Explore Albania Like a Local: Affordable 8-Day Journey with Hidden Gems!

Hosted by

Nawitha

Guided trip
What's special?
special Discover Albania's best-kept secrets
special Authentic Local Experience
special Flexible and Affordable Trip
Nawittha is coming to visit Polo in Albania for a 7-nights / 8-day exploration. During this week, we will uncover hidden gems that aren’t found on the online & offline guides. Our journey will include visits to historical and archaeological sites, museums, waterfalls, canyons, caves, beaches, fishing spots, breathtaking landscapes, religious sites, and natural parks. You can join us any-day, it's not an obligation to do the full 7 nights! We will explore Albania's hidden treasures by area, allowing our guests to vote and choose the destinations they are most excited to visit. With so many incredible places to see, seven days won't be enough to cover everything, but we’ll ensure a memorable experience by tailoring the itinerary based on your preferences. Our tours will focus on the regions around Tirana, Durrës, Elbasan, Berat, Lushnje, and Përmet. We will traverse central Albania, from the west to the east and back, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of this beautiful country. Polo and Nawittha, being easy-going and flexible, will let our guests decide which sites and activities to prioritize, ensuring everyone has a fantastic time. Join us on this unique adventure and experience the best of Albania’s hidden gems!

Polo: Educational Background: Holds degrees in Business and Tourism Management from Albania, Science of Economic Direction Management, and Finance from Switzerland. Professional Experience: Former tourist guide, hospitality worker, and entrepreneur with extensive travel experience. Multicultural Insight: Brings a broad perspective from living and studying in Switzerland and traveling to all continents. Nawittha: Educational Background: Holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry specializing in detergents, perfumes, and pharmacology, and a degree in Hospitality Management. Professional Experience: Worked as a manager and massage therapist during her studies abroad, gaining extensive experience in the hospitality industry through various internships and roles as a hotel and tourist guide. Entrepreneurial Ventures: Owned and operated a successful camping site in Barcelona for eight years. During this time, she traveled the world for six months each year, enhancing her guiding and cultural background with firsthand experiences. Current Role and Future Aspirations: Currently working as a massage specialist in Switzerland while continuing to travel. This summer, Albania serves as a trial for the couple’s plan to settle down for 4-5 months a year and live and travel the rest of the time.

We will suggest to stay in local guesthouses to fully experience the welcoming traditions of Albanian culture. You have the option to choose between staying in a hotel, hostel or bed & breakfast (B&B). Especially, for those who opt for a B&B, accommodations will be with families that Polo has known since childhood, providing an authentic and intimate experience. Any questions about the trip? You can let me know in the Q&A section!

What's included?
Accommodation
Transport
Breakfast & Snacks
Museum & Historical Sites
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Trip Itinerary
1

Tirana

Day 1-2
Polo and Nawittha will arrive at Tirana Airport at 14:30, and by around 15:30, they'll be at the Beer House Restaurant (Shtëpija e Birrës). This delightful spot, next to Tirana's only artificial lake and park, is owned by a family friend of Polo's, Tomi. The boss, who shares a special mutual affection and respect with Polo and Nawittha, will prepare delicious traditional dishes for us. After a hearty lunch, we will visit the Bunk'Art 2 Museum (Tirana Center). For those interested in learning more about Albania's communist era, the restaurant's boss, who was once the director of the House of Art of Albania and was close to Enver Hoxha and the Politburo, has many fascinating stories to share. Walk from restaurant to BunkArt through the hypest area of Tirana. Post our museum visit, we'll decide whether to stay in Tirana for a ber or the night or head south to the historic city of Berat. (We and Tomi make the Komunist Symbol joking on the picture)
2

Berat

Day 2-3
Berat, known as the "City of a Thousand Windows," is a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Wander through its winding cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses, marvel at the ancient Berat Castle perched on a hilltop, and explore historic churches and mosques that tell tales of Albania's rich cultural tapestry. Sineci Canyon, a hidden gem near Berat, offers an exhilarating adventure amidst towering cliffs and emerald waters. Hike along its rugged trails, swim in refreshing pools beneath cascading waterfalls, and soak in the tranquil beauty of this natural wonderland. Nearby, the Cave of Xhixhile beckons with its mysterious allure. This underground marvel invites explorers to delve into its depths, revealing fascinating rock formations and echoes of ancient legends. Together, Berat, Sineci Canyon, and the Cave of Xhixhile weave a tapestry of history, nature, and adventure that captivates visitors exploring Albania's diverse landscapes. Embark on an enchanting evening tour of the Castle of Berat, a historical and cultural jewel nestled atop a 187-meter-high hill overlooking the Osum River gorge. This tour promises a captivating journey through Albania’s rich heritage, blending history, architecture, and panoramic vistas. Adding to the authenticity, you will be guided by a member of Polo's family, for whom Berat is their origin city. You'll explore the castle and city like a true local, experiencing hidden walks around the castle that no other tour guide offers. As part of the tour, during the day we will also visit the stunning Sineci Canyon, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of Berat and its surroundings.
3

Gramsh

Day 3-4
Holta Canyon and Sotira Waterfall are hidden treasures nestled in Albania's natural beauty. Holta Canyon offers a rugged landscape with steep cliffs and crystal-clear waters, perfect for adventurous hikes and photography enthusiasts. Nearby, we can make a walk to abashi cave and then take the car for a longer walk to Sotira Waterfall cascades gracefully, offering a serene retreat amidst lush greenery. These destinations invite travelers to immerse themselves in Albania's pristine wilderness, away from the beaten path, and discover the tranquility and raw beauty of nature.
4

Përmet

Day 4-5
Permet, nestled in the heart of southern Albania, is a haven of natural beauty and cultural richness. Bënjë thermal baths are renowned for their healing mineral waters, surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush forests. Nearby, Bredhi i Hotovës National Park offers pristine landscapes, home to diverse flora and fauna. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and stunning vistas. Permet's charm lies in its serene ambiance, where visitors can unwind, explore, and connect with Albania's unspoiled natural treasures.
5

Gjirokaster

Day 5-6
Embark on a captivating journey through Tepelena and Gjirokaster, two gems of Southern Albania. Tepelena, steeped in history, boasts ancient fortresses and scenic river views, offering a glimpse into Albania's past. Meanwhile, Gjirokaster's UNESCO-listed old town captivates with its Ottoman architecture and cobblestone streets. Explore its vibrant bazaar, visit the historic Gjirokaster Castle, and savor local delicacies. Together, these destinations promise an enriching cultural experience, blending tradition, heritage, and stunning landscapes in Albania's enchanting south.
6

Berat County

Day 6-7
Polican, known for its intriguing "Ruins of Communism," offers a glimpse into Albania's complex past. Explore remnants of industrial complexes and socialist-era architecture, reflecting a pivotal era in the nation's history. Nearby, Skrapari boasts the breathtaking Osumi Canyons, where towering cliffs and winding rivers create a dramatic landscape perfect for hiking and photography. Further afield, Bogova Waterfall cascades gracefully amidst lush greenery, inviting visitors to discover its tranquil beauty and enjoy a refreshing dip in its pristine waters. Together, Berat County with its castle and it's small cities Polican and Skrapari area offer a blend of historical exploration and natural wonders, making them must-visit destinations in Albania. Late afternoon exploring Berat Castle and City as it needs more days to enjoy properly.
7

Lushnjë

Day 7-8
Join us for a unique and thrilling exploration of Berat and Lushnje, where history and nature blend seamlessly. This exclusive tour unveils lesser-known archaeological sites and hidden treasures that are rarely seen by the public, offering an authentic and immersive experience. Beyond the famous landmarks, discover secret spots in Berat and Lushnje that capture the essence of Albanian culture and history. From secluded ruins to picturesque landscapes, these areas provide a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage. Enjoy a visit to a local beach renowned for its healthy salt and iodine-rich waters, frequented by locals for its therapeutic benefits. This serene beach offers a relaxing escape, where you can unwind and soak in the natural healing properties of the sea.
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Bed & Breakfast & Hostel & Other & Hotel & Apartments
8 days trip
Tirana, Berat & 5 more
Transportation
Car
What's excluded?
Lunch and Dinner will split in between
Flight
Visa & Insurance
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