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Venice to Tirana: Grand Tour of Central Europe & the Enchanting Balkans

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Duration

21 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

8 people

Languages

___

Overview

Number of Persons 
Group Price 8+ Pax3944€
Group Price 2-7 Pax4929€
Solo Traveler Price9365€

Embark on a captivating journey through Central Europe and the Balkans in this 21 days tour form Venice to Dubrovnik. This intimate small-group tour of Central Europe and the Balkans  will immerse you in the cultural treasures along the  Danube River, spanning Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary , Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina Montenegro, Kosovo, Albania and North Macedonia.  

Important information:

* All participants are responsible for having their own health/travel insurance.

* Single Supplement: To guarantee tour departure even for one participant we require a single supplement. If other participants join this tour, you will be refunded 50% of the single supplement amount (2218 Euros) and your room occupancy will still be private. We organize small groups up to 8 pax. Please contact us if you are a larger group of participants for a quotation.

* Please note that prices are calculated on double/twin/triple/quadruple room occupancy in a 3 stars hotel accommodation.

* Single room occupancy is possible on 75 Euros extra charge per night per person in a 3 stars hotel accommodation.

* Hotel upgrade is possible on extra charge.

* Children pricing: Age 0 – 1.99 Free of charge; Age 2+ full fare.

* Choose Balkans reserves the rights to add other participants in and during the tour program. If you are interested in a private tour, please contact us for a quotation.

* Private tour is possible on 630Euros/person extra charge.

* 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.

* On request this tour may also depart from other cities of Italy or other countries such as Slovenia, Austria, Slovakia or Serbia. Please contact us for more information on the extra costs.

* Please note that Choose Balkans needs to receive the net (full) quoted amount. Transaction and payment fees are on the sender (you in this case). We will notify you with a print screen of the amount received at our account as soon as we receive your down payment.

* Please note that Credit/Debit card payments are possible at our office in Tirana and apply a 5% bank commission.

* If you confirm to book this tour or any other service offered by Choose Balkans, via Choose Balkans official channels; email/facebook/whatsapp/phonecall or any other form of communication it means that you have read and agreed to the terms &conditions. 

https://choosebalkans.com/terms-conditions-tours/

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HIGHLIGHTS

  • Trieste
  • Trieste old town
  • Piazza Unità d'Italia
  • Pass by Cathedral of San Giusto
  • Pass by Castle of San Giusto
  • Piazza della Borsa
  • Ljubjana Old town
  • Tromostovj (three bridges) in Ljubjana
  • Villach
  • Graz
  • Hauptplatz in Graz
  • Vienna
  • Schönbrunn Gardens
  • Belvedere Gardens
  • Rust in Austria
  • Lake Neusiedl in Austria
  • Old Town Hall in Bratislava
  • Michael's Gate in Bratislava
  • Bratislava Castle
  • Danube River
  • Győr City
  • Györ’s Town Hall
  • Cathedral of The Virgin Mary in Győr
  • Györ Synagogue
  • Pedestrian street Baross Gabor
  • The Heroes' Square in Budapest
  • Buda Castle in Budapest
  • Subotica City Hall
  • Cathedral of St. Teresa of Avila
  • Subotica Synagogue
  • Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad
  • Sremski Karlovci
  • Belgrade Fortes
  • Republic Square in Belgrade
  • Zvornik
  • Sarajevo old town
  • Latin Bridge in Sarajevo
  • Stari Most bridge
  • Old Bazaar of Mostar
  • Old Town of Kotor
  • Saint Luke’s church in Kotor
  • Old historical center of Budva
  • St. Ivan church in Budva
  • The small church of St. Mary in Budva
  • Viewpoint of Sveti Stefan
  • The fortress (Kalaja e Rozafes)
  • The Great Mosque in Shkoder
  • The pedestrian street (Pedonale) in Shkoder
  • The Catholic Cathedral in Shkoder
  • Mrizi i Zanave Agrotourism
  • The Old Town in Prizren
  • The bazaar in Prizren
  • The castle in Prizren
  • The Archeological Museum and its tower in Prizren
  • Sinan Pasha Mosque in Prizren
  • Old Bazaar in Gjakova
  • Monastery of Decan
  • Kruja castle
  • Old Bazaar in Kruja
  • The Etnographic Museum OR Skanderbeg Museum in Kruja
  • Dollmës Tekke in Kruja
  • Skanderbeg square in Tirana
  • Local fresh vegetables market
  • Çam Bazaar
  • New Bazaar
  • Bicycle Bazaar
  • Local Neighbourhoods
  • Bunk’Art in Tirana
  • Samoils Fortress Ohrid
  • Viewpoint of St. John at Kaneo
  • Mosque Halveti Hayati Tekke in Ohrid
  • Ohrid bazaar and shopping area
  • The ruins of Ohrid Amphitheater
  • St.Naum Monastery
  • Tushemisht
  • Drilon National Park

Itinerary

Day 1 Venice – Tireste – Ljubljana (Slovenia)
Day 1 Venice – Tireste – Ljubljana (Slovenia)

After having experienced the wonderland of bridges, towers, piazzas, canals, churches and gondolas, Venice (by yourself), our tour leader will come and pick you up at the meeting point Piazzale Roma at 10:00 am. This incredible journey begins by driving towards Trieste, a charming city located in northeastern Italy. Trieste has a unique cultural identity due to its historical position at the crossroads of Italian, Slavic, and Germanic influences. This is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Our first stop will be Piazza Unità d'Italia, the main square. The square is surrounded by stunning architecture, elegant cafes, and historic buildings. We will wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, where we will explore the Cathedral of San Giusto and the Castle of San Giusto for a glimpse into Trieste's history. We will walk towards Piazza della Borsa, a historic square dominated by the beautiful Old Stock Exchange building. The piazza was the trade center of the city throughout the 19th century.
We will continue our journey towards Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. This enchanting city is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. We will visit the old town center where we will admire the bridges, parks, and squares designed by the famous Slovene architect, Joze Plecnik. In the city's center, atop a hill, we can admire the medieval Ljubljana Castle, which boasts architectural accents from the Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance period. We will continue our journey towards Tromostovje, the iconic trio of bridges which symbolize unity between the historical, medieval, and modern parts of the city. As we cross the bridges, take in the views of the charming riverside and the lively atmosphere of the city. After a day full of explorations, we will relax and enjoy an overnight stay in Ljubljana.

Day 2 Ljubljana – Lake Bled – Villach (Austria) – Graz
Day 2 Ljubljana – Lake Bled – Villach (Austria) – Graz

After breakfast we enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Bled, a picturesque alpine lake surrounded by mountains. Lake Bled is often mentioned as the pearl of the Slovenian Alpine region due to its emerald-green waters, picture-perfect postcard church on the island, medieval castle on the rocky cliff, and some of the highest peaks of the Slovenian Alps as the background. Take a short walk along the lakeshore as the beauty of the surrounding mountains reflects off the lake surface. After exploring the natural wander of Lake bled, we will drive towards Villach (Austria) a lovely small Austrian town with roots back in Roman times. It’s old town center, Altstadt is one of the most picturesque in southern Austria. Have some free time to stroll through the old town and visit local shops, bars and restaurants. We drive towards Graz which is our final destination for today. Overnight in Graz.

Day 3 Graz – Vienna
Day 3 Graz – Vienna

After breakfast, get ready to explore the charming city of Graz, one of the best-preserved historical cities in Europe. Graz is often referred to as ‘Vienna’s little sister’, known for its charming Old Town, cultural attractions, and vibrant atmosphere. It is one of only two European cities to hold two UNESCO titles. The Old Town and Eggenberg Palace have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in 2011 Graz was also awarded UNESCO City of Design. The Main Square (Hauptplatz) is the beating heart of the city, where locals and visitors gather and hang out. Feel the lively atmosphere of the old Market Square and admire Rathaus while learning about the history of Graz. Have some free time before driving to the capital of Austria.
Our first stop in Vienna will be Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, where we will visit Sisi’s Gardens. We will take a leisurely stroll through the Parterre, the Orangery Garden, and the Neptune Fountain. Admire the flowerbeds, sculptures, and the overall serene atmosphere. Later we will head to Belvedere Palace gardens, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, impressive art collections, and beautifully landscape. Belvedere is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The formal French-style gardens feature geometric patterns, sculptures, fountains, and flowerbeds. Have some free time to relax and enjoy the beautiful views. Overnight in Vienna.

Day 4 Vienna's Sweet and Savory Food Scene– Vienna
Day 4 Vienna's Sweet and Savory Food Scene– Vienna

Today we will join on a culinary adventure around Vienna, and discover the incredible sweet and savory food scene in Austria’s dazzling capital city. Indulge in all things sweet and savory on this Vienna food tour that will give you a total introduction to Austrian cuisine, from upscale dining to delicious street food. With your local guide by your side, you’ll skip past the tourist traps and discover the city’s culinary highlights in some of our favorite local neighborhoods. We’ll sample classic Austrian dishes like goulash, käsekrainer (sausage with cheese), tafelspitz (boiled beef), and/or krautfleckerl (cabbage and noodles). We will also get to taste some Austrian sweet treats like apricot dumplings and homemade cake. Wash it all down with a beer or spritzwein, and a coffee or tea in a local cafe.
After this unique adventure have some free time to wander around Vienna city center on your own and explore its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Do not miss a walk near Stephansplatz, the central square of Vienna; Rathaus (Vienna City Hall), an impressive Gothic-style building. Pass by Vienna State Opera (Wiener Staatsoper), one of the most iconic and prestigious opera houses in the world. End your day with a drink and enjoy the scenic views of the city. Overnight in Vienna.

Day 5 Vienna (Austria) – Rust – Bratislava (Slovakia)
Day 5 Vienna (Austria) – Rust – Bratislava (Slovakia)

After breakfast we will continue our journey by driving towards our first destination for today, Rust in the region Burgenland, known as a wine region of Austria. While we drive through the hilly vineyards, you can enjoy a magnificent view over the Lake Neusiedl, part of UNESCO world heritage. After our scenic drive we will reach Rust, famous for its well-preserved historic center, charming streets, and traditional Austrian architecture. We will walk through the picturesque old town with colorful houses decorated with flower boxes, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Do not miss the possibility to visit one of the small shops, where you can get creative souvenirs and decorations made of natural materials such as tartar or wood form the wine barrel. Have some free time to visit the vineyards overlooking the lake where you can enjoy your meal and sample some of the region's best wines. After our visit to Rust we will drive by the lake and head towards Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Overnight in Bratislava.

Day 6 Day tour of Bratislava
Day 6 Day tour of Bratislava

After breakfast we will visit Bratislava, a charming city alongside the Danube. Exploring the medieval Old Town Hall, we will learn more about the ancient history of Slovakia. Bratislava's Old Town is known for its many churches and cultural institutions, it is also the location of most of the foreign states embassies and important Slovak institutions. We will head to Michael's Gate, the only gate that has been preserved from the medieval fortifications, and it ranks among the oldest of the town's buildings. After exploring the old town, we will walk up to the iconic Bratislava Castle, overlooking the city. The castle was built in 9th century and it stands on the hill above Danube River. The view from the castle offers an amazing spot worth a picture of Bratislava. In the afternoon we will return to the city center. Bratislava's café culture is legendary, have some free time and try the famous coffee in one of the Bratislav’s traditional coffee shops where the aroma of roasted coffee beans fills the air. Overnight in Bratislava.

Day 7 Bratislava – Győr (Hungary) – Budapest
Day 7 Bratislava – Győr (Hungary) – Budapest

Our journey continues towards Hungary. Our first stop will be the picturesque “City of Rivers”, Győr. The city is filled with a rich history, baroque architecture and tasty Hungarian food. The center of the city is surrounded with multi-color homes and churches. We will wander the historic streets and visit the Györ’s Town Hall where you cannot miss the 59-meter tower and its green top. This Neo-Classical building has been open since 1898. Győr has many churches all around the town, however, do not miss a visit to Cathedral of The Virgin Mary which was built in Roman style in the 11th century. After we will walk towards Györ Synagogue, its colossal grey dome can be spotted from far away. The architecture of this building was used as an inspiration for other synagogues across all central Europe. We will walk along the pedestrian-only street Baross Gabor. The street is filled with numerous cafes, shops, bars, and restaurants. Have some free time to taste the delicious Hungarian food and the famous blueberry beer. Later we will drive towards Budapest. Overnight in Budapest.

Day 8 Day tour of Budapest
Day 8 Day tour of Budapest

Today we will explore the “Queen of the Danube”, Budapest. This scenic city is known for its singular mix of Baroque, Neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture. The capital of Hungary is divided by the Danube into two parts: traditional "Buddha" and cosmopolitan "Pest". Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture and tradition. We will pass by the Saint Stephen’s Basilica, the largest church in Budapest with neoclassical style. After we will stroll along the boulevards, the Opera, the Parliament building, Heroes' Square, and the 19th-century Fisherman's Bastion with its spectacular views over the city. We will learn more about the historical and cultural significance of the Hungarian capital by visiting the Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of the city. We will cross over bridges and discover the Baroque-style Street. You can't miss Budapest at night when the city dresses up, free evening to explore on your own this amazing city, and take in the atmosphere. Overnight in Budapest.

Day 9 Budapest – Subotica (Serbia)
Day 9 Budapest – Subotica (Serbia)

Our destination for today will be Subotica in Serbia, rich cultural heritage assets, intricately Our destination for today will be Subotica decorated buildings, multicultural spirit and European charm – these are the features that make this city distinctive. In Subotica, you will be eye-full of the vibrant colors, and outstanding architecture of the city due to its once importance and wealth during the Austro-Hungarian empire. We will visit the center of Subotica which is not dominated by a cathedral or a church, but by the City Hall. It is surrounded by the park, fountains and a huge square. Subotica is known for its relaxed atmosphere, good food, and quality wines. After a walk through the city center, enjoy time to explore Subotica’s streets and squares and taste the far-known local cuisine. We will visit the Cathedral of St. Teresa of Avila and the Synagogue. After the city center visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the town center by yourself and enjoy a coffee in the Austro-Hungarian influenced city. Overnight in Subotica.

Day 10 Subotica – Novi Sad
Day 10 Subotica – Novi Sad

Right after breakfast, we will start our journey towards Novi Sad, considered to be the cultural capital of northern Serbia. Located on the historical border of two former empires – the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman, as a result you will be able to distinguish among the mixture of melting cultures influencing the town through centuries. You will immediately notice the Austro-Hungarian as well as the Ottoman influences. The town has a unique Baroque architecture characterizing some of its most important buildings. Not to be missed is the Petrovaradin Fortress also known as the Gibraltar on the Danube. We will be able to explore the old town walking through the pedestrian streets passing by Zmaj Jovina and Dunavska. Have some free time to enjoy the city on your own. Overnight in Novi Sad.

Day 11 Novi Sad – Sremski Karlovci – Belgrade
Day 11 Novi Sad – Sremski Karlovci – Belgrade

Novi Sad region is also very famous about the culture of wine production and high quality of fine wines. We will learn more about the region’s tradition on wine production in Sremski Karlovci, the center of Serbian culture in the 18th century and famous for the well-respected wine cellars. Sremski Karlovci is a real gem of Serbian culture and spirituality, which feels like a ‘museum town’ with its Baroque center. It is said that every building, house and street in the city have their own stories to tell. Sremski Karlovci has its own legend which claims that whoever drinks from the Four Lions fountain located in the city center will surely return to Karlovci and get married there. After the tour you will have some free time to taste different wine specialties of the region, by enjoying the spectacular views of the vineyards. Overnight in Belgarde.

Day 12 Belgarde (Serbia) – Zvornik (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – Sarajevo
Day 12 Belgarde (Serbia) – Zvornik (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – Sarajevo

After breakfast we will visit Belgrade. Our first stop will be Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, built on the confluence of two big rivers Sava and the Danube. The view of the city from the Fortress is breathtaking. In the Upper Town of the Belgrade Fortress, you will visit the Pobednik monument with a history dating back to 1913. The park is a huge green area with beautiful trees and peaceful paths. We will walk through Knez Mihailova, the social midpoint of Belgrade locals until we reach Republic square.
After we will drive towards Bosnia and Herzegovina. Zvornik is a captivating town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated along the banks of the serene Drina River, Zvornik offers a unique experience for both travelers seeking historical insights and those yearning for a tranquil escape. Have some free time to have lunch and try the local dishes or simply walk around the charming streets of Zvornik. Overnight in Sarajevo.

Day 13 Sarajevo – Mostar
Day 13 Sarajevo – Mostar

Today we will visit Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Today’s itinerary includes walking on uneven terrain, while visiting some of the ruins during our Sarajevo tour. You can still see many reminders of the Yugoslav War in bullet holes and cannon marks all around town. The tour will cover the stories of origins of Sarajevo and the medieval Bosnian Kingdom. We will visit the Ottoman and Austria-Hungarian parts of Sarajevo, which both with its stunning markets, bazaars, mosques, churches and synagogues will reveal the true nature of the real European Jerusalem. We’ll make sure to visit the Latin Bridge and learn the story about how WWI was triggered right here, in the heart of Sarajevo. The bridge received its name because it connected the right bank of the Miljacka with the Catholic quarter of the city, which was informally called "Latinluk" in Ottoman times. Sarajevo is well known for its various delicious meat dishes and desserts. Our tour continue the city of Mostar. We will, of course, visit the iconic Old Bridge also known as Stari Most, part of UNESCO world heritage and built in a typical Islamic architectural style in the 16th century. We will also wander through the Old Bazaar with its colourful streets and lively atmosphere. The city has stones with “Don’t Forget” all around the town, commemorating the city’s history. Mostar combines the old with the new, which you will notice while wandering through the streets. There are several beautiful old mosques, bustling Turkish bazaars, and a maze of cobbled alleyways. Overnight in Mostar

Day 14 Mostar – Kotor (Montenegro) – Montenegrin Riviera
Day 14 Mostar – Kotor (Montenegro) – Montenegrin Riviera

Our tour continues towards Kotor (Montenegro), a UNESCO world heritage site. We will wander through the maze of narrow, cobblestone streets crisscrossing the old town. This street plan seems quite chaotic, but it was created this way on purpose. The intention was to confuse intruders who came to plunder the town, while nowadays it characterizes the city. Many of the old buildings and churches have small plaques on it with their dates of construction and original use. We will visit the Saint Luke’s church which has a great significance for the locals because it represents unity to them. You will have the afternoon to your selves to explore this magnific UNESCO world heritage site. Overnight near Montenegrin Riviera.

Day 15 Montenegrin Riviera – Budva – Sveti Stefan – Shkoder (Albania)
Day 15 Montenegrin Riviera – Budva – Sveti Stefan – Shkoder (Albania)

Our first destination for today is Budva in Montenegro, a popular tourist destination, famous for its beaches, gorgeous nature and old characteristic buildings. The city is separated between an old and new part. On one hand, in the New Budva, there are many modern buildings, offices, shopping malls, restaurants and bars. On the other hand, in the Old Budva, there is the historical centre and many sights to visit, such as the St. Ivan church, the small church of St. Mary and the medieval splendours of the old town, which we will visit on this tour. On our way to Albania we will make a stop near Sveti Stefan, historically a fishing town on a small island near the coast. However, nowadays it is not possible to visit the island anymore as it has turned into an exclusive residential resort. Even while standing on the coast, Sveti Stefan is a sight for sore eyes – worth a picture. From Montenegro, we will cross the border to Shkoder, Albania. The city is situated in the north-western part of Albania, giving its name to the biggest lake in the Balkans. It is one of the oldest cities in Albania, with a history of a thousand years of habitation. The oldest wall of the Shkodra castle dates from the 1st millennium BCE. The Roman historian Livy cited the town as the capital of the Illyrian king Gent, who fought the Romans in 168 B.C. We will visit Rozafa castle offering tremendous scenery of the lake and the three rivers melting all together in the Adriatic Sea. The city’s architecture is highly influenced by the Venetian style and if you are lucky enough to join the tour of Shkodra in February you might experience the carnival festival. Most of the guests are surprised to learn that most of the Venetian masks are handmade and produced in Shkodra. The city’s favourable geographic position has always been an important trading mark through the centuries, making it possible for different civilisations to encounter. Overnight in Shkoder.

Day 16 Shkoder – Mrizi i Zanave Agro tourism – Prizren (Kosovo)
Day 16 Shkoder – Mrizi i Zanave Agro tourism – Prizren (Kosovo)

Our first destination for today will be one of the best slow food Agro-tourism farms in the Balkans. We will take a tour around the farm. In addition, we will learn about the story of this farm and how it created jobs for more than 400 people in the surrounding area. The farm collects, elaborates and preserves regional bio fresh local products. We will also learn how this family business adapted some old communist buildings to serve as storage for local-made bio products. You will have some free time to enjoy a traditional lunch or buy some fresh produce products from the farm.
In the afternoon we will continue our tour towards Prizren, considered as the cultural capital of Kosovo, mixing its rich history, incredible nature, religious tolerance and gastronomic delights. Prizren has played an important role in the region as an Illyrian settlement and a crossroad for the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, contributing to the unique architecture of the city. The river flows through the heart of the old town and under the many bridges that crisscross the city. If you are looking to experience a lively international experience you should visit Prizren during August when the medieval city becomes home to one of the most famous short film festivals in the world named Dokufest. The best way to explore the town is by wandering through the streets passing by elegant medieval houses that fight for your attention. Filigree artisanal techniques for precious metals are Prizren’s joy and pride. Don’t miss the unique experience of shopping in one of the many filigree shops of the town, where you are welcomed to also see the metalsmithing magic happen. If you have to choose just one mosque to visit then visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, rich in arabesque colour and pattern. The view from the fortress on the hill above the town offers a great panorama of this astonishing town. Free afternoon in Prizren. Overnight in Prizren.

Day 17 Prizren – Gjakove - Decan – Vineyards near Rahovec – Prizren
Day 17 Prizren – Gjakove - Decan – Vineyards near Rahovec – Prizren

After breakfast we will continue our tour towards Gjakova. The city has the oldest and largest bazaar of Kosovo. Even though, it got destroyed during the first Balkan wars, the second world war and the Kosovo war, the bazaar got rebuilt again to its old state and is a nice place to enjoy a meal or to take a look at the stores that sell traditional handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. Our next destination will be the Monastery of Decan. This one stands out for its white colour, but even more remarkable is the fact that Orthodox monks still inhabit the monastery and make fresh organic food there, such as cheeses. The monastery became part of UNESCO in 2004 because of its frescoes, which portray the lives of people during the 14th century as well as the Palaeologan renaissance that changed the way of Byzantine painting. Before returning back to Prizren we will drive towards Rahovec Valley, known as the capital city of viticulture in Prizren. There is evidence that in this region grapes have been cultivated since Illyrian times, 2000 years ago. Vineyards are positioned in the soft hillocks of Rahovec in altitude from 350 -520 meters of the sea level making Rahovec an ideal spot to produce high quality fine wines. A wine festival takes place in Rahovec annually every September. Overnight in Prizren.

Day 18 Prizren – Kruje (Albania) – Tirana
Day 18 Prizren – Kruje (Albania) – Tirana

Our main destination for today will be Kruja, a historical city symbol of the Albanian resistance against the expansion of the Ottoman Empire during the XV century. Kruja is situated in central Albania on a rocky mountainous terrain about 560 meters above sea level, on the slopes of Sarisalltik Mountain. Walking through the narrow streets and the wooden houses of Kruja’s Medieval Old Bazaar (one of the biggest and oldest in Balkans) gives you a sense of a passage through the history. This is the best place to shop for souvenir in Albania, from typical to more unique and handmade souvenirs such as carpets, jewelers etc. The castle of Kruja (built during the 5th century A.D.) is strategically placed on the top of a rocky hill, making it difficult for the enemies to attack. The tour leader will take you through some hidden paths, used by the locals to leave the castle without being noticed during periods when the enemies surrounded the castle. You will have some free time to enjoy a tasty traditional lunch, do some souvenir shopping or admire the city. Later we will drive to Tirana, the capital of Albania. Overnight in Tirana

Day 19 Local food and day tour of Tirana
Day 19 Local food and day tour of Tirana

Today we will discover Tirana, the capital of Albania. Meet with your local companion, and enjoy a unique experience in the city while learning more about the city's culinary treasures.
Our first stop will be at a small local place that only locals know how to find. Here we will have the opportunity to try Byrek and have breakfast like a local. The famous traditional Albanian food is dough with all kinds of filling such as cheese, meat or spinach. The journey then leads towards Çam bazaar, founded by the Albanian Çam community, who originally came from an area called Çameria in today’s North-Western Greece. Here you can buy all kinds of goods from clothes to kitchen equipment and bargain with the sellers for a cheaper price. With your local companion by your side, you’ll skip past the tourist traps and discover the city’s culinary highlights in some of our favorite local neighborhoods, where you'll have the opportunity to savor a traditional dessert at an authentic pastry. We will have an insight into the hidden alleyways and bustling street markets of Tirana, where dozens of street hawkers sell fresh vegetables and fruits. After walking through the busy streets, we'll introduce you to the country's rich coffee culture. We will join locals at a cozy café and taste traditional "Albanian coffee". The tour will continue through the charming neighborhoods of Tirana; observe the daily lives of the city's residents, admire colorful buildings, and get a feel for the authentic atmosphere. We will visit the so-called Bicycle bazaar, where you can find everything, from second hand clothes to second hand furniture. The next stop of our local adventure takes us to the New Bazaar, where an array of culinary delights awaits us. We will try the traditional Albanian lunch – "Qofte" (meatballs) grilled to perfection and paired with freshly baked bread. Vegetarians can enjoy freshly baked bread with Albanian Gjize (cottage cheese).
To wash it all down, we will also taste some Albanian Raki. As we Albanians say, there is nothing that Raki can’t fix!
Our last stop will be BUNKART, one of the most interesting museums in Tirana. Initially designed as a nuclear bunker offering shelter to the Albanian communist supreme leader Enver Hoxha and his close party members during the cold war. The bunker was hidden to the general public until 2014, when the Albanian government decided to initiate an interesting project that converted the nuclear bunker into a museum. BUNKART is video museum exhibition dedicated to the history of the Albanian communist army and to the daily lives of Albanians during the regime. Overnight in Tirana

Day 20 Tirana – Struga (N. Macedonia) – Ohrid
Day 20 Tirana – Struga (N. Macedonia) – Ohrid

Today we will depart towards North Macedonia. Struga (N. Macedonia) will be our first stop. We will have a quick drink by the beautiful source of Drini River, one of the longest in Western Balkans. After a short visit in Struga we will drive towards Ohrid. The town of Ohrid is one of the most seductive destinations in N. Macedonia, indicated as one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. Ohrid city and Ohrid Lake are part of UNESCO World Heritage since 1980. Ohrid Lake and its surroundings where inhabited by the Illyrian Tribe of Enkeleys. The Lake was named by the Romans as “Lyhnidas” (the Light Lake). Our tour continues to the city of Ohrid (UNESCO world heritage) an important centre of Orthodoxy. We will visit the famous view point of church of St. John, the church of St. Nicolas and the mosque Halveti Hayati Tekke. Ohrid became an important centre for the Orthodox believers during the Byzantine Empire and is famous for its 365 Orthodox churches, said to have one church for each day of the year. During the Ottoman Empire the city grew on the hills and surrounding areas by the lake. The houses were built with a very specific architecture that created narrowed streets, tunnels and tiny yards on the hilly terrain, making it possible for every house to have a good view of the lake. Today the city is famous for its architecture, the churches, the castle on top of the city, the amphitheatre, the beautiful view of the lake surrounded by mountains and the pearls from the lake. Overnight in Ohrid

Day 21 Ohrid – St.Naum – Tushemisht (Albania) – Drilon – Tirana
Day 21 Ohrid – St.Naum – Tushemisht (Albania) – Drilon – Tirana

Our first stop for today will be St Naum. The monastery of St. Naum carries the name of a holy place. It is situated right at the source of River Crni Drim, which flows through Lake Ohrid. This monastery complex is part of the National Park Galicica and belongs to one of the strictly protected areas. Crystal clear, spring water reflects both the surrounding greenery and the mountain peaks in the background. As we cross border towards Albania we will stop in Tushemisht a hidden gem that offers visitors a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Before heading back to Berat we will also visit the national park of Drilon. Drilon waters form a small lake, surrounded by beautiful greenery that makes a unique oasis of beauty and tranquility. The weeping willow trees by the lake's shoreline creates a soothing ambiance, inviting travelers to relax and absorb the beauty of park. In the afternoon we will drop you off at your hotel in Tirana. This will remark the end of this 21st days adventure. We hope this has been a wonderful experience with great memories of these central European and West Balkan Countries to cherish for a lifetime.

Included/Excluded

  • BB (Accommodation and Breakfast) for all overnights in 3 star hotels
  • Private transport provided by the company
  • Food Tour in Vienna (Day 4)
  • Food Tour in Tirana (Day 19)
  • Professional tour leader
  • Pick up at the meeting point (Piazzale Roma).
  • Hotel drop off in Tirana
  • Entry tickets for the ‘’will be visited’’ sites
  • Tourist taxes
  • International car insurance
  • Road taxes
  • Petrol
  • Lunches, Dinners, Drinks & Snacks
  • Souvenirs
  • Personal spending
  • Everything that is not mentioned in the included
  • * Tips are not a must in Europe or the Balkans; however, our recommendation is to tip the tour leader/driver as an international practice to tip good service.

Epic journeys

BB for all overnights
Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off
Local Transport
Personal Tour Guide
Road taxes
Tourists taxes

Tour's Location

15%
from 3,944.00€ 3,352.40€

Inquiry

Organized by

Choose Balkans

Member Since 2020

Information Contact

Email

[email protected]

Website

https://choosebalkans.com

Phone

+355684400400

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