Traditional Northern experience 

5-Day Tour of Central to Northern Albania (and Kosovo): Rivers, Mountains, and Heritage

 

Discover the best of Albania and Kosovo over 5 carefully planned days, blending stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and premium concierge services. This exclusive tour is designed with flexibility in mind, catering to families, adventurers, or luxury travelers. Enjoy seamless travel, unique cultural interactions, and tailored dining experiences, including options for dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, or meat-based dishes.

 

Day 1: Tirana – Discover Albania’s Capital

 

Morning:

 

• Begin your tour in Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania. Enjoy a guided tour of Skanderbeg Square, the iconic Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the National History Museum to set the stage for your Albanian adventure.

• Stop at a charming café in the Blloku District for a morning espresso or traditional Albanian coffee, prepared in the cezve (small pot).

 

Afternoon:

 

• Visit the Pyramid of Tirana, followed by a scenic cable car ride up Dajti Mountain. Soak in panoramic views of the city while enjoying a light lunch at the mountaintop restaurant. Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options , such as grilled vegetables or salads, are available alongside meat-based and pescatarian dishes.

 

Evening:

 

• Relish a curated dining experience at a top-tier restaurant in Tirana, with choices for traditional Albanian or international cuisine, tailored to your dietary needs.

• Overnight in a luxury hotel in the heart of Tirana. Our concierge can arrange additional amenities, such as spa treatments, private shopping, or personalized evening plans.

 

Day 2: Tirana to Berat – Albania’s City of a Thousand Windows

 

Morning:

 

• After breakfast, depart for Berat, the city of a thousand windows, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, just a 1.5-hour drive away. Stop midway at a cozy roadside café for a refreshing coffee break, where you can try byrek (a traditional savoury snack).

• Upon arrival, explore the iconic Berat Castle, with its ancient churches, mosques, and sweeping views of the Osum River.

 

Afternoon:

 

• Wander through the Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, known for their Ottoman-style houses. Visit the Ethnographic Museum for an in-depth look at Berat’s history and traditions.

• Lunch at a riverside restaurant offers the chance to sample regional specialties, like tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), vegetarian options like stuffed peppers, or a pescatarian dish of grilled trout.

 

Evening:

 

• Enjoy a private dinner arranged by our concierge at one of Berat’s boutique wineries or restaurants, where you can pair fine wines with dishes that suit your dietary preferences.

• Overnight in a charming boutique hotel in Berat, where our concierge will ensure your comfort and any special requests are met.

 

Day 3: Berat to Shkodra – Cultural Capital of Northern Albania

 

Morning:

 

• Depart for Shkodra, a 2.5-hour drive north. Take a mid-journey lunch break in Durres and enjoy a meal in one of Albania's most favourite restaurants.

• Arrive in Shkodra and visit the imposing Rozafa Castle, which offers breathtaking views of the Drin, Buna, and Kiri Rivers. Your guide will share the fascinating legend of the castle.

 

Afternoon:

 

• Explore Rruga Kolë Idromeno, Shkodra’s vibrant pedestrian street, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and traditional coffee houses.

 

Evening:

 

• Dine at a renowned local restaurant specializing in Northern Albanian cuisine, such as slow-cooked veal, Krap fish from Lake Shkodra, or vegetarian and vegan options like polenta with fresh greens.

• Stay overnight in a luxury hotel, where our concierge will provide personalized touches to ensure your stay is unforgettable.

 

Certainly! Here’s the updated Day 4, now including a trip into Bajram Curri, the main town of Tropoja:

 

Day 4: Shkodra to Valbona Valley via Koman Ferry – Into the Albanian Alps

 

Morning:

 

• Depart Shkodra early and head to the village of Koman, approximately 1.5 hours away.

• Board a scenic ferry that will take you through the breathtaking Koman Lake, often compared to the fjords of Norway. This journey offers stunning views of dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and turquoise waters. The ferry ride is a highlight of the trip, providing a unique and tranquil way to experience the heart of the Albanian Alps.

 

Midday:

 

• Arrive at the ferry dock near Fierza and continue by private transportation to Valbona Valley National Park, a short drive away.

• Settle into your chalet-style accommodation and take some time to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

 

Afternoon:

 

• After settling in, visit Bajram Curri, the main town of Tropoja, for a guided tour. Explore this vibrant hub of northern Albania, where you can experience local life and culture. Stroll through the town’s charming streets, visit local shops, and stop at a café for a coffee or refreshing drink.

• Return to Valbona Valley for a guided hike or nature walk through its pristine landscapes. For those preferring a more relaxed pace, unwind at your accommodation or enjoy the breathtaking views.

 

Evening:

 

• Savor a traditional mountain-style dinner at your guesthouse, featuring hearty dishes such as grilled lamb, fresh dairy products, or vegetarian options like bean stews and roasted vegetables.

• Spend the night in cozy chalet-style accommodation, offering serene views of the valley and the perfect setting to unwind.

 

Morning:

 

• Depart Valbona and journey through the scenic landscapes of the Albanian Alps, crossing the border into Kosovo.

• Stop in Gjakova, a city renowned for its rich culture, history, and vibrant Old Bazaar (Çarshia e Madhe), which is one of the oldest and largest in the Balkans. Here, you’ll have time to shop for unique handmade crafts, traditional textiles, and artisanal goods.

• Our concierge will provide assistance with shopping and purchases, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

 

Midday:

 

• Enjoy a coffee or light lunch at one of Gjakova’s charming cafes, soaking in the blend of Ottoman and modern influences that characterize the city.

 

Afternoon:

 

• Continue your journey, re-entering Albania through Kukës, where you’ll witness breathtaking mountain and river views. This region is steeped in natural beauty, providing an unforgettable scenic drive.

• Arrive in Kruja, a historic city perched on a hillside. Visit the Skanderbeg Museum within Kruja Castle, which celebrates Albania’s national hero, and stroll through the Old Bazaar. This charming market is perfect for picking up last-minute souvenirs or handmade items to commemorate your journey.

 

Evening:

 

• Conclude your journey by returning to Tirana, where a farewell lunch will be arranged at a top-rated restaurant. Depending on your interests, enjoy one final experience, such as a visit to the House of Leaves Museum or a private shopping trip in the Blloku District.

 

Late Evening:

 

• Our concierge will ensure a seamless transfer to your next destination, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Albania and Kosovo.

 

Premium Concierge Services

 

Throughout your journey, our premium concierge service guarantees a luxurious and hassle-free experience:

 

• Tailored Itineraries: Activities and stops are curated to match your interests, pace, and fitness levels.

• Comfortable Travel: Private transportation with luxury vehicles, Wi-Fi, refreshments, and shorter drives for added convenience.

• Exclusive Dining: Handpicked restaurants offering personalized menus for vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, or meat-based diets.

• Luxury Accommodations: Boutique hotels, chalets, and guesthouses meeting the highest standards of comfort.

• Personalized Experiences: Private hikes, wine tastings, cooking classes, or spa treatments arranged to your liking.

• Eco-Friendly Options: Supporting local businesses and ensuring minimal environmental impact during tours and hikes.

 

For more information or to tailor this itinerary further, contact us today. Let us craft a unique Albanian and Kosovar adventure just for you!