South East Balkans Tour through Egnatia Route

South East Balkans Tour through Egnatia Route

15 Days Starting and ending in Tirana, Albania

Visiting: Elbasan, Bitola, Pella, Kavala, Tekirdağ, İstanbul, Edirne, Plovdiv, Skopje, Ulpiana, Peja, Kukes, Tirana

Tour operator:

Albania Explorer

Tour code:

354746

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Age range:

18-89

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Gluten Free

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $4046 $3918 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$127

NB: Prices correct on 13-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Europe Explorer Grand Tour “Egnatia Route” is the best possibility for travelers looking for a special experience of South East Balkans’ culture, nature, history, traditions, multi-ethnicity, multi-religion, etc. It is a tailor made program trying to optimize all “must see'' places for Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria and Kosova. We have intentionally named ‘Egnatia Route’ as it has been the main and only way to connect the west part of Europe (Rome) to Durres - Illyrian (Balkan) Peninsula with the East (Kostandinopoja) part of it to continue to Silk Road via Asia Minor. This route became famous in Roman Empire time and was called ‘Via Egnatia’. Where part of ancient bridges and roads can be still visited among the breathtaking nature and rich heritage form past millennials.Important Places to be Visited: Tirana, Elbasan, Struge, Ohrid, Bitola, Thessaloniki, Kavala, Alexandroupoli, Tekirdag, Istanbul, Edirne, Plovdiv, Sofia, Skopje, Prizren, Kukes, and Rubik.

Highlights

  • Europe Explorer Grand Tour “Egnatia Route” is the best possibility for travelers looking for a special experience of South East Balkans’ culture, nature, history, traditions, multi-ethnicity, multi-religion, etc

  • It is a tailor made program trying to optimize all “must see'' places for Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria and Kosova

  • We have intentionally named ‘Egnatia Route’ as it has been the main and only way to connect the west part of Europe (Rome) to Durres - Illyrian (Balkan) Peninsula with the East (Kostandinopoja) part of it to continue to Silk Road via Asia Minor

  • This route became famous in Roman Empire time and was called ‘Via Egnatia’

  • Where part of ancient bridges and roads can be still visited among the breathtaking nature and rich heritage form past millennials

  • Important Places to be Visited: Tirana, Elbasan, Struge, Ohrid, Bitola, Thessaloniki, Kavala, Alexandroupoli, Tekirdag, Istanbul, Edirne, Plovdiv, Sofia, Skopje, Prizren, Kukes, and Rubik

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Tirane – Elbasan - Ohrid (Unesco) (North Macedonia) (135 Km, 2 H 30 Min).

Location: Elbasan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Ohrid. (Hotel Diplomat 3*, or similar).

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, we will travel to Elbasan. Elbasan was a very important city in ancient Illyrian time, where in Roman empire time was famous for the so-called “Via Egnatia” that used to connect Rome-Naples-Bari-Durres-Elbasan-Ohrid-Thessaloniki-Istanbul. City tour to visit: Elbasan Castle (dating back to 4rth Century BC), The Clock, The ethnographic Museum, Church, The Old Mosque.

Then we continue the beautiful city of Ohrid, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will visit the Sveti Naum Monastery, a beautiful site with impressive views of Lake Ohrid across to Albania. Explore its mixture of western and oriental architecture including the Orthodox Cathedral, the 11th century church of St Sofia as well as the Roman theater.

Overnight in Ohrid. (Hotel Diplomat 3*, or similar).

Day 2 : Bitola (Unesco) (Ancient Heraclea) - Edessa. (164 Km, 2 H 55 Min).

Location: Bitola

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Edessa. (Hotel Alfa 3*, or similar).

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, we will continue the road to Bitola. The road leads to the city of Resen and the biggest apple orchards in this part of the Balkans. First we will visit the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis, the best preserved ancient city in Macedonia. Built in the 4th century BC, and conquered by the Romans 2 centuries later. Heraclea Lincestis is famous for its beautiful mosaics, antique theater and roman baths. First excavations were taken after the First World War and then was discovered the beauty and importance of this ancient city – the Roman baths, Episcope basilica, Synagogue, portico, Roman theater – in which in modern times plays and music concerts are held.

Overnight in Edessa. (Hotel Alfa 3*, or similar).

Day 3 : Pella - Thessaloniki (Unesco). (94 Km, 1 H 40 Min).

Location: Pella

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Hotel Abc, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


In the morning, after breakfast, we will continue to Pella, which is an ancient Macedonian city    located in Greece, best known as the historical capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedon and birthplace of Alexander the Great. On the site of the ancient city is the Archaeological Museum of Pella.

Then continue to Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is one of the best places to visit not only for city breaks but also for longer holidays! And that is because Thessaloniki is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the numerous Byzantine monuments, but it is also a beautiful modern European city full of life! Possibility to visit Galerius Arch (Kamara), Rotunda, Archaeological Museum, St. Demetrius church, Roman Forum, Our Lady "of the Coppersmiths'' church, Bey Hamam Baths (Paradise Baths, church of Holy Wisdom, Museum of Byzantine Civilization, White Tower.

Overnight in Hotel Abc, or similar.

Day 4 : Kavala - Alexandroupolis. (302 Km, 3 H 25 Min)

Location: Kavala

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation in hotel (Sali 3* or similar) and overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, continue to Kavala. Kavala’s past and present sparkle with the first rays of dawn. It is very beautiful due to its location on the slope of the mountain: white city houses with terraces descend to the sea, along which stretches a beautiful embankment with many old and modern houses, museums, beautiful beaches, taverns, shops and simply picturesque places. Kavala has long been a tourist destination in Greece from all over the World. Walking tour in the Old Town through ancient cobblestone streets, you will visit the old Castle, a medieval fortress surrounded by four towers and the highest point of the city - the central tower from which you can see an amazing view of the whole city and the Aegean Sea.

Then continue to Alexandroupolis. Its old name in Ottomans time was Dedeagach, and it was a fishing village. During the numerous wars, it was occupied by different cultures: Bulgarians, Turks, Russians    etc. Not only is the city pretty, but so is its natural environment: located on the seashore, near Turkey and also very close to spectacular natural parks, such as those in Dadia and Lefkimi. We walk around the lighthouse; there are lots of bars and locals, with a great atmosphere. As for one of the city's main attractions, the Ethnological Museum of Thrace, the stone building is impressive, but I found the visit really boring. In this museum, you can look at artefacts to imagine how life was for the majority of Thrace's inhabitants.

Accomodation in hotel (Sali 3* or similar) and overnight.

Day 5 : Tekirdag (Turkey) - Istanbul (Unesco). (302 Km, 3 H 50 Min).

Location: Tekirdağ

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation in hotel (Marcello 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, continue to Tekirdagi. Tekirdağ is a city in Turkey. It is a part of the region historically known as Eastern Thrace. Tekirdağ is the capital of Tekirdağ Province. Tekirdag is on the Marmara Sea coast of Thrace, and has been settled from the beginning of history like other important places of the region. Its ancient name was Bisanthe, while today’s name originates from the color of the surrounding mountains. There are several historical places in the city, some of which are the Rakoczy Museum, the Rustem Pasha Mosque, the Tekirdag Museum and the statue of Namik Kemal, the celebrated patriotic poet whose birth-place is Tekirdag. Corlu, is a small town of Tekirdag, was a citadel on the antique road between Istanbul and West Europe in the Illyrin-Roman-Byzantine-Ottoman period.

Then continue to Istanbul. Istanbul is a major city in Turkey that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. Its Old City reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here. Explore the historic Old City on a fascinating place where we can see Istanbul's top 6 attractions: the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern, Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar.

Accomodation in hotel (Marcello 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 6 : Istanbul (Unesco)

Location: İstanbul

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation in hotel (Marcello 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast Bosphorus Boat Tour. In the afternoon leisure time to explore the city on your own and the possibility of shopping around at numerous souvenir shops, etc.

Accomodation in hotel (Marcello 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 7 : Edirne (Unesco). (254 Km 2H 55 Min).

Location: Edirne

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation in hotel (Adresin 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, continue to Edirne. Edirne, formerly Adrianople of Adrianople, city, extreme western Turkey. It lies at the junction of the Tunca and Maritsa (Turkish: Meriç) rivers, near the borders of Greece and Bulgaria. The largest and oldest part of the town occupies a meander of the Tunca around the ruins of an ancient citadel. Edirne’s site and turbulent history were determined by its strategic position on the main route from Asia Minor (Anatolia) to the Balkans. We will visit Selimiye Mosque, Old Mosque, Uc Serefeli Mosque and Tower Gate in the city center.

Accomodation in hotel (Adresin 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 8 : Edirne (Unesco).

Location: Edirne

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnightotel in hotel Adresin 3*, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


Leisure day in Edirne. Overnightotel in hotel Adresin 3*, or similar.

Day 9 : Plovdiv (Unesco) (Bulgaria). (177 Km 2H 15 Min).

Location: Plovdiv

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation in hotel (Evmolpia 3*, or similar) and overnight

Meals Included: Breakfast


This morning we will continue to reach Plovdiv, the “City of the seven hills’’. Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe, still existing today. It was called Philippopolis in the IV century B.C. in honor of King Philip II of Macedonia. Today Plovdiv is a cultural center and is selected as European Capital of Culture for 2019. walking through the cobbled streets of Plovdiv’s Old Town, The Ancient Roman Theater, Kapana Creative District, The Roman Stadium, The Longest Pedestrian Street in Europe and  The Secretive Tobacco Town that once was the heart of the tobacco industry in Bulgaria.

Accomodation in hotel  (Evmolpia 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 10 : Sofia. (144 Km 2H 15 Min).

Location: Sofia International Airport

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation in hotel (Lion Sofia 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, departure to Sofia. Panoramic tour around the Bulgarian capital an 8500-years old city called “My Rome” by the emperor Constantine The Great. Visit the most fascinating places of interest: the forum of Ancient Serdica (the old name of the city) with the newest archeological discoveries from Roman time, which are exhibited next to the Bulgarian presidency. Next is the St. Nedelya square, where 4 worship buildings of the main religions in Bulgaria are located next to each other. These are the Orthodox Church St. Nedelya, the Catholic church, the Synagogue and the Mosque. They form a quadrangle, symbolizing the peace between different religions in Bulgaria. Our tour continues with the “Alexander I” square where the Royal Palace and the National Theatre are located, “Tzar Osvoboditel” boulevard, the Parliament, the Church of ”St. Sofia” (the name means wisdom), which had given the name of the city, the Sofia University and the “Alexander Nevski” Cathedral (the biggest Orthodox church on the Balkan peninsula).

Accomodation in hotel  (Lion Sofia 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 11 : Skopje (North Macedonia). (244 Km 3H 30 Min)

Location: Skopje

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation in hotel (De Koka 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast continue to Skopje. After we arrive, a city tour. Walk through the landmarks of the old part of Skopje, starting with the Skopje Castle placed on a hill, which gives a view to the old and the new part of Skopje. Then continue with walking down toward Mustafa Pasha Mosque (1492) and the church of Holy Savior (18th Century), then to the historical district known as the Skopje’s Old Bazaar characterized by architectural mixture of churches, mosques, inns, baths, many craftsmen’s shops, old buildings, restaurants and pubs and small shops.

Accomodation in hotel  (De Koka 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 12 : Ulpiana (Kosova) - Gracanica Monastery (Unesco) - Prishtine (177 Km 2H 3 Min).

Location: Ulpiana

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Pristina, Hotel Begolli, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, drive to Pristina where we stop first to visit the ruins of Ulpiana, an ancient Dardanian-Illyrian city dating back to Roman invasion period of the 1st century that was once one of the most powerful in the Balkans. Later we will visit the spectacular Gracanica Monastery, one of Kosovo’s most beautiful sites and containing some impressive frescoes.

Proceed to Pristina Kosova’s capital. Where we have a walking tour to explore the city visiting its main sites such as the Orthodox Church and the Carshi Mosque, dating back to the early 15th century.

Overnight in Pristina, Hotel Begolli, or similar.

Day 13 : Peja - Gjakova - Prizren. (160 Km 2H 55 Min)

Location: Peja

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation in hotel (Hotel Prizren 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, we will depart for Peja city.  Peja lies at the foot of the gigantic Damned Mountains (Bjeshk't e Nemuna), on the river Bistrica and the entrance of the Rugova Gorge. Peja is the main economic and cultural center of northern Dukagjin and one of the best known tourist resorts of the region. Afterward, continue to Gjakova. Visit the Gjakova Clock Tower, which marks the center of the Old Bazaar, the grain market and see the handicrafts of quilt-workers, saddler makers, silversmiths and embroiderers. We then will visit the 16th century Mosque of “Hadum Aga,” a traditional house for a tea break. We also will visit the 16th century inn of “Hani i Haraçisë,” the old bazaar shopping area, and the Ethnographic Museum.

We continue to Prizren. This city, probably is the most attractive town in Kosovo with superbly preserved buildings from the Ottoman era. We visit the castle which is one of the oldest in the Balkans (almost 3 millenniums), built to protect the city from attacks, the ornate Bajrakli Mosque and the old Turkish Hammam among other sights. Prizren is an absolute highlight of any visit to Kosovo and to see the old houses of the old town in low light as the sun sets is a delight.

Accomodation in hotel  (Hotel Prizren 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 14 : Kukes (Albania) - Rubik. (125 Km 1H 35 Min)

Location: Kukes

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight Hotel Marubi or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, continue the tour by enjoying the wonderful panorama of Black Drini River Valley and Firza Lake to arrive in Kukes. This city became famous and later was a Nobel Candidate city for the hospitality shown for about 1 million refugees from the Kosovo War in 1999.

Then continue to Rubik via Has and Kukes in Drini River valley and the Rruga e Kombit Hiwayay. Visit in Info Kulla Rubik, where you will be introduced to the history of Mirdita which is the most authentic region in Albania, because it was never fully occupied fully in the last two millenniums by the various invaders starting from Hellenic, Roman, Byzantines, and the Ottomans. Introduction to Kanuni i Maleve, or known as “The Illyrian Code, Or Code of Lek Dukagjini”, where a similar one is found in Hittite civilization dating back 3500 year ago. Visit to the Shelbuemi Church of Rubik (dated in 1162), built over an ancient Illyrian Temple/Castle over the hill
ock in the strategic control of Fani River Valley.

Overnight Hotel Marubi or similar.

Day 15 : Kruje - Tirana.(95 Km 1H 55 Min)

Location: Tirana

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Tirana.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, we will depart for Kruje. We will visit the medieval city of Kruja (visit the castle and the impressive Skanderbeg Museum, Ethnographical Museum and shopping in Old Bazaar, mosques from the time of the ottomans time. Then we will continue to Tirana, Albania’s capital. We will visit Skanderbeg Square, dedicated to Albania’s national hero, the Mosque of Ethem Bey, one of the oldest buildings in Tirana, and the Archaeological Museum among other sites. Overnight in your hotel.

Overnight in Tirana.

What's Included

Hotel: Accommodation 3* hotels on double occupancy in good locations of respective cities/places.
Transportation: Air Conditioned modern van/minibus/bus and other transportation listed in itinerary.
Breakfast: Daily breakfast. All others meals not listed are at your expense.
English speaking tour leader/manager

What's Not Included

Admission/entry Fees
A mandatory service fee for tour guide/bus driver (min. 5-7 Euro /day per person)
Lunch and Dinner charges (if applicable)
Everything not mentioned in “Inclusions”
Local guides (can be provided upon request) and require extra charge

Please Note

Not wheelchair accessibleNot stroller accessibleNot suitable for petsInfants must not sit on laps

Know Before You Go

Public Transportation NearbyInfant Seats Available

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in 3-star hotels on a twin share basis for 7 overnights as per the program. The hotels are located in good locations of the respective cities or places.

  • Is breakfast included in the tour package?

    Yes, daily breakfast is included in the tour package. All other meals not listed are at your expense.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour uses air-conditioned modern vans, minibuses, or buses, and other transportation as listed in the itinerary.

  • Is there a tour guide provided during the tour?

    Yes, an English-speaking tour leader or manager is provided during the tour.

  • Are entry fees included in the tour package?

    No, admission or entry fees are not included in the tour package. Entry fees prices are subject to change without prior notice.

  • What happens if the minimum number of participants is not reached?

    If the minimum number of participants is not reached, the company reserves the right to offer alternative days to the client or to cancel the trip. The trip can also be operated on a private tour basis, subject to the respective quotation.

  • Do I need Travel insurance?

    We do not offer insurance packages but we highly recommend travel protection, it’s important to protect your trip investment and loved ones. We will offer you the best option for your vacation.

  • Do you book group travel ?

    Yes, we book group travel all the time! We specialize in helping groups of all sizes plan their dream trips. From family reunions to corporate retreats, we can take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy your time away.

  • How do I set up the consultation with the Albania Explorer agent ?

    To set up a consultation with Albania Explorer's travel expert, you can contact us directly via phone or email us at contact@albaniaexplorer.com. You can even reach us on Whatsapp at +355 68 399 9480 . local operation working hours during week monday to friday : 08.00-18.00 , saturday 09.00-14.00 , Sunday - off.

  • Will you available while I am on my vacation?

    Yes, we will be available to answer any questions or address any concerns that you may have. You can get in touch with us anytime. We are committed to providing the best possible service and helping our clients create memorable vacations that they will always remember.

Reviews of this operator

Armand Zhgaba (Google Reviewer)  

I recently had an amazing...

02-Aug-2024

I recently had an amazing experience with Albania Explorer when we traveled from Canada to Albania for vacation. From start to finish, their service was exceptional. The staff were incredibly friendly and always ready to assist with any needs related to the tours and accommodation. Albania Explorer exceeded my expectations, and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a seamless and memorable travel experience in Albania.

Camelia Stefanuc (Google Reviewer)  

I discoverd a new face...

04-Jun-2024

I discoverd a new face of Albania, with the help of Mr. Sokol. He is an herudit and all the Information we received were argumented and well documented. All the places we vizite were put în value, show in the right light. There were no questions remained without answer. Thank you and congratulations for having such a competent guide in your team. Camelia Stefanuc Tamara Balea

meir shabtai mazar (Google Reviewer)  

as a 50 years experience...

05-Sep-2019

as a 50 years experience as guide myself i can said that the 7 days of tour in Albania was orgenized perfectly by the travl company was perfect. the guide Dashi did more then we could expect to introduce his country to us.. the cost more then fair.

CARMEN DOGARU (Google Reviewer)  

It was a better experience...

16-May-2024

It was a better experience than I expected. The guide was very knowlegeble and ready to help us

Jawad Mohammed (Google Reviewer)  

I visited Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo...

13-Aug-2019

I visited Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo and the Republic of North Macedonia with this company. We had a wonderful time and a trip full of adventure and beautiful memories. Before the visit, I had a lot of doubt about the safety and the tourism potential of those countries compared to other countries that I visited in western, northern, central and eastern Europe. I started contacting a number of tour agencies in the Balkan region for the arrangements. The moment I dealt with Albania Explorer, I felt very comfortable because of their professional dealing and prompt responses. Moreover, their price was reasonable and competitive compared to other agencies. All the arrangements were perfect. Ms.Alma, the booking/ arrangements manager was very helpful. In addition, the tour guide and driver, Mr. Stive, was very professional, friendly and knowledgeable about all the countries we visited with him. Moreover, we found all the above mentioned countries to be very charming, safe and full of tourist attractions and places worth visiting. I highly recommend dealing with this agency for visiting Albania and the surrounding Balkan countries. You can rely on their professionalism and expertise to have an unforgettable trip

Karmen Louis  

Review

23-May-2020

Albania Explorer helped me during my trip to Albania. Being an outsider, this place was unknown for me. But they helped me very well and made my trip awesome. Thanks.

Sabrina Maria (Google Reviewer)  

We had the most fabulous...

12-Nov-2024

We had the most fabulous tour. Everything was perfectly organized and we were super lucky to have Edmund as our guide. Genuine, highly knowledgeable and just a great guy, thank you so much for all of the background information to the history and culture of your beautiful country. Every day was perfect from morning to evening. Our driver Mehti was great too, thank you for the perfect driving and for being so genuinely nice 🙂. Albania Explorer is a very professional company and I would not hesitate to book future tours with them. Highly recommended, thank you again and all the best.

Ziad S. Abdul Majid (Google Reviewer)  

I recently used Albania Explorer...

25-Apr-2023

I recently used Albania Explorer Tour for my vacation and I was blown away by their amazing service! From start to finish, the team was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and accommodating. They took the time to listen to my needs and preferences, and created a personalized itinerary that exceeded my expectations. Throughout my trip, everything ran smoothly thanks to the excellent planning and attention to detail. The accommodations were top-notch, the activities were well-organized, and the guides were friendly and informative. Overall, I had an unforgettable experience thanks to Albania Explorer Tour and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a stress-free and enjoyable vacation. Thank you to the entire team for their exceptional service!

Christopher Taylor (Google Reviewer)  

Illyria Route tour of Albania We...

28-May-2024

Illyria Route tour of Albania We chose to book directly with Albania Explorer rather than Exoticca or other Travel Companies providing package tours of Albania because : • Albania Explorer is the main Provider for other Tour Companies • Flights are NOT provided, so we could plan a tailor-made tour of Albania and other Balkan countries • Other services such as car rental and extra hotels can be booked with Albania Explorer We booked the 8 day Albania Explorer Tour “Illyria Route” which was subsumed into the 10 day Best of Albania Tour, who were all Exoticca package tour guests. This was ideal for us, as Albania was just part of our tour of a number Balkan countries, the first 10 days starting in Dubrovnik, Croatia and ending in Kotor, Montenegro, with a day trip to Mostar in Bosnia Herzogovina. We booked an extra night in Tirana giving us the opportunity to explore the City before the Illyria Tour, including a walking tour and the Bunker art museum. The Tour itself was excellent, covering all the main Cities and archeological sites of Albania, including the Albanian Riviera, with Gesi our Tour Guide providing a running commentary of background information and historical facts, and Claude our driver transporting us safely round the Country in the minibus with wifi. Afte leaving the Tour at Gjirokaster, we caught a public bus back to Tirana to pick up a rental car to spend the last week of our trip to North Macedonia and Kosovo. We relied heavily on Albanian Explorer to book the car and sort out the insurance and paperwork (inc Senior Driver) to take the car to neighbouring Balkan countries and how to obtain green cards at the borders. The car was delivered to the Hotel, and everything went smoothly. Booking direct with Albania Explorer suited us for our Trip around the Balkans. If you just want an Albanian full package tour with flights and transfers, book with Exoticca or other Tour companies – you will get the same base holiday, which is excellent. I commend Albania Explorer to you. Chris & Jackie

Olesea Alexandra (Google Reviewer)  

When you consider a trip...

14-Apr-2024

When you consider a trip and get to know a country, the first thing you want is safety and then satisfy your curiosity, get to know another culture, live experiences and rest from the routine life of your place of origin. Companies that work in the travel sector work with hopes and expectations. Clients make a significant financial effort and many sacrifices to be able to have a few pleasant days/weeks, in this case in Albania. A single person can ruin the work of an entire team. When you hire an agency like this, the visible face of the company is the tour guide who is the coordinator and the person who spends the most time with you. For a travel agency, this figure should be carefully selected because behind that choice there are many other people involved, in the selection of hotels, in the chosen itinerary, in administration, in the purchase of tickets and flights (in many cases). , drivers etc. In our case, the person chosen, Florian xhekaj, was a total mistake and nightmare, horrible experience. His knowledge of Spanish was level A2 (lower intermediate), to be generous. He didn't understand you nor did we understand him in the explanations. When I asked him the first day how long he had been a tour guide, the first lie came and he told me 6 years which was not true. Their lack of knowledge of the history of Albania was proverbial (without being experts in history, their disorientation in dates, centuries and historical people was obvious) their lack of interest in explaining important things was absolute (He did not even explain to us that we could not drink tap water) He did not announce the meeting times nor did he tell if we were all there (we organized ourselves among the people in the group) he did not know the Orthodox liturgy (my partner is Orthodox and had to correct him on numerous occasions for giving wrong information) and also the Muslim one. He boasted of knowing Spain and its history, of having studied philology and a master's degree in tourism, but we really came to the conclusion that either he was the worst in the class or the level of demand in Albania is limited. On the last day he didn't even say goodbye to the group after having been together for 10 days. That is a sign of very serious lack of respect for the company and for us as clients or people, but even though it is serious, it was worse that he vented his frustration every day with the driver (Uzur, who was an excellent and professional driver) speaking badly about the group (we called aristocrats ) spoke badly about the agency and its salary conditions, selected itineraries and in general everything bothered him and he took it on the bad side. We sat next to the driver and the new mobile phones with artificial intelligence translate everything from Albanian to Spanish or English in real time, so we couldn't believe what the phone was translating to our endless surprise. I don't know if the guides in Albania have this profile, if they are not used to tourism or if they take us for ignorance but in the end they play with illusions and with a lack of respect and there is only one person in charge and it is the agency that hires this type of people who are not prepared to perform a function as beautiful as teaching your country, your culture and your history. Please don´t day this person not worked for Albanian explorer and please don´t send us a template message of apologies because it is too late. You should know at this point who you work with and who represents your company.

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Thursday - Thursday

Apr 03, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025
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Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025
$4046 $3918

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$127

Thursday - Thursday

Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$4046 $3918

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$127

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Albania Explorer requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of albania explorer charges.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Why book with tourhub?

Safe & Secure

Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.

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100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.


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Guaranteed Best Value

Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.


No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.

(Operator terms may apply)

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Don't just take our word for it...

"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."

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