Culture, tradition and history in the land of ancient sites

03 October - 12 October 2025

Albania, a still undiscovered gem of Europe, captivates with its fascinating blend of culture, nature, and history. Explore the vibrant capital Tirana, dive into the charming UNESCO World Heritage city of Berat, and walk through the ancient ruins of Apollonia, tracing the footsteps of past civilizations.

SERVICES

• Home pick-up service
• Transfer Luxembourg – Frankfurt Airport round trip
• Flight Frankfurt – Tirana – Frankfurt
• 8 x dinner at hotel or local restaurants
• 1 x winery visit with wine tasting and dinner
• Local coach and German-speaking tour guide
• 1 x tasting of Feta cheese and Gliko
• 1 x small boat tour on Lake Ohrid
• Entrance fees & sightseeing as per itinerary

ITINERARY

Day 1: October 3, 2025 / Arrival in Tirana – Berat
Travel from the P+R Bouillon in Luxembourg to Frankfurt Airport. Arrive in Tirana, where your tour guide will warmly welcome you. Then, transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Berat, known as the "City of a Thousand Windows." In Berat, explore the historical fortress quarter, discover 15th-century mosques, and visit the National Iconographic Museum Onufri. To end the day, enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery, followed by a cozy dinner in Berat.

Day 2: October 4, 2025 / Berat – Apollonia – Vlora
In the morning, continue your exploration of Berat before heading to the ancient site of Apollonia. This served as a trading post between Greeks and Illyrians. After this impressive excursion, drive to Vlora, where the Albanian independence was declared in 1912. There, visit the Muradie Mosque from the 16th century before enjoying dinner at a traditional seafood restaurant.

Day 3: October 5, 2025 / Llogara National Park – Saranda
After breakfast, begin the drive to the stunning Llogara National Park. Cross the enchanting Llogara Pass as you travel along the Albanian Riviera, famous for its dramatic mountains and crystal-clear blue waters. A stop will also be made to visit the fortress of Ali Pasha Tepelena.

Day 4: October 6, 2025 / Butrint
Today, embark on a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, with its excellently preserved ancient ruins and a museum. Afterward, head back to Saranda, where you can relax in this coastal resort town.

Day 5: October 7, 2025 / Blue Eye – Gjirokastra
After breakfast, travel to the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage city of Gjirokastra. On the way, make a stop at the famous "Blue Eye," a beautiful karst spring surrounded by pristine nature. Continue to Gjirokastra, known as the "City of Stones." The town impresses with its Ottoman tower houses, characterized by stone roofs and pretty balconies. Above the town stands a mighty 13th-century castle that recalls the turbulent history of the region.

Day 6: October 8, 2025 / Përmet – Korça
The day begins in the charming town of Përmet. Here, visit the Meshini Dairy, where you can taste local specialties like "Gliko" and cheese. Përmet, also known as the "City of Roses," is beautifully situated in the Vjosa Valley, surrounded by majestic mountains. Continue to Korça, where you’ll visit the first Albanian school, which today serves as a museum.

Day 7: October 9, 2025 / North Macedonia – Sveti Naum Monastery – Ohrid – Plaošnik
Visit the Museum of Medieval Art, which boasts an impressive collection of Byzantine artworks. Afterward, travel to North Macedonia, with a stop at the Sveti Naum Monastery, famous for its free-roaming peacocks. Upon arriving in Ohrid, take a guided walk through the historic old town. Next, head to the archaeological site of Plaošnik, where you can explore St. Clement's Church and the remains of an early Christian basilica. Finally, admire the Church of St. John Kaneo, located on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid.

Day 8: October 10, 2025 / Ohrid – Tirana
After a relaxed morning in Ohrid, drive back to Albania. Today, you’ll explore the lively city of Tirana. After checking into your hotel, take a guided walk through the city center, which is also considered the cultural heart of the country.

Day 9: October 11, 2025 / Kruja
After breakfast, take an excursion to Kruja. Here, visit the Ethnographic Museum, the medieval bazaar, and the ruins of the impressive fortress, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The restored bazaar captivates with its oriental flair and invites you to browse. After returning to the capital, enjoy a farewell dinner before spending your last night in Tirana.

Day 10: October 12, 2025 / Return Journey
With many unforgettable impressions, you will return home. Fly back to Frankfurt and transfer to Luxembourg.

INVITATION INFORMATION EVENING

On January 30, 2025, at 18:00 at Dem Café in Keispelt. (No obligations)

Registration: events@demy.lu