Albania & Montenegro
8-day round trip
Included admissions
Berat Fortress
Shkodra, Rozafa Fortress
Kotor, visitor's tax
Skadar Lake National Park + boat trip with snacks
Stari Bar entrance
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Tour itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Tirana - Durres
Day 2: Durrës – Tirana – Berat – Durrës
After breakfast, the day begins with a drive to Albania's vibrant capital, Tirana – a city that harmoniously blends contrasts: socialist monumental buildings stand alongside modern glass palaces, historic mosques nestled between colorful facades and shady parks. A comprehensive city tour reveals the diversity of this up-and-coming metropolis.
Skanderbeg Square, the heart of Tirana, is home to some of the country's most important buildings: the National History Museum with its impressive mosaic facade, the Et'hem Bey Mosque – a symbol of religious tolerance that remained unscathed even during the communist era – as well as the Clock Tower, the Opera House, the Palace of Culture, and the city's two grand cathedrals. A stroll along National Martyrs Boulevard offers a glimpse into Albania's political legacy. The nearby Blloku district, once accessible only to the party leadership under dictator Enver Hoxha, is now a vibrant, trendy area with elegant cafes, restaurants, and boutiques – a symbol of modern, lively Tirana.
In the afternoon, the journey continues to Berat, the "City of a Thousand Windows." Nestled between a river, a mountain range, and vineyards, it is one of Albania's most impressive places and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. The city boasts a history spanning over 2,000 years and captivates visitors with its Ottoman-influenced architecture. High above the old town, the Berat Fortress stands majestically, with its narrow streets, white stone houses, and sweeping views across the valley. Within the fortress walls is the Cathedral of St. Mary, which now houses the Onufri Museum, named after the renowned 16th-century icon painter.
In the evening, return to Durrës, where the day can be brought to a pleasant close with a walk along the promenade or in one of the restaurants by the sea.
Day 3: Durrës – Ura e Mesit – Shkodra
After breakfast, a short tour of Durrës is on the agenda. Albania's oldest port city is considered the gateway to the Adriatic and boasts over 2,500 years of history. Between modern buildings and ancient relics such as the Roman amphitheater or sections of the Byzantine city walls, the vibrant interplay of past and present is revealed.
The route then heads north to Shkodra, the largest city in northern Albania and the country's cultural center. Even upon entering the city, the Mediterranean atmosphere is striking – a blend of Italian flair and Austrian influence, a reminder of the city's eventful history. A stroll through the pedestrian zone with its restored houses, small shops, and cafes offers a glimpse into the charming city life.
A highlight of the day is a visit to the imposing Rozafa Castle, which majestically overlooks the city. From here, a sweeping view opens up over the Buna and Drin rivers, Lake Skadar, and as far as the Albanian Alps – a panorama that impressively combines history and landscape.
To conclude the day, an excursion to the famous Mesi Bridge follows, one of the most important structures from the Ottoman period. Its thirteen arches have spanned the Kir River for around 300 years – a masterpiece of traditional stone construction and one of Albania's most beautiful cultural monuments.
Arrival in Shkodra in the evening and check-in at the hotel.
Day 4: Shkodra – Ulcinj – Petrovac – Sveti Stefan – Budva
After breakfast, we continue south towards the Montenegrin border. Shortly after crossing the border, the view opens up to the Montenegrin Adriatic coast – a captivating interplay of turquoise sea, steep cliffs, and Mediterranean towns.
Our first stop is Ulcinj, Montenegro's southernmost city and one of the oldest on the Adriatic coast. For centuries, the city was shaped by the Ottoman Empire and remains a cultural link between East and West. In the labyrinthine old town, imposing stone walls, narrow streets, and mosques are reminders of this eventful past. Ulcinj was also once notorious for its slave market, where – according to legend – the Spanish poet Miguel de Cervantes was imprisoned.
The journey continues along the picturesque coastal road to Petrovac, a former fishing village nestled in a beautiful red sand bay that has retained its tranquil, charming character. A brief stop is then made at the offshore island of Sveti Stefan, one of the country's most photographed spots – the former fishing village on a small rocky island is now a luxurious resort, uniquely blending history, nature, and elegance.
Late afternoon arrival in Budva, arguably Montenegro's most famous resort town. A stroll through the lively old town with its narrow streets, Venetian palaces, and small squares offers a vivid glimpse into this charming coastal city. Afterwards, check into your hotel and enjoy dinner in Budva.
Day 5: Day at leisure
Day 6: Budva – Tivat – Perast – Kotor – Budva
The day is dedicated to the breathtaking Bay of Kotor – one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Mediterranean. Deeply indented, surrounded by steep mountains and dotted with small, picturesque villages, the fjord-like bay is reminiscent of Scandinavian scenery, but with Mediterranean light and southern charm.
In the morning, a visit to the elegant port city of Tivat, once developed into an important naval base by the Venetians and later by the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. A stroll through the modern "Porto Montenegro" marina leads past exclusive yachts, elegant promenades, and stylish cafés – a fascinating contrast to the historic coastline.
The coastal road leads to Perast, a small baroque gem right on the water. From here, there is a picturesque view of the two islands of Sveti Đorđe (St. George) and Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks) – one of Montenegro's most famous sights.
In the afternoon, visit the UNESCO-protected old town of Kotor. Nestled within massive city walls, narrow streets, and medieval squares, it is one of the most beautiful old towns in the entire Mediterranean. Venetian palaces, small churches, and the aroma of local specialties give the city its unique character. After a guided tour, there will be time for individual exploration or a coffee on the waterfront promenade.
Return to Budva in the late afternoon.
Day 7: Budva – Lake Skadar – StariBar – Durrës
After breakfast, we travel south to Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans and one of the most fascinating nature reserves in Europe. The lake, which straddles the border between Montenegro and Albania, is a paradise for nature lovers – fringed by dense reed beds, tranquil bays, and a rich variety of birdlife.
A boat trip on the lake offers impressive views of this unique landscape. Passing by carpets of water lilies and small islands, the journey leads, among other places, to the former prison island of Grmožur, often called the "Montenegrin Alcatraz." Today the island is uninhabited and presents a mysterious sight – a silent monument to bygone times.
Afterwards, we continue to Bar, a place where history and modernity meet. The old town of Stari Bar lies at the foot of the Rumija Mountains, protected by mighty walls and dominated by a castle perched on a rocky outcrop. Among the ruins of old churches, Ottoman buildings, and cypress trees, the town's eventful history can be traced. The modern district of Novi Bar, located on the coast, only emerged in the 19th century and is now home to Montenegro's most important industrial port.
In the afternoon, return journey across the border into Albania and arrival in Durrës. Check-in at the hotel and dinner.
Day 8 : Transfer to the airport
Return flight
