How to Plan Your Visit to Albania and Montenegro in Tirana

Are you planning to visit Tirana, Albania, and Montenegro? If you want to explore the best spots in these countries without the stress of planning, then this tour is for you. This tour meanders through both countries, passing through historic streets and serene countryside. You’ll visit the top attractions, including four UNESCO World Heritage sites. From castles to medieval bazaars, natural springs to Roman baths, you’ll get a taste of everything in this diverse cultural tour.

Overview of the Tour

This tour is all-inclusive, meaning that you can leave behind the stress of booking accommodation and admission to attractions. All fees and taxes are included in the price, and you’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour also includes a professional guide, who will provide you with information about the history of each attraction.

What’s Included in the Tour

The tour includes the following:

• 9 nights accommodation
• Professional guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Lunches
• Dinners
• All fees and taxes

Meeting and Pickup Information

The tour includes pickup from either your hotel or the airport. The pickup time is at 9:00 AM.

Itinerary

Day 1: Tirana Airport – Tirana (17 km)

Upon arrival at the Tirana airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Tirana. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city on your own.

Day 2: Tirana – Ardenica Monastery – Apollonia – Vlora (230 km)

You’ll start the day early with a pickup from your hotel, and then drive towards Ardenica Monastery, one of the oldest and most important cultural monuments in Albania. Then, you’ll visit Apollonia, an ancient Greek city located on the right bank of the Vjosa River. Finally, you’ll end the day in Vlora, where you’ll have dinner and spend the night.

Day 3: Vlora – Llogara Pass – Sarande (150 km)

After breakfast, you’ll depart from Vlora towards Llogara Pass, where you’ll enjoy the stunning views of the Albanian Riviera. You’ll then continue towards Saranda, where you’ll have dinner and spend the night.

Day 4: Sarande – Butrint – Sarande (20 km)

After breakfast, you’ll visit Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the most important archaeological sites in Albania. It’s an ancient Greek and Roman city that includes a theater, a gymnasium, and a baptistery. Afterward, you’ll return to your hotel in Sarande.

Day 5: Sarande – Blue Eye – Gjirokastra (110 km)

You’ll start the day by visiting the Blue Eye, a natural spring that has crystal clear water. Afterward, you’ll continue towards Gjirokastra, a medieval bazaar that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll have dinner and spend the night in Gjirokastra.

Day 6: Gjirokastra – Berat (190 km)

You’ll start the day early and depart from Gjirokastra towards Berat, known as the city of a thousand windows. Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes a medieval castle and Ottoman-era houses. You’ll have dinner and spend the night in Berat.

Day 7: Berat – Durres (100 km)

After breakfast, you’ll depart from Berat towards Durres, a coastal town that’s home to the largest Roman amphitheater in the Balkans. You’ll have dinner and spend the night in Durres.

Day 8: Durres – Shkoder (110 km)

You’ll start the day by visiting the Durres Archaeological Museum, which has a collection of artifacts dating back to the Illyrian, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Afterward, you’ll continue towards Shkoder, a city that’s located near the Montenegrin border. You’ll have dinner and spend the night in Shkoder.

Day 9: Shkoder – Kotor – Budva – Shkoder (240 km)

You’ll start the day early and depart from Shkoder towards Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s located in Montenegro. You’ll also visit Budva, another city located in Montenegro that’s known for its sandy beaches and medieval architecture. Finally, you’ll return to your hotel in Shkoder.

Day 10: Departure from Shkoder

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in booking this tour, you can do so through Viator, using the following link: book the tour here. With all the logistics taken care of, all you need to do is relax and enjoy the beauty and culture of Albania and Montenegro.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tirana

Tirana is the capital city of Albania and is a popular tourist destination in the Balkans. Here are some frequently asked questions about Tirana:

1. What should I know before visiting Tirana?

Before visiting Tirana, it is important to know the local customs and traditions of Albania. The official language is Albanian, but many locals also speak English. The currency used in Tirana is the Albanian lek (ALL), and credit cards are widely accepted in most places. It is recommended to wear appropriate clothing while visiting religious sites and to be respectful of the local culture.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Tirana?

There are many must-visit attractions in Tirana, including:

• The Skanderbeg Square, which is the city’s main square and has several important landmarks, such as the National Museum of History and the Ethem Bey Mosque.
• The Bunk’Art Museum, which is a museum that showcases Albania’s history during the Communist regime.
• The Tirana Castle, which is located in the heart of the city and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
• The Grand Park of Tirana, which is a large park that features a lake and many recreational activities.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Tirana?

The best time of year to visit Tirana is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so it’s recommended to book accommodations and tours in advance. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are also good times to visit, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

4. What is the local cuisine in Tirana?

The local cuisine in Tirana is heavily influenced by Mediterranean and Balkan cuisine. Some popular dishes include:

• Tavë Kosi – a lamb and yogurt casserole dish
• Fërgesë Tirane – a dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese
• Qofte – Albanian meatballs
• Baklava – a sweet pastry dessert

5. What are the best shopping spots in Tirana?

Tirana has several great shopping spots for both tourists and locals. Some popular places to shop include:

• The Toptani Shopping Center, which has several high-end stores and restaurants.
• The TEG Shopping Center, which is the largest mall in Tirana and has over 180 stores and restaurants.
• The Pazari i Ri Market, which is a large outdoor market that sells a variety of goods such as fresh produce and clothing.

6. How do I get around Tirana?

Tirana has a reliable public transportation system that includes buses and taxis. The bus system is affordable and operates throughout the day, but can be crowded during peak hours. Taxis are also readily available, but it’s recommended to negotiate the fare before getting in. Walking or biking is also a great way to explore the city.

7. What are some tips for staying safe in Tirana?

Tirana is generally a safe city, but it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Some tips for staying safe in Tirana include:

• Avoid flashing valuables in public places.
• Be cautious when using public transportation or walking through crowded areas.
• Stay in well-lit areas at night.

8. What is the nightlife like in Tirana?

Tirana has a lively nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late. Some popular spots include the Blloku neighborhood, which is known for its trendy bars and clubs, and the Sky Tower rooftop bar, which offers stunning views of the city.

9. What are some day trips I can take from Tirana?

There are many interesting day trips that can be taken from Tirana, including:

• The coastal city of Durres, which is a popular destination for its beaches and ancient ruins.
• The historic city of Kruja, which is known for its Ottoman-era bazaar and the Skanderbeg Museum.
• The Berat Castle, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Overall, Tirana is a fascinating city to explore with many noteworthy attractions, great food, and a lively culture. By following some basic safety precautions and being respectful of local customs, visitors will have an unforgettable experience in Tirana.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Tirana

Tirana, the capital of Albania, is a cultural and historical hub located in the heart of the Balkans. With its rich history, vibrant energy, and scenic beauty, Tirana is an ideal destination for tourists who want a taste of Albanian life. Here’s how you can spend your time as a tourist in Tirana.

1. Visit the Skanderbeg Square

Skanderbeg Square is the central hub of Tirana, surrounded by important landmarks, like the National History Museum, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Opera and Ballet Theatre. The square is named after Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, the national hero of Albania who fought against the Ottoman Empire. You can watch the daily changing of the Albanian guard in front of the Skanderbeg statue and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city’s most popular public space.

2. Explore the Bunk’Art Museum

Bunk’Art is a fascinating museum located inside a massive underground bunker built during the communist era of Albania. The museum showcases the country’s turbulent past and highlights the struggles of Albanian people during the dictatorship of Enver Hoxha. Inside, you can explore various exhibits about Albanian history and culture.

3. Discover the Castle of Tirana

The Castle of Tirana is a historic landmark located in the heart of the city. The castle is built on a hilltop and provides wonderful views of the surrounding areas. You can take a guided tour of the castle and explore its ancient walls and towers. The castle also has an art gallery and a museum showcasing historical artifacts.

4. Stroll Through the Grand Park of Tirana

The Grand Park of Tirana (Parku i Madh) is a huge park located near the city center. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Albania. The park includes a lake, botanical gardens, and plenty of walking and biking trails. You can rent a bike, enjoy a picnic or just watch the locals go about their daily routine.

5. Visit the National Gallery of Arts

The National Gallery of Arts is a large art museum showcasing permanent and temporary exhibits from Albanian and international artists. The museum is located in a restored Ottoman-era building and features paintings, sculptures, and photographs from various time periods.

6. Indulge in Albanian Cuisine

Albanian cuisine is a unique blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors. Tirana boasts numerous traditional restaurants offering delicious local specialties like qofte (meatballs), fërgesë (a stew-like dish), and byrek (a pastry filled with meat or cheese). You can also try various sweets like baklava and halva.

7. Visit the Pyramids of Tirana

The Pyramids of Tirana are a futuristic concrete structure built during the communist era of Albania. The pyramid was designed as a museum dedicated to Enver Hoxha, but now serves as a landmark for the city. You can hike to the top of the pyramid and enjoy panoramic views of Tirana.

8. Walk Along the Lana River

The Lana River is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of Tirana. You can stroll along the riverbanks and enjoy the scenery of the city. The river is also a great place to sit and relax, have a picnic or read a book.

9. Shop at the Pazari i Ri

Pazari i Ri (the New Bazaar) is a bustling market located in Tirana’s city center. Here, you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and seafood. You can also shop for traditional Albanian handicrafts such as rugs, ceramics, and textiles.

10. Attend a Cultural Event

Tirana is home to a vibrant cultural scene that includes various events and festivals throughout the year. You can attend concerts, theater performances, and film screenings showcasing Albanian and international artistic talent.

Book Your Tour Now

Tirana is a city with a rich history, diverse culture, and plenty of sightseeing opportunities. From strolling along the Lana River to exploring the bunkers, Tirana has something for everyone. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in the Albanian capital, learn about its past and present, and leave with unforgettable memories.