Albania · UNESCO Heritage Sites

7-Day Albania UNESCO and Riviera Tour with Butrint and Blue Eye

7 Days Round trip from Tiranë Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Visit four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Berat, Butrint, Gjirokastër, and Apollonia
02 Explore charming Gjirokastër, the 'City of Stone,' and its historic landmarks
03 Relax on the pristine beaches of the Albanian Riviera, including Ksamil and Borsh
04 Discover natural wonders such as the Blue Eye Spring and scenic coastal villages
05 Experience authentic Albanian cuisine and local culture at restaurants and venues

Discover the best of Albania on this 7-day journey through history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Explore four UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Berat, Butrint, Gjirokastër, and Apollonia - alongside the pristine beaches and picturesque villages of the Albanian Riviera. Along the way, visit natural highlights such as the Blue Eye Spring, savor authentic Albanian cuisine at local restaurants, and enjoy a comfortable experience with accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided visits included.

Marvel at the vivid turquoise waters of this natural spring, where water bubbles up from a depth of over 50 meters.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Premium

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Berat, Gjirokaster, Sarande, Tirana, Vlore, Butrint National Park, Himarë, Apollonia (Illyria)

Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

From Tirana to UNESCO-listed Berat and on to Saranda

08:00 - Breakfast in Tirana.
09:00 - Depart for Berat.
10:45 - Explore Berat (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- Berat Castle (1.5 hours): Walk through the hilltop fortress and enjoy views of the Osum River.
- Mangalem and Gorica Quarters (1 hour): Stroll through these Ottoman-era neighborhoods.
- Optional: Visit the Onufri Museum (30 mins) inside the castle for a glimpse of medieval Orthodox art.
13:00 - Lunch in Berat.
- Recommended: Tave Kosi (lamb with yogurt) at a restaurant overlooking the Osum River.
14:30 - Depart for Saranda.
- Enjoy a scenic drive south, passing through the rugged mountains of southern Albania.
18:00 - Check in at your hotel in Saranda.
- After the drive, take some time to get comfortable and unwind.
19:30 - Dinner along Saranda's promenade.
- Suggested: Seafood risotto or grilled sea bass at a waterfront restaurant.

Overnight in Saranda.

Day 02

Butrint, the Blue Eye Spring, and Ksamil Beaches

08:00 - Breakfast at your hotel in Saranda.
- Fuel up for a day packed with nature, history, and beach time.
09:00 - Depart for Butrint Archaeological Park.
09:30 - Explore Butrint (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- This fascinating archaeological site, surrounded by a lagoon, showcases the ruins of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian civilizations.
- Highlights include:
  - The Theater
  - The Baptistery, with its mosaic floors
  - The Lion Gate and the Acropolis
  - The Roman Forum and Venetian Tower
12:00 - Depart for the Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër).
12:30 - Visit the Blue Eye Spring (45 mins).
- Marvel at the vivid turquoise waters of this natural spring, where water bubbles up from a depth of over 50 meters. Take a short walk along the trails around the spring, and enjoy a coffee or refreshment at the nearby café.
13:30 - Depart for Ksamil Beaches.
14:00 - Lunch by the beach in Ksamil.
- Enjoy a relaxing lunch with views of the Ionian Sea. Recommended: Grilled seafood platter or local salads with a glass of Albanian wine.
15:00 - Relax at Ksamil Beaches.
- Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the idyllic beaches of Ksamil. Sunbathe on the soft sands, swim in the turquoise waters, or rent a kayak to explore the nearby islands.
17:30 - Return to Saranda.
18:00 - Free time to relax before dinner.
- Take some time to unwind at your hotel or stroll along the Saranda promenade.
20:00 - Dinner at a local restaurant in Saranda.
- Enjoy another evening by the sea. Suggested: Mussels from Butrint Lake or shrimp risotto.

Overnight in Saranda.

Day 03

Day Trip to UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër

08:00 - Breakfast in Saranda.
09:00 - Depart for Gjirokastër.
10:00 - Explore Gjirokastër (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
- Gjirokastër Castle (1 hour): Discover the fortress and its museum of historical weapons.
- Skenduli House (30 mins): Visit this Ottoman-era home with authentic Albanian architecture.
- Ethnographic Museum (optional, 45 mins): Learn about the city's heritage and local traditions.
13:00 - Lunch in Gjirokastër.
- Recommended: Try qifqi (rice balls) and byrek (flaky pie) at a local taverna.
14:30 - Free time to explore Gjirokastër.
- Stroll through the bazaar for souvenirs, have a coffee at a local café, or explore the city at your own pace.
16:30 - Depart for Saranda.
18:00 - Free evening in Saranda.
- Relax at the hotel or take a stroll along the promenade.
20:00 - Dinner at a local restaurant.
- Recommended: Fresh fish with garlic and herbs.

Overnight in Saranda.

Day 04

Scenic Ionian Coast Drive to Vlora

07:30 - Breakfast and check-out from your hotel.
08:30 - Depart for Vlora via the Ionian Coast.
09:30 - Stop at Borsh Beach.
- Enjoy a morning walk along Borsh Beach, the longest on the Ionian coast. Have a coffee or fresh juice at a beachfront café.
11:30 - Stop in Himara Village.
- Explore the laid-back charm of Himara. Optionally, take a swim at the beach or enjoy a light snack at a seaside café.
13:30 - Stop in Dhermi Village.
- Take a break in Dhermi, one of the most picturesque destinations along the Riviera, known for its cobbled streets and azure waters. Enjoy lunch here - try seafood pasta or grilled calamari.
16:00 - Continue to Vlora.
17:30 - Check in at your hotel in Vlora.
- Take some time to rest after the scenic drive.
19:30 - Dinner along the Vlora promenade.
- Recommended: Pasticcio or fresh mussels with local wine.

Overnight in Vlora.

Day 05

Boat Trip to Haxhi Ali's Cave and Free Time in Vlora

08:00 - Breakfast at your hotel.
09:00 - Boat trip to Haxhi Ali's Cave (3-4 hours).
- Explore the spectacular Haxhi Ali Cave on a boat trip along the Vlora coast. Optional: Swim or snorkel during the journey.
13:00 - Lunch at a restaurant by the harbor.
15:00 - Free afternoon.
- Relax on Vlora Beach or stroll along the Lungomare Promenade.
- Visit the Independence Museum to learn about Albania's history.
19:30 - Dinner with live music on the promenade.

Overnight in Vlora.

Day 06

Leisure Day in Vlora with Beach and Castle Options

08:00 - Breakfast at your hotel. Morning options:
- Visit Zvernec Island and explore the Byzantine Monastery.
- Take a short drive to Kaninë Castle for views over Vlora Bay.
- Spend the morning on Vlora Beach.
13:00 - Lunch at a beachside restaurant. Afternoon:
- Enjoy your last afternoon in Vlora by the beach or shop for souvenirs.
19:30 - Dinner at a local restaurant.
- Suggested: Paçe Koke or spaghetti with seafood.

Overnight in Vlora.

Day 07

Apollonia Archaeological Park and Return to Tirana

08:00 - Breakfast and check-out.
09:00 - Depart for Apollonia.
10:00 - Explore Apollonia Archaeological Park (UNESCO).
- Walk through the ruins of this ancient Greek city, visiting the theater, Bouleuterion, and Church of Saint Mary.
12:30 - Lunch near Apollonia.
14:00 - Depart for Tirana.
16:30 - Arrive in Tirana - end of the tour.

Where this trip takes you

Berat Castle, Blue Eye, Butrint, Ksamil Beaches

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Tiranë 8 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation: 6 nights at 4-star hotels (3 nights in Saranda, 2 in Vlora, 1 in Tirana).
Meals: All meals included (breakfast, lunch, dinner), with local and international dishes.
Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicle, fuel, tolls, parking, and airport transfers.
Guided tours: Bilingual guide (English and Italian), with additional languages available for larger groups.
Entrance fees: Included for all sites visited.
Insurance: Liability insurance for all activities and transportation.

What's Not Included

International flights and personal travel insurance.
Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, minibar, laundry).
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Optional activities and excursions.
Meals and drinks outside the program.

What to bring

Travel documents: ensure your passport is valid and check visa requirements.
Health and safety: pack sun protection, stay hydrated, and bring any necessary medications.
Albania enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Summers are warm, and coastal areas may be breezy. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.

Know before you go

Albania is known for its warm hospitality. Learning a few phrases in Albanian, like 'Faleminderit' (Thank you), will be appreciated by locals.
Modest clothing is recommended for visits to religious or historical sites.
Comfort and convenience: stay in handpicked 4-star hotels, enjoy delicious traditional meals, and travel in comfort with a professional guide.
Professional guide: travel with a knowledgeable guide who brings Albania's history, culture, and traditions to life.
Why choose this tour: this all-inclusive experience offers the perfect combination of history, nature, and luxury. It's the best way to see Albania, from its vibrant cities to its peaceful countryside and stunning coastline. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a beach lover, or a cultural explorer, this trip offers something for everyone. Let us take you on an unforgettable journey through Albania, where every stop is more beautiful than the last and every meal is a celebration of local flavors. This is more than a tour - it's a deep dive into the heart and soul of Albania, showcasing its most breathtaking sights and warm hospitality. Experience Albania like never before!
Optional add-ons such as kayaking, snorkeling, wine-tasting, and professional photography are available at an additional cost.

Logistics