Balkans Unveiled: 9-Day Cultural Adventure

Itinerary

Day 1: Tirana

Overnight: Tirana

Activities:

• Arrive in Tirana and check into your hotel.
• Visit Skanderbeg Square, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Bunk’Art 2 Museum to get a sense of Albania’s history.
• In the afternoon, stroll through the Blloku neighborhood, known for its trendy cafes, restaurants, and art installations.
• Optional: Enjoy a wine or raki tasting to experience local flavors.

Day 2: Tirana – Krujë – Shkodër

Overnight: Shkodër

Activities:

• Tirana to Krujë: Drive to Krujë, an important city in Albanian history. Visit the Krujë Castle, which houses the Skanderbeg Museum dedicated to the national hero. Also, explore the Old Bazaar, known for traditional handicrafts.
• Krujë to Shkodër: Continue to Shkodër, one of the oldest cities in Albania. Explore Rozafa Castle for views over Lake Shkodër and learn about the city’s ancient legends.
• Walk through the city center, visit the Marubi National Museum of Photography, and stroll by Shkodër Lake.

Day 3: Shkodër – Kotor (Montenegro)

Overnight: Kotor

Activities:

• Shkodër to Kotor: Cross the border into Montenegro and drive to Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Venetian architecture and stunning bay.
• Explore the Old Town of Kotor, with highlights such as the Kotor Fortress, St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, and the Sea Gate.
• Walk along the bay and enjoy a sunset view.

Day 4: Kotor and Surroundings

Overnight: Kotor

Activities:

• Take a day trip around the Bay of Kotor, stopping at the charming coastal town of Perast. Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island church with beautiful artifacts.
• Return to Kotor for lunch and explore more of the city, perhaps visiting the local markets or relaxing by the bay.

Day 5: Kotor – Prizren (Kosovo)

Overnight: Prizren

Activities:

• Kotor to Prizren: Drive to Prizren, a charming and culturally rich city in Kosovo.
• Explore the Old Town, the Sinan Pasha Mosque, Our Lady of Ljeviš Church (a UNESCO site), and Prizren Fortress for panoramic views over the city.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Kosovo’s traditional cuisine.

Day 6: Prizren – Ohrid (North Macedonia)

Overnight: Ohrid

Activities:

• Prizren to Ohrid: Travel to Ohrid, North Macedonia, known for its historic sites and lakeside views.
• Discover Ohrid’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with highlights like Saint Sophia Church, Church of St. John at Kaneo (known for its lakeside setting), and Samuel’s Fortress.
• Spend the evening by Lake Ohrid, enjoying the lakeside ambiance.

Day 7: Ohrid – Pogradec – Korçë

Overnight: Korçë

Activities:

• Ohrid to Pogradec: Cross back into Albania, arriving in Pogradec on Lake Ohrid. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake and stop for coffee.
• Pogradec to Korçë: Continue to Korçë, known for its rich history and culture. Visit the National Museum of Medieval Art and stroll around the charming Old Bazaar.
• Optional: In the evening, enjoy a local dinner with a traditional serenade performance.

Day 8: Korçë – Tirana

Overnight: Tirana

Activities:

• Korçë to Tirana: Drive back to Tirana, stopping along the way for scenic photos or a traditional lunch.
• In the afternoon, enjoy some free time in Tirana for last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Optional: A farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant in Tirana to conclude the trip.

Optional Day 9: Tirana Departure

Activities:

• Spend the morning in Tirana before departing, with a chance for a relaxed breakfast or final walk around the city.

This itinerary offers a blend of cultural experiences, beautiful landscapes, and insights into local life across Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, and North Macedonia.