Visit the Balkans in 3 Days Private Tour from Tirana
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Duration: 3 days
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

Kosovo Tour

Kruje - Our amazing journey starts in Tirana. After picking up the travelers at their hotels, we will drive towards our first destination, a small stop in Kruja City often referred to as “The old capital of Albania.” Our exploration begins with a visit to the remarkable Kruja Bazaar, a 500-year-old market established during Skanderbeg’s time and still bustling with activity today. The market is flanked by a unique stone road and showcases a plethora of artisanal handmade products, leaving every traveler in awe. As we wander through the market, we will reach the entrance to the castle, a structure that boasts a history spanning a millennium. Within the castle’s walls, we’ll embark on a walking tour, visiting various sites, including the watchtower, the Olive Tree of Skanderbeg, underground secret tunnels, and the remnants of religious places like Teqes, Sultan Mehmet Mosque, and much more. The castle’s pinnacle offers the most breathtaking view of the city.

Prizren - We will continue our tour to Prizren, this one considered as the cultural capital of Kosovo. It has a rich history that dates back to ancient times and served as an important center during the Byzantine, Ottoman, and Yugoslav periods. The city has particular importance to Albania since the first government of a united Albania was established here -the Albanian League of Prizren.
Prizren’s old town is characterized by cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and historic buildings.

Some of the attraction sites that we are going to visit are:
-Sinan Pasha Mosque: This mosque is one of the most prominent landmarks in Prizren.
-The Albanian League of Prizren building
-Church of Our Lady of Ljeviš: A Serbian Orthodox church dating back to the 14th century.
-Prizren Fortress (Kalaja e Prizrenit): The fortress offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Following a delightful lunch in the old town, our journey will continue towards the capital of Kosovo, Prishtina

Pristina - Finally we arrive in our last destination for the first day, Prishtina. The history of Prishtina is marked by various periods of rule and influences. In the 20th century, it became the capital of the Autonomous Province of Kosovo within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Following the Kosovo War in the late 1990s, Kosovo declared independence in 2008, with Prishtina as its capital.

During our walking tour of the city center we will visit several places like:
-Newborn Monument: A symbol of Kosovo’s declaration of independence.
-Mother Teresa Square: This central square is named after Mother Teresa.
-Imperial Mosque (Xhamia Mbret): Dating back to the 15th century, this mosque is one of the oldest buildings in Prishtina.
-National Library of Kosovo: Known for its unique architectural design, the library is a prominent cultural institution in the city, and much more.

North Macedonia Tour

Skopje - After eating breakfast, we will start our journey towards Skopje. Situated in the northwestern part of North Macedonia, along the Vardar River, Skopje is the capital and largest city of North Macedonia. It is surrounded by mountains and hills, contributing to its scenic setting. The history of the capital is very old, dating back from the Greek colonies and Macedonian empire to the Yugoslav periods.

Some of the sites that we are going to visit in Skopje are:
-Skopje Fortress (Kale): A historic fortress situated on a hill overlooking the city.
-Stone Bridge: This Ottoman-era bridge is one of the city’s symbols.
-Old Bazaar (Stara Čaršija): A lively and historic market area with cobblestone streets, traditional shops, and historic buildings.
-Mother Teresa Memorial House: Dedicated to Mother Teresa, who was of Albanian ethnicity and was born in Skopje, and much more.

Ohrid - From Skopje we will be heading to lake Ohrid. Continuing our scenic drive along the lake’s perimeter, we reach Ohrid, a city where time seems to stand still. Ohrid is renowned for its 365 churches, each reflecting the influence of various cultures from the Roman Empire to the Ottoman Empire, and more.

In Ohrid we will visit several sights like:
-Church of Saint Sophia
-Church of Saint John
-Church of Saint Clement and Panteleimon
-Samoil’s Fortress
-Ohrid’s amphitheater
-Old town and much more..

Albania Tour

Berat - 2 hours after entering Albanian territories, we reach Berat City, famously known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.”
Before entering the city center, we’ll ascend the castle hill for a visit to the castle itself.
On the walking tour of the castle we will learn the history of this ancient city while visiting several sites like:
•Saint Mary of Blachernae Church, the oldest church in Berat
•Church of the Holy Trinity
•The Water Cisterns of the Castle
•The Red Mosque
•Constantine the Great Garden …and much more.

Following this immersive experience, we’ll enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch with a local family residing
within the castle.

After our castle visit, we’ll descend to the city center, specifically the renowned Mangalemi
neighborhood. The exceptionally well-preserved architecture of the buildings in this area makes it feel
like a journey back in time to the Middle Ages. It’s fascinating to note that people still inhabit these
Ottoman-era houses.

Durres - Finally, we arrive in the last stop of our Balkan tour, Durres City. The city has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Durrës was founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century BCE and later became an important center during Roman rule. The city has witnessed various periods of influence, including Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman.

In Durres we will visit several spots like:
-Durrës Amphitheatre: Among the most notable archaeological sites in the city is the Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës.
-Venetian Tower (Venetian Tower of Durrës): This tower, also known as the Tower of Durres, is a medieval structure that stands as a reminder of the city’s Venetian influence.
-Durrës Castle: The historic castle dates back to the Byzantine period and has undergone various modifications over the centuries.
-The boulevard of Durres, running along the waterfront, offering residents and visitors a picturesque setting along the Adriatic Sea.

Durres concludes our tour, returning in Tirana.

What's Included
  • All entry fees
  • Lunch
  • Breakfast
  • All fees and/or taxes
Additional Information

This tour stands out as it allows you to experience the highlights of three countries in just three days. It’s an ideal option for travelers keen on observing the diverse evolution of Albanian culture across different regions. The tour includes visits to two capital cities, two UNESCO World Heritage sites, and two significant historic cities where crucial events have influenced the course of history.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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(2 Ratings)
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Thomasbv5215ls
Jan 2, 2024
Enthralling Journey Through 3 Countries: A Testament to Exceptional Guiding in Balkans - Our three-day excursion through Prizren and Pristina (Kosovo, day 1), Ohrid and Skopje (Macedonia, day 2), and Berat (Albania, day 3) was an absolute whirlwind of discovery, thanks to our incredible guide! Their extensive knowledge and passion for the region's history and culture made every moment truly come alive. Our guide's professionalism, friendliness, and expertise transformed this trip into an enriching adventure. Its ability to cater to our interests while showcasing the best of each location was remarkable. He was our private driver, guide and picture maker for amazing memories ! We can't recommend him enough for anyone seeking an immersive and captivating journey through these stunning destinations!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Olsih2024
Jan 2, 2024
Memorable trip of the Balkans - Just an amazing experience! Never thought I could cover 3 countries in 3 days. Very interesting sites we visited. Thanks to our 1 in 1000000 guide we learned so much about Albania and had a blast. Worth every penny.
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minimum 2 guests
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up to 15 guests
2 Adult
July 2024
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