Europe Explorer Grand Tour “Dalmatia Route”

15 Days Starting in tirana and ending in Tirana, Albania

Visiting: Tirana, Niksic, Sarajevo, Travnik, Plitvička Jezera, Ljubljana, Bled, Rijeka, Opatija, Šibenik, Split, Makarska, Perast, Budva, Lezhë County

Tour operator:

Albania Explorer

Tour code:

352783

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Age range:

18-89

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Gluten Free

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $4070

NB: Prices correct on 04-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Highlights:Europe Explorer Grand Tour (Dalmatia Route) is the best possibility for travelers looking for a special experience of North Western Balkans’ culture, nature, history, traditions, multi-ethnicity, multi-religion, etc. It is specially designed program, carefully constructed, trying to optimize all “must see” places for Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovine, Croatia and Slovenia, This tour is a real mosaic of Balkan multicultural world as the crossroad of all East-West Europe and Mediterranean civilizations.Important Places to be Visited: Tirana, Kruje, Lezhe, Shkoder, Podgorice, Mostar, Sarajevo, Bihac, Plitvice Jezero, Zagreb, Bled, Ljubljana, Postojna Cave, Rijeka, Trogir, Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Budva and Ulcinj.

Highlights

  • Highlights:Europe Explorer Grand Tour (Dalmatia Route) is the best possibility for travelers looking for a special experience of North Western Balkans’ culture, nature, history, traditions, multi-ethnicity, multi-religion, etc

  • It is specially designed program, carefully constructed, trying to optimize all “must see” places for Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovine, Croatia and Slovenia, This tour is a real mosaic of Balkan multicultural world as the crossroad of all East-West Europe and Mediterranean civilizations

  • Important Places to be Visited: Tirana, Kruje, Lezhe, Shkoder, Podgorice, Mostar, Sarajevo, Bihac, Plitvice Jezero, Zagreb, Bled, Ljubljana, Postojna Cave, Rijeka, Trogir, Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Budva and Ulcinj

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Tirane - Shkoder - Podgorica. (154 Km, 2 H 30 Min).

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Location: Tirana

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Accomodation to hotel (Garni Atrium 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast Tirana City tour. Located on a plain on the site of a Byzantine fortress and has been the capital since 1920 (visits to the Skanderbeg Square, Mosque of Et’hem Bey (built on 1824), the Clock Tower (built on 1822), the National Museum (the huge mosaic on front represent the Albanian history development, and the stages of this development are presented on respective pavilions),  National Art Gallery, Archeological Museum (there are presented many archeological discoveries since the Stone Age up to the Medieval), the National Heroes Cemetery, Grand Park and government buildings). Then, we head to Shkoder. Shkoder is one of the oldest cities in the Balkans and was once the capital of Illyria before it was conquered by Rome (year 168 BC). It is also considered the “Florence of the Balkans” due to its cultural inheritance and richness. We visit its old bazaar, cathedral and mosque before heading to Rozafa castle for spectacular views of the city, lake and the surrounding mountains. Continue to Montenegro’s capital Podgorica, where we visit the Old Town and show you the most important historical monuments and buildings in town: Doganjska Mosque from 15th century, Skaline (“the stairs”) is probably one of the most historic and picturesque site of Podgorica. It is a place perfectly described as peaceful, quiet and in the middle of the city, Republic Square, St.George church form 11th of century, Millenium Bridge, Russian Bridge, Vladimir Vysotsky Monument, Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ (Orthodox Church), Roman Square, King Nikola's Castle from 19th century and Clock Tower (Sahat Kula) from 17th century. Then continue to Niksic. There are many places worth seeing in the center of Niksic: the Central Square of Liberty, the Royal Palace of King Nikola I Petrović Njegos containing the museum, the Church of St. Basil of Ostrog, who was built in the 19th century in Montenegrin heroes, who gave their lives for the freedom of the country. Near the center there is an old Turkish city wall and Hadji-Smajil's mosque.

Accomodation to hotel (Garni Atrium 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 2 : Niksic - Mostar (Unesco). (210 Km, 3 H 20 Min).

Location: Niksic

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Hotel Hana 3*, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


Departure to Niksic. In the west of Montenegro, at the field of Niksic, is the city of Niksic. Built in the 4th century BC castle ruins, form Illyrians, its original name was Onogost. Remains of this old city are today a cultural and historic monument. In the vicinity of Niksic, from the direction of Podgorica, high in the cliffs, is the greatest spiritual centre of Montenegro, the Monastery of Ostrog. Founded in the12th century by Metropolitan Vasilije, it was later proclaimed Saint and miracle worker.  In the city itself is the monumental Saborna Church, dedicated to Saint Vasilije and surrounded by a beautiful park. Niksic is flanked by three lakes: Krupac, Slano and Liverovici Lake. During the summer months these lakes are the main places for day trippers and holiday makers. Niksic is also well known for its production of the famous Niksicko beer.

Cross the border to Bosnia-Herzegovina and travel to Mostar, where we explore on a walking tour through the old town. Mostar is situated on the River Neretva and the center of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Federation. Old Bridge, which is the oldest single arch stone bridge, was built in the 16th century and it was one of the biggest monuments of Ottoman Architecture in the Balkans. In the 90's the bridge was hit and destroyed. And in 2004, the reconstruction of the Old Bridge was finished and there was a grand opening which was held in Mostar. Nowadays, all people who come to the Balkans never leave the Balkans without visiting Mostar, especially Old Bridge. At the Old Bazaar of Mostar, souvenirs and a lot of different symbols about Mostar can be found, and enjoying your drink while watching Old Bridge and the lovely flowing Neretva River are extremely recommended.

Overnight in Hotel Hana 3*, or similar.

Day 3 : Sarajevo. (129 Km, 2 H 10 Min)

Location: Sarajevo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Astra Hotel 3*, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, we will continue to Sarajevo. Proceed for tour to visit Vrelo Bosne – spring of river Bosnia, Tunnel Museum – the only means of going in and out during the siege of Sarajevo in last war - Walking tour of old town Bascarsija, Latin Bridge, place where the Austro Hungarian Archduke was assassinated, what triggered the 1st World War; Brusa Bezistan – covered market place; Gazi Husref Bey's Mosque- built in 1530 year during the Ottoman era – and Gazi Husref Bey Madras; Morica Han built in 1551 ; Vijecnica – town hall for the Austro-Hungarian era - Lunch break at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Astra Hotel 3*, or similar.

Day 4 : Travnik - Bihac. (303 Km, 3 H 50 Min)

Location: Travnik

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Rekic Hotel 3*, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


Then proceed to Travnik. Travniks’ fortress, tombstones and burial Macula are the legacy of the medieval period in Travnik. The fortress is very well preserved and it is located between two creeks, Hendek and Šumeće, access is provided from the north sida over a stone bridge. Worth visiting is the Museum Travnik, which contains a large number of photographs, a library, a collection of paintings, artifacts and ethnological very rich numismatic fund. As the Travnik was the birthplace of Nobel prize winner writer Ivo Andric (1892.-1975.), His house is now a memorial museum which is exposed to a constant setting - the birth room, Travnik Chronicle, library and art collection. Continue to Bihac. We will have a guided city tour of Bihać to uncover the secrets of untouch natural landscapes that are classified in the most preserved natural division of Europe.
Overnight in Rekic Hotel 3*, or similar.

Day 5 : Plitvicka Jezera (Unesco) - Zagreb (173 Km, 2 H 35 Min).

Location: Plitvička Jezera

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Emonec Hotel 3*, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, continue to Plitvicka. Plitviče Lakes National Park is a 295-sq.-km forest reserve in central Croatia. It's known for a chain of 16 terraced lakes, joined by waterfalls, that extend into a limestone canyon. Walkways and hiking trails wind around and across the water, and an electric boat links the 12 upper and 4 lower lakes. Plitvice lakes has been a national park since 1949 and in 1979 it was added to the UNESCO list of world natural heritage. Continue to Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. After the arrival walking tour, where you will see all the highlights of the city including the Green Horseshoe of Zagreb, the Cathedral, the historical Upper Town and the Museum of Broken Relationships.
Overnight in Emonec Hotel 3*, or similar.

Day 6 : Ljubljana.(138 Km, 1 H 50 Min)

Location: Ljubljana

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in Emonec Hotel 3*, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


 After breakfast, continue to Ljubljana. Slovenia’s capital. Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia is one of its top 3 attractions, and it is a perfect base to enjoy any day trips in Slovenia. Explore its medieval old town and the old Roman ruins, admire the river banks and bridges of the Ljubljanica river, and take the funicular up to Ljubljana castle for great views of the city and the Alps. Relax in Tivoli park and in the numerous restaurants and cafés where people of all ages meet. Marvel in the architectural beauties, marked by influences of neighbouring Italian and Viennese styles of the previous centuries.

Overnight in Emonec Hotel 3*, or similar.

Day 7 : Bled - Postojna Cave - Rijeka. (223 Km, 2 H 55 Min)

Location: Bled

Accommodation: Hotel

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

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, continue to Bled. Where you will have a tour of the majestic Bled Castle , which is located on a steep 139 m high cliff overlooking the lake and offers a heavenly view of Lake Bled, as well as the surrounding alpine mountaintops and valleys. Bled Castle, first mentioned in 1011, is one of the oldest Slovenian castles. You can admire the old wooden Gutenberg printing press and the castle’s smithy, while Bled Castle is also famous for being one of the most beautiful wedding venues in Europe. Then continue to Postojna cave, the largest and arguably the most beautiful cave of the classical Karst. Close by are the Skocjan Caves, which though less visited actually constitute a more spectacular site and indeed have been classed a UNESCO.
Then continue to Rijeka in Croatia. Rijeka where you will visit the fortress of Trsat, built on the turn of the 12th and 13th century. You will learn about the long and interesting history of the castle which oversees the entire city of Rijeka, the administrative and cultural center of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar county and the third largest city in Croatia by number of inhabitants.

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

Day 8 : Rijeka

Location: Rijeka

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in hotel Continental 3*, or similar.

Meals Included: Breakfast


Leisure day in Rijeka. Overnight in hotel Continental 3*, or similar.

Day 9 : Opatija - Zadar. (220 Km, 3 H 33 Min).

Location: Opatija

Accommodation: Hotel

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

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, we wiil continue to Opatija. Opatija is a beautiful Croatian city located on the Istrian Peninsula. Among its many attractions are the Villa Angiolina, Saint James's Church, the Juraj Sporer Arts Pavillion, and many picturesque parks.
Then we continue to Zadar via coastline road and by enjoying the fascinating Dalmatian Riviera scenery. After arrival in Zadar we will have a city tour. Walking along Zadar`s streets to show you the entire spectrum of monuments and hidden corners, taking you into the past more than 3000 years. By retelling the stories and legends you will feel the pulse of the town from the past and today's everyday living to enjoy this city considered one of “the Pearls of the Adriatic”.

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

Day 10 : Šibenik - Trogir (Unesco). (147 Km, 1 H 51 Min)

Location: Šibenik

Accommodation: Hotel

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

Meals Included: Breakfast


Then continue to Sibenik. Sibenik is a historical town located in the picturesque bay where the Krka River flows into the Adriatic Sea, in Central Dalmatia. We have a walking tour in Sibenik's narrow winding streets, stony houses, many staircases and the remains of the city walls give it a romantic Mediterranean atmosphere. St. Jacob's Cathedral is the most famous building in Sibenik. It was constructed over a period of a century, and is testimony to the determination, sacrifice and belief of the generations of inhabitants of Sibenik.

We will continue our journey through history towards Trogir, a small, well preserved town sandwiched between Croatia’s mainland and the island of Čiovo. It is hard to find another town on the Mediterranean as small as Trogir and as rich in respect of the cultural heritage. This fact was noticed by UNESCO back in 1997 when Trogir was included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. This small town is a mosaic of monuments that date from the ancient Greek period to the Middle Ages and further on to the present. Stroll through the streets of this charming little town; admire an undeniable masterpiece of the Cathedral of St. Lawrence and the famous Romanesque Portal of Radovan, 15th century’s palaces of noble families, the Town hall and 11th century’s Benedictine monastery.

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

Day 11 : Split (Unesco). (28 Km, 0 H 40 Min)

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Location: Split

Accommodation: Hotel

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

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast continue to Split. Split, a town on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, is known for its beaches and the fortresslike complex at its center, Diocletian's Palace, erected by the Roman emperor in the 4th century. Once home to thousands, its sprawling remains include more than 200 buildings. Within its white stone walls and under its courtyards are a cathedral and numerous shops, bars, cafes, hotels and houses. Split walking tour includes the Roman part of town (Diocletian palace) and the old part of town (City hall, promenade, Fishmarket..) The ruins of the Palace can be found throughout the city. The cathedral locally known as St. Duje church was built in the Middle Ages, reusing materials from the ancient mausoleum. Twelfth- and 13th-century Romanesque churches, medieval fortifications, 15th-century Gothic palaces and other palaces in Renaissance and Baroque style make up the rest of the protected area.

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

Day 12 : Makarska - Dubrovnik (Unesco). (230 Km, 2 H 55 Min)

Location: Makarska

Accommodation: Hotel

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

Meals Included: Breakfast


Then continue to Dubrovnik. The walking route takes you around the Old Town via Onofrio's Fountain and up Prijeko Street to the Old Port - the key to Dubrovnik's trading and maritime success. Along the way you will pay a visit to St. Saviour's, the grandiose Franciscan and Dominican church, and see wine-producing vines believed to be more than 100 years old.

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

Day 13 : Perast - Kotor (Unesco) (93 Km, 1 H 50 Min)

Location: Perast

Accommodation: Hotel

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

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast we will drive to Kotor via Perast. We visit the Old Town and show you the most important historical monuments and buildings in town: Square of Arms, Byzanti Palace, Beskuca Palace, Pima Palace, St Tryphon Cathedral, Maritime Museum, St Nicholas Church, Blessed Ozana Church as well as the North gate, and the biggest attraction the city ramparts thanks to which Kotor became a part of UNESCO World Heritage.

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

Day 14 : Budva (Unesco) - Ulcinj. (88 Km, 1 H 45 Min)

Location: Budva

Accommodation: Hotel

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

Meals Included: Breakfast


Then departure to Budva (UNESCO). We will visit the capital of Montenegro tourism to enjoy the amazing combination of the wonderful beaches with the history of the ancient, cultural and religious monuments. Visit in the Old City, Sveti Trojica Church, Stanjevici Monastery. Then continue to Ulqin. Ulcinj an Albanian majority ethnic enclave part of the "south coast" region of Montenegro and is a popular tourist destination. Although still undiscovered by many travelers from larger countries, repeat tourists and an increasing number of first time visitors make Ulcinj a hot spot for vacationers. Visit to the Castle of Ulcinj, its old town is a very well preserved castle-looking community that is left over from medieval times. The old town sits atop a mountain overlooking the shore and is a tourist attraction on its own. Visit to Museum of Local History in Ulcinj or simply the Museum of Ulcinj is a local museum located in Kalaja, part of Ulcinj, Montenegro. Through exhibits from the archaeological, ethnographic and artistic collection, in the Museum of Local History you can learn about life in Ulcinj from the 5th century BC to the Turkish period.
Accomodation in hotel  (Vila e Balshajve 3*, or similar) and overnight.

Day 15 : Lezhe - Tirane. (180 Km, 2 H 35 Min)

Location: Lezhë County

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Overnight in your hotel in Tirana.

Meals Included: Breakfast


After breakfast, we will depart for Albania,  where we will stop in Lezha. In the ancient period was called Lis (one of the most important Illyrian city states founded more than 1000 years BC, where according to a latest thesis it could possible be the famous Troyan city of Ilion (as everything is in synchrony with the Iliad poem description of battle field and participants)). Visit to the Mausoleum of Skanderbeg (Albanian National Hero). 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 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.
Guide: Professional English, speaking tour guide/leader, etc.

What's Not Included

Admission/entry Fee
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”

Please Note

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Infants must not sit on laps

Know Before You Go

  • Public Transportation Nearby
  • Infant 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 double occupancy basis in good locations of the respective cities or places visited.

  • 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 breakfast included in the tour package?

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

  • Will there be a tour guide during the trip?

    Yes, an English-speaking tour leader or manager will accompany the group during the tour.

  • Are entry fees included in the tour price?

    Entry fees are not included in the tour price and are subject to change without prior notice.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package. It is recommended to arrange your own travel insurance.

  • Are there any additional charges not included in the tour price?

    Yes, additional charges not included in the tour price are travel insurance, visa fees, charges for additional itinerary items not listed, a mandatory service fee for the tour guide/bus driver, audio guide equipment, excess baggage charges, personal expenses, and local guides at an extra charge.

  • 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 or cancel the trip. The trip can also be operated on a private tour basis, subject to a different 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
$4070

Thursday - Thursday

May 01, 2025 - May 15, 2025
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Thursday - Thursday

Jun 05, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025
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Thursday - Thursday

Jul 03, 2025 - Jul 17, 2025
$4070

Thursday - Thursday

Aug 07, 2025 - Aug 21, 2025
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Thursday - Thursday

Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025
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Thursday - Thursday

Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$4070

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  • 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.

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