Itinerary VLORE-QEPARO-HIMARE
Highlights
- Discover the charming village of Qeparo and its stone houses
- Explore the historic Porto Palermo Castle and enjoy panoramic views
- Enjoy free time in Himare to relax on the beach or explore the town
- Take in stunning coastal views as you drive along the Albanian Riviera
Full description
Depart from Vlora at 08:30 AM
Stop 1: Qeparo Village 10:00 AM-10:45 AM
Discovering Qeparo, a traditional coastal village,
where there is a short stop for panoramic photos
of stone houses and the Ionian Sea.
Stop 2: Porto Palermo Castle 11:00 AM-11:45 AM
Next, visit Porto Palermo Castle, a historic fortress located on a small peninsula. Spend around 45 minutes exploring the castle, walking around the area, and taking photos of one of the most unique landmarks on the Albanian coast.
Stop 3: Himare 12:00 AM- 16:00 PM
Afterward, continue to Himare, where you will have approximately 4 hours of free time. During this time, relax on the beach, swim, enjoy lunch at seaside restaurants, or explore the town at your own pace.
Return to Vlora : 16:00 PM-18:00 PM
At 16:00 PM, we will depart from Himara and head back to Vlora.
Estimated arrival time: around 18:00 PM, with drop-off at your preferred location in the city.
Itinerary VLORE-ZVERNEC ISLAND-BERAT
Highlights
- Cross a wooden bridge to Zvernec Monastery on a peaceful lagoon island.
- Enjoy the tranquil nature and birdlife around the lagoon.
- Explore Berat’s historic center and its iconic Ottoman-era houses.
- Stroll through the medieval alleyways of the Berat Castle
Full description
Depart from Vlora at 09:00 AM and head toward our first destination, Zvernec Island. The drive takes approximately 20–25 minutes through scenic coastal and pine forest views.
Stop 1: Zvernec Monastery (09:20 – 10:00 AM)
Nestled in the middle of the Narta Lagoon and accessible by a charming wooden bridge, Zvernec Island is home to the Zvernec Monastery, a beautifully preserved 13th-century Byzantine structure dedicated to St. Mary Divinity.
You will enjoy:
-A peaceful walk through the pine-covered island
-Exploration of the monastery’s stone architecture and frescoes
-Panoramic views of the lagoon—perfect for photography lovers
Departure: 10:00 PM
We’ll head to the city of Berat, arriving at approximately 12:00 PM.
Stop 2: Berat Castle – The City of a Thousand Windows (12:00– ~14:00 PM)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Berat is one of Albania’s most picturesque and historic cities, known for its Ottoman-era white houses that cascade down the hills, earning it the nickname “The City of a Thousand Windows.” With a history dating back over 2,400 years, Berat is home to the stunning Berat Castle (Kalaja), where people still live within its ancient stone walls. Berat offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
At 12:00 will go for a 2-hour walking tour through this UNESCO World Heritage city.
Highlights of the guided tour include:
-The Berat Castle, still inhabited and offering panoramic views of the city
-The Onufri Museum, known for its vivid Orthodox icons
From 14:00-17:00 PM you’ll have free time to:
-Visit the historic neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, with their Ottoman-era architecture and cobblestone streets.
-The Gorica Bridge, a symbol of the city’s charm.
-Wander the narrow alleys at your own pace
-Enjoy a coffee at a local café
-Have lunch at a traditional restaurant or explore local shops.
Return to Vlora (17:00 – ~19:00 PM)
At 17:00, we will depart from Berat and head back to Vlora.
Estimated arrival time: around 19:00 PM, with drop-off at your preferred location in the city.
Itinerary VLORE-TEPELENE-GJIROKASTER
Highlights
- Visit the castle of Tepelena and the history of Ali Pashe Tepelena
- Refresh with a scenic stop at the famous cold water springs
- Step back in time as you explore the historic city of Gjirokastra
- Visit the Castle of Gjirokastra and the Ethnographic Museum
- Explore the Old Town, the castle, and the Ottoman-style quarters
- Enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace after the tour.
Full description
Departure: 08:30 AM Depart from Vlora at 08:30 AM. Get ready for a day full of nature, culture, and breathtaking views!
Stop 1: 10:00 AM-10:40 AM
At Kalaja e Tepelenës, you are standing in a historic fortress overlooking the Vjosa River. The castle was expanded in the 18th–19th century by Ali Pashë Tepelena, a powerful local ruler who controlled much of southern Albania and challenged the Ottoman Empire.
But the castle also holds darker memories. During the communist period, it was turned into an internment camp where many families suffered under harsh conditions. Today, it stands as a symbol of both power and resilience in Albania’s past.
Stop 2: Uji i Ftohtë, Tepelenë 10:45 AM-11:15 AMA short refreshing break at the famous Uji i Ftohtë springs in Tepelenë. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, snap some beautiful photos, and stretch your legs.
Stop 3: Gjirokastër Arrival at 12:00 AMGuided Tour: ️ 12:00 AM – 14:00 PM Discover the charm of Gjirokastra, Albania’s UNESCO-listed “Stone City.”
Visit the Old Town, the castle (the first settlement nucleus), and the Ottoman-style quarters. See the contemporary buildings and university complex in the valley basin.Explore the Ethnographic Museum (House E.Hoxha), the House of Zakat (the oldest house in Gjirokastra,optional), and the museum house of Ismail Kadare (optional).
Free Time: ⏳ 14:00 PM – 15:30 PM Enjoy time to explore at your own pace. Shop for local crafts, capture beautiful photos, or relax at a café with a traditional lunch.
Return to Vlora : 15:30 PM-18:00 PM
At 15:30 PM, we will depart from Gjirokaster and head back to Vlora.
Estimated arrival time: around 18:00 PM, with drop-off at your preferred location in the city.