Balkans Best Croatia, Montenegro, Albania and Northern Greece in 20 Days
A 20-day journey from Croatia to Greece, rich in coastlines, heritage and flavors, ending in Thessaloniki.
An 11-day journey through Albania and North Macedonia combining history, culture and stunning nature. Explore UNESCO cities and picturesque lakes for an authentic Balkan experience.
Top 5 Highlights
UNESCO Icons & Medieval Heritage: Wander the cobbled streets of Berat and Gjirokastra, explore Kruja’s castle and bazaar, and uncover centuries of history in Albania’s most storied towns.
Ancient Civilizations & Archaeological Wonders: Step into Europe’s oldest settlement in Lin, roam the Greek and Roman ruins of Butrint and stroll through the remarkably preserved city of Apollonia.
From Alpine Lakes to the Ionian Riviera: Wake up to serene mountain lakes and end your days on golden beaches, swimming in crystal-clear bays and relaxing on hidden shores.
Nature’s Masterpieces: Marvel at the sapphire depths of the Blue Eye spring, drift through swan-filled Drilon National Park and trek to the secluded paradise of Gjipe Bay.
Sailing & Seaside Bliss: Set out on a boat adventure to the Ksamil Islands, secret Ionian bays, and sun-soaked coastal villages that capture the essence of Mediterranean escape.
Morning: Depart from Tirana, enjoying scenic drives through Albania’s countryside toward Ohrid. First stop: Lin, one of Europe’s oldest civilizations, dating back 6,000 years. Then visit Struga, stroll the lakeside promenade, see Saint George Church, explore traditional streets and optionally take a boat ride on the River Black Drin.
Afternoon: Continue to Ohrid, a UNESCO site. Explore Ohrid Fortress, Church of Saint John at Kaneo, the Antique Theater, Samuil’s Fortress and Plaoshnik. Enjoy a lakeside lunch before a scenic boat trip to the Bay of Bones for swimming, photos, or relaxation.
Evening: Drive to Pogradec with panoramic lake views. Check into your hotel and enjoy a lakeside dinner with local specialties. Overnight in Pogradec.
Accommodation in Pogradec Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Enjoy a traditional Albanian breakfast at your hotel , then take a peaceful walk along Lake Pogradec. Visit the lush Drilon National Park, explore its springs, watch swans, or take a boat ride.
Afternoon: Discover Tushemisht Village with its charming stone houses and lakeside views. Enjoy a lakeside lunch with fresh Koran trout. Drive to Korca, stopping for panoramic views along the way. Admire the impressive Korca Cathedral, one of Albania’s largest Orthodox churches and delve into Albania’s artistic heritage at the National Museum of Medieval Art. Finally, visit Mesonjetorja, the birthplace of Albanian education, at The First Albanian School Museum.
Evening: Relax at your hotel in Korca, enjoy a delicious dinner and soak in the city’s peaceful atmosphere.
Accommodation in Korca Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Start your day with a traditional Albanian breakfast in Korca, then drive through scenic mountain landscapes to Erseka. Explore its narrow streets, admire traditional houses and enjoy Albanian coffee with panoramic views of Mount Gramoz.
Afternoon: Head to an agritourism near Leskovik for a farm-to-table lunch with fresh vegetables, cheeses and roasted meats. Experience rural life, feed animals and learn about local traditions. Continue to Leskovik to see the historic Plane Tree and stroll through the peaceful town before traveling to Permet.
Evening: Arrive in Permet, relax at your hotel and explore the town’s natural beauty. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local specialties and wine, then unwind for an overnight stay in this tranquil mountain town.
Accommodation in Permet Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Travel to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage town, and explore Gjirokastra Castle with its historic prison cells, panoramic views, and the Arms Museum showcasing Albania’s military past.
Midday: Stroll through the vibrant Ottoman bazaar, shop for handwoven carpets and silver jewelry, and enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch featuring regional specialties like Gjirokastrian meatballs and gliko dessert.
Afternoon: Visit the Ethnographic Museum and the iconic Skenduli House to experience traditional Albanian life. Spend some free time wandering the charming streets and soaking in the town’s unique atmosphere.
Discover Syri i Kalter (The Blue Eye), a stunning natural spring and enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch nearby.
Evening: Depart for Saranda along the scenic Ionian coast. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely seafront stroll, a seafood dinner, and a relaxing evening by the beach with optional cocktails. Overnight in Saranda.
Accommodation in Saranda Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Enjoy breakfast in Saranda before setting sail from the port at 10:00 AM. Cruise along the Ionian Sea, stopping at Cape Qefalit for panoramic views, Kakomese Bay for a refreshing swim and Krorez Bay to relax in serene surroundings.
Afternoon: Savor a seafood lunch and continue to Roidhes Bay for more swimming or relaxation. Enjoy the stunning coastline as you head back to Saranda by late afternoon, around 5:00 PM.
Evening: Return to Saranda for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, unwind and reflect on your day exploring the Ionian Sea. Overnight in Saranda.
Accommodation in Saranda Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Enjoy breakfast in Saranda before heading to Ksamil, a coastal paradise with turquoise waters and idyllic beaches. Swim, sunbathe and soak in the natural beauty.
Midday: Relax with a seaside lunch, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties with stunning views.
Afternoon: Explore the nearby islands of Ksamil, perfect for swimming, sunbathing and unwinding in peaceful surroundings. Return to Saranda in the late afternoon.
Evening: Unwind at your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on a serene day by the sea. Overnight in Saranda.
Accommodation in Saranda Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Enjoy breakfast in Saranda before visiting Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian ruins, including the theater, basilica and fortifications.
Midday: Continue to Borsh, a peaceful village with a pristine beach and olive groves. Relax, swim and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.
Evening: Savor a seafood dinner overlooking the coast, then travel to Himara for your overnight stay.
Accommodation in Himara Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Enjoy breakfast in Himara, then visit the picturesque Vuno Village with its stone houses and panoramic coastal views. Continue to Gjipe Bay, a secluded paradise of turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs.
Midday: Relax on Gjipe’s beach, swim in the pristine waters, or hike to Gjipe Canyon for stunning views. Enjoy a seaside lunch with local specialties.
Afternoon: Travel to Dhermi, famous for its golden sands and crystal waters. Spend the afternoon swimming, kayaking, or exploring Dhermi Village with its stone houses and old churches.
Evening: Return to Himara via the scenic coastal road. Savor a seafood dinner while watching the sunset over the Ionian Sea. Overnight in Himara.
Accommodation in Himara Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: After breakfast in Himara, travel to Vlora, where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet. Discover this vibrant city rich in history.
Midday: Visit Independence Square and the Muradie Mosque. Stroll the promenade, shop local markets, then relax and enjoy lunch by Vlora Beach.
Afternoon: Choose an optional boat trip to Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula, exploring pristine beaches, cliffs and the famous Blue Cave. On the way to Tirana, stop at Apollonia Archaeological Park to explore ancient Greek and Roman ruins.
Evening: Arrive in Tirana after a scenic journey. Enjoy an optional dinner in the city before your overnight stay.
Accommodation in Tirana Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Depart Tirana for Belsh, a tranquil lakeside village surrounded by rolling hills. Enjoy lakeside walks, boat rides, or kayaking before continuing to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage town.
Midday: Explore Berat Castle with its sweeping views and the Onufri Museum. Stroll through the Mangalem Quarter and enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch.
Afternoon: Travel to Durres, where history meets the sea. Visit the impressive Amphitheatre, then relax along the seaside promenade with time for shopping and sunset views.
Evening: Return to Tirana after a day rich in culture, history and natural beauty. Overnight in Tirana.
Accommodation in Tirana Option 1 (Can be change upon request)
Morning: Drive from Tirana to Kruja, hometown of national hero Skanderbeg. Visit Kruja Castle, the Ethnographic Museum and stroll the historic Old Bazaar, where you can meet artisans and try loom-weaving.
Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional Albanian dishes like tave kosi and fergese with mountain views before heading to Shkodra, the cultural capital of the north. Explore Rozafa Castle, the city’s historic center, the Historical Museum and the Marubi National Museum of Photography.
Evening: Return to Tirana. Depending on your flight schedule, transfer directly to the airport or overnight in the city with a transfer the following morning.
If your flight is at night, you will be transferred to the airport after visiting Kruja and Shkodra. If your flight is in the morning of the next day, you will return to the hotel and be transferred to the airport according to your flight schedule.
Private eco-friendly, air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour
Boat/ferry rides (Bay of Bones, Ionian boat tours)
All activities listed in the itinerary, entrance fees to castles, museums, archaeological sites and natural parks
Expert Tour Guide: English-speaking, present throughout the trip
Airport transfer
24/7 in-country support
International flights to/from Tirana
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks, tips)
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Meals not specified as included
Visa fees (if applicable)
Start Location: Tirana, Albania
End Location: Tirana, Albania
Group Size: Small group (max 12–16 travelers)
Tour Type: Guided / Active / Cultural Immersion
Accommodation:
Boutique hotels in cities & coastal areas
Best Season: May – October
Transportation:
Private air-conditioned vehicles
Boat trip on Lake Ohrid
Private boats on the Ionian Sea (Ksamil, Karaburun Peninsula, Grama Bay)
Meals Included:
Daily breakfast
Selected lunches and dinners (see Inclusions)
This itinerary is designed for the curious and active cultural explorer. It is perfect for travelers who:
North Macedonia
Ohrid (UNESCO): Old Town, Fortress, Kaneo Church
Struga: Lakeside promenade
Albania
Pogradec: Lakeside town on Lake Ohrid
Korca: Cultural & historic center
Gjirokastra(UNESCO): Castle & Old Bazaar
Saranda: Coastal hub
Ksamil: Famous beaches & islands
Albanian Riviera: Himara, Dhermi, Borsh
Vlora: Independence city
Apollonia: Ancient Archaeological Park
Berat (UNESCO): Castle & Mangalem Quarter
Durres: Roman amphitheater & coast
Kruja: Castle & Bazaar
Shkodra: Rozafa Castle & Old Town
Tirana: Capital city
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