Up Albania

Welcome to Albania!
This is the day of arrival. After arriving at Tirana Airport, you will be transferred to the city. Once everyone has checked into the hotel, we will have an introductory tour session. Depending on your flight schedule, we can organize a walking tour of the city to explore its rich history and culture, with stops at notable locations such as Bunk’Art, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and Skanderbeg Square. In the evening, we will enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor delicious food, get to know each other, and share experiences.

Meals included: Welcome dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Tirana
Drive time: 0.5 hours

After breakfast, we set off for Pogradec, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid, an UNESCO protected natural park, the oldest lake in Europe. Our morning is spent in the serene Drilon National Park, where we take a leisurely walk or a boat ride through its peaceful springs and stroll through lush greenery. We will have the opportunity to enjoy local dishes at traditional restaurants by the shores of Lake Ohrid, savoring the unique flavors and specialties of the region. By early afternoon, we transfer on a one-hour drive to Korça. In Korça, we visit the National Museum of Medieval Art, discovering some of the most beautiful artifacts from Albania’s Byzantine and medieval periods. The museum’s extensive collection of icons and religious art offers a deep dive into the region’s rich artistic heritage. Following our museum visit, we explore the charming Old Bazaar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional shops. Free time in the evening to relax, walk through the city’s charming streets, or dine at a traditional tavern.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Overnight: Hotel in Korca
Drive time: 3.5 hours

Our day begins with a visit to Korça to Voskopoja, a historic village known for its ancient churches and monasteries adorned with beautiful frescoes, and very good local food. Voskopoja preserves a rich history and cultural heritage represented in churches, monasteries and residential stone buildings. Some of the places we visit include: Saint Nicolas church in the center with frescoes from David Selenica, Saint Michael church and Saint Mary church. We will have a delicious lunch in Voskopoja, featuring traditional petanik and other local products, offering an authentic taste of the region As the afternoon draws to a close, we travel to Ohrid, crossing into North Macedonia. Arriving in Ohrid in the evening, we enjoy our first taste of this UNESCO World Heritage city before settling into our accommodation for the night. Free dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Overnight: Hotel in Ohrid
Drive time: 2.5 hour

Today is dedicated to exploring Ohrid’s rich cultural and historical heritage. We wander through the Old Town, taking in the medieval architecture and visiting significant sites such as the Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched dramatically on a cliff with stunning lake views. We also explore the Robevi House-Museum, showcasing Ottoman architecture, and the Ohrid Fortress, which offers panoramic vistas of the city and the lake. In the afternoon, we visit the Bay of Bones, a reconstructed prehistoric settlement that provides a glimpse into ancient life. After a fulfilling day of discovery, we begin our journey back to Tirana. Once in the city, you’ll have a free evening to explore and enjoy dinner at your leisure.

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

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 Balkan spirit with you, promising to return for more adventures and unforgettable memories.

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