Tour of Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo & N. Macedonia in 15 Days: How to Plan Your Adventure

Are you ready to explore the hidden gems of the western Balkans? This multi-day tour of Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, and North Macedonia is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture, cuisine, and history of this fascinating region. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to plan your 15-day tour, from booking to packing to getting the most out of your trip.

Booking Your Tour

The first step in planning your tour is booking it! We recommend booking through Viator, a trusted online booking platform. The tour includes accommodation, transportation, a professional guide, and entry tickets to notable tourist attractions. You can book the tour here: book the tour here.

Itinerary

Day 1: Tirana – Kotor, Montenegro
Day 2: Kotor – Budva – Shkodra, Albania
Day 3: Shkodra – Prizren, Kosovo
Day 4: Prizren – Skopje, N. Macedonia
Day 5: Skopje – Ohrid
Day 6: Ohrid
Day 7: Ohrid – Bitola – Galicica NP – Tirana, Albania
Day 8: Tirana – Kruje – Durres – Berat
Day 9: Berat – Gjirokastra – Saranda
Day 10: Saranda – Butrint – Blue Eye – Saranda
Day 11: Saranda – Gjirokastra – Ksamil – Tirana
Day 12: Tirana – Shkodra
Day 13: Shkodra – Ulcinj, Montenegro – Stari Bar – Kotor
Day 14: Kotor
Day 15: Kotor – Cetinje – Njeguši – Podgorica – Tirana

Accommodation and Meals

Throughout the tour, you will stay in bed and breakfasts in Kotor, Shkodra, Prizren, Ohrid, Gjirokaster, and more. Your accommodation and breakfast are included in the tour. However, you will need to budget for your own lunches, dinners, drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and personal spending.

Transportation

You will travel by private transportation throughout the tour, making stops in many cities throughout the region, including Gjirokaster, Kotor, and Skopje.

What to Pack

When packing for your tour, keep in mind that you will be on the move a lot, so it’s best to pack light. Here are some essential items to bring:

– Comfortable walking shoes
– Weather-appropriate clothing
– Sunscreen
– Insect repellent
– A hat or sunglasses
– A reusable water bottle
– A camera or smartphone for photos
– A small backpack or daypack

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Tour

– Listen to your guide: They are knowledgeable about the region and can provide invaluable information.
– Try the local cuisine: Balkan cuisine is diverse and delicious. Don’t be afraid to try new dishes.
– Pack appropriately: See the above section for packing tips.
– Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of cultural norms.
– Stay hydrated: It can get hot in the Balkans, so be sure to drink plenty of water.

Conclusion

With this guide, you should be well-prepared to plan your tour of Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, and North Macedonia. Remember to book through Viator, pack light, respect local customs, and immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of the region. We hope you have an unforgettable adventure!

An Insider’s Guide to Tirana, Albania: Uncovering the Hidden Gems

Local Attractions

Tirana is renowned for its vibrant energy, but there is more to see than just the iconic landmarks. Venture further out to find Tirana’s hidden gems. Start at Dajti Mountain, a stunning natural reserve that provides the perfect escape from the bustling city. Climb the hill to reach the top of Fortress Rozafa, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Discover the picturesque Tirana Lake, a perfect spot for boating and picnics. Visit the National History Museum, where you can learn about Albania’s rich history, including its communist past. Take a stroll through the beautiful Grand Park, where you can find local artisans selling their crafts.

Dining Spots

Albanian cuisine is a celebration of fresh and local ingredients. Starting with the famous byrek, a flaky pie stuffed with various ingredients like spinach or cheese, that Tirana is well-known for, making sure that you try some in the city is a must. For a true local experience, visit the Mullixhiu restaurant, where you can indulge in a variety of traditional dishes like tavë kosi, a dish of lamb and yogurt. Another popular spot is Era, which offers rooftop seating with amazing views of the city while serving contemporary Albanian cuisine, including grilled red mullet and seafood risotto.

Cultural Experiences

Tirana is a city of vibrant cultural experiences. The National Art Gallery provides a glimpse into the country’s extraordinary artistic heritage, while the Opera and Ballet Theater hosts world-class performances throughout the year. Visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque, a stunning blend of Ottoman and Albanian architecture, even if you are not religious, and explore the frescoes inside. Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the iconic Skanderbeg Square, the city’s central square featuring the iconic Skanderbeg statue, dedicated to the hero of Albanian liberation.

Local History

Tirana is a city with a rich and complex history. A visit to Bunk’Art 1, a museum dedicated to the history of the Albanian Communist regime, is highly recommended, as it will offer a unique experience into the country’s past. The House of Leaves Museum, located in the former Sigurimi headquarters, provides insight into the country’s secret police. Also, ‘Pyramid’ at Tirana’s former exhibition hall, is an excellent example of the country’s communist-era architecture. Walking through the city’s streets and buildings may take you on a journey back in time.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

To get the most out of your Tirana adventure, step off the beaten path. Take a guided walking tour around the city’s murals and street art, immerse yourself in the local culture by experiencing the weekly flea market in St. George’s Square. For nature lovers, visiting Mount Dajti and its surroundings, would be a fantastic recommendation, with its hiking and biking trails amidst the dense greenery. Lastly, don’t forget to visit the lesser-known but charming towns like Krujë and Pogradec nearby Tirana. Here, you can get a taste of local life, and sample traditional Albanian specialties.

In conclusion, Tirana is a fascinating city, loaded with untold stories, rich history, and vibrant culture. To make the most of your Tirana adventure, be daring, step out of the familiar and enjoy its undiscovered beauty.