Authentic Gjirokastra and Scenic Përmet - Up Albania Authentic Gjirokastra and Scenic Përmet - Up Albania

Authentic Gjirokastra and Scenic Përmet

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Highlights

  • UNESCO · ANCIENT CHURCHES · MEDIEVAL FORTRESSES · VJOSA RIVER · BREATHTAKING VIEWS · TRADITIONAL CUISINE · THERMAL WATERS

Embark on a self-drive journey through the historic charm of Gjirokastra, where Ottoman architecture and vibrant local traditions come to life. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace, with the option to be guided through its medieval fortresses and rich cultural heritage. Continue to the serene beauty of Përmet, home to the Vjosa River—one of Europe's last wild rivers—therapeutic thermal waters, and amaizing local cuisine. This tour combines the freedom of self-exploration with expert guidance at key sites, offering a perfect balance of historical discovery, natural beauty, and authentic Albanian flavors. Visit the picturesque village of Leusa and its famous church, often called the Albanian Sistine Chapel, and relax in the thermal baths of Bënja.

Our team will help organize every part of your trip, making sure everything goes smoothly. During your journey, we offer 24/7 support, and our local partners are always available to help, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable experience.

Itineraries Expand all

  • Day 1: Arrival and Tirana vibes

    Upon arrival at Tirana International Airport, you’ll pick up your pre-arranged car and drive to your hotel in Tirana. After settling in, our tour organizer will meet you for a brief kick-off meeting, where you'll receive detailed itinerary information, important contact numbers, an Albanian map, and, if desired, a mobile phone with a prepaid Albanian SIM card to stay connected throughout your journey.

    Depending on your arrival time, we can plan a city tour, or you can enjoy a leisurely day exploring the main attractions or visiting the Grand Park by the Lake. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, followed by free time to explore areas like Tirana Castle, the vibrant Blloku district, and the city's lively nightlife with bars, restaurants, and cafes.

    Meals included: No meals included
    Overnight: Hotel in Tirana
    Drive time: 0.5 hours

  • Day 2: Discovering Ancient Apollonia and Gjirokastra's Timeless Charm

    After breakfast, you will leave Tirana and head south to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Stone City." En route, you will stop at Apollonia, an ancient Illyrian city founded in the 7th century BCE. Here, you will explore its rich history as a major trade center blending Illyrian, Greek, and Roman cultures, praised by Cicero and notable for its educational role in the lives of Julius Caesar’s nephew and future Emperor Augustus.

    Upon arriving in Gjirokastra, you’ll have free time to explore the Old Bazaar and enjoy lunch. Our local guide will then meet you and accompany you for the rest of the day's city tour, starting with the imposing Gjirokastra Castle, which houses the Museum of Weapons. This fortress, one of the largest in the Balkans, offers panoramic views of the city and Drino Valley. Next, you will visit the Skenduli House, a beautifully restored Ottoman home from the early 1700s.

    In the evening, you’ll have free time to further explore the surroundings, soak in the local atmosphere, and taste traditional food at a neighbourhood restaurant.

    Meals included: Breakfast
    Overnight: Hotel in Gjirokastra
    Drive time: 3.5 hours

  • Day 3: Gjirokastra Surroundings: Authentic Traditions, History, and Culinary Delights

    Start your day with an amazing authentic experience by dressing up in traditional Albanian attire, arranged through one of our local artisan partners. Men can wear the fustanella, a classic skirt-like garment from medieval times, while women can enjoy the elegance of a beautifully embroidered dress and headscarf. Then, dressed in these unique outfits, take a walk through the cobblestone streets of the Old Bazaar, capturing stunning photos of the vibrant surroundings and timeless atmosphere.

    Next, drive to Labova e Kryqit to visit the 10th-century Saint Mary Church, a Byzantine masterpiece dating back to Emperor Justinian’s time. Once a pilgrimage site for its relic of the True Cross, the church boasts stunning frescoes and architecture from the 9th-11th centuries.

    For lunch time, you will drive on to a nearby village for a truly authentic Albanian experience: visit a local family for a traditional cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare classic Albanian dishes and enjoy a home-cooked lunch with the family.

    In the afternoon, drive to Përmet, nestled by the pristine Vjosa River. Take in the scenic beauty of the Vjosa canyons along the way. Upon arrival, unwind at your hotel or explore the city center before enjoying dinner at a traditional restaurant.

    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
    Experiences included in the price and pre-reserved: Dressing like locals, cooking class.
    Overnight: Hotel in Permet
    Drive time: 2.5 hour

  • Day 4: From Sacred Frescoes to Thermal Waters

    Start your day with a roughly two-kilometer walk to the village of Leusa to admire Saint Mary's Church, renowned for its magnificent, colorful frescoes, often called the Albanian "Sistine Chapel."
    Afterward, drive along the Vjosa River canyon to visit the healing Bënja thermal waters. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore the ancient Katiu Bridge and marvel at the stunning Langarica Canyon. Once at Bënja, you can relax in the warm, mineral-rich thermal baths, cherished by locals for their therapeutic properties, especially for ailments like rheumatism and skin conditions. Take a refreshing dip in the waters and experience the perfect combination of nature and wellness.
    After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in the Bënja area, drive to Tirana, the vibrant capital city.
    Upon arrival, you’ll finalize the return of your rental car, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free handover process.
    Enjoy a free evening to explore at your own pace and savor dinner at your leisure.

    Meals included: Breakfast
    Overnight: Hotel in Tirana
    Drive time: 3 hours

  • Day 5 Exploring Tirana’s Highlights & Departure

    Before leaving, take advantage of a free morning. Depending on your departure time take a guided city walk across Tirana.
    You can also visit the Tirana Castle, where you can relax at cafes and bars while enjoying the ambiance. If time permits, consider shopping at nearby centers for souvenirs and local products.

    Carry the vibrant Albania spirit with you, promising to return for more adventures and unforgettable memories.

    Meals included: Breakfast
    Overnight: N/A
    Drive time: 40 min.

Trip Infos

  • Language English/German/Italian
  • Guiding method Self-Drive /Partially Guided
  • Best season March to November
  • Duration 5 days - 4 nights
  • Group size Private Group
  • Difficulty Level Level 2/5

Trip Includes & Excludes

  • Local guides in Gjirokastra and Permet.
  • Standard Car Rental for three days with GPS and Standard Package. Depending on the number of people, car options can range from sedans and SUVs to vans.
  • Airport Transfer
  • Meals: Breakfast daily. Lunch on Day 3.
  • Full Kasko insurance (100% coverage in the event of an accident, except for abusive damage or loss of keys)
  • A mobile phone with an Albanian SIM card (optional)
  • A road map of Albania
  • 24/7 support
  • Tourist taxes
  • International flights
  • Meals not specified
  • Drinks (except water), unless specified
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Other services not specified in the inclusions

Availability

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FAQ's Expand all

  • ACTIVITY LEVEL
    This tour is designed for travelers with a moderate level of fitness and an appreciation for both relaxation and exploration. The itinerary includes a mix of leisurely beach days and guided tours of historical sites, with activities such as short hikes, walking tours, and boat excursions. While most activities are suitable for all ages, a reasonable level of stamina is recommended to fully enjoy the guided walks in Berat, the exploration of Gjirokastra's castle, and the scenic hikes to beaches like Gjipe. This tour is perfect for those who seek a balance between laid-back coastal relaxation and engaging cultural experiences. Additionally, some days require drives of 2-4 hours in a row, which may be physically demanding for the driver.
  • WHEN TO TAKE THIS TOUR
    This tour is best enjoyed between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and outdoor explorations. During these months, temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), ensuring ideal conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and sightseeing. July and August are peak tourist months with lively atmospheres, while May, June, and September offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. This period also coincides with numerous local festivals, providing an authentic glimpse into Albanian culture and traditions.
  • WHERE WE STAY
    We’ve carefully selected accommodations for your stay, ensuring comfort and a perfect fit with the experience of the tour. Our chosen hotels are centrally located in the vibrant areas of Tirana, Vlora, Himara, Saranda, and Gjirokastra. Below is a list of our preferred accommodations, though it may vary seasonally. During the high season (June - August), please note that there might be changes to this list, and we may substitute these hotels with similar ones of the same quality and comfort. To ensure a smooth experience, we recommend booking in advance to avoid any difficulties with last-minute hotel reservations. • Hotel Elmar: Located on the Vlora promenade by the seaside. • Casa Boha: Located in Dhermi. • Hotel Kalemi 2: Situated in Gjirokastra’s Old Bazaar. • Art Hotel: Located in the bustling city of Tirana. • Hotel Kaonia: Situated on the Saranda promenade.
  • IMPORTANT INFORMATION
    • This is a private drive-yourself tour, meaning you will not be mixed with other travelers. The minimum number of participants is two. • This is a partially guided tour, meaning you will not have a guide accompanying you for the entire trip. However, local guides, our partners will lead and assist you in exploring the main historical cities and attractions. • Private Tour: This is a private drive-yourself tour, meaning you will not be mixed with other travelers. The minimum number of participants is two. • For groups larger than eight, you will need to be split into more cars. If you prefer to stay together as a group in one vehicle, a van or mini-bus a local driver can be added to accompany you. Please contact us for special arrangements. • Driving License: All participants intending to drive must possess a valid driving license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required for non-EU citizens. • Car Rental Responsibility: Please note that the car rental is managed directly by the rental company (our partner), not by us. Any issues related to the rental, including the terms of the contract, damage, or insurance, should be addressed with the rental company. We are not responsible for any rental-related matters. • Car Selection: The type of car you select for the tour must match the driver's experience and comfort level. Our cars come with full insurance (Kasko), offering 100% coverage in the event of an accident, excluding abusive damage or loss of keys. • Driving Conditions: Albania has well-maintained roads in urban areas, but rural roads may be less developed. Please drive with caution, particularly in mountainous regions. • Fuel and Mileage: Fuel is not included in the tour price, and you will be responsible for fuel costs during your trip. The car comes with a full tank at the start of the tour. • Roadbook and Mobile Phone: You will receive a detailed electronic roadbook and a mobile phone with an Albanian SIM card for easy navigation and emergency contact. • Local Guides: Local guides will be available in Berat, Gjirokastra, and Tirana to enhance your cultural experience. • Parking and Traffic: Pay attention to local parking regulations and traffic rules, as violations may result in fines. • Road Assistance: 24-hour roadside assistance is available if needed during the tour. • Suitable for age 6+. • Tour’s schedule or itinerary may be affected/adopted due to; weather, Acts of God, labour strikes, bank holidays, site temporary closure/renovation or other external forces outside the Company’s control. • If you arrive or depart from an airport other than Tirana, we can advise you on the best transportation options available. Airports in neighbouring cities, such as those in Kosovo, Montenegro, or North Macedonia, can also be considered for your travel. • On request this tour may also depart from other cities of Albania or neighbouring countries such as Kosovo, Montenegro or N. Macedonia. Please contact us for more information on the extra costs.

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Duration 5 Days
Trip Code : GJP5DSD
Travellers -10.00%
From €600 €540 / Person
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