Balkans Insider: Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo
Balkans Insider: Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo
15 Days Starting in Tirana, Albania and ending in Krujë, Albania
Visiting: Tirana, Ohrid, Bitola, Skopje, Prizren, Kolasin, Bay of Kotor, Kotor, Shkodër, Krujë
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BKE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Balkans with the "Balkans Insider" tour, exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro. Discover the architectural marvels of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and delve into the history of Tirana's communist past at Bunk’Art. Traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Sharr Mountains and the Ladder of Cattaro, and savor the serene beauty of Lake Shkodra and the Bay of Kotor. Indulge in traditional Balkan cuisine and sample exquisite North Macedonian wines. With a maximum group size of 12, enjoy personalized experiences led by expert guides, ensuring an intimate and enriching adventure. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, scenic hikes, and historical insights, all while supporting sustainable travel practices.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tour Starts In Tirana (Albania)
Location: Tirana
Accommodation: Tirana International or similar
Accommodation Name: Tirana International or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
The tour starts this afternoon at the hotel. Those on the suggested group flights (see the GETTING THERE section below for details) will receive a complimentary arrival transfer from Tirana airport. This afternoon we have some time to explore the colourful town of Tirana with a walking tour, taking in the renovated Skanderbeg Square and the historic Et'hem Bey Mosque, as well as seeing some of the buildings which date back to the 1930s Italian-influenced era. For our first evening we will enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 2: In And Around Tirana: Mountain Views & Communist Echoes
Location: Tirana
Accommodation: Tirana International or similar
Accommodation Name: Tirana International or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we will visit the House of Leaves, once the headquarters of the Albanian secret surveillance apparatus during the cold war and now a museum. From here we then drive into the foothills of Mount Dajti and visit the Bunk'Art underground galleries to learn about the country’s unique communist past. We’ll then take the scenic cable car up the mountain and enjoy a walk around the park taking in the stunning views (weather permitting) of the city below. After lunch the rest of the day is free to allow you time to explore some more of Albania’s capital at your leisure. You could choose to discover the Blloku district with its trendy cafes and shops or venture further south to wander around the impressive Lake Park, popular with locals and foreign visitors alike.
Day 3: Tirana - Ohrid (North Macedonia): Towards The Jersualem Of The Balkans
Location: Tirana
Accommodation: Hotel Su or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Su or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leaving Tirana behind this morning we head east, following the Shkumbin River Valley and negotiating our way up the winding switchbacks of the Qafe Thane (Cornelian Cherry Pass). Our journey follows the route of the old Roman, ‘Via Egnatia’ and from the summit of the pass we will hopefully be able to enjoy some spectacular views of Lake Ohrid in neighbouring Macedonia. Crossing into North Macedonia we then descend towards the town of Struga, our gateway onto the shores of Lake Ohrid. This afternoon we’ll take a guided tour amongst the UNESCO treasures of Ohrid, a town once described as 'The Jerusalem of the Balkans', before spending the evening enjoying the waterfront.
Day 4: In And Around Ohrid: Unesco Treasures & Lakeside Walks
Location: Ohrid
Accommodation: Hotel Su or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Su or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Ohrid and its spectacular lake are both inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage listing. The lake itself is considered the oldest in Europe, whilst the historic heart of the city is home to a staggering array of picturesque houses and ancient monuments. A boat ride this morning brings us to stunningly sited Monastery of Sveti Naum (Saint Naum), sitting beside the turquoise waters that flow into the lake from the surrounding Galicican Mountains. Returning to Ohrid for some refreshments back at the hotel, this afternoon offers a chance to explore more of the old town.
Day 5: Ohrid - Bitola: National Parks & Heritage Architecture
Location: Ohrid
Accommodation: Hotel Treff or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Treff or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A scenic drive this morning takes us up to the heights of the Galicican Pass, from where, weather-permitting, a short 1-2hr hike affords us some spectacular views across Lake Ohrid to the west and Prespa to the east. Descending from here we then continue along the slopes of Mount Baba and and into the Pelister National Park, a route that will bring us to the city of Bitola, one of the oldest in Northern Macedonia. The historic pedestrian area of Širok Sokak is the cultural heart of the city, with a rich architectural heritage that includes the ancient ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis, the old Ottoman Quarter and the captivating charms of Magnolia Square.
Day 6: Bitola - Skopje: Contrasts The Old & The New
Location: Bitola
Accommodation: Hotel Panoramika or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Panoramika or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Turning north we follow the road on towards Skopje today, Macedonia’s political, cultural and economic capital. Filled with reminders of its Roman and Byzantine past, Skopje today is an intriguing mix of the old and the new and, after lunch, we’ll take a walking tour through its historic centre. The birthplace of Mother Theresa, the city’s old stone bridge leads into the heart of its Ottoman quarter, where cobblestone alleyways meander past artisan shops and traditional tea houses, whilst a wonderful mix of mosques and medieval churches vie for space amongst the new architecture of the modern city.
Day 7: Skopje - Prizren (Kosovo): Northwards Via The Prevall Pass (1500M)
Location: Skopje
Accommodation: Hotel Centrum or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Centrum or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Passing into Kosovo today we take the impressive mountain road that leads up to the Prevall Pass (1500m), where we’ll break the journey and take a walk through a landscape that affords us some magnificent views along the ridge-line of the Sharr Mountains. Descending down the other side by road we then head for the historic city of Prizren, to explore the Ottoman influenced neighbourhoods that line either side of the Lumbardhi River.
Day 8: In And Around Prizren: Alpine Walks & Mountain Scenery
Location: Prizren
Accommodation: Hotel Centrum or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Centrum or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The highlands of Dragash lie to the south of the city, amongst the rugged and barren landscapes of the Sharr Mountains. Home to some of the highest peaks in the Balkans, these mountain ranges can boast no fewer than 30 peaks that rise above 2,500 metres. Today we take a walk through the alpine meadowlands that lie close to the border with neighbouring Northern Macedonia, enjoying a picnic lunch amongst the alpine landscapes before returning to Prizren. This afternoon is then free to relax or to continue exploring the city at our leisure.
Day 9: Prizren - Kolasin (Montenegro): Visoki Decani Unesco Monastery
Location: Kolasin
Accommodation: Dream House Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Dream House Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our journey takes us northwest today towards the town of Peja. En route we'll stop for a brief visit at the Serbian Orthodox Monastery of Visoki Decani, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits at the foot of the Dukagjin Mountains. From here the road then climbs up into the heights of the Accursed Mountains, crossing over into Montenegro by way of the lush setting of pristine coniferous forests. Stopping for lunch in the mountain town of Rozaje, we then continue through the mountains towards Kolasin, our destination for the evening. There will be a chance to relax and enjoy our surroundings before dinner.
Day 10: Kolasin - Bay Of Kotor: Train Rides & Boat Trips
Location: Bay of Kotor
Accommodation: Hotel Splendido or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Splendido or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A remarkable train journey this morning brings us to Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro. Set at the confluence of the Ribnica and Morača Rivers, Podgorica lies just to the north of Lake Shkodra, the largest lake in southern Europe. A drive from Podgorica to Virpazar, by the shores of the lake, then provides us with the opportunity to board a boat and cross the lake to Rijeka Crnojevića, from where our final transfer of the day will bring us to the stunning Bay of Kotor.
Day 11: In & Around Kotor: Lovcen National Park & The Ladder Of Cattaro
Location: Kotor
Accommodation: Hotel Splendido or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Splendido or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Surrounded by limestone mountains, including the legendary peak of Mount Lovcen, Cetinje became the cradle of Montenegrin culture during the 15th century and we'll head here this morning from our base on the Bay of Kotor. One of its most important sites is the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, which lies in the heart of the national park at the summit of Jezerski vrh (1657m). Today we will pay a visit to the mausoleum, before then continuing on to Kotor by way of the stunning switchback trail (for those who wish to take this 9km descent) known as the ‘Ladder of Cattaro’. For centuries this was the only route that connected Kotor with Cetinje and from the spectacular setting of the Krstac pass (940m) there are some quite breathtaking views over the Bay of Kotor and down to the old Dalmatian town of Kotor itself (now a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Day 12: In And Around Kotor: Unesco Treasures & Turquoise Waters
Location: Kotor
Accommodation: Hotel Splendido or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Splendido or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Built during the Venetian period, the historic and fortified ramparts of Kotor lie beside what some have described as the southernmost fjord in Europe. Boasting one of the best preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic, its ancient walls stretch for some 4.5 kilometres and enclose within them some truly captivating heritage architecture. We’ll enjoy a guided tour through its historic heart this morning, after which the afternoon has been left free to continue exploring at your own pace. Away from Kotor’s obvious attractions lie some incredibly picturesque villages that dot the bay, such as Perast and Dobrota.
Day 13: Kotor - Shkodër (Albania): Historic Budva & Ada Bojana Nature Reserve
Location: Shkodër
Accommodation: Hotel Tradita or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Tradita or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Following the coastline southeast this morning, we stop and pay a visit to the historic old town of Budva, site of one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. Passing close to the picturesque island of Sveti Stefan we then continue to Ulcinj and the nature reserve of Ada Bojana. Here the river Buna flows into the Adriatic and we’ll enjoy some lovely views from one of the wooden terraces that overlook the river. There is also an option to take a walk to the beach, before an afternoon transfer back across the Albanian border to Shkodër, where we spend the evening.
Day 14: Shkodër - Krujë: Exploring Rozafa Fortess
Location: Shkodër
Accommodation: Hotel Panorama or similar
Accommodation Name: Hotel Panorama or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A walk through central Shkodër this morning will be followed by a visit to the imposing Rozafa Fortress, occupying a craggy hilltop enclosed by the Buna and Drin rivers. From its massive walls the panoramic views across the city and the surrounding countryside are truly spectacular. A drive south then takes us across the Lezha Plains and up into the hills around the town of Krujë, our final destination on this remarkable journey. An afternoon walk through the craft bazaars then ends with a visit to the town’s fortress, the site of the legendary Skanderbeg resistance to the Ottoman Empire during the 15th century.
Day 15: Tour Ends In Krujë
Location: Krujë
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tour ends in Krujë
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 10 dinners.
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Transport
Transportation is provided by minibuses, boats, and trains.
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Group Size
The maximum group size for the tour is 12 participants.
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Carbon Contributions
Contributions to climate and community projects are included for all bookings.
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Expert Team
The tour includes the full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate.
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Accommodation
Accommodation includes 4 nights in premium and 10 nights in superior accommodations.
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Entrance Fees
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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Fitness Rating
The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating.
What's Not Included
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Visas & Travel Insurance
Visas are nationality dependent and travel insurance is mandatory but not included.
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Tips
Tips are optional and not included, but guidance will be provided in the pre-departure information documents.
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International Flights
International flights are not included in the tour cost.
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Airport Transfers
Complimentary transfers are included only if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights.
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Beverages & Personal Costs
Beverages and any costs of a personal nature, such as laundry and souvenirs, are not included.
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ExcludedItem
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras.
As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Visas
VISAS
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for any of the countries visited on this trip, i.e. Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo and Montenegro.
Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo & Montenegro.
For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.
For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.
If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Key Aspects to Consider
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour. All walks are optional but to get the most out of the trip you should be happy and confident to undertake some easy/moderate hill-walks of typical duration 2-3hrs. Come prepared for a few long drives but border formalities are usually quite quick and the variety of scenery en route will more than compensate.
Travelling Solo and single supplements
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.
On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
Insurance
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
Travelling Solo
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.
On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
Mode of Transport
Travel through the Balkans using a combination of minibuses, boats, and trains, providing a diverse and scenic transportation experience.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights in premium accommodations and 10 nights in superior accommodations, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey in the Balkans.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses minibuses, boats, and trains for transportation.
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Are entrance fees included in the tour package?
Yes, all entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour package.
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What kind of meals are provided during the tour?
The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 10 dinners.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 12 people.
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What level of fitness is required for this tour?
The tour has a low to moderate fitness rating, with optional walks and hikes.
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Is travel insurance mandatory for this tour?
Yes, travel insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The tour includes 4 nights in premium accommodation and 10 nights in superior accommodation.
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Are there any optional activities during the tour?
Yes, all walks are optional, and you can choose to explore certain areas at your leisure.
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Is there a single supplement option available for solo travelers?
Yes, there is a single supplement option available, which covers all nights of the tour for those who prefer lone occupancy of a single room.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
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Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Saturday - Saturday
Oct 03, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.