Skip to content
English
All tours
Multi-Country Semi-guided self-drive

Albania, Greece & North Macedonia in 14 Days: Semi-Guided Highlights Tour

A 14-day semi-guided private tour across the highlights of Albania, Northern Greece and Ohrid: the whole length of Albania from Shkodra and Koman Lake to UNESCO Gjirokastra, Butrint and the Riviera, a guided day in UNESCO Ohrid across the North Macedonia border, and four nights in Northern Greece for lakeside Ioannina, the monasteries of Meteora and Corfu by car ferry. Built for couples, families and friends who want lakes, mountains, UNESCO towns, a farm stay, a Greek island and beaches without long driving days. Runs May to October and starts and ends in Tirana on your own dates: you drive a new automatic car, local guides meet you in the main towns, and if you would rather not drive at all, add a driver or driver-guide in your language and it becomes fully guided.

Planned and operated by InAlb, Tirana. Last updated .

14 days13 nights
Tiranastart and finish
3 countriesAlbania, Greece, North Macedonia
Easysoft adventure
4.778 verified reviews
Albania, Greece & North Macedonia in 14 Days: Semi-Guided Highlights TourKruja Castle on the mountainside above the old bazaar, AlbaniaBoat on Koman Lake between steep cliffs in northern AlbaniaLakeside village of Lin on Lake Ohrid, AlbaniaTraditional tavern in the Korca region of southeastern Albania

What's included

  • 13 nights: heritage and 4-star hotels plus the Farma Sotira farm stay
  • Breakfast daily from day 2
  • 3 meals: Farma Sotira dinner, Grandpa’s lunch in Gjirokastra, Albanian Night dinner
  • New automatic car, fully insured, no deposit
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure
See everything included ↓

Highlights

  • One semi-guided loop, three countries: the highlights of Albania end to end, UNESCO Ohrid in North Macedonia, and Ioannina, Meteora and Corfu in Northern Greece, self-drive in a new automatic car with local guides in the main towns
  • Kruja’s castle and bazaar and the cliff sanctuary of Sari Salltik, with a first night in Shkodra
  • A boat day on Koman Lake and a swim in the Shala River
  • Prehistoric Lin and UNESCO Ohrid across the North Macedonia border, guided
  • Korca’s old bazaar, a beekeeper’s honey tasting and the frescoed churches of Voskopoja

Albania, Greece & North Macedonia in 14 Days at a glance

Duration
14 days, 13 nights
Price
From €2,600 per person, two sharing, standard season. Price varies by season and room type
Countries
Albania, Greece, North Macedonia
Start and finish
Tirana, Albania
Trip type
Beach, Couples, Culture, Food & Wine, Nature, UNESCO
Travel style
Semi-guided self-drive. You drive and local guides meet you in the main towns. Optional driver or driver-guide
Group
Private tour · Minimum 1 adult · No maximum group size
Fitness
Easy. Gentle walks through old towns and archaeological sites, easy beach walks and optional swimming
Hotels
13 nights, 4-star hotels
Meals
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
Driving
1,450 km, About 27 h, about 2 h a day. Self-drive in a new automatic car (compact SUV, SUV or van by party size), fully insured with no…
Activities included
2 ferry crossings, 2 boat trips, guided visits, entrance tickets
Payment
30% deposit to book, balance 30 days before. Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Klarna, Bank transfer
Availability
On request, any start date from May to October. Book at least 7 days before your start date
Best months
May to October (best May, June and September)
Borders and visas
Travellers from the EU, USA, UK and Australia do not need a visa for Albania, North…
Support
InAlb local team on WhatsApp, 24/7 during the trip
Read the full overview

A semi-guided private loop from Tirana through the highlights of Albania, Northern Greece and Ohrid that never repeats a road: north to Kruja and Shkodra and a boat day on Koman Lake and the Shala River, east to Lake Ohrid with a guided visit to UNESCO Ohrid across the North Macedonia border, south through Korca, a beekeeper’s honey tasting, a farm night on the Vjosa, the thermal pools at Benja and UNESCO Gjirokastra, then into Northern Greece for lakeside Ioannina, the cliff monasteries of Meteora and two nights on Corfu with the car on the ferry, back to Albania for Butrint, Ksamil and the Blue Eye, and home along the Albanian Riviera. You drive a new automatic car with local guides waiting in the main towns. If you would rather not drive, add a private driver or a driver-guide. Thirteen nights in heritage and 4-star hotels plus the farm stay, the Koman boat, the Corfu car ferries and three included meals.

This loop is built so the variety never lets up and the driving never tires you out. You leave Tirana north for Kruja’s castle and bazaar and a first night in lively Shkodra, then spend a day on Koman Lake, the fjord-like reservoir reached by a passenger boat between the cliffs, with a swim in the Shala River before the drive to Tirana. From there the route turns east to Lin and Lake Ohrid, crossing into North Macedonia for a guided walk through UNESCO Ohrid, then drops through Korca’s bazaar, a beekeeper’s honey tasting and a farm night on the Vjosa before reaching the stone city of Gjirokastra with a local guide and lunch at Grandpa’s.

Then Greece. You cross at Kakavia to lakeside Ioannina and Ali Pasha’s island, drive over the Pindus to Meteora for the monasteries at sunset and again at sunrise, and take the car ferry from Igoumenitsa to Corfu for two nights: a guided walk through the Venetian old town, and a free day or an optional boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos. The ferry brings you and the car back to Igoumenitsa, and a short drive over the Sagiada border puts you at Butrint’s ruins and Ksamil’s beaches, with two nights in Saranda, the Blue Eye and an Albanian Night of music and dinner.

The last stretch is the Albanian Riviera: Borsh, Qeparo, Porto Palermo and Himara, then Dhermi and the Llogara Pass down to Vlora, and about two hours to Tirana airport on the final morning. Because you drive, the pace is yours, and at roughly two hours a day the car never dominates. The hard logistics, the Koman boat, the Corfu ferry tickets, the three borders, the guides and the route notes, are handled before you arrive, so the days themselves stay relaxed.

Your 14 days, day by day

Driving route 1,450 kmover 13 driving days About 27 h, about 2 h a daybehind the wheel in total 4border crossings

Tirana > Kruja > Shkodra > Koman Lake > Tirana > Lake Ohrid > Korca > Farma Sotira > Gjirokastra > Ioannina > Meteora > Igoumenitsa > Corfu > Saranda > Himara > Vlora > Tirana

Albania

Day1 Kruja’s castle and Sari Salltik, then lively Shkodra Tirana, Kruja, Sari Salltik, Shkodra
Kruja’s castle and Sari Salltik, then lively Shkodra

Our driver meets you at Tirana airport and takes you north to Kruja for Skanderbeg’s fortress and the cobbled bazaar, with a stop at the cliff sanctuary of Sari Salltik. Your car for the trip is waiting at your hotel in Shkodra, one of Albania’s most characterful cities, with café-lined boulevards for the evening.

Moment of the daySunset over the Adriatic from the cliff sanctuary of Sari Salltik.

Drive
Approx. 2 hr
Walking
Light (castle and bazaar)
Meals
None included
Tonight · Shkodra Boutique hotel in the centre of Shkodra

Heritage and 4-star boutique hotel. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day2 Koman Lake ferry and a swim in the Shala River Koman Lake, Shala River, Tirana
Koman Lake ferry and a swim in the Shala River

Drive to Koman and board the morning boat across Koman Lake between towering cliffs, then up the Shala River to swim in water clear enough to see the pebbles. Return by boat, pick up the car and drive to Tirana for a relaxed evening.

Moment of the daySwimming in the glass-clear Shala River between the cliffs.

Drive
Approx. 3.5 hr driving (Shkodra to Koman, then Koman to Tirana), plus the boat day
Walking
Light
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Tirana Boutique hotel in the centre of Tirana

Heritage and 4-star boutique hotel. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day3 Lake Ohrid: prehistoric Lin, UNESCO Ohrid and Korca Lin, Ohrid, Pogradec, Korca
Lake Ohrid: prehistoric Lin, UNESCO Ohrid and Korca

East to Lake Ohrid, one of the world’s oldest and deepest. Visit prehistoric Lin and Pogradec, cross into North Macedonia for Ohrid’s UNESCO old town and churches with a local guide, then back into Albania to Korca, the city of serenades, and its old bazaar.

Moment of the dayThe frescoes of Ohrid’s lakeside churches, with the lake below.

Drive
Approx. 2.5 hr incl. border
Walking
Moderate (old town cobbles)
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Korca Boutique hotel in the old bazaar area of Korca

4-star boutique hotel. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day4 Honey, frescoes and a farm night on the Vjosa Voskopoja, Dardha, Leskovik, Farma Sotira
Honey, frescoes and a farm night on the Vjosa

A hands-on beekeeping visit and honey tasting, the frescoed churches of historic Voskopoja, and the alpine village of Dardha. Continue to Leskovik and an agritourism night at Farma Sotira by the Vjosa River, with dinner from the farm included.

Moment of the dayTasting honey straight from the hive with the beekeeper.

Drive
Approx. 2.5 hr
Walking
Light
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Tonight · Leskovik Farma Sotira agritourism farm stay on the Vjosa

Working farm with guest rooms, home-grown food and the river below. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day5 Benja thermal pools and UNESCO Gjirokastra with lunch at Grandpa’s Permet, Benja, Gjirokastra
Benja thermal pools and UNESCO Gjirokastra with lunch at Grandpa’s

A slow morning with the farm animals, then one of the Balkans’ most scenic drives to Permet and the Benja thermal pools beneath a medieval bridge. In Gjirokastra a local guide walks you through the castle, bazaar and slate-roofed lanes, followed by an included traditional lunch at Grandpa’s.

Moment of the dayFloating in the Benja thermal pools beneath the old Ottoman bridge.

Drive
Approx. 2.5 hr
Walking
Moderate (steep stone lanes)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Tonight · Gjirokastra Stone-house hotel in the old town of Gjirokastra

4-star stone-house hotel. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Greece

Day6 Into Greece: Ioannina, its lake and Ali Pasha’s island Kakavia, Ioannina

Cross into Greece at Kakavia and drive to Ioannina on the shore of Lake Pamvotis. Walk the old walled town and the castle, take the small boat to the island for the Ali Pasha museum and the monasteries, and end the day in the lakeside cafés.

Moment of the dayThe evening boat back from the island as the lake goes still.

Drive
Approx. 2 hr incl. border
Walking
Moderate (old town and island)
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Ioannina Hotel in the old town of Ioannina

4-star hotel by the lake and the castle. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day7 Meteora in the afternoon light Kalambaka, Meteora
Meteora in the afternoon light

Drive east across the Pindus mountains to Kalambaka, at the foot of the rock pillars of Meteora. Spend the afternoon among the UNESCO monasteries perched on the cliffs, and stay for the sunset over the rocks.

Moment of the dayThe monasteries of Meteora catching the last light on the rock pillars.

Drive
Approx. 1.5 hr
Walking
Moderate (monastery steps)
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Kalambaka Hotel at the foot of the Meteora rocks in Kalambaka

4-star hotel with views of the rock pillars. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day8 Meteora in the morning, then the car ferry to Corfu Meteora, Igoumenitsa, Corfu
Meteora in the morning, then the car ferry to Corfu

An early visit to the quieter monasteries before the crowds, then drive west to the port of Igoumenitsa and take the car ferry to Corfu (about 1.5 hours). We book the tickets and send them to you. Evening in the Venetian old town, on Spianada Square and the Liston promenade.

Moment of the dayStanding on a monastery balcony above the morning mist.

Drive
Approx. 2.5 hr, plus the car ferry
Walking
Light
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Corfu Hotel near the old town of Corfu

4-star hotel a short walk from the old town. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day9 Corfu with a local guide, or a day at sea to Paxos and Antipaxos Corfu
Corfu with a local guide, or a day at sea to Paxos and Antipaxos

A private local guide walks you through Corfu’s old town, the fortresses and the Liston for about two hours. Then a free afternoon, or swap the whole day for the optional excursion by sea to swim in the Caribbean-blue water of Antipaxos and visit the Blue Caves of Paxos.

Moment of the dayCoffee on the Liston as Corfu’s old town lights up.

Drive
No driving
Walking
Moderate (old town walking)
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Corfu Hotel near the old town of Corfu

4-star hotel a short walk from the old town. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day10 Back to Albania: Butrint and Ksamil Igoumenitsa, Saranda, Butrint, Ksamil
Back to Albania: Butrint and Ksamil

Car ferry back to Igoumenitsa and a short drive north across the Sagiada border into Albania. Morning at UNESCO Butrint, where Greek, Roman and Venetian remains sit in a lagoon (entrance included), then the turquoise water and white sand of Ksamil. Night in Saranda.

Moment of the dayButrint’s theatre with the lagoon shimmering behind it.

Drive
Approx. 1.5 hr incl. border, plus the car ferry
Walking
Light (ruins and beach)
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Saranda Seafront hotel in Saranda

4-star seafront hotel. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Albania

Day11 The Blue Eye and an Albanian Night Blue Eye, Saranda
The Blue Eye and an Albanian Night

A relaxed day: the deep, vivid Blue Eye spring in the morning, the afternoon on Saranda’s seafront or back at Ksamil, and in the evening an included interactive Albanian Night of music, dance and dinner.

Moment of the dayDancing with the locals at the Albanian Night.

Drive
Approx. 1 hr
Walking
Light
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Tonight · Saranda Seafront hotel in Saranda

4-star seafront hotel. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day12 The Riviera: Borsh, Qeparo, Porto Palermo and Himara Borsh, Qeparo, Porto Palermo, Himara
The Riviera: Borsh, Qeparo, Porto Palermo and Himara

Drive the Riviera: the long beach at Borsh, the stone village of Qeparo and the seaside fortress of Porto Palermo, arriving in Himara for a swim and a seafood evening.

Moment of the dayThe stone lanes of Qeparo above the sea.

Drive
Approx. 1.5 hr
Walking
Light
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Himara Seaside hotel in Himara

4-star seaside hotel. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day13 Dhermi and the Llogara Pass to Vlora Dhermi, Llogara, Vlora
Dhermi and the Llogara Pass to Vlora

A morning swim in Himara, then Dhermi village and the climb into Llogara National Park for coastline views and the park’s tame deer. Descend to Vlora, where the Adriatic meets the Ionian.

Moment of the dayThe view from the Llogara Pass where the mountains fall into the Ionian.

Drive
Approx. 2 hr
Walking
Light
Meals
Breakfast
Tonight · Vlora Seafront hotel in Vlora

4-star seafront hotel. Every room at least 25 m². You are expected at reception under your name.

Day14 Vlora’s seafront and the drive to Tirana airport Vlora, Tirana
Vlora’s seafront and the drive to Tirana airport

A last morning on Vlora’s Lungomare, the Independence Monument or a final beach walk, then drive to Tirana airport, hand the car over and fly home. We time the departure to your flight.

Moment of the dayA last walk on Vlora’s Lungomare before flying home.

Drive
Approx. 2 hr to the airport
Walking
Flexible
Meals
Breakfast

Practical information

How do you get there and back?

Starts
Tirana, Albania
Ends
Tirana, Albania
Flights
Not included. International flights are not included (fly into and out of Tirana). Airport transfers on day 1 and day 14 are included, whatever your flight times.
On the ground
Self-drive in a new automatic car (compact SUV, SUV or van by party size), fully insured with no deposit or excess, with an optional driver or driver-guide. Airport transfers, the Koman Lake boat day and the Igoumenitsa to Corfu car ferry both ways are included. The car travels with you.
Arrival and check-in
No vouchers needed: every hotel expects you at reception under your name.
Borders and visas
Travellers from the EU, USA, UK and Australia do not need a visa for Albania, North Macedonia or Greece. On other passports, contact us before booking and we will check the requirements for your nationality.

Who is this trip for? Graded easy

Each scale runs 1 to 5, from very easy to demanding.

Difficulty
EasyLevel 2 of 5. Gentle walks through old towns and archaeological sites, easy beach walks and optional swimming. No demanding hikes. The most active optional element is Vjosa rafting on Day 5.
Pace
RelaxedLevel 1 of 5
Driving
About 27 h, about 2 h a dayLevel 2 of 5. Light. About 2 hours a day on good roads, all three countries drive on the right, and the loop returns to Tirana so there is no one-way fee. One border into North Macedonia and back on day 3, into Greece on day 6 and back on day 10, and the car ferry to Corfu both ways. No driving on the Corfu day. Add a driver or driver-guide if you would rather not drive.

Good for. Couples, families and groups of friends who want a real mix in one loop: lakes, mountains, UNESCO towns and monasteries, a farm stay, a Greek island and Riviera beaches, without long driving days or hard hikes. It is one of our easiest multi-country trips and works well for families thanks to the farm, the boats and the animals.

Not for you if this trip may not suit travellers who need step-free access, who want a single hotel base or only beach time. You cross three borders and take a car ferry, all prepared for you. If you would rather not drive at all, add a private driver or driver-guide.

Can be adjusted for guests with physical limitations. Tell us at booking and we arrange ground-floor rooms and gentler walking where possible.

Book this tourContact the teamFrom €2,600 pp · 30% deposit · reply within 24 hours

What is included in the €2,600 price?

Included in the price

  • 13 nights: heritage and 4-star hotels plus the Farma Sotira farm stay
  • Breakfast daily from day 2
  • 3 meals: Farma Sotira dinner, Grandpa’s lunch in Gjirokastra, Albanian Night dinner
  • New automatic car, fully insured, no deposit
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure
  • Koman Lake and Shala River boat day, car ferry to Corfu and back
  • Local guides in Ohrid, Gjirokastra and Corfu, plus the beekeeping visit and the Albanian Night
  • Entrance tickets to every site in the itinerary, Butrint and the Meteora monasteries included
  • 24/7 support and road assistance on WhatsApp
  • All local taxes and fees

Not included

  • International flights
  • Fuel, tolls and parking (included with a driver or driver-guide)
  • Green cards for North Macedonia and Greece at the borders
  • Other lunches and dinners
  • Optional activities: Paxos and Antipaxos boat day, Vjosa rafting
  • Child seats, €7 per day
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Personal expenses and tips

Dietary needs. Vegetarian and other dietary needs are catered for with advance notice.

Entry fees. Entrance fees to the museums, castles, monasteries, archaeological sites and national parks in the itinerary are included, Butrint and the Meteora monasteries included. The Paxos boat trip and Vjosa rafting are optional and priced on request.

Optional extras

Add them in the booking box, or tell us when you enquire.

Private driver for the whole tripA local driver in a comfortable vehicle for all 14 days, so nobody has to drive. Fuel, tolls, parking and the driver’s hotels and meals included. Price per vehicle for up to 6 travellers. For 7 or 8 travellers the price is 30% higher for a larger vehicle.€1,400 per trip
Driver-guide in English for the whole tripOne person drives and guides you through all three countries, all 14 days. Fuel, tolls, parking and the driver-guide’s hotels and meals included. Price per vehicle for up to 6 travellers. For 7 or 8 travellers the price is 30% higher for a larger vehicle.€1,950 per trip
Paxos & Antipaxos boat trip (day 9)on request
Vjosa River rafting (day 5)on request
Hotel upgrades or extra nightson request
Single room, all nightsYour own room for the whole trip.€500 pp

Reviews

4.7out of 5

78 travellers rated this trip

✓ Every review from a confirmed booking
Albania is very unique not like other European countries we visited. Berat was magical and Corfu added a touch of Greece that we loved. The program was busy but manageable.
Anaya · 11 October 2025
This trip exceeded our expectations! The mix of history, culture and beautiful landscapes made it a perfect holiday. Our guide was knowledgeable and made everything smooth, even with our kids.
Emily · 10 October 2025
Read all 78 reviews

Before you travel

What to pack

Comfortable walking shoes for cobbled old towns and site visits, swimwear for Corfu and the Riviera from day 8 onwards, a light layer for the farm evening, Ioannina and Meteora, smart-casual clothing for evenings in Corfu Town, sun protection, essential on the coast, a small daypack for daily excursions, cash in Euros and a credit card, power adapter, type C or F (220 V), used in all three countries, long trousers or a skirt and a top that covers the shoulders for the Meteora monasteries.

Three countries, three borders by car

You drive into North Macedonia and back on day 3, into Greece at Kakavia on day 6, take the car ferry to Corfu and back, and re-enter Albania at Sagiada on day 10. Carry your passport and tell us your nationality so we can advise on any visa requirements. The car is cleared for all three countries. You pay the green cards at the borders.

Your car

A new automatic car, chosen by party size: compact SUV, SUV or van (Hyundai Tucson, Santa Fe, Staria or similar). Fully insured, no deposit, no excess, extra drivers free. Minimum driver age 23. Your national licence is enough, no international permit needed. You collect the car at your Shkodra hotel on day 1 and hand it over at Tirana airport on day 14. We handle the airport transfers. Fuel, tolls and parking are yours on self-drive. With a driver or driver-guide they are included.

The car and Corfu

Your car crosses with you on the Igoumenitsa to Corfu car ferry, both ways, tickets included. Nothing is left behind.

Three currencies

Lek in Albania, denar in North Macedonia, euro in Greece. Cards work almost everywhere. Carry some cash for small places and the farm.

Pace

Relaxed: about 2 hours of driving a day, no driving on the Corfu day, and gentle walks. Two nights each on Corfu and in Saranda.

Solo travellers welcome

This is a private tour, so you never share a room with strangers. One traveller pays the solo price shown in the booking box, single room included.

Not suitable for

Travellers who need step-free access, or who want a single hotel base for the whole trip, or who want a pure beach holiday.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is not required, but we highly recommend a policy that covers cancellation, medical care and driving abroad.

Health

No mandatory vaccinations for most travellers. Tap water in Albania is not recommended for drinking. Bottled water is cheap and everywhere. Bring any personal medication.

Money and tipping

Albania uses the lek, North Macedonia the denar and Greece the euro. Cards are widely accepted and euros are taken in many places in Albania, but carry some local cash for small towns and the farm. Budget for fuel, tolls, parking and the green card on self-drive. Tips for guides and drivers are at your discretion.

Climate and weather

The tour runs May to October. The best months are May, June and September, warm enough to swim, with quieter beaches and full ferry schedules. July and August are hottest and busiest on the coast and islands, when we steer you to quieter beaches. October is mild and quiet, with the sea still warm in the south.

FAQs

Is this a self-drive or guided tour?

This is a semi-guided private self-drive tour: you drive, and local guides meet you in Ohrid, Gjirokastra and Corfu, with hosts for the beekeeping visit and the Albanian Night. If you prefer not to drive, add a private driver or a driver-guide for the whole trip in the booking box. Our local team is one message away, with 24/7 support throughout.

Which countries and borders does it cover?

Albania end to end, North Macedonia by car for the day in Ohrid (day 3), and Northern Greece by car for four nights: Ioannina, Kalambaka for Meteora, and two nights on Corfu reached by car ferry from Igoumenitsa (days 6 to 10). You cross at Kakavia going in and Sagiada coming back. Carry your passport and tell us your nationality when booking so we can advise on any visa requirements. EU, UK, US, Canadian and Australian passports enter all three visa-free for short stays.

How much driving is there each day?

About 2 hours a day on average, on good roads, and none at all on the Corfu day. The longest day is day 2, about 3.5 hours split around the Koman Lake boat trip. The others are 2.5 hours or less. If you would rather not drive, add a driver or driver-guide.

What car do I get, and what does it include?

A new automatic car sized to your party: a compact SUV, SUV or van such as a Hyundai Tucson, Santa Fe or Staria, or similar. It is fully insured with no deposit and no excess, so nothing is blocked on your card. Extra drivers are free. On the self-drive option you pay fuel, tolls and parking. If you add a driver or driver-guide, those are included.

Do I need an international driving permit or a deposit for the car?

No. Your national driving licence is enough in Albania, North Macedonia and Greece. Drivers must be at least 23 years old. There is no deposit and no excess. The only extras are the green cards for North Macedonia and Greece, paid at the border.

Where do I collect and return the car, and are airport transfers included?

Yes, airport transfers are included. Our driver meets you at Tirana airport on day 1 and takes you via Kruja to Shkodra, where the car is waiting at your hotel. On day 14 you drive from Vlora to Tirana airport and hand the car over there. Any flight time works. We plan day 1 and day 14 around it.

Is fuel included?

Not on the self-drive option: fuel, tolls and parking are paid by you along the way. The cost depends on your car and driving, so we do not quote a figure. If you add a private driver or driver-guide, fuel, tolls, parking and the driver’s own hotels and meals are all included in the add-on price.

What happens if the car breaks down?

You have 24/7 road support on WhatsApp. If the car has a problem, we arrange your transfer and bring you a replacement car. Just text us.

Are the ferries and boats included?

Yes. The Koman Lake and Shala River boat day on day 2 and the car ferry between Igoumenitsa and Corfu both ways (about 1.5 hours each crossing) are included. We book the ferry tickets and send them to you. Your car travels with you to Corfu, so there is nothing to leave behind. If weather cancels a crossing, we adjust the plan with you.

Is the Paxos and Antipaxos boat trip included?

No, it is optional. Day 9 on Corfu has a guided old-town walk in the morning. You can swap the day for the full-day excursion by sea to Antipaxos and the Blue Caves of Paxos on a shared boat, or a private boat for a higher fee. Ask us when booking and we quote it for your dates.

Are meals included?

Breakfast every morning from day 2, plus three meals: dinner at Farma Sotira on day 4, lunch at Grandpa’s in Gjirokastra on day 5 and the Albanian Night dinner on day 11. Other lunches and dinners are free so you can choose. We send restaurant tips for every stop.

Which days have a local guide, and for how long?

A private city guide meets you in Ohrid (day 3), Gjirokastra (day 5) and Corfu (day 9) for a walk of two to three hours in each, and hosts run the beekeeping visit on day 4 and the Albanian Night on day 11. Ioannina, Meteora, Kruja, Shkodra, Korca, Butrint, the Blue Eye and the Riviera you explore at your own pace with our notes. Meteora monastery tickets are included.

Is parking included at the hotels?

Most hotels on the route have their own free parking. Where a hotel has none, we send you the best nearby options before the trip. Parking fees on the self-drive option are paid locally. With a driver or driver-guide they are included.

What is included in the price?

The base package includes 13 nights (heritage and 4-star hotels with rooms of 25 m² or more, plus the Farma Sotira farm stay), breakfast daily from day 2, the three listed meals, a new automatic car fully insured with no deposit or excess, airport transfers on arrival and departure, the Koman and Shala boat day, the Igoumenitsa to Corfu car ferry both ways, local guides in Ohrid, Gjirokastra and Corfu, the beekeeping visit and the Albanian Night, the listed entrance fees including Butrint and the Meteora monasteries, 24/7 local assistance and road support, and local taxes. Flights, fuel, tolls, parking, the green cards, travel insurance, an optional driver or driver-guide, the Paxos boat trip and Vjosa rafting are extra. The price depends on your dates, party size and room configuration.

Can solo travellers join, and what does it cost?

Yes. This is a private tour, so you travel on your own dates and never share a room with strangers. One traveller pays the solo price shown in the booking box, single room included, because the transport, guiding and rooms are not split with anyone. Choose travellers and rooms in the booking box to see the exact price for your dates.

Can we travel with children?

Yes, and this route suits families: the farm stay, the boats, the beekeeping and the beaches. Children pay the same per-person price as adults and count as a person for the room layout. Infants up to 2 travel free. Child seats cost €7 per day. Contact us for specific conditions and discounts.

Can I add a driver or a driver-guide, and in which languages?

Yes. A private driver costs €1,400 per trip and an English-speaking driver-guide €1,950 per trip, for a vehicle of up to 6 travellers. For 7 or 8 travellers the price is 30% higher for a larger vehicle. The driver replaces your self-drive car, and fuel, tolls, parking and the driver’s hotels and meals are included. Driver-guides in other languages are available on request. French and Spanish speaking driver-guides cost slightly more.

Can the itinerary be changed?

Yes. We can customise the route, duration, pace and activities before you travel: add a night at Meteora or on Corfu, swap a stop, add the Paxos boat day or rafting, or upgrade hotels. Tell us your preferences and travel dates so we can confirm the arrangements.

When does the tour run, and when is the best time to go?

This is a private tour with departures on your chosen dates from May to October, booked at least 7 days ahead. The booking calendar only offers dates in those months. May, June and September are the sweet spot, warm enough to swim with quieter beaches and full ferry schedules. July and August are hottest and busiest at Ksamil, Saranda and Corfu. Outside the season the Corfu ferries, Meteora hours and coast hotels are reduced, so we do not run it.

How much does the 14-day tour cost?

The tour costs from €2,600 per person, two sharing, standard season, with a 30% deposit to book and the balance due 30 days before the trip. The booking box shows the exact price for your party, rooms and dates. International flights, fuel and travel insurance are extra.

What is the cancellation policy?

To book, you pay a 30% deposit. The balance is due 30 days before departure. The deposit is not refundable. If you cancel after paying the balance, you get the full balance back more than 30 days before departure, 70% of it 15 to 29 days before, 50% of it 1 to 14 days before, and nothing on the day or for a no-show. You can change your dates up to one month before the trip. If you fall ill we reschedule free of charge, and in some cases we review a cancellation individually. Send cancellation requests in writing to [email protected].

How do the hotels work?

Twelve nights are in carefully selected heritage and 4-star hotels, each with a room of at least 25 m², and one night is the Farma Sotira agritourism stay on the Vjosa. No vouchers are needed: you are expected at reception under your name. Rooms are double, twin, triple or single, chosen in the booking box.

What if my flight lands late on day 1, or leaves early on day 14?

Any flight works. If you land late on day 1, Kruja and Sari Salltik move to the morning of day 2 or are skipped, your choice. On day 14 we time your departure from Vlora to your flight: the drive to Tirana airport is about 2 hours.

How do I reach you during the trip?

On WhatsApp, 24/7, on three numbers: your dedicated agent, a second contact and an emergency line. You receive them with your booking confirmation.

How do the Meteora monasteries work?

Six monasteries are open to visitors, on different days, with modest dress required (long trousers or skirts and covered shoulders, and wraps are lent at the door). You visit in the afternoon light on day 7 and again early on day 8 before the coaches arrive. Entrance tickets are included. We send the opening days for your dates.

Cancellation and refunds

To book, you pay a 30% deposit. The balance is due 30 days before departure. The deposit is not refundable. If you cancel after paying the balance, you get the full balance back more than 30 days before departure, 70% of it 15 to 29 days before, 50% of it 1 to 14 days before, and nothing on the day or for a no-show. You can change your dates up to one month before the trip. If you fall ill we reschedule free of charge, and in some cases we review a cancellation individually. Send cancellation requests in writing to [email protected].

Full booking and sustainability policies →

Ask us anything about this trip

A local expert replies within 24 hours, in English, Spanish or Albanian.

Or WhatsApp us.

Every review

4.778 reviews

Kaum in Tirana angekommen ging es schon weiter in Richtung Norden über Shkodra ins Valbona Thal incl. Bootsfahrt über den Koman Stausee.DIe Natur ist atemberuband. Danach gab es einen kleinen Abstecher in den Kosovo nach Prizren, geschichtlich sehr wichtig für Albanien.von dort ging es ins wünderschöne Krujé mit großer Burg und Basar. Über Berat und Elbasan ging es zum Oridsee nach Pogradec. Weiter über kleine Dörfer , wo wir bei einem älteren Ehepaar essen und übernachten durften. Das war sehr interessant und authentisch. Der Abend endete mit einem lustigen Würfelspiel. Korcé war unser nächstes Ziel. hier wird das landestypiche Bier in mehreren Varianten gebraut. Sehr zu empfehlen. Über Permet ging es zur Weltkulturerbestadt Gijirokastra. Während dieser Fahrt hatten wir die Möglichkeit in Thermalbecken zu baden. Über die Ausgrabungsstätte Butrint erreichen wir Saranda am Ionischen Meer. Das 'Blaue Auge' hat uns auch stark beeindruckt. Nach einer spannenden Fahrt durch das Gebirge erreichen wir Vlora, eine moderne Stadt am Meer mit Flaniermeile und breiten Stränden. Appolonien ist der letzte Halt vor dem Reiseende in Tirana. Wir verlassen dieses wunderschöne Land mit vielen neuen EIndrücken und Erlebnissen. Vielen, vielen Dank an Elvira und Elmal!!!

✓ SIgi und Manfred

Ha soddisfatto le mie aspettative, ho visitato siti archeologici importanti, monumenti di grande valore, musei e parchi naturali di notevole bellezza. E' fondamentale avere il proprio mezzo di trasporto che ti permette di spostarti liberamente, non ci sono mezzi pubblici al di fuori delle aree cittadine. Un paese che stà cercando di sviluppare il turismo ma basato più sull' iniziativa privata che sulla promozione statale.

✓ Susy63

Organizzazione e serietà

✓ Angelo

Flug nach Korfu, Fährüberfahrt nach Saranda, dort Abholung durch lokale Agentur. Gijrokaster, Berat, Llogora, danach einige Tage Entspannung in Saranda und Tagesausflüge in die Umgebung.

✓ Sarah

El guìa ha sido impresionante, las explicacionean sido muy didácticas y detalladas.s h La agencia ha organizado un itineriario muy bien diseñado para conocer todo el país y los lugares más importantes

✓ Javier

Für uns war Albanien ein Neuland, entsprechend war die Spannung hoch, was uns dort erwarten würde. Von der örtlichen Reiseagentur haben wir -immer in Absprache mit uns- ein Reisepaket erhalten, was -am Ende der Reise betrachtet- nahezu genial war. Sprich, es hat uns alles richtig gut gefallen! Wir hatten uns von Anfang an entschlossen, an jedem Standort ca. 3 Tage zu bleiben, eher von dort aus Ausflüge zu unternehmen. Es hat sich als sehr gut herausgestellt, dass wir nicht jeden Tag woanders waren, so ist man mit den Angestellten im Hotel viel besser ins Gespräch gekommen, konnte auch von ihnen noch einige Hinweise aufnehmen. Die Hotels waren immer gut ausgewählte kleinere Häuser, oftmals auch noch ein kleines Stück weg vom Massentourismus und meist auch ruhig gelegen und immer auch mit Klimaanlage. Überall gab es Frühstück dazu, manchmal jeden Tag ein anderes, manchmal auch jeden Tag gleich - aber auch das war bei drei Tagen kein Problem. Mit dem Mietwagen ließen sich selbst Ausflüge organisieren, die in die Berge haben uns dabei wohl am besten gefallen. So hat man ziemlich einsame Gegenden kennengelernt und vor allem auch immer superfreundliche Menschen, die man immer fragen konnte, die auch Lust hatten mit einem zu kommunizieren (auch wenn das nicht immer ganz so einfach war, ein ordentliches Übersetzungsprogramm auf dem Handy konnte dabei gute Dienste leisten. Spätestens bei der Frage nach einem kafe turke konnte man den Gastgebern ein Lächeln ins Gesicht zaubern, wurde dabei auch oftmals noch ein wenig geherzt. Albanien hatte für uns so viele schöne Aussichten zu bieten, Canyons, warme Wasserquellen, Tiere aller Art in der Natur und auf der Straße und auch so richtig gutes Essen. Drei Essensgutscheine hatten wir von der Agentur bekommen, die Überraschungsmenüs aus der albanischen Küche waren jedes Mal ein Highlight und haben satt gemacht und zwar richtig satt. Obwohl wir jede Art von Essen zu uns nehmen, musste ich am Ende resümieren, dass wir in Albanien wohl zu über 95 % vegetarisch gegessen haben und es war immer total lecker. Übrigens, im Hotel *** in Tirana gab es so ein tolles Frühstück … ?. Oberlecker! Als Mietwagen hatten wir einen Skoda Fabia. Der Platz im Kofferraum war damit etwas begrenzt, aber es gab ja auch noch eine hintere Rücksitzbank. Übernahme und Abgabe des Autos gingen problemlos vonstatten. Das Auto war ein treuer Begleiter, auch wenn es manchen Berg nur im ersten Gang nach oben ging. Für den mitunter chaotischen Stadtverkehr und auch so einige engere Gässchen war es durchaus von Vorteil, dass es ein eher kleinerer Wagen war. Immer wieder sehenswert waren die hunderten kleinen Hängebrücken, die es überall gab. Sie sahen zwar manchmal nicht ganz so vertrauenserweckend aus, aber zumindest bei uns haben sie noch gut gehalten. Was hat uns nicht so gefallen? Da gab es nicht viel und vor allen Dingen nichts, was die Reiseagentur hätte ändern können. Zum einen waren das in manchen Gegenden junge Erwachsene, die wohl einmal einen Drang ausleben mussten und es darauf abgesehen hatten, mit ihren Quads und Motorrädern Touristen zu erschrecken. Das war mitunter unangenehm und rücksichtslos. Das zweite Problem, über was man an fast allen Ecken gestolpert ist, war der viele Müll. Überall, selbst in den schönsten Seen, schwammen oder lagen Büchsen, Plastikflaschen etc. Das wars dann aber auch schon mit dem Negativen. Noch einmal kurz zusammengefasst, alles in allem eine wirklich toll organisierte Reise. Es hat auch alles bestens geklappt, von der Abholung am Flughafen bis zur Abgabe am Ende an selbigem. Vielen Dank für das tolle Erlebnis und die perfekte Organisation! Eine klare Weiterempfehlung.

✓ S.

Planned and operated by InAlb, Tirana. Last updated 29 September 2026.

€2,600pp · 14 days