The Definitive Guide to a Day Trip to Korca, Pogradec and Ohrid Lake from Tirana

Tirana is a city of exciting sights, sounds and delicious tastes, making it one of the best tourist destinations in Eastern Europe. Exploring the nightlife and street food markets can be an amazing experience, but there’s plenty more to fill up even the most adventurous traveler’s weekend in Tirana. A day trip to Korca, Pogradec and Ohrid Lake offers an opportunity to explore the must-see landmarks, cities and beauty of Albania.In this guide, you’ll be taken on a journey of discovery through the small towns around Tirana, including the picturesque mountains of the Albanian Alps, the glittering Ohrid Lake and some of Albania’s finest beaches. You’ll also be provided with detailed descriptions of the attractions and activities you can do in each place, as well as helpful tips on where to stay and eat while you’re on your trip. With this guide as your companion, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable experience.

Getting to Korca

Korca is the largest city in southeastern Albania and the capital of the Korca County. It’s located about 120 km from Tirana and is one of the most popular destinations for day trips from the capital. The easiest way to get to Korca from Tirana is by car or bus. If you have access to a car, it’s just a two-hour drive away and provides an opportunity to explore some of Albania’s most stunning scenery as you go. If not, you can take one of the frequent bus services that run from Tirana’s central bus station, with prices starting from around 10 USD for a return ticket.

What to Do in Korca

Korca is a vibrant city, with plenty of cafes and restaurants, monuments and historical buildings, and outdoor activities. There are several things worth doing while you’re in Korca – here are some of the top attractions.

Bakery Museum

The Bakery Museum is a must-visit if you find yourself in Korca. It’s housed in an old 18th-century building and offers insights into traditional Albanian baking techniques. You can also sample some freshly baked pastries while you’re there!

Korca Park

Korca Park is a beautiful green space located in the center of the city. It’s a great spot for strolling, relaxing, or enjoying a picnic with friends. During summertime, there are often outdoor performances and events held in the park too.

Voskopoja Monastery

The Voskopoja Monastery is an 18th-century church perched on top of a hill above Korca. It offers stunning views of the city below as well as being a beautiful example of classic Albanian religious architecture.

Getting to Pogradec

Pogradec is a lakeside town located around 90 km southeast of Tirana on the coast of Lake Ohrid in Albania. It’s one of the most picturesque towns in the region and an ideal spot for a day trip from Tirana. The easiest way to get to Pogradec from Tirana is by car or bus. Car journeys usually take around two hours, and there are several route options depending on which sights you’d like to stop off at along the way. If you’re taking public transport, regular buses leave from Tirana’s central bus station with prices starting from 15 USD for a return trip.

What To See In Pogradec

Pogradec has plenty to offer visitors during their visit – here are some of the top must-do activities:

Explore Kepi i Rodonit

Kepi i Rodonit is first on our list of must-see sights in Pogradec. It’s a stunning mountain range that’s part of the Albanian Alps and adorned with striking views of Lake Ohrid. You can explore its natural beauty by taking one of the walking paths that start near the village of Dragostunja at the base of the mountain.

Visit Selenica Beach

Selenica Beach is one of Albania’s best beaches, located just outsideof Pogradec City Centre. With shimmering blue waters and plenty of sunbeds available for rent, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular spots for visitors. There are also several beachside restaurants offering delicious seafood dishes too.

Explore Lake Ohrid

Lake Ohrid is one of Albania’s most stunning natural attractions in Pogradec. It’s a deep lake surrounded by mountains that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its incredible biodiversity. You can rent boats or join boat tours to explore its crystal clear waters and admire its stunning beauty from afar.

Getting To Ohrid Lake

Ohrid Lake is located just over 20 km from Pogradec and makes for a great day trip. The easiest way to get there is by car or bus, with bus services running between Pogradec and Ohrid Lake several times daily for around 5 USD for a return journey. Some buses also stop at nearby beaches along the way if you’d like to add them to your itinerary too!

What To Do In Ohrid Lake

Situated between castle ruins, rolling hills, traditional villages and beautiful beaches, Ohrid Lake offers visitors plenty to do on their trip. Here are just some of themost interesting activities available:

Climb Castle Ruins

One of the most striking activities in Ohrid Lake is climbing its castle ruins. From atop these towers, you can admire breathtaking views across the lake, village roofs and surrounding mountains – plus get some fantastic pictures! You can either take guided tours or explore them independently – remember to wear good shoes if you choose the latter as it’s quite slippy during rain!

Relax at a Beach

If you’re looking for somewhere to kick back and relax during your visit, cabanas at Ohrid’s beach provide a great spot – especially during summertime! Whether you want a brisk swim in the lake or lounging on sun beds with delicious food and good company – there’s something for everyone here. There are also nearby villages where you can find traditional souvenirs to take home with you too!

Take in Odysseus Cave

Odysseus Cave is one of Ohrid Lake’s most unique attractions, believed by locals to be the very same cave that Homer’s legendary hero escaped from many years ago.. When visiting it, you’ll find incredible rock formations along with mythical legends that have been passed down for generations – so don’t forget your camera! You can take guided tours or explore it independently if you’d like – just remember bring an umbrella if it’s raining!

Wrapping Up Your Day Trip From Tirana

Taking time out on a city break or day trip away from Tirana is a great way to experience all that Albania has to offer. A fantastic place to start may be with a day trip to Korca, Pogradec and Ohrid Lake: places full of stimulating activity and sights ranging from mountain peaks through picturesque lakeside towns all the way down to relaxing beachside cabanas! Just remember: plan ahead so that your journey runs smoothly and make sure you’re wearing appropriate footwear for your exploration gigs! For more information about what attractions each place has to offer, check out this useful guide. You could even book this all-in-one daytrip tour package, so you don’t have to think about anything else other than exploring!