or those seeking a hassle-free way to add scenic lakeside time to their trip.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers prioritizing comfort and simplicity, wanting to visit Bovilla Lake without the fuss of organizing transport.
4. From Tirana/Durrës Day Tour Pogradec, Korçë & Dardha Skiing
If you’re craving a diverse day packed with lakeside views, cultural stops, and mountain activities, this full-day guided tour is a strong choice. Starting from Tirana or Durrës, it combines a visit to Lake Ohrid, a stroll through Korçë’s New Bazaar, and a trip to Dardha’s Bigëll Ski Resort [].
The trip’s highlight is the mix of landscapes—serene lakes, historic towns, and mountain scenery. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to experience both cultural and outdoor highlights in one day. The visit to the ski resort adds an extra layer of fun, especially if you enjoy winter sports or just want to see the snowy slopes in winter.
The itinerary is packed, with several short stops and a chance to explore markets and cultural sites. Guests mention that the trip offers a lot of value for its 11-hour duration, making it suitable for those with a full day to spend on sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active and curious travelers who don’t want to miss mountain scenery and cultural spots on the same trip.
5. From Tirana/Durrës: Pogradec, Korçë, and Voskopoja Day Trip
This comprehensive day trip offers a detailed cultural and scenic exploration of southeastern Albania. Starting from Tirana or Durrës, it covers Lake Ohrid’s tranquil shores, the historic Old Bazaar of Korçë, and the picturesque Voskopoja, known for its monasteries and churches [].
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on cultural sites, including a guided tour of Voskopoja, with a chance to see the monastery and local crafts. It also features several photo stops and opportunities for shopping, making it engaging for travelers interested in arts and history. The inclusion of the 360º View Tower offers panoramic vistas, perfect for snapping memorable photos.
The tour’s pacing allows for a relaxed exploration of each location, ideal for those wanting a deep dive into the region’s culture. Reviews highlight that it’s suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, culture, and scenic views, with enough free time to explore independently.
Bottom Line: Best for culturally curious travelers who want a full day of history, scenic stops, and local flavor.
6. UNESCO Heritage Tour: Ancient Lin & Royal Tombs of Selca
For history lovers, this UNESCO Heritage Tour offers a chance to explore Lin’s stilt dwellings, one of Albania’s most fascinating ancient sites. You’ll also visit Golik Bridge on Via Egnatia and the Royal Tombs of Selca, which showcase Illyrian burial customs [].
What makes this tour unique is its focus on ancient civilizations—you’ll learn how the Dassaretae tribe built their tombs and how Hellenistic and Illyrian styles fuse. The tour offers panoramic views of the valley and insights into Illyrian heritage and cultural preservation.
It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy archaeological sites and want to understand the ancient roots of Albania. The guided approach makes complex history accessible, and the scenic setting adds to the appeal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs eager to explore ancient tombs and Illyrian culture in an accessible, scenic setting.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Pogradec
Choosing your ideal experience depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a short, high-quality day trip with a mix of natural beauty and cultural highlights, the Tirana: Lake and Town Ohrid Day Trip is a safe bet. For those with a full day to spare and a love for history and culture, the Korçë & Pogradec tour offers depth and variety.
Active travelers or winter visitors should consider the Dardha Skiing trip or the full-day combination including mountain scenery. If archaeology and ancient history fascinate you, the Royal Tombs of Selca are a must.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel months, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Look for options that match your energy level and interests, and don’t hesitate to ask about small-group or private options for a more personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
From scenic lakes and mountain vistas to historic towns and ancient tombs, Pogradec offers a diverse range of tours suited to different tastes and schedules. For a quick cultural fix, the Lake and Ohrid Day Trip provides an excellent introduction. If you prefer a full immersion into Albanian culture and history, the Korcë and Voskopoja tours deliver depth and variety. And for those seeking convenience, the Bovilla Lake bus service makes it easy to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
No matter which experience you choose, early booking and a clear idea of your interests will help you make the most of your time in Pogradec. These tours are a great way to see beyond the surface and truly connect with Albania’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.