Balkan Highlights by Minivan: Albania, Kosovo & Ohrid

Start the day at 09:00 and explore Tirana on foot.
Walk through its central streets. Notice the architecture. Feel the contrast between past and present.

Step inside the House of Leaves and uncover stories of surveillance and secrecy.
Learn how the regime controlled everyday life. See history through personal testimonies.

Descend into Bunk'Art 1 and wander through its vast underground corridors.
Experience the scale of Cold War paranoia. Enjoy the welcome coolness away from the summer heat.

Drive north to Fishtë and settle into village guesthouses.
Visit Mrizi i Zanave, tour the production spaces, taste artisanal cheeses and cured meats, and raise a glass of local wine to end the day.

Day six begins with a 09:00 walking tour of Gjakova, guided by a local expert.
Stroll through historic streets, learn about the city’s rich heritage, and reflect on its turbulent past.

Around 11:30, drive north to Visoki Decani Monastery, a masterpiece of medieval architecture and one of the Western Balkans’ most impressive cultural monuments.

Continue toward Prizren with a scenic detour to Rahovec Wineries for a tasting of local wines. Arrive at your hotel by 17:30.

Evening is flexible: join your guide at his favourite restaurant or explore Prizren’s streets and eateries independently.

Day seven begins with a choice.
Join your guide for a morning hike into the scenic Sharr Mountains, where alpine trails, forests, and panoramic views await. Or, stay in town and soak up the charm of Prizren, wandering its cobbled streets, cafés, and riverside corners.

The afternoon moves at your own pace. Relax, explore, or discover hidden gems in the city.

Evening is free — your guide takes a night off, leaving you to enjoy Prizren on your terms.

Day eight begins at 10:00 as we cross back into Albania.
Pause in the quirky town of Kukës to explore the ruins of a Communist-era hotel — both eerie and fascinating — and sip a drink at the surreal Bar Amerika.

The journey continues through twisty, scenic roads into the White Mountains, arriving in the hidden village of Radomirë beneath Mt Korabi, the region’s highest peak.

Tonight, settle into simple but comfortable accommodation and enjoy a shared dinner at the guesthouse, surrounded by mountain tranquility.

Day nine begins with a choice for adventure.

Join a local guide for an early 06:30 ascent of Mt Korabi. Reach the summit at 2,764 m, take in sweeping alpine views, and return by late afternoon. For those who prefer a gentler pace, turn back halfway or skip the climb entirely.

Meanwhile, those opting out of the hike can enjoy a scenic drive to the quiet town of Peshkopi, where everyone reunites in the evening. This day balances daring alpine adventure with relaxed travel through northern Albania.

Day ten begins at 09:00 as we journey toward North Macedonia.
Cross the border and detour to St Jovan Bigorski Monastery, perched above a crystal-clear river amid lush countryside — a serene start to the day.

Continue south to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage city, where we stay for two nights.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour when the air cools, and end the day with a shared dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Ohrid’s authentic flavours.

Day thirteen begins with a scenic drive over the famous Galicica Pass, offering sweeping views of rugged mountains and alpine valleys.

Descend to Lake Prespa and cross back into Albania via a quiet, little-used border post. Stop in a lakeside village for lunch and, if you like, a refreshing swim in the clear waters.

Continue to Përmet, arriving around 17:00. Check in, stroll the charming streets, and finish the day with a cold beer at the local bazaar.

Day fourteen is all about the stunning Vjosa River and the surrounding valley.
Join your guide for an easy hike to nearby waterfalls, then cool off with a swim at a hidden riverside beach.

Alternatively, spend the day relaxing in and around Përmet, soaking in the village atmosphere. For those seeking more adventure, rafting on the Vjosa can be arranged in the afternoon.

This day blends natural beauty, gentle activity, and the freedom to choose your own pace.

Day sixteen begins with a 09:00 departure, driving the new road toward the Albanian Riviera and Butrint Lagoon.

Board a small boat for the Mussel Tour, learning about cultivation and local history, then enjoy a light mussel lunch at a beachside shack. Stop in Ksamil for an espresso before exploring Butrint Archaeological Park, shaded and perfect for a summer visit.

Return inland along a scenic route to the village of Labovë, near the Greek border. Settle into one of our favourite hotels, enjoy a beer in the courtyard, and finish the day with a meal crafted by a local chef.

Day nineteen begins with a drive north along the coast, climbing the famous Llogora Pass and descending to the Bay of Vlorë before heading inland.

Stop at Byllis Archaeological Park, perched above the Vjosa River valley, to explore ruins and enjoy a simple yet excellent lunch.

Continue to Berat, arriving in the heat of the afternoon. After some time to relax, meet at 17:30 for a walking tour of the ancient citadel, soaking in the city’s unique charm and history.

Day twenty-one marks the end of your journey.

A short one-hour transfer brings you from Kruja to Tirana.

For those flying home today, private transfers to the airport are arranged, giving you a smooth and comfortable farewell from Albania.