Cultural Landscapes of Albania & North Macedonia

Arrive at Tirana Airport and meet your driver/guide before travelling to Berat, known as the “Town of a Thousand Windows.” Upon arrival, explore the upper town and its UNESCO-listed Kalaja fortress, a sprawling complex with ancient walls, Byzantine churches, and mosques dating back to the 15th century. Visit the Iconographic Museum, housed in a former cathedral, showcasing masterpieces by the renowned painter Onufri. Stroll through Berat’s historical quarters, including Mangalem and Gorica, which sit on opposite sides of the Osum River, connected by a stone bridge. Check in to your hotel for an overnight stay. 

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Start the day exploring Berat’s lower quarters before travelling to the Archaeological Park of Apollonia, a thriving ancient city founded in the 7th century BC. Discover its fortification walls, Odeon, theatre, and the Church of St Mary, housed in a 14th-century monastery. Continue to Vlore for brief stops at Independence Square and the Muradie Mosque. Drive along the scenic Albanian Riviera, pausing at Llogara National Park with its dramatic mountain views, and at Porto Palermo Bay to explore Ali Pasha’s castle. End the day in Saranda, a picturesque town set on a horseshoe bay opposite Corfu. (B)

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Head to Butrint National Park this morning, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Albania’s most significant archaeological treasures. Explore its theatre, agora, and the Sanctuary of Asclepius, set amidst Mediterranean landscapes and wetlands that shelter endangered species.  Return to Saranda for the remainder of the day at leisure to relax. (B)

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Depart for Gjirokaster this morning. Visit the Old Bazaar, the Skendulaj House and the imposing fortress before continuing through the stunning Vjosa River Valley, one of Europe’s most scenic routes. Pass dramatic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush meadows, while spotting eagles soaring overhead and traditional Albanian life along the winding roads. Stop in Permet to taste local cheese and the Permet speciality of ‘Gliko’, preserved fruits in syrup, Continue on to Korce, a cultural hub with a rich heritage for an overnight stay. (B)

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After breakfast, tour the old town of Korce visiting the Museum of Medieval Arts and the bazaar. Cross into North Macedonia through the scenic Prespa Lakes region, a transboundary park shared by Greece, Albania, and Macedonia. This biodiversity hotspot is home to over 1,500 plant species, 260 bird species, and unique mammals like brown bears and chamois. Stop in Bitola, Macedonia’s second-largest city, with a rich history as a diplomatic centre during the Ottoman era. Visit the archaeological site of Heraclea Lyncestis, where Roman ruins, basilicas, and mosaics showcase its ancient grandeur. Continue on to Skopje, making an optional stop off at Stobi Winery for a tasting of their much lauded wines. Spend 2 nights in Skopje. (B)

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Explore the cultural and historical highlights of Skopje and its surrounding areas. Begin at Macedonia Square, the city’s central hub, where the striking fountain of Alexander the Great stands as a proud symbol. Visit the Old Railway Station, its clock forever frozen at 05:17, marking the moment of the 1963 earthquake. Stroll through the historic Caršija, Skopje’s Old Bazaar, lined with Ottoman and Byzantine landmarks such as the 15th-century Stone Bridge and the Kale Fortress, which has overlooked the city since the 5th century. Head out of the city to the serene Matka Canyon, a haven of natural beauty with rugged cliffs and tranquil waters. Enjoy a coffee by the riverside and take a boat trip to the fascinating Vrelo Cave. Return to Skopje. 

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After breakfast, visit the town of Tetovo to see the famous Painted Mosque, known for its vibrant and intricate frescoes. Continue down to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage town, and enjoy a panoramic tour showcasing its stunning lakeside views and historic landmarks. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax and take a wander. (B)

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After breakfast, continue your exploration of Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Known for its unique history and architecture, the town was once home to the first Slavic university, established by St. Clement and St. Naum in the 9th century. Visit the fortress of Tsar Samuel, which offers panoramic views of the lake, and learn about the town’s golden age, when it was known for its 365 churches and monasteries. Admire the extensive collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons in the town’s museum, considered one of the most significant in the world. Next, embark on a boat trip across Lake Ohrid, taking in stunning views of the town and its surroundings.  In the afternoon, visit the St. Naum Monastery, located on the southern coast of the lake. This serene spiritual centre, founded in 900 by St. Naum, features beautifully frescoed chapels and the tranquil springs of the Black Drim River. (B)

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This morning drive to the Albanian capital of Tirana. Spend a little time at leisure on arrival before spending the rest of the day exploring the capital city of Tirana. Visits include the highlights around Skanderbeg Square including Et'hem Bey Mosque and BunkArt 2; an underground museum housed in a former nuclear shelter with exhibits on the communist secret police under Enver Hoxha's regime. Overnight in Tirana. (B)

Spend the morning at leisure. If travelling back on the late afternoon flight, enjoy a visit to Kruja to explore the Citadel and the Ethnographic & Skanderbeg museum. Perhaps purchase last minute souvenirs from the restored Ottoman bazaar before transferring to Tirana airport for the flight back to the UK. (B)