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History and Scenery in Albania and North Macedonia

11 Days / 10 Nights

Tirana, Gjirokastra, Ohrid, Skopje

from$2,125 per person

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue
See deep history and even deeper canyons over the course of 10 nights/11 days in Albania and North Macedonia. You'll start with eccentric Tirana, with its unusual architecture, and rugged surroundings. Then head to the UNESCO-protected white city of Gjirokastra. High up in the mountains, it has preserved centuries-old traditions and makes a good hub for day trips to other UNESCO sites. Next up is the Macedonian town of Ohrid, on the eponymous lake separating the two countries. One of the best-kept secrets in the Balkans, beautiful Ohrid easily attained its UNESCO World Heritage status. Finally, Skopje is hard to define, with its historic Old Town, and over-the-top riverside district, where grand, gaudy statues and facades recently drove a government out of power. From natural beauty to ancient architecture and hearty regional cuisine, you'll really enjoy exploring this relatively undiscovered region. All of our tours are custom, and this is just a sample meant to give an idea of what our trips are like, and the opportunities our destinations provide.

One of our team members in the region will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (who you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels, charming B&Bs, and spacious apartments. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambience.

Route for Tirana, Gjirokastra, Ohrid, Skopje tour

3 Nights in Tirana

3 Nights in Tirana

4 days in Tirana
4 days in Tirana

3 Nights in Tirana

Tirana is a unique destination that combines opposites. It feels both ancient and modern, quaint and cosmopolitan, fast-paced, yet laidback. There are wonderful restaurants here, beautiful nature in the surrounding countryside, and a rich cultural life that will keep you entertained all day and night. The Blloku neighborhood is one of the city’s most vibrant, with excellent bars, restaurants and cafes. The Old Town, meanwhile, has an eclectic mix of historic architecture. This is a lovely destination that still feels untouched, so you’ll really be able to make the city yours. Besides exploring the unique urban atmosphere, there are several fantastic day trips to enjoy. Driving to the city of Berat is always fun, as you can stop at a winery along the way to sample some of the tasty local vintages, then check out an impressive castle. The Albanian Riviera is also relatively close by, and here you can relax along the shore and get in touch with the life of local fishermen. The nearby Dajti Mountain is also an impressive destination, with incredible views over the city and beyond. From outdoor adventures to delectable gastronomy and historic architecture, Tirana really has something for everyone.

Tirana is a unique destination that combines opposites. It feels both ancient and modern, quaint and cosmopolitan, fast-paced, yet laidback. There are wonderful restaurants here, beautiful nature in the surrounding countryside, and a rich cultural life that will keep you entertained all day and night. The Blloku neighborhood is one of the city’s most vibrant, with excellent bars, restaurants and cafes. The Old Town, meanwhile, has an eclectic mix of historic architecture. This is a lovely destination that still feels untouched, so you’ll really be able to make the city yours. Besides exploring the unique urban atmosphere, there are several fantastic day trips to enjoy. Driving to the city of Berat is always fun, as you can stop at a winery along the way to sample some of the tasty local vintages, then check out an impressive castle. The Albanian Riviera is also relatively close by, and here you can relax along the shore and get in touch with the life of local fishermen. The nearby Dajti Mountain is also an impressive destination, with incredible views over the city and beyond. From outdoor adventures to delectable gastronomy and historic architecture, Tirana really has something for everyone.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Tirana

Welcome to Albania! You will be met at Tirana's Mother Teresa Airport by our driver and taken directly to your accommodations in the city center. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Tirana

Tirana Like a Local - Half Day Private Tour

Tirana Like a Local - Half Day Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

The capital of Albania since 1920, Tirana is located on the site of a Byzantine fortress. This tour is a great way to discover the city and its past. You'll visit the Mosque of Ethem Bey, the Clock Tower, Skanderbeg Square, the New Bazaar, Martyrs' of the Nation Boulevard, Enver Hoxha's Pyramid and various government buildings. You'll also visit the Art Gallery and a unique collection of Albanian memorabilia. The tour concludes in the former Communist Party elite’s residential area, Blokku, now a buzzing district packed with modern bars and restaurants.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 4 hours

Eat Your Way

Suggestion to explore on your own

Tirana has a wealth of tasty restaurants and cool cafes where you can taste local delicacies and cosmopolitan cuisine from around the world. If you’re looking for a unique place to enjoy a hearty meal or a drink, check out the Blloku neighborhood. Here you’ll find the city’s most interesting places, where young in-the-know locals congregate and you’re always sure to see something interesting. It’s hard to go wrong here, and it’s not a huge neighborhood, so you’d do well to wander around a bit to choose where you’d like to enjoy your afternoon or evening.

Eat Your Way

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Tirana

Kruja and Durres Private Day Trip

Kruja and Durres Private Day Trip

Included in your vacation package price.

An ancient, hilltop town, Krujë is a must-see for those staying in Tirana. The restored old bazaar is packed with authentic handmade goods, including carpets, which you can watch being made on a loom. Inside the walls of Kruja Castle, you will visit an ethnographic museum in an Ottoman tower house and the Bektashi Sufi Shrine, where you can learn more about how people have lived here for centuries. After Kruja, you'll visit the city of Durres where you can enjoy lunch with a scenic view of the sea, followed by a visit to one of the largest Roman amphitheaters, which saw gladiatorial combat.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 8-9 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Gjirokastra by Private Car

Today you will be wowed by the impressive vistas along the Albania Riviera from Tirana to Gjirokastra and you will make a few stops along the way. It’s quite a journey, with breathtaking views and mountainous areas winding through national parks. The scenic drive offers potential stops along the way in Vlore, Dhermi, Palermo Castle, the Muzine Pass, and Buret Mountain, or make a foodie day of it and stop for a seafood lunch close to Vlore and some delicious organic goat milk yogurt with honey, walnuts and fabulous views in the Llogara National Park. The duration of this non-guided drive is about 7 hours.

Gjirokastra by Private Transfer along the Coast Road

2 Nights in Gjirokastra

2 Nights in Gjirokastra

3 days in Gjirokastra
3 days in Gjirokastra

2 Nights in Gjirokastra

Gjirokastra is one of Albania’s most scenic cities, with an authentic atmosphere that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Here you can revel amid the area's lovely landscape of mountains and plains while taking in the impressive historic architecture. Strolling through the city feels like entering a distant time, with narrow winding streets that will charm you immediately. But the gastronomy here is anything but old fashioned, as you’ll find classic Albanian recipes jazzed up with a few modern twists in Gjirokastra’s many excellent restaurants and cafes. You’ll definitely want to explore the incredible Old Town with the help of a local guide who can show you all the city’s secrets. The distinctive white buildings here are charming, with their terraces, but feature imposing stone walls due to the city's steep hills. A short drive outside the city will impress you a scenic landscape with rewarding vistas. Two other destinations, Butrint and Ksamil, are perfect for day trips. At these UNESCO World Heritage sites you can explore ancient architecture dating all the way back to the 5th century. Gjirokastra is the perfect place to get away from the faster pace of Albania’s larger cities while exploring the unique past this incredible country has to offer.

Gjirokastra is one of Albania’s most scenic cities, with an authentic atmosphere that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Here you can revel amid the area's lovely landscape of mountains and plains while taking in the impressive historic architecture. Strolling through the city feels like entering a distant time, with narrow winding streets that will charm you immediately. But the gastronomy here is anything but old fashioned, as you’ll find classic Albanian recipes jazzed up with a few modern twists in Gjirokastra’s many excellent restaurants and cafes. You’ll definitely want to explore the incredible Old Town with the help of a local guide who can show you all the city’s secrets. The distinctive white buildings here are charming, with their terraces, but feature imposing stone walls due to the city's steep hills. A short drive outside the city will impress you a scenic landscape with rewarding vistas. Two other destinations, Butrint and Ksamil, are perfect for day trips. At these UNESCO World Heritage sites you can explore ancient architecture dating all the way back to the 5th century. Gjirokastra is the perfect place to get away from the faster pace of Albania’s larger cities while exploring the unique past this incredible country has to offer.

Day 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Gjirokastra

After the journey, your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation in the historic heart of Gjirokastra.

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Gjirokastra

Hike Gjirokastra's Hilly Surroundings

Suggestion to explore on your own

There are numerous hiking trails near the city, some of which offer incredible views of the local landscape and various historic ruins. One of our favorites is the Illyrian city of Antigone, located near the village of Asim Zeneli, 6km (4 miles) east of Gjirokastra. This village is the starting point of a three-hour round-trip hike to the ruins of Antigone. This trail promises not only a rejuvenating outdoor experience but also an opportunity to explore the rich history and scenic beauty of the Illyrian city.

Hike Gjirokastra's Hilly Surroundings
Gjirokastra Private Walking Tour

Gjirokastra Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

You'll get to know the best of Gjirokastra, also known as "Museum City," on this informative and fun four-hour tour. From the architecture of Old Town to the amazing views from the castle, you'll get to know the layout of the streets while hearing all about the city's unique history from your expert guide.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

Day 6

Day 6 - Traveling to Ohrid by Private Car

Today you’ll spend a few hours on the road with your private driver, with the stops along the way in Permet, Korca, and Pogradec, as well as the relaxed lakeside city of Ohrid in neighboring Macedonia at the end of the journey. Since you’ll be crossing a border on your way, your journey can take a bit longer, depending on border crossing waiting times. 

Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.

Ohrid by Private Transfer with Stops in Permet, Korca and Pogradec

2 Nights in Ohrid

2 Nights in Ohrid

3 days in Ohrid
3 days in Ohrid

2 Nights in Ohrid

A serene city on a beautiful lake, Ohrid combines ample history, scenery, and outdoor activities, which helped it attain UNESCO World Heritage status. The Old Town is set on a hill with a wealth of sites to explore, from monasteries to an ancient Greek amphitheater, and an imposing fortress. Since the city is right on Lake Ohrid, everywhere you go you’ll have breathtaking views of the water and all the surrounding natural beauty. One of the most incredible things to see is the view of the Old Town jutting out into the lake, especially when lit up at night, an image summing up the lake region's unique charm. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll find a rich cultural atmosphere, with many concerts and outdoor events. The lake gives the region its unique charm and also offers many excellent outdoor activities. It’s the perfect place to take a dip, kick back, and relax at one of the beachfront bars, or even climb aboard a boat. The water is very clean and is consistently warm, since it’s fed by hot springs spread across the lake. One of the activities our guests love best here is a trip to the St. Naum monastery at the other end of the lake. But that’s just one of the boating options that will give you a chance to enjoy the lake from the center of it, and to get a new point of view on the city. Ohrid is reasonably priced, so you can really live it up while you’re here. The city remains relatively untouched, but it does seem poised at the edge of a tourist boom. See it before the crowds do.

A serene city on a beautiful lake, Ohrid combines ample history, scenery, and outdoor activities, which helped it attain UNESCO World Heritage status. The Old Town is set on a hill with a wealth of sites to explore, from monasteries to an ancient Greek amphitheater, and an imposing fortress. Since the city is right on Lake Ohrid, everywhere you go you’ll have breathtaking views of the water and all the surrounding natural beauty. One of the most incredible things to see is the view of the Old Town jutting out into the lake, especially when lit up at night, an image summing up the lake region's unique charm. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll find a rich cultural atmosphere, with many concerts and outdoor events. The lake gives the region its unique charm and also offers many excellent outdoor activities. It’s the perfect place to take a dip, kick back, and relax at one of the beachfront bars, or even climb aboard a boat. The water is very clean and is consistently warm, since it’s fed by hot springs spread across the lake. One of the activities our guests love best here is a trip to the St. Naum monastery at the other end of the lake. But that’s just one of the boating options that will give you a chance to enjoy the lake from the center of it, and to get a new point of view on the city. Ohrid is reasonably priced, so you can really live it up while you’re here. The city remains relatively untouched, but it does seem poised at the edge of a tourist boom. See it before the crowds do.

Day 6

Day 6 - Arrival in Ohrid

Your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation in Ohrid.

Day 7

Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Ohrid

Ohrid Private Walking Tour

Learn All About Ohrid

Included in your vacation package price.

Today, you will explore the city of Ohrid and visit the breathtaking Lake Ohrid. You will explore some of the old and new architecture that makes this place special. Ohrid is one of the rare towns that will have been continuously inhabited for more than 1,000 years. You will visit all of the important buildings and enjoy the best panoramic view of the entire city and the lake. Returning to the city center, you will walk through Ohrid Bazaar and even have the opportunity to buy a famous Ohrid pearl. You will come away with a complete appreciation of this amazing destination.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3 hours

Cruise Lake Ohrid

Suggestion to explore on your own

Lake Ohrid is certainly a beautiful destination, and today, we suggest seeing a bit more of it from the comfort of your own private skippered boat. You’ll be able to sit back and relax as you enjoy a slow cruise along the water, enjoying excellent views of the stunning coastline and the surrounding mountains. If the weather is warm, you’ll want to take a dip too. This is a truly relaxing afternoon soaking up the marvelous Macedonian scenery.

Day 8

Day 8 - Traveling to Skopje by Private Car

It’s time to leave Ohrid behind and head to the Macedonian capital, Skopje. The direct drive is about 3 hours, but for an additional fee, you can take the scenic route through Mavrovo National Park, a natural paradise of mountains and forests with a large lake. You can make a stop for lunch in a small town or village and taste more local specialties. Another must-see along the route is the monastery of St. John Bigorski, a still-functioning Macedonian Orthodox monastery dedicated to John the Baptist. It somehow manages to combine a tourist attraction with a place of peace and quiet reflection. Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.

Skopje by Private Transfer

3 Nights in Skopje

3 Nights in Skopje

4 days in Skopje
4 days in Skopje

3 Nights in Skopje

The birthplace of Mother Teresa, Skopje is a city that reveres its past. You’ll find numerous landmarks and tributes to Mother Teresa here. But the statues in Skopje aren’t like those you’ve seen elsewhere. Several years ago, the government built monuments to many local historical figures. As a result, Skopje is like a living museum where the region’s culture and history come alive before your eyes. Skopje's atmosphere is unique, combining a little of the energy of Las Vegas with Eastern European charm. It’s really like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. Some of the decorations are a little over the top, but the city is a must for visitors to the region. As you explore the sites you should try the excellent local wine and food, which combines flavors from Balkan and Greek cuisines. Skopje’s Old Town is reserved for pedestrians, so its traditional atmosphere has been preserved. This is the best place to explore the Muslim influence on the region, as the city center features various bazaars and cozy alleyways. You’ll definitely feel like you’ve stepped back into a more traditional age, in contrast to the modern monuments throughout Skopje. But the city isn’t all there is to explore. The fortress on the hill is impressive and well worth the hike. About 20 minutes away you’ll find Matka Canyon, which offers spectacular outdoor activities including boating, kayaking and hiking. For another point of view on Skopje, take the funicular up to the famous cross that overlooks the city. This is an ever-changing and exciting destination that always offers visitors something new and never disappoints.

The birthplace of Mother Teresa, Skopje is a city that reveres its past. You’ll find numerous landmarks and tributes to Mother Teresa here. But the statues in Skopje aren’t like those you’ve seen elsewhere. Several years ago, the government built monuments to many local historical figures. As a result, Skopje is like a living museum where the region’s culture and history come alive before your eyes. Skopje's atmosphere is unique, combining a little of the energy of Las Vegas with Eastern European charm. It’s really like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. Some of the decorations are a little over the top, but the city is a must for visitors to the region. As you explore the sites you should try the excellent local wine and food, which combines flavors from Balkan and Greek cuisines. Skopje’s Old Town is reserved for pedestrians, so its traditional atmosphere has been preserved. This is the best place to explore the Muslim influence on the region, as the city center features various bazaars and cozy alleyways. You’ll definitely feel like you’ve stepped back into a more traditional age, in contrast to the modern monuments throughout Skopje. But the city isn’t all there is to explore. The fortress on the hill is impressive and well worth the hike. About 20 minutes away you’ll find Matka Canyon, which offers spectacular outdoor activities including boating, kayaking and hiking. For another point of view on Skopje, take the funicular up to the famous cross that overlooks the city. This is an ever-changing and exciting destination that always offers visitors something new and never disappoints.

Day 8

Day 8 - Arrival in Skopje

Your driver will bring you directly to your accommodation in the center of Skopje.

Day 9

Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Skopje

Skopje Private Walking Tour

Scoping out Skopje

Included in your vacation package price.

This walking tour of Skopje includes all of the highlights of this fantastic city. You'll start with the old railway station, one of the most striking buildings in the Balkans. You'll also get to see the monument to Mother Teresa, the house of Mother Teresa and the Stone Bridge which is known as the most imposing monument in Macedonia. Another part of the tour takes you to Skopje's Old Town, with a walk through the Skopje Bazar, and finally a visit to a gorgeous church. You'll see the most interesting sights of this unique destination and get a real feel for its culture.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 3 hours

More City Sightseeing

Suggestion to explore on your own

There’s plenty of lovely sightseeing in Skopje, and a walk down just about any street will give you plenty to marvel at. You’ll definitely notice numerous monuments to Mother Teresa as you make your way through the city. Skopje is her birthplace and the city pays due homage. It’s fun to track down all the plaques and statues and make your own tour out of it. Outside the center on the top of Vodno Mountain you’ll see the Millennium Cross, a 66-meter high cross built as a memorial to 2,000 years of Christianity in Macedonia and across the world. It makes for a great hike, with picturesque views from the top.

More City Sightseeing

Day 10

Day 10 - Your Second Full Day in Skopje

Kosovo Private Day Trip

Kosovo Private Day Trip

Included in your vacation package price.

Why not make a guided tour of Kosovo one of the highlights of your holiday? Led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, you'll see local history come alive before your eyes as you stroll through the streets of Pristina. Pristina's vibrant and often volatile past has made it the city it is today. You won't miss any of the most notable sights as you explore the city and you'll come to a better understanding of the layout of the place as well as it's special character.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 10 hours

Day 11

Day 11 - Departure Day

Today, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and bring you to the Skopje airport for your departing flight.

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Tirana

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Tirana Airport Transfer
Tirana Like a Local - Half Day Private Tour
Kruja and Durres Private Day Trip
Tirana - Gjirokastra Private Transfer (Drive the Coast)

Gjirokastra

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Gjirokastra Private Walking Tour
Gjirokastra - Ohrid Private Transfer with Stops in Permet, Korca and Pogradec

Ohrid

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Ohrid Private Walking Tour
Ohrid - Skopje Private Transfer

Skopje

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Skopje Private Walking Tour
Kosovo Private Day Trip
Skopje Airport Transfer

package excludes:


  • Flights to and from Europe.
  • Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
  • Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
  • Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
  • Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by  an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.
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