From Corfu or Saranda: 8-Day Southern & Central Albania Tour
Multi-day trips
Tours
Nature & adventure
Culture & history
Guided tours
Sightseeing
Discover the beauty of Albania on an 8-day tour from Corfu or Saranda. Explore UNESCO sites, charming towns, and stunning landscapes, and enjoy authentic local experiences.
Highlights
- Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Butrint and Gjirokastër
- Relax in the Benja Thermal Baths and enjoy the Blue Eye spring
- Explore charming towns like Përmet, Korçë, Pogradec, and Elbasan
- Taste authentic Albanian cuisine and experience warm hospitality
- Experience the contrast between historic towns and modern Tirana
Description
Discover the best of southern and central Albania on this 8-day, 7-night tour starting from Corfu or Saranda. Explore three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Butrint, Gjirokastër, and the Vjosa River National Park – along with stunning landscapes, traditional towns, and vibrant cities like Korçë, Pogradec, and Tirana.
Day 1: Saranda – Butrint – Ksamil – Lekures Castle
Arrive from Corfu and start in lively Saranda. Visit Butrint (UNESCO), one of the Balkans’ most important archaeological parks, then relax on the turquoise beaches of Ksamil. In the afternoon, enjoy breathtaking views from Lekures Castle. Free evening and overnight stay in Saranda.
Day 2: Blue Eye – Gjirokastër
Drive to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a stunning natural spring surrounded by lush forest. Visit the Church of Saint Nicholas, known for its Byzantine design, then continue to Gjirokastër (UNESCO), the “Stone City.” Explore its impressive castle, traditional Ottoman houses, and charming old bazaar. Dinner and overnight in Gjirokastër.
Day 3: Përmet – Benja Thermal Baths – Vjosa River
Travel toward Përmet, “the city of roses.” Stop near Tepelenë’s Cold Water spring, then continue through Këlcyrë Gorge, home to the UNESCO-listed Vjosa River National Park. Relax in the Benja Thermal Baths, set among stone bridges and mountains, and taste local sweets in a small workshop. Dinner and overnight in Përmet.
Day 4: Leskovik – Korçë
Head north via Leskovik, a mountain town known for wine and raki. Continue to Korçë, often called the “Little Paris” of Albania. Visit the National Museum of Medieval Art, featuring over 6,000 icons, and stroll through the Old Bazaar, full of cafes and artisan shops. Dinner and overnight in Korçë.
Day 5: Pogradec – Drilon – Lake Ohrid
Depart for Pogradec on the shores of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. Enjoy lunch by the water, walk along the lakeside promenade, and visit Drilon National Park, famous for its crystal springs and tranquil atmosphere. Overnight stay in Pogradec.
Day 6: Elbasan – Tirana
Travel toward Elbasan, once a key stop on the ancient Via Egnatia route. Visit the castle and Old Mosque, then continue to Tirana, Albania’s colorful capital. Take an evening stroll around Skanderbeg Square and enjoy the lively café culture. Dinner and overnight in Tirana.
Day 7: Tirana – City Tour
Explore Tirana’s history and modern charm. Visit Bunk’Art 1 or 2, the National Archaeological Museum, and the National Gallery of Arts. Wander through the New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri) and the Blloku district, now a hub for restaurants and boutiques. Optionally, take the Dajti Cable Car for panoramic views. Dinner and overnight in Tirana.
Day 8: Tirana – End of Tour
After breakfast, enjoy free time for shopping or sightseeing. Optional visits include the Et’hem Bey Mosque, Rinia Park, or the Pyramid of Tirana. Transfer to the airport or return trip toward Corfu. End of tour.
Includes
7 nights accommodation
Breakfast
Dinner
Guided tours
All the Entrance fees
Visit to Benja Thermal Baths
Visit to National Museum of Medieval Art
Visit to Bunk’Art museum
Visit to Elbasan & Gjirokastra Castles
Important Information
- The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces
Weather can vary, so pack accordingly
Ensure your passport is valid for travel
Some sites may have limited accessibility for those with mobility issues
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund