Albania-7-days: culture-offbeat

Arrive at the Tirana International Airport (Airport Code: TIA). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs. Look for a JrnyOn representative holding a placard with the JrnyOn logo at the exit. They will transfer you to your hotel.

Depart for Berat, a city of Ottoman charm and cobbled streets. Explore ancient castles and vibrant bazaars. Immerse yourself in timeless history and welcoming Albanian culture.

Duration: 2 hours
Distance: 97 kms / 60 miles

You will visit Berat Castle, an ancient fortress sitting atop a hill, providing panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscapes. The Onufri Museum, located within the castle, this museum showcases religious art, particularly works by the famous Albanian painter Onufri, whose paintings date back to the 16th century. Mangalem Quarter, a charming neighborhood with narrow, cobbled streets and traditional white houses with red-tiled roofs. Gorica Bridge, an Ottoman-era bridge that connects the two main neighborhoods of Berat, offering picturesque views of the town and the Osum River.

Gather for a warm welcome dinner in Berat and savour local flavours together.

After breakfast, discover Berat’s highlights this morning, wandering through its historic streets and timeless Ottoman charm.

Trek through the lush nature reserve to reach the spectacular Bogove Waterfall. You listen to the roaring water and admire the pristine pool. Take a refreshing dip or relax on the mossy rocks.

Continue to Vlore, Albania’s coastal gateway. Stroll beside the Adriatic Sea and soak in the relaxed evening atmosphere. Overnight in Vlore.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and spend a leisurely day in Vlore, exploring its serene beaches, local markets, and picturesque seaside promenade.

Butrint National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the ruins of an ancient city dating back over 2,500 years. Located near Sarandë, the park blends Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian history within lush wetlands and forests. Visitors can explore temples, theatres, and city walls while walking through one of Albania’s most important archaeological sites.

Continue to Sarande, a vibrant coastal town on the Ionian Sea, ideal for evening strolls along the waterfront.

Duration: 30 minutes
Distance: 20 kms / 12 miles

Set off towards Syri i Kaltër (Blue Eye), a mesmerising natural spring of crystal-clear turquoise water. It is one of Albania’s most beautiful natural attractions, where icy water rises from depths of over 50 metres. Stroll along shaded paths, pause by the vivid pool, and capture the beauty of this serene natural wonder.

Step into Gjirokastër Castle with a guide and uncover its layered past. Wander through stone ramparts, explore historic chambers, and take in sweeping panoramic views over the dramatic valley below. Dating back to the 12th century, the castle played an important defensive role and has been expanded by various rulers over time. Today it houses a military museum and offers sweeping views of the UNESCO-listed old town and the surrounding valley.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage town celebrated for its Ottoman-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and imposing castle.

Travel to Apollonia, an ancient site known for its grand ruins and historical significance.

Duration: 1.5 hrs
Distance: 115km/ 71 miles

Apollonia Archaeological Park is one of Albania’s most important ancient cities, founded by Greek colonists over 2,500 years ago. Set among rolling hills and olive groves, the site features impressive ruins including temples, columns, theatres, and monasteries. Peaceful and atmospheric, Apollonia offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s Greek and Roman past.

Continue to Tirana. Take in the changing landscape as the journey unfolds. Arrive in the vibrant capital, where history and modern life meet seamlessly.

Duration: 1 hour
Distance: 40 kms / 25 miles

Bunk’Art 2 is a fascinating underground museum located in the heart of Tirana, built inside a former Cold War nuclear bunker. The museum reveals the secretive world of Albania’s communist-era police and surveillance system under Enver Hoxha. Through immersive exhibits, tunnels, and original rooms, it offers a powerful glimpse into the country’s recent history.

The Et'hem Bey Mosque is one of the most beautiful Ottoman-era landmarks in Tirana, built between 1794 and 1821. Famous for its delicate frescoes depicting trees, waterfalls, and landscapes, the mosque’s artwork is rare in Islamic architecture. Located on Skanderbeg Square, it symbolises both the city’s history and its religious heritage.

Experience a warm and festive welcome evening introducing Albania’s living traditions. Enjoy a traditional Albanian dinner, live folk music, and traditional dances in regional costumes

Departure to Krujë, the historic city of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg.

Duration: 1 hour
Distance: 39.9 kms / 24.79 miles

Discover Kruje Castle perched above the town. Wander through ancient stone walls and imagine historic battles. Stroll the Old Bazaar’s narrow streets where craft stalls and vibrant colours invite you to savour authentic Albanian culture. Embrace the charm of tradition and timeless heritage.

Today your JrnyOn journey comes to an end. Transport will be arranged to get you to the Tirana International Airport (Airport Code: TIA) for your flight back home.