Question 1

How quickly will I get a response?

Accepted Answer

We aim to reply to all inquiries within 24 hours during business days. For urgent requests, please call us directly.

Question 2

Is Albania safe for travelers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Albania is considered a very safe destination for travelers. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and tourist areas are generally very well-patrolled and secure. As with any travel, we recommend staying aware of your surroundings and taking basic precautions, especially in busy areas.

Question 3

What age are the solo group tours for?

Accepted Answer

Our solo group tours typically bring together travellers aged 30–65, so you share the journey with people in a similar stage of life.

Question 4

How many days do you need to explore Albania?

Accepted Answer

To experience the highlights of both northern and southern Albania, we recommend at least 10–11 days. This gives you enough time to combine the Albanian Alps, historic towns, countryside and Riviera without rushing. If you would also like a taste of a neighbouring destination—such as Kotor and Budva in Montenegro, Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, or Corfu—plan around 12–13 days. For a more complete two-country journey, around 15 days is ideal, while broader multi-country tours through the Balkans can easily extend to 18–20 days or more, depending on how much you want to explore.

Question 5

Is Albania a good destination for a self-drive tour?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Albania is a great destination for a road trip. Although the country is relatively small, around 75% of its territory is mountainous or hilly, so driving between destinations is typically around 2–3 hours per day, with some days reaching around 4 hours. Roads are generally paved and in good condition, although some rural and mountain roads can be narrower and winding. A self-drive tour gives you the freedom to explore Albania at your own pace.

Question 6

What are Private Guided Tours?

Accepted Answer

Private Guided Tours are organised exclusively for you and your group, with private transportation, a dedicated driver and a licensed tour guide. You can choose one of our existing itineraries or create your own private tour by filling in our Design My Trip form, telling us your dates, interests and travel preferences. We’ll then design the journey around you.

Question 7

What is the typical group size on your shared group tours?

Accepted Answer

Our shared group tours are designed around small groups, usually up to 10–15 travellers. Keeping the groups small creates a more personal experience, makes it easier to connect with your guide and fellow travellers, and allows us to include places and local experiences that are difficult to enjoy with large tour groups.

Question 8

What is the best time of year to visit Albania?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Albania depends on the type of trip you are planning. May, June, September and early October are excellent for touring, hiking and exploring the country, with pleasant temperatures and generally fewer visitors. July and August are ideal for enjoying the Albanian Riviera and beaches, although they are also the busiest and hottest months. The Albanian Alps are best explored from late spring to early autumn.

Question 9

What is included in an Albania self-drive tour?

Accepted Answer

Your package includes a rental car with full casco insurance, handpicked accommodation, a personalised itinerary, navigation support and local assistance throughout your journey. We can also include pre-booked experiences, wine tastings and special meals, particularly at agritourism farms and in rural areas, giving you a more authentic taste of Albania along the way. Exact inclusions are shown in each itinerary.

Question 10

Who are Private Guided Tours best suited for?

Accepted Answer

Private Guided Tours are ideal for couples, families, groups of friends and private groups who prefer a more personal and flexible way to travel. They are particularly suitable if you want to explore at your own pace, have specific interests, or simply enjoy having a guide and vehicle dedicated exclusively to your group.

Question 11

What is included in a shared group tour?

Accepted Answer

Our shared group tours are designed as complete multi-day journeys, with handpicked 3- and 4-star hotels, comfortable transportation, an expert local guide, selected meals, entrance fees and authentic local experiences. Depending on the type of tour, cultural, adventure or hiking, these can range from traditional meals with local families, agritourism visits and wine tastings to hiking, boat trips, rafting, kayaking and ATV/quad adventures. Each tour page clearly lists all specific inclusions.

Question 12

What is the best time to visit Albania?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit is from May to October. June and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds, while July and August are perfect for the beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking in the Alps.

Question 13

Do I need to have previous travel experience?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Many of our guests are travelling alone for the first time — our guides take care of every detail.

Question 14

Can you help me plan a custom trip?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Share your travel dates, interests and budget in the message field and our local experts will craft a personalized itinerary.

Question 15

Do I need a visa to visit Albania?

Accepted Answer

Citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia and many other countries can enter Albania visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check the latest entry requirements for your nationality before you travel.

Question 16

Who usually joins your shared group tours?

Accepted Answer

Our shared tours welcome travellers from around the world, including couples, friends and independent travellers who enjoy discovering new places with a small group. You don’t need to know anyone before joining—the shared journey and experiences naturally create opportunities to connect with your fellow travellers.

Question 17

Will I have my own room?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a single room supplement is available on all tours, so you can enjoy your own space whenever you like.

Question 18

What is the best way to travel around Albania?

Accepted Answer

For a multi-day trip, Albania is best explored by car or organised private transport, as many of its most beautiful places are spread across the country and public transport can be limited in rural areas. Travellers can choose a private guided tour for a fully supported experience, a self-drive tour for greater independence, or a shared group tour to travel with others while the itinerary and logistics are organised in advance.

Question 19

Do you offer support during my trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All our travelers have access to 24/7 in-country support through our local team.

Question 20

Can I combine Albania with other Balkan countries on a Private Guided Tour

Accepted Answer

Yes. Private tours are particularly well suited to multi-country journeys. Albania can be combined with Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Corfu and Northern Greece, or included in a longer Balkan itinerary. We plan the route, border crossings, accommodation and logistics so that the entire journey works smoothly as one trip.

Question 21

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Albania?

Accepted Answer

Requirements depend on the licence you hold and the countries included in your itinerary. We’ll advise you about the driving-document requirements relevant to your route before your trip.

Question 22

How flexible are Private Guided Tours?

Accepted Answer

Private Guided Tours offer a high level of flexibility. Before departure, we can customise the itinerary around your interests, preferred pace and travel style, including changes to destinations, activities and experiences. During the trip, there is also more flexibility than on a shared group tour. Your guide can adjust the timing and pace of the day, spend longer at places you particularly enjoy and, where possible, make small changes along the way.

Question 23

What information should I include in my message?

Accepted Answer

Include your preferred travel dates, number of travelers, destinations or experiences you're interested in, and any special requirements.

Question 24

What currency is used in Albania?

Accepted Answer

The official currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL). Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, and ATMs are available in all towns and cities.

Question 25

Should I choose a private tour, shared group tour or self-drive trip in Albania?

Accepted Answer

It depends on how you like to travel. A private guided tour offers the most personal service, local knowledge and flexibility. A shared group tour is ideal if you enjoy travelling with others and want the logistics taken care of. A self-drive tour gives you greater freedom and independence while still having your route, accommodation and travel arrangements planned in advance. Up Albania offers all three options, so you can choose the travel style that best suits you.

Question 26

How big are the groups?

Accepted Answer

Our groups average 8–16 travellers, small enough to feel personal and big enough to make new friends.

Question 27

Can I take the rental car into Montenegro, Kosovo or North Macedonia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, multi-country self-drive trips can be arranged. Cross-border travel must be organised in advance so that the appropriate vehicle documentation and insurance can be prepared. Tell us which countries you would like to include and we’ll plan the route accordingly.

Question 28

Can I join a shared group tour if I am travelling alone?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Solo travellers are very welcome on our shared group tours, and they are a great way to explore Albania and the Balkans while travelling with a small group of like-minded people. The prices displayed are generally based on two people sharing a double or twin room. If you are travelling alone and prefer your own room, a single-room supplement applies. The exact supplement is clearly shown on each tour page or in the individual tour program. We also offer selected Group Tours for Solo Travellers, designed specifically for solo travellers typically aged 30–50 who want to explore and connect with people at a similar stage of life.

Question 29

What is included in a Private Guided Tour?

Accepted Answer

Our private tours generally include private transportation, driver, licensed tour guide, handpicked accommodation and a carefully planned itinerary. Depending on the tour, we can also include entrance fees and pre-booked experiences ranging from traditional meals, agritourism visits and wine tastings to hiking, boat trips, rafting, kayaking and other activities. Exact inclusions are shown in each itinerary.

Question 30

Can I combine Albania with Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia or Corfu in one trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Albania is well positioned for a multi-country journey through the Balkans and the wider region. It can easily be combined with Montenegro, Kosovo and North Macedonia, while southern Albania connects naturally with Corfu and Northern Greece. Longer itineraries can also include Serbia or Southern Italy. Up Albania organises multi-day regional tours with the route, accommodation, transport and local experiences planned as one complete journey.

Question 31

Can you customise an Albania self-drive itinerary for me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We can design your self-drive trip around your dates, interests and preferred pace, from the Albanian Alps and UNESCO towns to the Riviera, or combine Albania with neighbouring Balkan countries.

Question 32

Can I use credit cards in Albania?

Accepted Answer

Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops in cities and tourist areas. In smaller villages and mountain areas, cash is preferred, so we recommend carrying some Lek with you.

Question 33

Can I organise one of your shared group tours privately for my own group?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you like one of our shared group tour itineraries but would prefer to travel privately with your own group, we can arrange this for you. The itinerary can be operated with private transportation, a dedicated driver and guide, and can also be adapted to your group’s dates and preferences. Contact us for availability and a personalised price for your group.

Question 34

What is included in the tour price?

Accepted Answer

Accommodation, daily breakfast, transportation, a professional local guide, entrance fees and 24/7 support during the tour.

Question 35

How do I book a tour?

Accepted Answer

You can book directly through our website, or get in touch with our team and we'll help you choose and customize the perfect tour for your dates and interests.

Question 36

What is included in a tour?

Accepted Answer

Each tour page lists exactly what's included. Typically our tours include accommodation, transport, a local guide, entrance fees and selected meals. Flights and personal expenses are not included.

Question 37

Can I customize my trip?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! All our tours can be tailored to your needs. Use the Design My Trip option or contact us and our local experts will create a personalized itinerary for you.

Question 38

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We offer flexible cancellation. Full refunds are available up to 30 days before departure, with partial refunds closer to the travel date. Details are provided at booking.

Question 39

Do you offer group discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer special rates for groups of 6 or more travelers. Contact our team for a custom quote for your group.

Question 40

How do I pay for my tour?

Accepted Answer

We accept credit/debit cards and bank transfers. A deposit is required to secure your booking, with the balance due 30 days before departure.

Question 41

Is my payment secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All payments are processed through secure, encrypted payment providers. We never store your card details.

Question 42

Can I pay in installments?

Accepted Answer

For tours booked more than 60 days in advance, we can split the payment into two or three installments. Contact us to arrange this.

Question 43

Will I receive a booking confirmation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will receive an email confirmation immediately after booking, followed by a detailed itinerary and travel documents before your trip.

Question 44

How do I get to Albania?

Accepted Answer

Tirana International Airport (TIA) is the main gateway, with direct flights from most major European cities. You can also arrive by ferry from Italy to Durrës or Vlorë, or overland from neighboring countries.

Question 45

Do you provide airport transfers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, airport pickup and drop-off are included in most of our guided tours, and can be added to any other booking.

Question 46

What transport is used during tours?

Accepted Answer

We use modern, air-conditioned vehicles — minibuses for group tours and comfortable cars or SUVs for private and self-drive tours.

Question 47

Is it easy to drive in Albania?

Accepted Answer

Main roads are in good condition and improving every year. Mountain roads can be narrow and winding, so we provide detailed route notes and 24/7 road assistance on self-drive tours.

Question 48

What type of accommodation is included?

Accepted Answer

We carefully select family-run guesthouses, boutique hotels and 3–4 star hotels, always with private bathrooms and breakfast included.

Question 49

Can I request a single room?

Accepted Answer

Yes, single rooms are available on all tours for a small supplement. Just let us know when booking.

Question 50

Can I upgrade my hotel?

Accepted Answer

Of course. We offer hotel upgrades on most tours — from charming boutique stays to luxury options. Contact us for prices.

Question 51

How big are the groups?

Accepted Answer

Our shared group tours are limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, keeping the experience personal and social.

Question 52

Are tours suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Many of our tours are family-friendly. Private and tailor-made trips can be fully adapted for traveling with children of any age.

Question 53

How physically demanding are the tours?

Accepted Answer

Each tour is rated from easy to challenging. Cultural and beach tours are easy-going, while hiking tours in the Alps require a good level of fitness.

Question 54

What languages do the guides speak?

Accepted Answer

Our guides speak English fluently, and we can provide guides in Italian, German, French and Spanish on request.

Question 55

Is travel insurance required?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation and activities such as hiking.

Question 56

Is the tap water safe to drink?

Accepted Answer

In cities it's generally safe, but we recommend bottled water. In the mountains, fresh spring water is often available and delicious.

Question 57

What if I have dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

No problem — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other dietary needs can be accommodated on all tours. Just tell us in advance.

Question 58

Which nationalities can enter visa-free?

Accepted Answer

EU, UK, US, Canadian, Australian and many other passport holders can stay in Albania visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Question 59

How long should my passport be valid?

Accepted Answer

Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from Albania.

Question 60

Can I combine Albania with neighboring countries?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Many of our tours combine Albania with Montenegro, North Macedonia, Kosovo or Corfu. Border crossings are straightforward and we handle all logistics.

Question 61

What is Albanian food like?

Accepted Answer

Albanian cuisine blends Mediterranean and Balkan flavors — fresh seafood on the coast, hearty mountain dishes, byrek, grilled meats, and excellent local wine and raki.

Question 62

Are meals included in the tours?

Accepted Answer

Breakfast is always included. Many tours also include selected lunches and dinners featuring traditional local cuisine — check each tour's inclusions.

Question 63

What cultural etiquette should I know?

Accepted Answer

Albanians are famously hospitable ('Besa'). Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and don't be surprised if locals invite you for coffee — it's part of the culture!

Question 64

How do you support local communities?

Accepted Answer

We work with family-run guesthouses, local guides and small producers, so your travel spending directly benefits the communities you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions