Heart of Albania
8 Days Starting and ending in Tirana, Albania
Visiting: Shkoder, Theth, Bajram Curri, Valbonë, Prizren, Tirana, Berat
Tour operator:
Tour code:
17921
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the "Heart of Albania," where history and natural beauty intertwine. This tour invites you to explore the ancient Rozafa Castle in Shkodër, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Albania's storied past. Discover the Lock-in Tower of Theth amidst the breathtaking Albanian Alps, and enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Koman to Fierze. Visit the UNESCO-listed Decani Monastery in Kosovo, renowned for its Byzantine art. Delve into Albania's resistance history at Krujë Castle and the Skanderbeg Museum, and wander through Berat, the "City of a Thousand Windows," with its Ottoman-era charm. Experience Tirana's vibrant Skanderbeg Square and the historic Ethem Bey Mosque. With comfortable boutique accommodations, professional guides, and all transfers included, this tour promises an enriching and seamless exploration of Albania's cultural and natural treasures.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 – Tirana – Shkoder
Location: Shkoder
Accommodation Name: Hotel Çoçja Boutique or similar
Welcome to Albania. Upon arrival at Tirana Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to Shkoder.
Shkodër, in northern Albania, is a city full of charm, history, and natural beauty. From the ancient Rozafa Castle with its stunning views to the lively pedestrian street lined with shops and eateries, there is plenty to explore. Whether you’re visiting mosques and museums or simply enjoying local cuisine at cosy cafes, Shkodër offers something for everyone. It’s a place where you can fully immerse yourself in the diverse and captivating culture of Albania.
Rozafa Castle
This afternoon, visit Rozafa Castle, a stunning ancient fortress that showcases Albania’s rich history. From its ancient Illyrian walls and the medieval ruins of the Balshaj to the Towers of the Bushatllinj, the castle is steeped in ancient history. Perched on a hill, enjoy amazing views of Lake Shkodra and the surrounding area. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the beauty and history of the region.
Afterwards, enjoy a free time exploring the city at your own pace. Later, return to your hotel for dinner.
Meals
None
Accommodation
Hotel Çoçja Boutique or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and journey time: 1hr 23mins drive 82.6kms
Day 2 – Shkodër - Theth - Shkoder
Location: Theth
Accommodation Name: Hotel Çoçja Boutique or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, depart for Theth, nestled in the breathtaking Albanian Alps, where you’ll discover a fascinating tangle of natural wonders and cultural treasures.
Lock-in tower of Theth
Explore the Lock-in Tower of Theth, an iconic landmark which rises majestically in the centre of the picturesque alpine village. This historic tower proudly showcases the rich history of the entire region. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to hear fascinating stories from one of the descendants of the tower owners, sharing valuable insights into the area’s heritage.
Enjoy lunch at restaurant guesthouse Fatmir Berishta. After lunch, you have time at leisure to explore at your own pace (and walk off that lunch!) Discover hidden alleys and laneways of cultural beauty within the village, admire the stunning landscapes, and embrace the peaceful atmosphere. Return back to your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel Çoçja Boutique or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Day 3 – Shkodër - Koman - Valbona - Bajram Curri
Location: Bajram Curri
Accommodation Name: Hotel Turizem Shkelzeni or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will transfer to Koman. Upon arrival, board a ferry to Fierze. Soak in the beauty of the Albanian landscape as you cross the water. On arrival, take a bus to Valbone where you will enjoy lunch at Neokulla Hotel-By Kol Gjoni.
Transfer to Bajram Curri
Following lunch, transfer to Bajram Curri. Check in to your hotel and the rest of the day is yours at leisure.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel Turizem Shkelzeni or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and journey time: 3hr 6mins drive 122kms
Day 4 – Bajram Curri - Valbone - Bajram Curri
Location: Valbonë
Accommodation Name: Hotel Turizem Shkelzeni or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, depart for Valbonë, a village nestled in the Albanian Alps famous for its picturesque landscapes, with towering peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams. Upon arrival, you will explore the charming village of Valbone. Discover its unique culture, architecture, and natural beauty as your guide shares insights about the area.
Lunch today is at Restaurant Guesthouse Kol Gjoni. Enjoy local cuisine and hospitality in the tranquil surroundings of Valbone.
Following lunch, take a scenic dive back to Bajram Curri. The rest of the day is yours at leisure to explore the town.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel Turizem Shkelzeni or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and journey time: 1hr 9mins drive 49.6kms
Day 5 – Bajram Curri - Decani – Prizren
Location: Prizren
Accommodation Name: Monarch Boutique Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, it is time to cross into Kosovo. Despite its small size, Kosovo is rich in history, with ancient monasteries, Ottoman-era architecture, and vibrant cities.
Decani Monastery
Enjoy a scenic drive to Decani Monastery also known as the Visoki Decani Monastery, a medieval Serbian Orthodox monastery located in the Decan, Kosovo. The monastery was founded in the early 14th century by Serbian King Stefan Uros III Decanski, after whom it was named. Construction began in 1327 and continued for several decades, resulting in a magnificent complex that showcases the finest examples of medieval Serbian architecture and artistry. The interior of the church is adorned with vibrant frescoes that cover almost every inch of its walls and ceilings, depicting scenes from the Bible, the lives of saints, and various religious motifs. These frescoes are considered among the finest examples of Byzantine art in the Balkans and have earned Decani Monastery a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Decani Monastery as you learn about its history and cultural significance.
Continue to Prizren and enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way. Make a stop at Restaurant Marashi for lunch.
Prizren
Following lunch, explore Prizren, a captivating city steeped in history, culture, and scenic beauty. Prizren is renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era buildings, including mosques, churches, and traditional stone houses, which reflect its diverse history and multicultural heritage.
Sinan Pasha Mosque
Visit Sinan Pasha Mosque, dating back to the 17th century which stands as a symbol of the city’s Ottoman heritage. Named after its patron, Sinan Pasha, a prominent Ottoman military commander, this mosque is renowned for its elegant design and historical significance. Sinan Pasha Mosque has served as a spiritual and cultural centre for the Muslim community of Prizren. Today, it continues to be a cherished landmark and a symbol of religious tolerance and diversity in Kosovo. Please ensure you carry a headscarf.
Prizren Castle
Continue to the Prizren Castle for a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. This medieval fortress, also known as Kalaja Fortress, dates back to the Byzantine era, with subsequent additions made during the Ottoman period. Its strategic location played a vital role in guarding the city and controlling trade routes throughout history. Explore the well-preserved ruins of the fortress walls and towers, providing insight into Prizren’s military past.
Albanian League Complex
Continue to explore the rich history of the Albanian League at the Albanian League Complex. Home to a small museum showcasing a wealth of artefacts, photographs, documents, and cultural relics from the time of the League of Prizren. Despite facing destruction by Serbian forces in 1999, the complex has been meticulously restored. Amongst its treasures is the exquisite 15th-century Bajrakli Mosque, a symbol of Prizren’s cultural heritage. Explore the complex’s restored architecture and learn about the league’s efforts to preserve Albanian identity and autonomy during the late 19th century.
This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Later return, to your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Monarch Boutique Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and journey time: 2hr 12 mins drive 107.2kms
Day 6 – Prizren - Krujë – Tirana
Location: Tirana
Accommodation Name: Hotel Sokrat or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, depart for Krujë, a historic hilltop town in Albania known for its captivating Krujë Castle and vibrant Old Bazaar. Upon arrival, enjoy free time exploring Krujë before indulging in lunch at Restaurant Bardhi.
Krujë Castle and Skanderbeg Museum
Visit Kruje Castle for impressive views of the surrounding landscape. Perched on a hilltop, this historic fortress played a crucial role in Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, led by national hero Skanderbeg. Within its walls, explore the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to his legacy, and the Ethnographic Museum, showcasing traditional Albanian life. The castle’s well-preserved ruins and its strategic location make it a significant cultural and historical site, offering a glimpse into Albania’s proud past.
Later, explore the bustling atmosphere of the Old Bazaar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and banter with the locals. Continue to Tirana, vibrant capital city blending rich history with modern development. Check in to your hotel and the remainder of the day is yours at leisure.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel Sokrat or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and journey time: 3hr 15 mins drive 212.1kms
Day 7 – Tirana - Berat – Tirana
Location: Berat
Accommodation Name: Hotel Sokrat or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Berat
After breakfast, depart for Berat, known as Albania’s “City of a Thousand Windows,” a historic town renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Explore Berat’s well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Walk across the ancient Gorica Bridge and through the charming Mangalem Quarter, admiring the city’s distinctive, white-washed houses with large windows climbing up the hillside.
Guesthouse Mishaxhiu Gardens:
Visit Guesthouse Mishaxhiu Gardens to enjoy homemade raki, Turkish coffee, and traditional jams, embracing you with local hospitality.
Lunch today is at Restaurant WilDor & Chef Toska, located near the Osumi River.
Berat Castle
In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a visit to Berat Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its ancient walls, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman-era buildings. Ascend to the Gorica Viewpoint for breathtaking views of the city and the Osumi River below.
Local Experience
Visit a local family in a traditional house in Berat, where you will have time to understand the more traditional side of life still lived in this region on Albania.
Return to Tirana. This evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at Restaurant Marchesi, set among the hills outside Tirana. This chic restaurant offers an elegant dining experience inspired by the world-renowned chef Gualtiero Marchesi.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel Sokrat or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and journey time: 3hr 24mins drive 199.3kms
Day 8 – Departure From Tirana
Location: Tirana
Meals Included: Breakfast
Following breakfast, explore Tirana. Centred around the bustling Skanderbeg Square, Tirana features a mix of Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet-era architecture, alongside contemporary buildings and colourful street art from urban beautification efforts.
Skanderbeg Square
Visit the Skanderbeg Square, the vibrant heart of Tirana, named after Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, this expansive square is adorned with statues, fountains, and colourful flowerbeds.
Ethem Bey Mosque
Explore the historic Ethem Bey Mosque, a magnificent example of Ottoman architecture built in the late 18th century, it is one of the oldest mosques in the city and the mosque is named after its founder, Et’hem Be, a prominent Albanian nobleman. Explore its elegant design features a graceful minaret and a beautifully adorned prayer hall with intricate frescoes and decorative motifs. Please ensure you are carrying a headscarf.
Administrative Buildings
Continue to pass the city’s administrative buildings, which reflect Albania’s diverse architectural heritage. From elegant neoclassical structures to modernist designs, these buildings offer a glimpse into Tirana’s evolving identity as a capital city.
Pyramid of Tirana
Finally, visit the newly reconstructed Pyramid of Tirana, also known as the Enver Hoxha Museum, originally built as a museum for Albania’s communist leader, Enver Hoxha. Today, the pyramid has been repurposed into a multifunctional cultural centre, hosting exhibitions, events, and performances. The pyramid’s design is striking, featuring a sleek, angular exterior made of white marble panels. Its distinctive design and controversial history make it a fascinating landmark in Tirana’s urban landscape, symbolising the city’s transition from communism to democracy. Later, it’s time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals
Breakfast
Services
Services of an English speaking guide
Departure airport transfer
What's Included
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Transfers and transportation
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7 nights’ accommodation including breakfast daily
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Meals as per itinerary
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Entrance fees as per the itinerary
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Services of a professional English-speaking guide
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All transfers, sightseeing and excursions by air-conditioned private vehicle
What's Not Included
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International & domestic flights not mentioned above
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Visas
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Travel and medical insurance
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All services, and meals other than those indicated above
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Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program.
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All items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc
Mode of Transport
All transfers, sightseeing, and excursions are conducted by an air-conditioned private vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout the tour.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation, including breakfast daily, at charming boutique hotels such as Hotel Cocja Boutique, Hotel Turizem Shkelzeni, Monarch Boutique Hotel, and Hotel Sokrat.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
All transfers, sightseeing, and excursions are conducted by an air-conditioned private vehicle.
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Are entrance fees included in the tour package?
Yes, entrance fees are included as per the itinerary.
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Will there be a guide during the tour?
Yes, the services of a professional English-speaking guide are included throughout the tour.
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What meals are included in the tour?
Meals are provided as per the itinerary, with breakfast included daily and other meals specified on certain days.
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Is accommodation included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 7 nights of comfortable accommodation at charming boutique hotels, with breakfast provided daily.
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What is the starting and ending point of the tour?
The tour starts and ends in Tirana, Albania.
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Is there any leisure time included in the itinerary?
Yes, there are several opportunities for leisure time throughout the tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
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Are international flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights not mentioned are excluded from the tour package.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel and medical insurance are not included in the tour package.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
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What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
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Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
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What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
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Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
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I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
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