Albania, Kosovo, & Macedonia Adventure

Duration

14 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Experience the magic of the Balkans on this immersive 14-day adventure, from Albania’s sun-kissed coastline to North Macedonia’s rugged beauty and beyond.

Includes

Activities

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your Local Living Moment: Hike to a Shepherd Outpost with Lunch, Tragjas Your Foodie Moment: Gjirokastër Winery Visit and Light Dinner, Gjirokastër Your Foodie Moment: Regional Cooking Demonstration and Light Lunch, Ohrid
Evening orientaion walk of Tirana
Tour of the Durrës archaeological site
Orientation walk of Vlorë
Visit Himare
Entrance to the Ali Pasha Castle
Visit Butrint National Archaeological Park
Walking tour of Gjirokastër
Walking tour of Berat
Boat cruise on Lake Ohrid
Walking tour of Ohrid
Visit Bitola and walk along the Sirok Sokak
Winery tasting with light lunch
Skopje walking tour
Prizren orientation walk
Prizren Fortress sunset walk
Pristina walking tour
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

Hotels (13 nts).

13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner

Transport

Private vehicle, walking, boat.

Group Leader

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Highlights

Explore the 3000 year old Roman remains of Durrës
Be immersed in Albanian culture on a hike to a shepherd outpost
Have dinner at a local winery with traditional Albanian polyphonic singing
Explore the castle of Berat and see the typical white Ottoman houses
Take in the the sunset from the historic Prizren Fortress
Dive into the regional flavours of Ohrid with a hands-on cooking demonstration
Set sail on a scenic boat tour across the breathtaking waters of Lake Ohrid

Trip Details

Duration

14 days

Transportation

Private vehicle, walking, boat.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Tirana, Albania

Finishes

Pristina, Kosovo

Accommodations

Budget

Travel Style

Classic

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Tirana

Arrive at any time. After a welcome briefing, set off with your CEO on an evening orientation walk along the river and into the old town. Get your bearings of the area on the way to an optional group dinner.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Activity - Head off on a CEO-led orientation walk starting at the very centre of the city, the Skanderbeg square, a large open area surrounded by several important sights of Tirana. This interesting meeting point is one of the best places to start your journey through the city. Walk to old Tirana neighbourhoods (or what is left of them), a taste of communist architecture with many recently-built modern architecture and venues.Accommodation - Hotel Metro Tirana

Day 2: Tirana/Vlorë

Drive east from Tirana this morning to the coast, and to the ancient Roman remains of Durrës, dating back more than 3000 years. Explore the fascinating site with your CEO and see the massive amphitheatre which could hold up to 20,000 people. In the afternoon, continue south to the city of Vlorë and set off on an exploration walk of the old town to see the Muradie Mosque and other striking historical landmarks. The rest of the evening is free to relax and find a spot to watch the sunset over the Adriatic sea.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Explore Durrës with your CEO, the most ancient city in Albania with almost 3,000 years of history. Its foundation dates back to 627 B.C. when the Corinthians and settlers from Corcyra invaded the Illyrian territory of the Taulants. The Durrës amphitheater is the largest and most important Roman amphitheater in Albania. Built in the 2nd century AD under Emperor Trajan, it once held up to 20,000 people for different spectating events, such as gladiator fights and other ancient games. The amphitheater was recently discovered in 1966 and is now one of the best ways to experience the city’s ancient history.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Set off with your CEO on an orientation tour of Vlorë's Old Town. The Muradie Mosque (or Lead Mosque) is one of the most important structures in Vlorë. Built in 1537 by Ottoman Turkish architect Mimar Sinan and is distinctive for its exceptional brick work. Vlorë looks west over the Adriatic making it a perfect spot for watching the sunset as well.Accommodation - Hotel Semajo Vlore

Day 3: Vlorë

Be immersed in Albanian culture today on a hike to a shepherd outpost in the mountains. Start walking from the community of Tragjas, heading up the mountain to meet the local shepherds who will share their time with us. Learn about their traditional life in the mountains and enjoy a delicious typical lunch before hiking back down to the bus for the trip back to Vlorë. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city or to relax.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Go to the old Tragjas farm of Sofo and Dhurata. Hike a short trail of about 3km with an elevation of approximately 280m to get to the shepherds' outpost where one can enjoy the authentic life of the Albanians, their traditions and life in the mountains, so close to the sea. Enjoy a typical lunch at the farm before hiking back down to the bus to return to Vlorë.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Semajo Vlore

Day 4: Vlorë/Gjirokastër

Drive along the spectacular Albanian Riviera today to Gjirokastër with a number of stops and highlights along the way. First, visit the small beach town of Himarë and have a bit of time for lunch. Continue to Ksamil and visit the beautiful and historic castle of Ali Pasha, dramatically perched on the edge of a peninsula jutting out into the sea. Next visit the ruins of city of Butrint, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site that was once an ancient Greek city. Arrive to Gjirokastër in the evening and check into the hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Explore Himarë with your CEO. The Old City of Himarë and its commanding hilltop castle stand as testament to the rich historical legacy of Albania. These ancient structures date back to Illyrian times and are revered as vital historical landmarks in this region. The old town is ingeniously laid out around the ancient castle and the Spilea coastal area, which serves as both a tourist hub and an economic centre for the region. Himarë has a promenade along the seashore lined with numerous Mediterranean-style taverns, creating a perfect atmosphere for leisurely strolls and dining with a view.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit the beautiful and romantic Castle of Vasiliqia. Built in early 19th century by Ali Pasha of Tepelena, the “Mohametan Bonaparte” was made famous in Alexander Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo and poet George Gordon Byron’s Child Harold’s Pilgrimage.Activity - Visit the ruins of the city of Butrint, excavated in 1944. This Greek city and UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a stopping point along trading routes but when the Roman Empire began to decline residents started to leave. After the city was flooded during an earthquake Butrint was abandoned and laid untouched for years under the mud and debris from the quake, preserving artifacts and protecting the ruins.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Hotel Number One

Day 5: Gjirokastër

Set off after breakfast with your CEO to explore the old city of Gjirokastër. Pass by some of the historic sites like the obelisk and the imposing Girokastra Castle then take some free time to continue exploring and to find some lunch. In the afternoon, transfer to a local winery to tour the vineyard with one of the local experts and to taste their wines with a light dinner. The rest of the evening is free after returning to the hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Set off with your CEO to explore Gjirokastër and it's main attractions. See the old town and the stunning historical landmarks like the Skendulaj House, the Obelisk, and Girokastra Castle with it's Weapon Museum that used to be the castle's prison.Activity - This exclusive experience will be hosted at a local vineyard, passionately run by a family deeply rooted in winemaking, traditional rural cuisine, and hospitality. Tour the vineyard with one of the local on-site experts who will share insights into local grape varieties and the meticulous care that goes into cultivating them. Continue with a tasting of both white and red wines, each paired with regionally sourced accompaniments and fresh farm fruits.Accommodation - Hotel Number One

Day 6: Gjirokastër/Berat

Drive north today to the riverside city of Berat, known for its white Ottoman houses. In the afternoon, set off on a walking tour with your CEO to explore. Visit the castle, the remains of a sprawling 13th century fortress as well as the traditional low neighbourhoods of Mangalem and Gorica. The remainder of the day is free to continue exploring before regrouping in the evening for an optional traditional Albanian meal and farewell dinner.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Take an afternoon tour of Berat, led by your CEO. Tour of the Castle of Berat with its chapels, typical houses, the ancient walls of Antipatrea and the Orthodox Cathedral with its art collection from 16th century iconography artist Onufri. Visit the traditional low neighbourhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, (which gave Berat the nickname “Town of a 1001 Windows.“)Accommodation - Hotel Mangalemi Berat

Day 7: Berat/Tirana

Leave Berat after breakfast for the drive back to Tirana, arriving around midday. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening free to explore the city or to relax, then head out for an optional dinner in the evening with any new members who may be joining the group.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - Sett off and explore historic Tirana on your own this afternoon.Accommodation - Hotel Metro Tirana

Day 8: Tirana/Ohrid

Cross the border into North Macedonia and travel to the beautiful city of Ohrid, referred to as the "Jerusalem of the Balkans" due to its 365 churches with one for each day of the year. Take some free time to find lunch in one of the bazaars and then take a short boat cruise to admire the city's highlights and the surrounding scenery. The rest of the day is free to continue exploring or to relax.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.Activity - Climb aboard for a short boat cruise of Lake Ohrid, the deepest and oldest lake in Europe, boasting an imposing medieval fortress and mountainous backdrop. This pristine lake straddles the border between North Macedonia and Eastern Albania, and acts as home to more than 200 different species.Accommodation - Su Hotel Ohrid

Day 9: Ohrid

Set off with your CEO this morning on an walking exploration of Ohrid. Discover the old town with it's iconic landmarks and historic architecture then wander through the local bazaar. Later, join a chef to learn about local delicious specialties that will serve as a light lunch lunch before visiting the Roman amphitheatre. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to continue exploring or to relax at the hotel before an optional dinner out in the evening.
While getting to know Ohrid, keep an eye out for the 900 year old tree located near Old Town - a true Ohrid landmark.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Embark on a walking tour of the city where you'll enjoy the stunning exterior of the San Perivlepta and San Sofia churches. Next, head inside the architecturally striking Monastery of Saint Clement Ohrid, believed to have been built when Saint Clement first arrived in the area at the request of Boris I of Bulgaria. Finish off with a short tour at the Roman Amphitheatre, the only Hellenistic-type theatre in the country, built in 200 BC.Activity - Make a stop along the walking tour to meet with a local chef. Learn all about the regional culinary delicacies of the area and how to prepare them while enjoying small plates of delicious food as a light lunch before continuing on your way.Free_time - There's plenty to see and do; today is your day to explore.Accommodation - Su Hotel Ohrid

Day 10: Ohrid/Skopje

Wave goodbye to Ohrid this morning as you depart for Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. Stop in Bitola for a pleasant walk along the pedestrian street called Shirok Sokak before travelling onward to wine region. Sample the local flavours before ending in the capital. Later, set off on foot with your CEO to see some of the city's striking architecture followed by a walk up to the Castle of Kale to revel in the city views. The rest of the day is free to continue exploring or to relax.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Wander through Sirok Sokak, the pedestrian street of Shirok Sokak. Known as the fashion street, locals tend to dress up to enjoy a walk and a coffee while enjoying beautiful views of the city.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - The historically rich Stobi region is located close to the archaeological site, ancient Paenian. It was captured into the Kingdom of Macedon where it became the capital and remains a significant historic site. Archaeologists found early evidence of wine making in the form of in home grape presses, showcasing the lengthy past of this delicious art. Learn the intricacies of wine making on a tour of the winery before sampling some wine and enjoying a light lunch.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Head out for an orientation walk passing Byzantine era buildings, Turkish baths, caravanserais and hamams, all reminders of the intricate Ottoman history. Witness the quirky electric street art and multiple imposing statutes dotted around the city. View the birthplace of Mother Theresa and stop in the hidden lower level of the iconic Gradski Trgovski Centar to see Skopje’s largest collection of street art.Accommodation - Hotel Centar Skopje

Day 11: Skopje/Prizren

Enjoy a relaxed morning before driving across the border into Kosovo and to the city of Prizren. Set off with your CEO on an orientation walk through town along the Bistrica river, crossing the iconic old stone bridge and onto the cobble-stoned Shadervan square. The rest of the afternoon is free before re-grouping in the evening for a walk up to the town fortress for beautiful sunset views of the town, river and valley.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy an exploratory walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like some of the main sights in the area, supermarkets, and ATMs.Activity - Dating back to 1100 BC, the Prizren Fortress was built by the Byzantines and expanded by Serbian kings throughout the 12th, 13th, and 14th centuries before Ottoman rulers took over until their expulsion in 1912. Walk up the steep incline to this historic site to enjoy the sunset and views of the town, river, and valley.Accommodation - My Hotel Prizren

Day 12: Prizren

Enjoy a free day in Prinzen to explore the city, take a wine tasting excursion or to relax. Perhaps join your CEO for a morning visit to the filigree shops to browse the textiles and shops or head out on a leisurely hike along the Bistrica River to see the local shepherds.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - There's plenty of things to do; today is yours to explore.Accommodation - My Hotel Prizren

Day 13: Prizren/Pristina

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Prizren before journeying onward to Pristina, the bustling commerce hub and capital of Kosovo. Explore the city's highlights with your CEO on a walking exploration and get immersed in its rich history before taking the rest of the day free for individual exploration or to relax at a cafe. Head out in the evening for an optional final dinner out with the group.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Get to know Pristina on a walking tour through the highlights. Witness the 1389 battle of Kosovo memorial, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Gracanica Monastery, followed by the Newborn monument and the brass statue of Bill Clinton, commemorating his role in ending the war for independence.Free_time - There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.Accommodation - Hotel Begolli Pristina

Day 14: Pristina

Depart at any time.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $4449

AUD $3,781

(Tour only)

Offer ends 01 Apr, 2026 Per Person Standard

Duration: 14 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Experience the magic of the Balkans on this immersive 14-day adventure, from Albania’s sun-kissed coastline to North Macedonia’s rugged beauty and beyond.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 20 Jun 2026

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Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990

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