Albania Short Break

Fly to Tirana. On arrival, transfer to your Tirana hotel for a two night stay.

• Hotel Description

Explore Tirana on a guided city tour, starting at Skanderbeg Square with its landmarks, including the Et’hem Bey Mosque and the striking mural on the National Historical Museum (closed for renovation until March 2028). Visit Bunk'art 2, an underground museum revealing Albania's communist past, and wander the lively Blloku district, once reserved for Communist elites. Perhaps end the day with a stroll through the Grand Park, soaking in the city's vibrant energy and fascinating history. (B)

• Hotel Description

Transfer to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Ottoman architecture and hilltop views. En route, visit the historic Ardenica Monastery, where Skanderbeg married Andronika Arianiti in 1451, and explore the archaeological site of Apollonia, home to impressive ruins dating back to the Illyrian and Roman periods. Continue your journey to Berat, the “City of a Thousand Windows,” renowned for its cascading Ottoman houses and picturesque riverside. Spend the evening wandering through its charming streets, soaking in the town’s rich history and beautiful surroundings. Spend two nights in Berat. (B)

• Hotel Description

Discover Berat, a beautifully preserved Ottoman town, starting with the medieval citadel in the upper town, where churches and mosques sit within fortress walls. Visit the Icon Museum, showcasing works by renowned Albanian painter Onofri, offering insight into the region’s religious art. Continue your exploration in the lower town, taking in the stunning views of the Mangalemi quarter, with its whitewashed houses and distinctive windows that give the town its nickname, “The Town of a Thousand Windows.” (B)

• Hotel Description

Transfer north to Kruja, stopping in the coastal town of Durres to visit its impressive Roman amphitheatre and important archaeological sites, reflecting the city’s glorious past. Continue to Kruja, the cultural heart of Albania, where you’ll visit the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to the national hero, and the Ethnographic Museum, offering insights into local traditions. Spend time browsing the charming old bazaar, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. After a day filled with history and culture, transfer back to Tirana airport for your flight to the UK. (B)