How to Plan Your Visit to Albania and Montenegro Tour

Are you looking for a fascinating cultural experience that will take you through some of the most beautiful locations in Albania and Montenegro? Then look no further than this nine-day tour, which offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, local cuisine, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. This once-in-a-lifetime trip offers a private air-conditioned vehicle to escort you to each attraction, along with a knowledgeable guide who will give you an informative background on each of the locations you visit. You don’t need to worry about hassle with booking as the tour includes accommodation, all meals, and admission fees.

Itinerary

The tour kicks off at the Tirana Airport, where you will be transported to your hotel in Tirana, just a short 17 km away. After settling in and resting for a while, the real adventure begins.

Day 2: Ardenica Monastery, Apollonia and Vlora

On the second day of the tour, you’ll embark on a journey that takes you to three significant locations in Albania. First, you will visit the Ardenica Monastery, which was built-in 1282 and is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Next, you’ll head to the ancient Greek city of Apollonia and marvel at its beautiful ruins. Finally, you’ll take a trip to Vlora and enjoy its beautiful coastline.

Day 3: Butrint and Saranda

On the third day of the tour, you will be taken to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, which dates back to the Greek and Roman times. Afterwards, you’ll have lunch and take a stroll through the charming seaside town of Saranda before calling it a day.

Day 4: Kruja, Shkoder, and Budva

The fourth day is packed with destinations to see, beginning with the town of Kruja and its ancient castle. After that, we will head towards vibrant Shkoder and explore the ancient Rozafa Castle. In the afternoon, we’ll cross the border into Montenegro and enjoy the beautiful Budva Riviera.

Day 5: Cetinje, Lovcen, and Kotor

On Day 5, you will explore some of the most breathtaking sights Montenegro has to offer. Starting with the former royal capital of Cetinje, we’ll visit the famous Lovcen National Park to see the mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic-Njegos. Finally, we’ll head over to the welcoming town of Kotor and explore its stunning Old Town.

Day 6: Elafiti Islands and Dubrovnik

On this day, you’ll take a refreshing break from the busy schedule and enjoy the beautiful Elafiti Islands. Afterwards, we’ll head over to the Croatian city of Dubrovnik which lies just over the border, and visit its stunning Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 7: Skadar Lake and The Capital

The seventh day of the tour takes us back to Albania as we explore Skadar Lake National Park, home to a multitude of rare bird species. After lunch by the lake, we will then make our way back to Tirana, the capital city of Albania.

Day 8: Berat and Durres

The eighth day of the tour starts with a visit to the historic town of Berat, also nicknamed “The City of a Thousand Windows” due to its numerous white buildings. Continuing onwards, we’ll journey towards the coastal town of Durres, another ancient site of great historical significance.

Day 9: Tirana and the End of the Tour

The final day of the tour will be spent exploring the capital city of Tirana. Here, you’ll visit the famous Skanderbeg square, a National Museum, and check out the colorful buildings in Blloku. The tour ends in the evening, bidding farewell to the beautiful journey that took us through Albania and Montenegro.

What to Expect

This tour is designed to be informative, exhilarating and rewarding. Each day is jam-packed with various sites and attractions. Everything is sorted, from transport and accommodation to meals and fees.

Transportation

On this tour, you’ll travel in a private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver. This vehicle will take you from your hotel to every destination throughout the trip, and back.

Accommodation and Meals

This tour includes nine nights’ stay at a carefully selected list of hotels. You won’t need to worry about booking accommodation, meals or picking a restaurant.

Local Guides

Local guides who have a vast knowledge about their places will escort you to some attractions.

Admission Fees

Another significant advantage of booking this tour is that all admission fees to the listed destinations are included in the package cost. No lining up or payment hassles.

Booking

If this tour sounds enticing, book your spot from here. The link will take you to Viator, where the tour is available for purchase. See you in Albania and Montenegro!

Frequently Asked Questions About Tirana

Tirana is the capital city of Albania, a country located in southeastern Europe. It is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Tirana or are simply curious to learn more about the city, read on for answers to some frequently asked questions.

1. What is the best time to visit Tirana?

The best time to visit Tirana is during the months of April to June and September to November. The weather is mild and pleasant during these times, and you can avoid the crowds of tourists that come during the summer months. July and August can be uncomfortably hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. The winter months of December to February can be chilly, with occasional snowfall.

2. What are some must-see tourist attractions in Tirana?

Some of the must-see tourist attractions in Tirana include:

• The National History Museum
• The Et’hem Bey Mosque
• The Pyramid of Tirana
• The Skanderbeg Square
• The Blloku District
• The Dajti Mountain
• The Bunk’Art Museum

3. Is Tirana a safe city to visit?

Tirana is generally a safe city to visit, but it is always important to take precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you. Be cautious in crowded areas, as pickpocketing can occur. It is also advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas.

4. What are the best places to eat in Tirana?

Tirana has a diverse culinary scene, offering a range of traditional Albanian dishes as well as international cuisine. Some of the best places to eat in Tirana include:

• Mullixhiu
• Bar Restaurant Era
• Oda
• Mulliri i Vjeter
• Artigiano

5. What is the currency used in Tirana?

The currency used in Tirana is the Albanian Lek. It is recommended to exchange currency at a bank or exchange office, as rates may not be favorable at hotels or airports. Many businesses also accept euros, but it is advisable to check beforehand.

6. Can I drink tap water in Tirana?

It is generally not advisable to drink tap water in Tirana. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive. It is also recommended to avoid ice cubes in drinks at restaurants and bars.

7. How do I get around Tirana?

Tirana has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and minibusses. Taxis are also widely available and relatively inexpensive. It is also possible to rent a car or bicycle, but traffic in the city can be hectic.

8. What are some good day trips from Tirana?

There are several good day trips from Tirana, including:

• Kruja: a historical town known for its castle and bazaar
• Durres: a coastal city with ancient Roman ruins
• Shkoder: a charming town with a beautiful lake and historic castle
• Berat: a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “city of a thousand windows”

Book Your Tour Now

Tirana is a city with much to offer visitors. From its rich history and culture to its diverse culinary scene, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. By following these tips and recommendations, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Tirana.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Tirana

If you’re planning a visit to the capital city of Albania, Tirana, you might be wondering how you should spend your time. The city is an eclectic mix of old and new, with ancient Ottoman buildings standing alongside contemporary structures. There’s a lot to take in, so it can be overwhelming trying to decide how to prioritize your time. This guide will give you a detailed overview of the must-see sights and sounds of Tirana and provide you with some useful tips to make the most of your stay.

1. Visit Skanderbeg Square

Skanderbeg Square is the heart of the city and the perfect place to start your tour. The square is surrounded by impressive buildings like the National Historical Museum and the Palace of Culture of Tirana. You can also find the famous Skanderbeg statue, the national hero of Albanians, in the center of the square.

2. Explore the Blloku area

Once a closed-off area for Communist officials, the Blloku neighborhood has now transformed into a trendy district packed with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s worth visiting during the day to appreciate the colorful street art and murals or at night to soak up the lively atmosphere.

3. Go to Enver Hoxha’s Pyramid

Built in honor of the late communist leader Enver Hoxha, the Pyramid of Tirana is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. It’s a unique piece of architecture that still draws crowds today.

4. Visit the National Art Gallery of Albania

Located in the city center, the National Art Gallery of Albania houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art created by Albanian artists. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts, and there are often temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

5. Take a stroll through the Grand Park of Tirana

If you want to take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, head to the Grand Park of Tirana. It’s a large green space that is perfect for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon walk. You can also visit the Tirana Zoo and the Botanic Garden that are located within the park.

6. See the Et’hem Bey Mosque

The Et’hem Bey Mosque is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture and one of the oldest and most important mosques in Albania. Its colorful frescoes and ornate details are a feast for the eyes.

7. Visit Bunk’Art

Bunk’Art is one of the most fascinating museums in Tirana. It’s located in a former nuclear bunker and is now a museum that showcases the history and impact of communism in Albania. It’s a surreal experience that should not be missed.

8. Try traditional Albanian cuisine

Albanian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Try traditional dishes like byrek (a savory pastry), qofte (meatballs), and fërgesë (a stew made with peppers and feta cheese).

9. Shop at the Tirana Bazaar

The Tirana Bazaar is a bustling marketplace that sells everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. It’s a great place to shop for unique gifts and to experience the local culture.

10. Catch a show at the National Theatre of Albania

The National Theatre of Albania is the country’s main theater and is located in the city center. It hosts a variety of productions throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and opera. That’s our list of the top ten things to do in Tirana. We hope it has given you some inspiration for your trip to this vibrant city. Remember, there’s always more to discover, so don’t be afraid to explore and try new things.