Albania: The Soul of the Balkans
5th – 12th February 2027
Itinerary Overview: Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana
We will meet our Tour Leader at Malta International Airport at 11:30hrs to complete the check-in procedures for our flight to Tirana, scheduled to depart at 13:30hrs.
Upon arrival at Tirana International Airport, we will be warmly welcomed by our professional Albanian Odyssey representative and transferred to our hotel.
We will begin our discovery of Albania’s vibrant capital with a guided walking tour through Tirana’s lively city centre. We will explore Skanderbeg Square, admire the colourful architecture that characterises the city, visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque and the Clock Tower, and discover the fascinating history behind the Pyramid of Tirana and the former communist district of Blloku.
Our guide will introduce us to Albania’s rich history and culture, as well as the country’s modern transformation, while allowing us to experience the energetic atmosphere of Tirana.
Overnight in Tirana.
Itinerary Overview: Day 2 – Krujë & Berat
After breakfast, we will depart for the historic town of Krujë, the birthplace of Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg and one of the country’s most significant cultural landmarks.
We will explore the impressive Krujë Castle, visit the Skanderbeg Museum, and stroll through the charming Old Bazaar, where traditional artisans continue centuries-old craftsmanship and local culture comes to life.
Later, we will continue to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Berat, affectionately known as the “City of One Thousand Windows.” Upon arrival, we will enjoy a guided tour of one of Albania’s most beautiful historic towns. We will visit the magnificent Berat Castle, still home to local families, discover the renowned Onufri Iconographic Museum, and wander through the picturesque Mangalem and Gorica quarters, connected by the historic Gorica Bridge.The city’s unique blend of Byzantine churches, Ottoman architecture, and breathtaking hillside setting creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
Overnight in Berat.
Itinerary Overview: Day 3 – Bogova Waterfall and Osumi Canyon
After breakfast, we will continue exploring the natural beauty surrounding the UNESCO World Heritage city of Berat with an excursion into one of Albania’s most picturesque landscapes.
We will begin with a visit to Bogova Waterfall, a hidden natural gem nestled within lush forests and pristine countryside. A pleasant walk will lead us to the crystal-clear waterfall, where the fresh mountain air and tranquil surroundings provide the perfect opportunity to relax and appreciate Albania’s unspoiled nature.
We will then continue towards the spectacular Osumi Canyon, one of Albania’s most impressive natural attractions. Carved over thousands of years by the Osum River, the canyon stretches for several kilometres and features towering cliffs, fascinating rock formations, small waterfalls, and breathtaking panoramic viewpoints. Our guide will introduce us to the geological significance of the canyon while sharing stories and legends associated with this remarkable landscape.
In the afternoon, we will return to Berat, where we can enjoy some free time to stroll through the city’s charming streets, relax at one of its traditional cafés, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage city.
Overnight in Berat.
Itinerary Overview: Day 4 – Llogara National Park, Himarë and Sarandë
After breakfast, we will continue our journey along one of Europe’s most spectacular coastal roads. We will travel through the breathtaking Llogara National Park, where the winding mountain road offers unforgettable panoramic views over the Ionian Sea. Along the way, we will stop at scenic viewpoints to admire the spectacular landscapes before descending towards the charming seaside town of Himarë.
We will then continue to Porto Palermo Castle, an impressive fortress traditionally associated with Ali Pasha of Tepelena, dramatically situated on a small peninsula overlooking the sea.
Our journey will continue to the coastal city of Sarandë, Albania’s most popular Riviera destination. Here, we will have time to enjoy the waterfront promenade and take in the beautiful sunset over the Ionian Sea.
Overnight in Sarandë.
Itinerary Overview: Day 5 – Butrint and Ksamil
After breakfast, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, Albania’s most important archaeological treasure. We will discover the fascinating remains of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian civilisations as we explore the ancient theatre, basilica, baptistery, city walls, and temples, all surrounded by lush Mediterranean nature.
We will then continue to the idyllic beaches of Ksamil, famous for their white sands, turquoise waters, and picturesque islands. Here, we will have free time to relax or enjoy lunch at one of the seaside restaurants overlooking the crystal-clear Ionian Sea.
In the afternoon, we will return to Sarandë for a relaxing evening.
Overnight in Sarandë.
Itinerary Overview: Day 6 – Blue Eye Spring and Gjirokastër
After breakfast, we will depart from Sarandë and travel inland to one of Albania’s most extraordinary natural attractions, the Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër). Hidden within a lush forest, this remarkable natural spring captivates visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vivid shades of blue, and mysterious depths, making it one of the country’s most photographed natural wonders.
We will then continue to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Gjirokastër, often referred to as the “City of Stone.” Upon arrival, we will enjoy a guided tour through its beautifully preserved Ottoman-era streets. We will visit the imposing Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest fortresses in the Balkans, offering spectacular panoramic views over the Drino Valley.
We will stroll through the charming Old Bazaar, lined with traditional stone buildings, artisan workshops, and inviting cafés, while discovering the city’s rich history, unique architecture, and authentic Albanian traditions.
Overnight in Gjirokastër.
Itinerary Overview: Day 7 – Dajti National Park and Tirana
After breakfast, we will depart from Gjirokastër and begin our journey back towards Tirana. Along the way, we will enjoy the changing landscapes of southern and central Albania as we travel from the historic stone city towards the capital.
Upon reaching the Tirana area, we will continue to Dajti National Park, one of Albania’s most beautiful natural areas overlooking the capital. We will take the Dajti Ekspres cable car up the mountain, where we can enjoy spectacular panoramic views over Tirana and the surrounding landscape.
The mountain provides a refreshing contrast to the city and offers an ideal opportunity to relax and take in the natural surroundings after our journey from Gjirokastër.
Later, we will return to Tirana and check in at our hotel. The remainder of the evening will be free to enjoy the capital at our own pace.
Overnight in Tirana.
Itinerary Overview: Day 8 –
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and had to the airport to check in for the return flight back home that is scheduled to depart at 11:25hrs.
Tour Pricing and Inclusions
| Adult in a single room | €1190 |
| Adult in a twin/double room | €1050 |
| Adult in a triple room | €1010 |
| Child sharing with 2 paying adults | €810 |
Price includes:
- Direct RyanAir flights – Malta – Tirana – Malta
- 20kgs checked in luggage and small bag
- 7 nights accommodation in 4* hotels
- Daily breakfast
- All transfers mentioned in the itinerary
- All excursions mentioned in the itinerary
- English-speaking licensed tour guide for the entire itinerary
- All entrance fees and tickets to museums and attractions, including:
- Bunk’Art 2
- Skanderbeg Museum
- Onufri museum
- Porto Palermo castle
- Butrint National Park
- Blue Eye Sping
- Gjirokastër Castle
- Skenduli House & Weapons Museum
- Cable car
- Radio guide system (whispers) for clear audio during guided visits and city tours
- Service of a Maltese speaking Kercem A’ Tours tour leader
- Insolvency Fund Certificate
Price does not Include
- Meals
NB. The itinerary may be subject to slight adjustments due to unforeseen circumstances that may occur.
The booking is confirmed upon payment of €400 deposit per person.
Payments can be made with a cheque made payable to Kercem A’ Tours, via bank transfer or by cash. Card payments are also accepted over the phone.
For bank transfers kindly issue the payments to the following Bank Account details: Kercem A Tours
Account Number: 50023350130
IBAN: MT68VALL22013000000050023350130
Account Currency: EUR
With bank transfers please make reference to the tour and provide your full name. Eg. Albania – MR AND MRS VELLA