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Off the Beaten Path in Albania and North Macedonia

13 Days / 12 Nights

Tirana, Vlore, Himare, Ohrid, Skopje

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Trade the beaten path and its crowds for deep history, dramatic scenery, memorable gastronomy, and warm welcomes. Over the course of 12 nights/13 days, you'll travel across Albania and North Macedonia. You'll start with eccentric Tirana, with its unusual architecture, and rugged surroundings. Then head to the coast for a stay at Vlore, with its surrounding national park, caves, monasteries, and beaches. You'll head further off the beaten path to quiet Dhermi, with its two halves, uncrowded beaches, and Byzantine monasteries. 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 for 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, Vlore, Himare, 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.

Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.

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 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Tirana

Tirana Like a Local - Half Day Private Tour

Styles of Tirana

Included in your vacation package price.

If you'd like to get properly acquainted with Tirana, the best way is to spend a day with a local, starting with a brief walking tour of the city covering all the main sights, including the Mosque of Ethem Bey, the Clock Tower, Skanderbeg square, The Martyr's Cemetery, Grand Park and various government buildings. The tour concludes in the former Communist Party elite’s residential area, Blokku. This is now a buzzing district packed with modern bars, restaurants and pubs.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 4 hours

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Tirana

Kruja and Durres Private Day Trip & Meeting with a Local Craftsman

Kruja and Durres Private Day Trip & Meeting with a Local Craftsman

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. On this tour, you will also meet with a local lady who still makes rugs and carpets the traditional way. 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. For an extra fee, you can meet one of the Sworn Virgins, women who are sworn to celibacy and are treated as men in Albania's traditionally patriarchal villages.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 8-9 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Vlore by Private Transfer

Today you will be traveling to the beautiful Albanian Riviera. We will arrange for a private driver to pick you up at your accommodations at your preferred departure time. The drive to Vlore takes about 2.5 hours, but we have added a stop en route at Berat. This town is UNESCO-protected thanks to its unique style of architecture, with influences from several civilizations that have managed to coexist for centuries. In Berat, you'll enjoy a tour with a local licensed guide.

Vlore by Private Transfer with a Tour in Berat

2 Nights in Vlore

2 Nights in Vlore

3 days in Vlore
3 days in Vlore

2 Nights in Vlore

Vlore has a history as extensive as the beaches and sea caves that line the nearby coast. Founded by the Greeks, and expanded by the Romans and Byzantines, the concrete-heavy center of this city is unremarkable, but the surrounding national park, sea caves, monasteries, beaches, and birding opportunities are anything but.

Vlore has a history as extensive as the beaches and sea caves that line the nearby coast. Founded by the Greeks, and expanded by the Romans and Byzantines, the concrete-heavy center of this city is unremarkable, but the surrounding national park, sea caves, monasteries, beaches, and birding opportunities are anything but.

Day 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Vlore

Upon arrival in Vlore, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodations.

From Antiquity to Independence - The Vlora Private Tour

From Antiquity to Independence - The Vlora Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

This tour starts at Vlore's center, Independence Square, but soon takes you to the ruins of an ancient Greek colony that the city grew from, Aulon. You'll then visit the grave of Ismail Bey Vlora, the father of Albanian Independence. Proceeding to the Old Town, you'll find an atmosphere rich with Mediterranean and Ottoman history and architecture, and will visit the Road of the Hebrew. Next up is the elegant Muradie Mosque, originally a Byzantine basilica. You'll then be driven to the scenic hilltop Shrine of Kuzum Baba, a Bektashi saint tied to numerous miracles and legends.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3-4 hours

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Vlore

Sazan Private Boat Tour

Sazan Private Boat Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the island of Sazan. The adventure begins by boarding a boat in Rradhima, a village just south of Vlora. Upon reaching the island of Sazan, you'll head inland to visit its ghost town. Once home to a sizable garrison, this strategic island hosted quarters for officer's families, as well as a hospital, schools, cinema, and quite a few bunkers. After exploring the ruins, and the time spent snorkeling, you'll get to savor a delicious picnic lunch before heading back to the mainland.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 6-7 hours

Day 6

Day 6 - Traveling to Himare by Private Transfer

Today a private driver will take you to Himare. This non-guided scenic drive will take about 2 hours.

Himare by Private Transfer

2 Nights in Himare

2 Nights in Himare

3 days in Himare
3 days in Himare

2 Nights in Himare

Himara has two parts, the lower town featuring a seaside promenade that runs between crystal blue water, and taverns and fish restaurants. Uphill lies the Old Town, built around the ruins of a massive, ancient castle. Up and down the coast, it's easy to find Albania's best beaches, amidst dramatic caves and headlands. Scattered inland lie Byzantine monasteries and churches.

Himara has two parts, the lower town featuring a seaside promenade that runs between crystal blue water, and taverns and fish restaurants. Uphill lies the Old Town, built around the ruins of a massive, ancient castle. Up and down the coast, it's easy to find Albania's best beaches, amidst dramatic caves and headlands. Scattered inland lie Byzantine monasteries and churches.

Day 6

Day 6 - Arrival in Himare

Upon arrival in Himare, your driver will take you to your accommodations.

Day 7

Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Himare

The Turquoise Riviera

Suggestion to explore on your own

Known as the home to some of Albania's most beautiful beaches, Himare is a perfect spot to just relax and enjoy sun and the sea. Unlike the most of its counterparts up and down the Adriatic, this stretch of the Riviera is mostly sand, with crystal clear waters, perfect for water activities, or just lying around.

The Turquoise Riviera

Summer Chills

Himare is not only a beautiful seaside town with nice beaches but also offers quite a few things to do during your stay there. Himare is predominantly a summer destination, vibrant but not too busy, where you'd see much of Greek charm. Besides spending lazy days on lovely beaches, those a bit more active could go for a coastal hike to the famous Livadhi beach or take one of the boat rides and explore nearby beaches, among them Porto Palermo beaches and its historic castle.

Summer Chills

Day 8

Day 8 - Traveling to Ohrid by Private Transfer

It's time to trade the seaside for lakeside. Your next destination is magical Ohrid! Our driver will meet you at your accommodation and take you on a scenic 5.5 hour drive. This non-guided transfer may take a bit longer, depending on the border crossing time.

Ohrid by Private Transfer

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 8

Day 8 - Arrival in Ohrid

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

Day 9

Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Ohrid

Ohrid Private Walking Tour

Learn all about Ohrid

Included in your vacation package price.

Ohrid traces its origins back to before the Hellenistic period. Starting from the main square, you’ll proceed through the Lower Gate to the Church of St. Sophia, one of the country’s most important monuments, built between the 4th and 11th century. Next up is the ancient theater dating from around 200 BC and rediscovered in the 1980s. Beyond the theater stands the thousand-year-old Samuel’s Fortress from the time when Ohrid was the capital of the First Bulgarian Empire. More antiquity awaits below the fortress at Plaosnik, where you’ll see the excavations of the first Slavic university in the Balkans and the church of St. Clement from the 9th century before finishing your tour at the 13th century Church of St. John, one of our favorite photo spots.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 3 hours

Boating in Ohrid

Suggestion to explore on your own

One of the best ways to enjoy Ohrid lake is by taking a boat ride around the lake's most attractive sites. There are more than a few boat providers available in Ohrid central port, always ready to make the best deal with you, so don't hesitate to approach them randomly. Some of the most important sites you should see are the church of St. Sophia dating from the 9th Century, the church of Saint John Kaneo dating to15th Century and the church of St. Clement Pantelejmon built on the foundations of an early Christian basilica back in the 9th century. The whole area is spectacular not only for significant historical heritage, but also for the nature that shows its best in many ways. We are sure a boat ride might be one of your best experiences while in Ohrid.

Boating in Ohrid

Day 10

Day 10 - 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 10

Day 10 - Arrival in Skopje

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

Day 11

Day 11 - Your First Full Day in Skopje

Matka Canyon Private Tour

Matka Canyon

Included in your vacation package price.

Today you'll be getting in touch with nature in scenic Matka Canyon. Your guide will pick you up at your accommodation in the morning. Once you get to the valley and lake, you'll take a boat trip and also have some time for hiking. There’s also a tasty local restaurant that specializes in traditional cuisine. At the end of the day you’ll be driven back to your accommodation in Skopje.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 4 hours

Taste Macedonia

Suggestion to explore on your own

While you’re in Skopje you’ll certainly want to taste some of the delectable local cuisine. There are numerous restaurants in Skopje, and we’ll be providing you a list of our favorites, with different selections from street food to fine dining. Wherever you go, you’ll want to try at least one of the most famous dishes in Macedonian cuisine. Tavche Gravche is beans cooked with special spices in a delicious sauce. Ajvar is a tangy spread made from red bell peppers, eggplant, garlic and chilli. Kashkaval is a yellow sheep’s milk cheese made locally. All three dishes are uniquely flavorful comfort food.

How Bazaar!

Suggestion to explore on your own

Skopje’s Old Bazaar is the oldest part of the city, and also one of its most atmospheric. You’ll find it on the eastern bank of the Vardar River, from Stone Bridge to the Bit-Pazar, and from Skopje Fortress to the Serava River. A merchant’s quarter since the 12th century, the Old Bazaar is packed with local shops and salesmen with a little of everything.This is a unique place where you can really see the local culture and also find everything from crafts to curios, local produce and baked goods. Don’t forget to haggle!

How Bazaar!

Day 12

Day 12 - 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 13

Day 13 - 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 & Meeting with a Local Craftsman
Tirana - Vlora Private Transfer with a Berat Walking Tour

Vlore

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
From Antiquity to Independence - The Vlora Private Tour
Sazan Private Boat Tour
Vlore - Himare Private Transfer

Himare

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Himare - Ohrid Private Transfer

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
Matka Canyon Private 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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