Discover Authentic Albania (Exclusive Finesse Travel Tour) 8 Days Friday 15 May 2026 (8 Days) EARLY BOOKING OFFER £949pp (Save £150) IF YOU BOOK BY FRIDAY 8 AUGUST
Join us for a captivating 8-day journey through Albania, a land of untouched beauty, ancient history, and warm hospitality. Travelling in comfort , you'll explore majestic mountains, sparkling coastlines, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and hidden gems that few tourists have discovered.
We begin our adventure flying into Tirana International Airport, where we then travel to the charming hillside town of Krujë. Nestled beneath Mount Krujë, this historic town offers a captivating first taste of Albania. Explore its cobbled Ottoman bazaar, browse handmade crafts and antiques, and take in sweeping views from the impressive Krujë Castle, once the stronghold of national hero Skanderbeg.
On Day 2, we set off for the southern coast, travelling through breathtaking landscapes and the dramatic Llogara Pass, where we’ll stop for panoramic photo opportunities and a relaxing lunch in the fresh mountain air. By late afternoon, we arrive in Sarandë, your base for the next four nights at the beautifully located Demi Hotel.
🏨 The Demi Hotel, Sarandë
Perfectly positioned along the Ionian Sea promenade, the Demi Hotel offers contemporary comfort with stunning sea views. Enjoy spacious, stylish rooms, an inviting beach just steps away, and a relaxed restaurant where breakfast is served overlooking the water. It’s an ideal base for exploring the southern coast.
While based in Sarandë, our itinerary includes:
Butrint National Park – A UNESCO-listed ancient city with Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins, surrounded by lush wetlands.
The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) – A magical natural spring of vibrant turquoise water bubbling from deep underground.
Ksamil Beach – Often called the “Maldives of Europe,” enjoy white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Lekursi Castle at Sunset – Ride up to this hilltop castle for breathtaking views over Sarandë and the Ionian Sea as the sun sets.
Optional: Coastal Boat Trip – Discover secluded bays and dramatic cliffs on a relaxing boat tour (weather permitting and payable locally).
We then journey inland to Gjirokastër, a stone-built town clinging to the mountainside, known as the "City of Stone." Explore its dramatic hilltop fortress, Ottoman-era houses, and cobbled streets steeped in history. Along the way, enjoy a stop at the Vjosa River, one of Europe’s last wild rivers, and relax in nearby thermal springs, where naturally warm waters invite a tranquil soak in scenic surroundings.
Our last night is spent in Berat, another UNESCO-listed town. Stay at the Berat Castle Hotel, a unique property within the ancient castle walls. Wander the cobbled alleys, admire Byzantine churches, and take in panoramic views from this fairytale-like setting.
We return to Tirana Airport late afternoon with unforgettable memories of Albania’s rich culture, natural wonders, and warm-hearted people.
Includes
Cost: £1099 Single Supplement: £295.00 Deposit: £200 Balance Due: 3 March 2026
Summary of Itinerary
DAY 1 (Friday) Depart the UK late afternoon Upon arrival at Tirana, transfer to the Hotel in Kruje. DAY 2 (Saturday) Some free time in Kruje then travel south to Saranda Arrive at Sarande late afternoon Evening free DAY 3 (Sunday) Day at Leisure DAY 4 (Monday) Included visit to Butrint National Park for the morning (entrance included) Ksamil for the afternoon then onto Kekursi Castle for the sunset (entrance included) DAY 5 (Tuesday) Day at leisure or Optional Boat Trip along the coast DAY 6 (Wednesday)
After breakfast check-out of the hotel, call at the Blue Eye (entrance included) and then onto Girokaster for an overnight stay. We have included entrance to the castle at Girokaster. DAY 7 (Thursday) Morning Visit to thermal springs along the Vjosa River. We then travel to Berat where we stay our last night in the amazing Berat Castle DAY 8 (Friday) After breakfast we have some free time in the town of Berat before heading to the capital of Albania, Tirana. Free time before returning to the airport for the evening flight back to Manchester
Hotels 4* Dior Hotel, Kruje Hotel Dior in Kruja offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and city views. Each room includes a minibar, work desk, and free WiFi. Dining and Leisure: Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant and unwind at the bar. The terrace provides a relaxing outdoor space. Convenient Facilities: The hotel features a 24-hour front desk, room service, and free on-site private parking. Additional amenities include balconies and free toiletries. *******************************************
4* Berati Castle Hotel
Feel like a king in our castle
Berati Castle Hotel is set in Berat and features a restaurant and a bar. Each room comes with a flat-screen TV with cable channels.
At the hotel, every room has a desk. All guest rooms include a wardrobe.
A continental breakfast is served daily at the property. ******************************************************** 4* Demi Hotel in Saranda Welcome to Demi Hotel, a contemporary sanctuary nestled steps away from the serene Ionian Sea. It's the perfect spot for those seeking a mix of charm, tranquility, and convenient access to the vibrant scenes of beaches and port life. At Demi Hotel, each moment is crafted with the utmost care to enhance your experience. Whether you're indulging in a sunset cocktail at our rooftop bar, enjoying a leisurely stroll along the sandy beaches, or exploring the vibrant local culture at the nearby port, our hotel serves as your gateway to the best of coastal living.
Our rooms and suites boast panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, where the horizons stretch endlessly and the sunsets ignite the sky with a palette of colors. For those in search of relaxation, our state-of-the-art wellness facilities offer a tranquil retreat, while adventure seekers can take advantage of a myriad of water sports and outdoor activities right at our doorstep.
At Demi Restaurant, enjoy a business lunch, romantic candlelight dinner, or a relaxing drink in an elegant setting. Book a table and experience a culinary journey through the rich flavors of the region, unmatched in Saranda. Choose from a diverse menu featuring the best of Albanian, Italian, and Greek cuisines, whether dining under greenery or by the seaside.
Demi Lounge Bar is the pulsating heart of our hotel as the sun sets, transforming into a vibrant hotspot for great music, unforgettable summer parties, and appearances by special guests. By day, unwind to the soothing tunes from our resident DJ, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for soaking up the sun. The bar's warm colors, perfect furnishing, and ambient lighting set the stage for a day of leisure and evening festivities alike.
As night falls, the Demi Lounge Bar becomes the ideal venue for impressive cocktail parties, significant celebrations, or intimate romantic dinners. Whether you're looking to party the night away or enjoy a serene evening, our attentive staff is ready to craft your favorite drinks to perfection. Join us at Demi Lounge Bar, where fun meets relaxation in an exquisite setting designed to elevate every moment of your experience. 4* Kerculla Hotel, Girocaster (the best hotel in Girokaster) Kerculla Resort is located in top of Gjirokaster, 52 km from Sarande, 65 km from Butrint and 36 km from Blue Eye. Its position offers a spectacular mountain, city, and castle view. Free parking, fitness center and outdoor pool are available on site. Bar and restaurant are always welcoming guests to enjoy a drink and a diversity of traditional and modern plates meanwhile the picturesque landscape is served in front of them.
Manchester Flights Outward: TBC Return: TBC Stansted Flights:
Outward: TBC Return: TBC Luton Flights: Outward: TBC Return: TBC
Luggage: Large Cabin Bag (1 case 55x40x20cm ) on board £60 Hold Luggage (10kg) £65 Hold Luggage (20kg) £75 You also have 1 x small cabin bag included (40 x 25 x 20cms) which must fit under the seat infront of you These prices are return Door 2 Door Transfers These are currently only available from Sheffield, Rotherham and Chesterfield areas Manchester Airport £110pp Return
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