Southern Albania Heritage: UNESCO Sites and Coastline

After a delightful breakfast, step into ancient Apollonia. Walk among fallen columns. Feel the silence of a city shaped by Greek and Illyrian worlds.

Head to Narta Lagoon. Watch flamingos and pelicans glide over still water. Breathe in the scent of pine and salt.

Arrive in Vlora, the birthplace of Albanian independence. Accompanied by your professional guide, walk Independence Square, explore the old town and Muradie Mosque. Visit Zvernec Island and stroll the Lungomare as the city slows into the evening.

Check in to your hotel in Vlora and spend the afternoon as you wish and dine wherever inspires you.

Breathe in crisp mountain air and head straight into Llogara National Park. Walk a short stretch of Julius Caesar’s Trail and take in sweeping views over the Ionian Sea.

Follow the Riviera south, swim, stroll and explore—from the beaches of Dhermi to the lively streets of Himare. Step inside Porto Palermo Castle and Ali Pasha fortress.

Then climb to the stone houses of Qeparo Old Village, suspended above the sea.

By evening, arrive in Saranda, where seaside walks, fresh seafood and coastal nightlife set the tone.

Check in to your hotel in Saranda. Enjoy a free afternoon and dinner at leisure.

Step into layers of history at Butrint, a UNESCO-listed archaeological park shaped by Illyrians, Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. Walk among temples, theatres and fortifications with your guide, then slow down and swim in Ksamil’s clear waters, with Corfu shimmering just across the sea.

In the afternoon, turn inland and climb into history in Gjirokastra. Explore its imposing castle, wander the stone-paved old bazaar, visit the Obelisk and Skenduli House, and feel the timeless rhythm of Albania’s legendary Stone City.

Check in to your hotel in Gjirokastra. Enjoy a free evening and dine at your own pace.

Head deep into rural southern Albania and leave the main roads behind.

Stop in Tepelene to visit Ali Pasha’s monument and fortress, then walk to the Peshtura Waterfall and cool off with a swim beneath cascading rock walls.

Continue to Nivica and lunch high above the canyon, with wide open views over the valley.

In the afternoon, soak in Benja’s natural sulphur baths and walk through Langarica Canyon, where stone cliffs rise above warm river water.

By evening, arrive in Permet, a laid-back town known for nature, traditions and slow rhythms.

Check in to your hotel in Permet. Evening at leisure, dinner on your own.

Follow the Vjosa River south, where green valleys, forests and quiet mountain villages stretch toward the Greek border.

Stop in Leskovik for strong coffee and a taste of traditional rakia, then slow down in the countryside, meeting locals and sampling fresh farm products along the way.

In Voskopoje, once a major cultural center, walk between centuries-old Orthodox churches and feel the weight of history in stone and silence.

By afternoon, arrive in Korçe to explore the Old Bazaar, medieval art, mosques and cathedrals, ending the day on the city’s elegant main boulevard.

Check in to your hotel in Korçe. Evening at leisure, dinner on your own.

Explore Tushemisht village and Drilon Park, then continue to Lin to see ancient mosaics and hidden bunkers.

End the day by Lake Ohrid, soaking in serene views before heading to Tirana for a farewell dinner.

Celebrate your journey and toast unforgettable memories of Albania.