albania + kosovo with Sadie

Day 1 | Tirana 

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​Walking tour starts at 10am. Ensure you book a flight that arrives with enough time

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Your adventure kicks off in Tirana, Albania’s vibrant and fast-evolving capital. After arriving and getting settled, we’ll dive straight into the city’s unique rhythm. Soar above the skyline on the Dajti Cable Car, where panoramic views stretch from city streets to distant mountains. Back on the ground, we’ll explore Bunk’Art 2, a Cold War-era bunker turned immersive museum that brings Albania’s complex history to life in a surprisingly creative way. Then it’s time to slow the pace—stroll through Tirana Lake Park, grab a lakeside espresso, and soak in some sunshine. We’ll wander through Skanderbeg Square, the city’s buzzing central plaza surrounded by striking Ottoman, Italian, and communist-era buildings. As the sun sets, we’ll head to the stylish Blloku District, once a closed-off area for communist elites, now a hotspot of cafés, cocktail bars, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to toast to the start of an unforgettable journey.

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Day 2 | Berat, Apollonia & Natural Wonders

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Today is all about slowing down and stepping into Albania’s rich natural beauty and deep-rooted history. We’ll start the day with a stop at the Blue Eye of Theth, a glowing turquoise spring tucked into forested mountains—it's peaceful, refreshing, and totally otherworldly. Next, we’ll take a relaxing boat ride through Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, a protected wetland home to rare bird species, winding waterways, and quiet serenity. From there, we’ll journey back in time to Apollonia, a once-thriving Greek and Roman city where crumbling columns and ancient amphitheaters still whisper the stories of civilizations past. By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” This fairy-tale town will charm you with its white Ottoman houses stacked on the hillside, its UNESCO-listed castle perched high above, and the historic Gorica Bridge that arches gracefully across the river. It’s the kind of place that feels like it belongs in a storybook—and tonight, we get to sleep in it.

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Day 3 | Island Adventures & Coastal Charm

Today we trade mountain air for sea breezes as we head toward Albania’s dazzling Ionian coast. First up: a boat ride to Sazan Island, once a secretive military base, now an off-the-grid spot where history meets unspoiled nature. We’ll continue exploring the wild, rugged Karaburun Peninsula, where hidden coves and dramatic cliffs offer the kind of views that belong on postcards (or your feed). In the afternoon, we’ll walk the charming wooden bridge to Zvernec Monastery, a peaceful island sanctuary tucked within a tranquil lagoon—perfect for a quiet moment or a dreamy photo op. We’ll wrap up the day in Vlora, a lively seaside town where the promenade comes alive at golden hour. Grab a gelato, watch the sun dip into the Adriatic, and settle in for a relaxed evening by the water.

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Day 4 | From Mountains to the Sea

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Get ready for one of the most scenic drives of your life as we journey along the legendary Llogara Pass, where alpine forests open up to jaw-dropping views of the Ionian Sea shimmering below. For the adventurous, there's an optional chance to go paragliding—soaring high above the coast for a bird’s-eye view you’ll never forget. We’ll then explore the Castle of Himara, perched above olive groves with panoramic views that stretch across sea and sky. Afterward, we’ll kick back and soak up the sun on Dhermi Beach, where bright blue water and smooth pebbles make it the perfect spot to unwind. We’ll end the day in the charming town of Himara, a mellow coastal gem full of character, great food, and laid-back vibes. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

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Day 5 | Hidden Beaches & Ancient Cities

Today is all about contrast—sparkling beaches by day, timeless cities by evening. We’ll start with a swim at Borsh Beach, a wide, uncrowded stretch of coast known for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back vibe. Then it’s on to Saranda, a lively seaside city where the promenade buzzes with beach bars and seafood spots—perfect for a midday stroll or a fresh bite by the water. We’ll take in sweeping views from Lekursi Castle, overlooking the city and even the Greek island of Corfu in the distance. Then it’s time for some serious beach bliss at Ksamil, with its soft white sand, turquoise waters, and the option to hop on a boat to explore nearby islets. But the day isn’t over yet—we’ll step into the past at Butrint, a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient ruins meet lush wetlands. As the sun begins to set, we’ll head inland to Gjirokastër, known as the “City of Stone,” where we’ll explore its hilltop fortress and wander the old bazaar’s cobbled streets. It’s a full day of beauty, history, and unforgettable views.

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