Discover the Balkans: Three Countries, One Unforgettable Journey – 2nd to 12th June 2027 (Women Only)

Breakfast in hotel. Your tour begins. After settling in, begin exploring Tirana, Albania's lively capital, known for its colourful architecture, rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Visit Skanderbeg Square, the city's main gathering place, surrounded by important landmarks and impressive architecture. Continue to the historic Old Mosque and Old Bazaar area to discover traditional Albanian culture, local shops and the city's Ottoman heritage. Explore Bunk'Art 2, a fascinating museum that provides insight into Albania's communist past, before visiting the magnificent Grand Mosque of Namazgah, one of the country's most prominent Islamic landmarks.

Enjoy your first evening in Tirana, taking in the city's welcoming atmosphere and preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

Overnight: Tirana

Distance: Approximately 98 km

After breakfast, depart Tirana at 08:30 and travel north towards Shkodër, one of Albania's oldest and most historically significant cities. Enjoy the changing scenery along the way, with opportunities for short comfort breaks during the journey.

Upon arrival, visit Rozafa Castle, dramatically positioned on a hill overlooking the surrounding landscape. Discover the legends associated with the fortress while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Shkodër, the Buna and Drin rivers, and the surrounding countryside. Continue to the historic Lead Mosque, an important example of Albania's Ottoman-era Islamic architecture. Afterwards, explore Shkodër's city centre, where traditional streets, cafés and cultural landmarks reflect the city's distinctive character.

Take time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this northern Albanian city before returning to your hotel for the evening.

Overnight: Shkodër

Distance: Approximately 200 km

After breakfast, depart at 08:30 for a scenic journey towards Kosovo, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes and countryside along the way. Following the border crossing, continue to Prizren, a charming city celebrated for its Ottoman heritage, historic architecture and lively cultural scene.

Begin exploring the historic centre with a visit to Sinan Pasha Mosque, one of Prizren's most recognisable landmarks, known for its distinctive Ottoman design and prominent position within the old town.

Walk across the city's historic Ottoman bridges and through its atmospheric streets, where traditional buildings, riverside cafés and artisan shops create a memorable setting. Discover the Old Town, with its blend of Albanian culture, Islamic heritage and centuries-old architecture.

Overnight: Prizren

Distance: Approximately 95 km

After breakfast, depart at 09:00 and travel towards Peja, a city known for its beautiful natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage. Along the way, discover the natural attractions of the Drin area, including the Drin Waterfall and Drin Cave, as featured in the itinerary. Enjoy the surrounding scenery and take the opportunity to appreciate the region's striking rock formations and natural beauty.

Continue to Peja and explore its Old Town, where traditional streets and local architecture offer a glimpse into everyday life in Kosovo. The city is also an important gateway to the country's spectacular mountain landscapes.

Later, travel into the magnificent Rugova Valley, famous for its dramatic cliffs, towering mountains, winding roads and breathtaking views. Take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and capture photographs of one of Kosovo's most impressive natural regions.

Return to Peja for a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Peja

Distance: Approximately 161 km

After breakfast, depart at 08:30 and begin your journey towards North Macedonia. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Balkan countryside before crossing the international border and continuing to Skopje, the country's capital. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and begin discovering this fascinating city, where Ottoman history, Balkan traditions and modern architecture come together.

Explore the Old Bazaar, one of the city's most atmospheric districts, filled with traditional shops, historic buildings, cafés and cultural landmarks. Continue to the famous Stone Bridge, an iconic structure connecting the old and modern parts of Skopje across the Vardar River.

Discover the contrast between the city's historic quarters and its more modern centre, including Albanian Square and other important cultural and religious landmarks. Learn about Skopje's diverse communities and the different influences that have shaped its identity over the centuries.

After the guided tour, enjoy some time to experience the city's lively atmosphere before checking in to your hotel.

Overnight: Skopje

Distance: Approximately 171 km

After breakfast, depart at 08:30 for a scenic journey towards Ohrid, one of North Macedonia's most beautiful destinations. Surrounded by mountains and overlooking a spectacular lake, Ohrid is celebrated for its historic architecture, cultural significance and natural beauty.

On arrival, explore Ohrid's UNESCO-recognised historic area, where centuries-old churches, traditional houses and charming cobbled streets create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Stroll through the Old Town, discovering its historic lanes, scenic viewpoints and traditional waterfront. Enjoy the spectacular views across Lake Ohrid, one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes, renowned for its clear waters and remarkable biodiversity.

You will also have the opportunity to enjoy an optional boat ride on the lake, offering a different perspective of Ohrid's beautiful shoreline and surrounding mountains.

Spend the remainder of the day enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, exploring local shops or relaxing beside the water.

Overnight: Ohrid

Distance: Approximately 165 km

After breakfast, depart at 08:30 and travel back into Albania towards the historic city of Berat. Enjoy the countryside along the way, with a short visit to Belsh, a town known for its surrounding lakes and attractive natural setting.

Continue to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its distinctive Ottoman-era architecture and beautifully preserved historic neighbourhoods. Meet your local guide and explore Berat Castle, a historic hilltop settlement offering panoramic views across the city and surrounding valley. Discover the area's historic mosques and religious landmarks while learning about Berat's multicultural heritage.

Visit Gorica Bridge, an iconic stone bridge spanning the Osum River and connecting the historic neighbourhoods on either side. Admire Berat's famous white Ottoman-style houses, built along the hillside and recognised for their many windows, which have earned the city its nickname, the City of a Thousand Windows.

Enjoy time to wander through the charming streets, appreciate the city's traditional architecture and experience the unique atmosphere of one of Albania's most treasured destinations.

Overnight: Berat

Distance: Approximately 215 km

After breakfast, depart at 08:30 and travel south towards the Albanian Riviera, a region celebrated for its turquoise waters, beautiful beaches and dramatic landscapes.

Your first major stop is the Blue Eye, a remarkable natural spring known for its striking blue and turquoise colours. Surrounded by lush greenery, the spring creates a spectacular natural setting and offers excellent opportunities for photography and enjoying the scenery.

Continue towards Ksamil, one of Albania's best-known coastal destinations, famous for its clear waters, sandy beaches and picturesque offshore islands. Enjoy time to take in the coastal views, relax by the beach or explore the surrounding area. Later, continue to Sarandë, a lively seaside city overlooking the Ionian Sea. Explore the waterfront promenade, enjoy views across the bay and experience the relaxed atmosphere of this popular coastal destination.

Spend the evening at leisure, with time to enjoy the seaside setting and local surroundings.

Overnight: Sarandë

Distance: Approximately 240 km

After breakfast, depart at 08:30 and begin your journey north along Albania's spectacular coastal route. Enjoy views of the Albanian Riviera, with its rugged mountains, coastal landscapes and beautiful stretches of coastline.

Travel towards Vlorë, an important coastal city with a significant place in Albanian history. Stop to explore the city and visit the historic Muradie Mosque, an important Ottoman-era landmark known for its distinctive architecture and historical significance. Continue the journey towards Durrës, passing through more of Albania's varied landscapes as you make your way along the coast.

Upon arrival, enjoy the atmosphere of this historic port city, known for its maritime heritage, waterfront areas and archaeological significance. Take time to relax after the journey and enjoy your final evening in Albania.

Overnight: Durrës

Distance: Approximately 35 km

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, depending on your flight schedule, before preparing for departure.

At the appropriate time, transfer from Durrës to Tirana International Airport for your onward flight. As you leave the Balkans, take with you wonderful memories of three fascinating countries, from Albania's beautiful coastline and historic towns to Kosovo's cultural treasures and North Macedonia's spectacular lakeside scenery.

Your 10-day journey through history, culture, mountains and coastal landscapes comes to an end.

End of Tour