UNESCO & Living Heritage of Albania and the Prespa–Ohrid Region
Overview
10 Day Cultural & Natural Heritage Journey
This itinerary explores Albania and the Prespa–Ohrid region through a carefully curated sequence of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historic towns, and protected cultural landscapes.
Designed for culturally curious travelers, the route follows a natural progression from Albania’s historic centers and archaeological treasures to the transboundary lake regions of Prespa and Ohrid, combining urban heritage, living traditions, and remarkable natural environments.
The journey is thoughtfully paced and can easily be integrated into wider Balkan travel programs.
For pricing, please contact us via email or through our contact form to receive your personalized offer.
Tour Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Berat, Gjirokaster, Butrint, and the Ohrid–Prespa Lake region
- Historic towns of Tirana and Kruje, including castle and Ottoman bazaar
- Ionian coast stay in Sarande with archaeological excursion to Butrint
- Scenic inland route through the Vjosa Valley, Permet, and Kolonje highlands
- Cultural life and gastronomy of Korce in southeastern Albania
- Prespa Lakes UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and traditional lakeside villages
- Lake Ohrid exploration including Drilon Park
Why This Journey Is Special
This itinerary connects Albania’s layered history with its living cultural traditions and protected landscapes. It moves from Ottoman towns and medieval stone cities to archaeological parks, inland valleys, and internationally recognized lake ecosystems.
The combination of UNESCO heritage, rural authenticity, gastronomy, and cross-border lake regions offers a comprehensive and immersive Balkan cultural experience.
Know Before You Go
Accommodation: Selected boutique and well-located hotels throughout the journey.
Meals: Selected meals included. Free time for independent dining experiences.
Activity Level: Moderate. Walking in historic towns, archaeological sites, and light rural exploration.
Best Travel Period: April to October.
Ideal For: Cultural travelers, heritage enthusiasts, educational groups, and curated small groups.
Schedule Overview
Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana
Welcome and introduction to Albania’s capital city.
Day 2 – Tirana and Kruje
Explore historic Tirana and visit Kruje Castle and Ottoman bazaar.
Day 3 – Berat (UNESCO)
Discover the UNESCO-listed city of Berat, known as the City of a Thousand Windows.
Day 4 – Vlora and the Ionian Coast
Travel south along scenic coastal landscapes toward Sarande.
Day 5 – Butrint (UNESCO) and Sarande
Visit the archaeological site of Butrint and enjoy time by the Ionian Sea.
Day 6 – Vjosa Valley and Permet
Scenic inland route through valleys and highlands toward southeastern Albania.
Day 7 – Korce
Explore the cultural life and gastronomy of Korce.
Day 8 – Prespa Lakes
Visit the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and traditional lakeside villages.
Day 9 – Lake Ohrid Region
Explore Lake Ohrid and surrounding cultural landscapes.
Day 10 – Departure
Return and departure.
