5-Day UNESCO Heritage Sites Tour in Albania

Discover Albania’s rich history, culture, and UNESCO-protected sites on this immersive 5-day tour. Explore ancient cities, archaeological treasures, vibrant neighborhoods, and breathtaking landscapes, while enjoying authentic local experiences.

🚐 Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana & City Exploration

Upon arrival at Tirana Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for a short rest. After settling in, we will begin exploring the heart of Tirana, visiting iconic landmarks:

• Skanderbeg Square – the central square of Tirana, surrounded by historical and cultural monuments.
• Et’hem Bey Mosque – an 18th-century mosque famous for its frescoes.
• Clock Tower – offering panoramic views of the city center.
• National Art Gallery – showcasing Albanian modern and contemporary art.

In the evening, enjoy dinner and the lively atmosphere of Ish-Blloku, a neighborhood famous for entertainment, cafés, and boutique shopping. Overnight stay in Tirana.

🏛️ Day 2 – Durrës & Berat: History & UNESCO Heritage

After breakfast, depart for Durrës, a city with a rich Roman and Venetian history. Explore the historic center and visit the Roman Amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans. Lunch by the Adriatic Sea offers a perfect break before heading to Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Berat, explore the following highlights:

• Berat Castle – an imposing fortress with panoramic views of the city and Osum River.
• Mangalem Neighborhood – traditional Ottoman-era houses and stone streets.
• Ethnographic Museum – located in a historic Ottoman house, showcasing local culture.
• Red Mosque and St. Michael’s Church – historic religious sites reflecting Albania’s diverse heritage.

Dinner at Mangalem Restaurant featuring traditional Albanian cuisine. Overnight in Berat.

🌊 Day 3 – Apollonia & Sarandë: Riviera & Ancient Ruins

After breakfast, we visit the archaeological site of Apollonia, an ancient city where Roman emperors like Augustus and Caesar studied. Explore ruins including temples, the library, the odeon, and the portico.

Continue along the Albanian Riviera and stop for lunch in Llogara National Park, with breathtaking coastal views. Arrive in Sarandë, a popular seaside city. Explore ancient Jewish assembly ruins dating back over 2000 years and enjoy a traditional dinner in a castle overlooking the Ionian Sea. Overnight in Sarandë.

🏰 Day 4 – Butrint & Gjirokastër: UNESCO Archaeology & Ottoman Heritage

After breakfast, visit the UNESCO-protected archaeological site of Butrint, originally founded by the ancient Trojans. Walk through the ruins of the theater, Roman baths, city walls, and Byzantine churches. Enjoy a traditional lunch at Cajupi Restaurant nearby.

In the afternoon, explore Gjirokastër, Albania’s “City of Stone” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include:

• Gjirokastër Castle – the largest castle in Albania, housing a weapons museum.
• Ethnographic Museum – the former home of Enver Hoxha, showcasing traditional life.
• Historic streets and traditional Ottoman-era houses.

Dinner and overnight stay in Gjirokastër.

✈️ Day 5 – Departure & Return to Tirana

After breakfast, transfer to Tirana Airport for your departure. Along the way, we make scenic stops for photos and a short rest. Reflect on your 5-day journey through Albania’s UNESCO treasures, rich history, and stunning landscapes.

💡 What’s Included and What’s Not

✅ Trip Includes:

• Round-trip transportation and transfers
• Accommodation in 3-star hotels
• Breakfasts and dinners
• Professional English-speaking guide

❌ Trip Excludes:

• Lunches
• Entrance fees to museums and monuments

📍 Why Choose This UNESCO Heritage Tour

This 5-day tour offers an unforgettable experience combining history, culture, and natural beauty. From Tirana’s vibrant streets to Berat’s UNESCO-protected architecture, Apollonia’s ancient ruins, Sarandë’s coastline, and Gjirokastër’s stone houses, this itinerary captures the essence of Albania’s heritage.