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Albania

Best of Albania & North Macedonia: National Parks & Local Life

Program No. 25458RJ
Experience the highlights of Albania and North Macedonia, including majestic national parks, historic cities and local life and traditions.
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Start
Small GroupHistoryNew
Length
14 days
Rating
New
Activity Level
Starts at
4,849
Special Offer
Flights start at
1,150
Itinerary
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. Read More.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
14 days
13 nights
What's Included
25 meals ( 12B, 4L, 9D )
4 expert-led lectures
14 expert-led field trips
2 hands-on experiences
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
12 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Orientation: 6:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will learn from a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips. Program-related travel and transfers will be via private bus unless noted otherwise. This program is not suitable for participants using wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or other mobility assistance devices. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/current conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles, approximately 2 to 3 hours with some periods of standing. There are also inclines without railings.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will start the day with an expert-led lecture offering an introduction to the geopolitical landscape of the Balkan region. This session will provide valuable historical and regional context for the sites and topics we will encounter throughout the program. Following the lecture, we will explore the historic city of Tirana, the dynamic capital of Albania. Once a small Ottoman settlement, Tirana has evolved into a bustling urban center that reflects the country’s complex history and cultural transformation. During the field trip, led by a local expert, we will visit key landmarks that highlight Tirana’s political and architectural legacy, including Skanderbeg Square, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the National History Museum, and the Pyramid of Tirana. As we move through the city, we’ll see how layers of Ottoman, Italian, communist, and contemporary influences have shaped Tirana’s identity.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Walking about 3 miles throughout the day, up to 3-4 hours total including periods of standing; uneven cobblestones and stone steps, particularly in the historic centers. The uphill walk to Krujë Castle involves a moderate incline. Getting on/off a bus; driving 81 miles throughout the day, approximately 3.5 hours riding time.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will embark on a scenic drive from Tirana to the coastal city of Durrës, a key port with a rich history dating back to Roman times. During the drive, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes of Albania’s coastline and countryside. Upon arrival in Durrës, we will enjoy an expert-led field trip, which will include the town’s highlights, starting with the impressive Roman Amphitheatre—one of the largest ancient amphitheaters in the Balkans. Dating back to the 2nd century CE, the amphitheater offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s importance during Roman rule. We will also visit other notable sites that reflect Durrës’s layered history, including the Byzantine Forum, the Venetian Tower, and others, each providing insight into the city’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, we will drive by bus from Durrës to the historic town of Krujë, perched on the slopes of Mount Krujë. This charming town is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and its significance in Albanian history. Our field trip, led by a local expert, will include visits to the Ethnographic Museum, which offers an intimate look at traditional Albanian life, and the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, whose resistance against the Ottoman Empire remains a powerful symbol of Albanian identity. To conclude the visit, we will stroll through the vibrant Krujë Bazaar, where we will have the opportunity to taste local specialties and experience the lively atmosphere of this traditional market.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Walking about 2-3 miles over the course of the day with long periods of standing; uneven terrain, stone paths, and grassy areas. These sites have little shade, so sun protection and hats are recommended in Summer. Getting on/off a bus; driving about 160 miles throughout the day, approximately 5.5 hours total riding time.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Following check-out, we will depart Tirana and travel south by bus toward Berat. Along the way, we will trace the legacy of the ancient Illyrians with visits to two of the most important archaeological sites in southern Albania—Apollonia and Byllis—each offering insight into how Illyrian culture evolved under Greek and Roman influence. Founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BCE, Apollonia became an important cultural and economic center during the Roman era. Set on a hill overlooking the Adriatic plain, the site offers striking views and a peaceful atmosphere. During our expert-led field trip, we will explore the archaeological park’s key features, including the elegant colonnaded boulevard, the Odeon, the Library ruins, and the 13th-century Byzantine monastery that now houses a small archaeological museum.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Following our visit to Apollonia, we will continue our journey inland to the ancient city of Byllis, overlooking the Vjosa River valley. Byllis was a major urban center in southern Illyria and later became a Roman colony, strategically located along key inland routes. During our expert-led field trip, we will explore the site’s well-preserved remains, including its Hellenistic theater, early Christian basilicas, and fortified walls. Inscriptions and urban layout suggest a complex civic life, with evidence of cultural blending across centuries. The peaceful and expansive setting makes Byllis a unique place to reflect on Albania’s ancient past. After the visit, we will proceed to Berat, where we will settle in for the evening.
Dinner:
In the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer tomorrow.
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles, with periods of standing during site visits. The walk through Berat Castle involves uphill walking on uneven cobblestone and stone pathways, some sections are steep and can be slippery in wet weather. Getting on/off a bus; driving about 140 miles, approximately 5-6 hours riding time.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Checking out of the hotel, we will begin our day by exploring the historic center of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its unique architectural blend and well-preserved Ottoman-era neighborhoods. Our expert-led field trip will focus on the hilltop Berat Castle, continuously inhabited since antiquity and offering panoramic views of the Osum River valley. Within the castle walls, we will visit several important sites, including the Onufri Museum, housed in the Church of the Dormition of St. Mary, which contains a rich collection of Orthodox icons and religious artifacts. As we walk through narrow cobblestone paths and stone dwellings, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of Berat’s layered history and cultural traditions.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Early afternoon, we will depart Berat by bus and begin our journey southward to Sarandë. The drive takes us through a varied landscape of mountains, valleys, and small rural towns, offering a window into Albania’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival in Sarandë, we will settle in for the evening.Early afternoon, we will depart Berat by bus and begin our journey southward to Sarandë. The drive takes us through a varied landscape of mountains, valleys, and small rural towns, offering a window into Albania’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival in Sarandë, we will settle in for the evening.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Walking about 2-2.5 miles, mostly on uneven stone and gravel paths, with periods of standing during site visits. In Gjirokastër’s Old Town, cobbled streets and some steep inclines. Antigonea Archaeological Park is open terrain with little to no shade; sun protection is recommended. Getting on/off a bus; driving 90 miles, approximately 3.5-4 hours total riding time.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will begin the day with an expert-led lecture to provide broader context for the sites and themes explored in southern Albania. Following the lecture, we will travel by bus to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its distinct stone architecture and hillside layout. Our field trip will include a walk with our expert through the Old Town, where we will observe the characteristic tower houses (kulla)—traditional Ottoman-era residences built for both domestic life and defense. We will also visit Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest in the Balkans, which offers insight into the town’s strategic role in regional history as well as views over the Drino Valley. Gjirokastër’s Old Town is recognized as a rare and exceptionally well-preserved example of Ottoman urban architecture. The town’s layout, with its steep, stone-paved alleys and multistory fortified homes, reflects the social and defensive needs of a highland community under Ottoman rule.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will participate in a traditional coffee-making workshop in Gjirokastër, during which we will learn about the cultural significance and preparation methods of Albanian coffee. This hands-on experience provides insight into local customs and social rituals associated with coffee drinking. Following the workshop, we will travel to Antigonea Archaeological Park, an ancient city founded in the 3rd century BCE by King Pyrrhus of Epirus. The site features ruins of fortifications, residential areas, and public buildings, offering a glimpse into the region’s Hellenistic past. Our expert-led field trip will explore the archaeological remains and discuss the historical importance of Antigonea in the wider context of southern Albania. Later in the afternoon, we will board the bus and drive back to Sarande.
Dinner:
On your own to explore local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles on uneven, natural terrain with some standing during the field trip. Butrint Archaeological Park features stone paths that can be uneven and may require careful footing. There is limited shade, so sun protection is advised. Getting on/off a bus; driving about 12 miles each way, over 1/2 hour riding time one-way.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
After breakfast, we will travel to Butrint Archaeological Park for an expert-led field trip. Butrint is one of Albania’s most significant archaeological sites, showcasing a continuous human presence from prehistoric times through the Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. We will explore well-preserved ruins including a Roman theater, city walls, Byzantine basilicas, and a Venetian castle. The site is located within Butrint National Park, a protected wetland area that includes lagoons, rivers, and dense Mediterranean vegetation. This unique natural environment enhances the archaeological experience and provides habitat for diverse wildlife. Butrint was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, recognized for its exceptional combination of cultural and natural significance.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Following the field trip at Butrint, we will drive back to Sarandë. The remainder of the afternoon will be free for independent exploration, relaxation, or personal activities in this coastal town.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving under 200 miles throughout the day, approximately 6-7 hours total riding time with multiple scenic stops and short walks during breaks. Please have your passport easily accessible, as today includes an international border crossing.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
After breakfast, we will depart Saranda and begin our journey inland toward Korce. Along the way, we will stop in the small town of Permet, nestled in the Vjosa River valley and surrounded by mountains. Known for its natural hot springs and traditional stone architecture, Permet offers a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse of life in southern Albania’s rural regions. We will have time for a break en route.
Lunch:
We will continue to Korce, arriving in time for lunch, which is on your own.
Afternoon:
We will embark on an expert-led field trip through the city, known as a center of Albanian culture and education. The visit will include a walk through the Old Bazaar, a restored Ottoman-era commercial quarter with cobbled streets and traditional craft shops. We will also see the Resurrection of Christ Cathedral—one of the largest in the country—and pass by sites that reflect Korce’s role in Albania’s modern intellectual history, including the first Albanian-language school, opened in 1887. The city’s urban layout and architectural style reveal both Ottoman and early 20th-century French influences. Following the visit, we will drive toward the North Macedonian border and continue to Ohrid, a town on the shores of Lake Ohrid known for its historical depth and natural setting, and check in at our next hotel.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 20 miles from our hotel in Ohrid to Galicica National Park, under 1 hour riding time. Walking 2-3 miles through the park’s natural landscape, with light to moderate hiking on uneven terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will begin the day with an expert-led lecture introducing the geology of the region, focusing on the formation of karst landscapes and the origins of the area’s two ancient tectonic lakes—Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. This geological background will help frame our understanding of the unique natural features observed later in the day. Following the lecture, we will take a short bus drive to Galicica National Park, located between the two lakes. The park is known for its dramatic limestone formations, alpine meadows, and panoramic views. During our field trip, we will take an expert-led walk along one of the park’s accessible trails, stopping at key viewpoints and areas of ecological and geological interest. Along the way, we may observe endemic plant species and learn about the park’s role in preserving biodiversity in the region. Weather permitting, we’ll have views stretching toward both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa from the higher elevations. The experience offers both educational context and an opportunity to enjoy the park’s quiet, natural setting. We will then return to the hotel.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Free time. Participants can choose to stroll along the shores of Lake Ohrid, take in the tranquil waters, or visit local cafes and shops. This is an ideal time to absorb the atmosphere of this historic town and enjoy the natural beauty at your own pace.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving 120 miles from Ohrid to Skopje, approximately 3.5-4 hours riding time. Walking at field trip sites.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will check out of our hotel and begin our journey by bus to Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. Before leaving the Lake Ohrid area, we will visit the peaceful and historic site of Sv. Naum Monastery, located on the southern shore of the lake with a local expert. This serene monastery, founded in the 10th century, is known for its beautiful frescoes and its tranquil setting by crystal-clear waters. Next, we will explore the nearby Samuel’s Fortress, an impressive medieval stronghold perched on a hill overlooking Ohrid. The fortress offers panoramic views of the city and lake and provides insight into the region’s strategic importance during the reign of Tsar Samuel in the late 10th and early 11th centuries. We will also visit Plaosnik Church, a significant archaeological and religious site, which was once part of a larger early Christian complex. The church’s recent restoration reveals layers of history, including Byzantine influences and important cultural heritage. Following these visits, we will continue our drive to Skopje.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
After completing our visits around Lake Ohrid, we will embark on a bus drive to Skopje, North Macedonia’s vibrant capital and largest city, known for its mix of Ottoman-era architecture and modern urban developments. Upon arrival, we will check in to our hotel and have some downtime before we gather for dinner.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Walking about 3-4 miles throughout the day with periods of standing during site visits. The terrain is mostly urban with paved streets, but some uneven surfaces and steps may be encountered, especially at Kale Fortress. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will begin the day with a lecture from a local expert exploring North Macedonian culture and identity, providing important context for the experiences ahead. This discussion will delve into the country’s rich history, diverse ethnic composition, and the ways in which culture shapes daily life and national pride. Next, we’ll head out on a walk through Skopje, the capital and largest city of North Macedonia, with a population of approximately 550,000. During the field trip led by our local expert, we will visit Kale Fortress, a prominent medieval stronghold that overlooks the city from a strategic hilltop. The fortress, with origins dating back to Byzantine and Ottoman periods, offers expansive panoramic views of Skopje and the surrounding landscape, highlighting the city’s historical role as a crossroads of civilizations. Exploring its walls and towers, we will gain a deeper understanding of the military and cultural significance that shaped the region over centuries. Our visit will also include the Mother Teresa Memorial House, a contemporary cultural site dedicated to the life and humanitarian achievements of Mother Teresa, one of Skopje’s most famous natives. The memorial offers insight into her enduring legacy with exhibits that celebrate her work and the values that she shared. Following the field trip, we will adjourn for the day and enjoy Skopje on our own.
Lunch:
On your own. Lunch will be enjoyed in the very center of town, offering an opportunity to immerse ourselves in Skopje’s everyday atmosphere.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 18 miles from Skopje to Lake Matka, over 1/2 hour riding time. Getting on/off a boat; riding approximately 1 hour through Matka Canyon.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will take the bus for a short drive to Lake Matka, located just outside the city and one of North Macedonia’s most striking natural landscapes. Upon arrival, we will explore Matka Canyon, a steep limestone gorge carved by the Treska River. Known for its dramatic cliffs, caves, and diverse flora, the area is both a natural and cultural landmark. With a local expert, we will enjoy a one-hour boat ride along the canyon, offering a unique perspective of its rugged terrain and access to features such as Vrelo Cave—one of the deepest underwater caves in the Balkans. This peaceful setting offers a reflective close to our journey through the region.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, we will return to Skopje. There will be time to relax, pack, and prepare for our farewell dinner.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. This final evening together will include a live performance of traditional Macedonian music, offering an opportunity to reflect on the journey and enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage in a cheerful setting. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to like our Facebook page or follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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