Top Tirana Day Trips: Your Guide to the Best Tours
So, you know, Tirana is, like, this city that’s really, really starting to buzz, actually. And it’s quickly becoming one of the must-see destinations in the Balkans. I mean, like, with its colorful buildings, a certain, you know, lively culture, plus all that history, I mean, you know, there’s tons to explore in the city. But, you know, sometimes a day trip is a good way to check out what’s beyond, alright? We are going to check out the five best full-day tours from Tirana. And that way you will be able to experience a bunch of, you know, cool things, from, like, ancient ruins to amazing natural landscapes.
Kruja and Mount Sarisalltik Day Tour
So, first on the list is, you know, a trip to Kruja and Mount Sarisalltik, actually. Kruja is this spot that is steeped in history. In a way, it was the home of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, alright? The tour typically starts with a visit to the Kruja Castle, which is, like, this awesome medieval fortress offering spectacular views of the area, actually. You might want to check out the Skanderbeg Museum inside the castle. Plus it will provide a better look at Albanian history, really. Next up, usually there’s a stroll through the Old Bazaar. It’s a place just loaded with little shops where, actually, you can grab handmade souvenirs, plus, you know, sample some of the local delicacies. After Kruja, you’ll probably go to Mount Sarisalltik. It’s like this spot for religious importance with a Bektashi shrine. Plus the mountain views? They can be beautiful, alright? Read our full review: Kruja & Mount Sarisalltik Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Viator)
Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
Berat, often referred to, like, as the City of a Thousand Windows, actually, is just that beautiful! I mean it is a UNESCO World Heritage site that just showcases Albania’s unique architectural style. This tour, it often starts with, you know, a walk through the old town’s cobblestone streets. A bit that just gives you a feeling, you know, of going back in time, right? The views from Berat Castle can be beautiful, really. Plus, it has churches and mosques that are still there within its walls! Oh, you can’t skip the Onufri Iconography Museum. It shows this collection of really, really amazing Byzantine art, alright? The local food? Absolutely worth tasting when, you know, you are here! Read our full review: Berat City Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (GetYourGuide)
Durrës and Apollonia: Ancient History Tour
So, like, this tour takes you, well, into Albania’s ancient past, right? I mean, like, it combines a visit to Durrës, the oldest city in Albania, plus Apollonia, you know, which is an important archaeological site. I mean Durrës features, for example, a super huge Roman amphitheater and a charming, sort of, you know, seaside promenade that will probably catch your eye! It is a really awesome spot for taking a relaxing stroll plus maybe even trying some local seafood. Apollonia can feature the remains of an ancient Greek city with monuments such as, you know, the Odeon plus the Temple of Artemis. It might be a place for any history lover because the setting itself is actually pretty peaceful, alright? Read our full review: Durrës & Apollonia Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Viator)
Lake Ohrid Day Trip
Oh, Lake Ohrid can be breathtaking! It is like, one of Europe’s deepest and oldest lakes. And, really, sharing it with North Macedonia just gives you, well, a certain chance to explore, you know, another country for a bit! The tour might include a boat trip on the lake, a peek at the Monastery of Saint Naum (it’s in North Macedonia!), plus some free time in the town of Ohrid. This town? Just so charming. It’s a place with cobblestone streets, churches, plus restaurants with a view that are all amazing, alright? It can be a longer day trip, very, very easily. Still it is so worth it to see such a spot, actually! Read our full review: Lake Ohrid Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (GetYourGuide)
Theth National Park Tour
If you love nature, that trip, it should probably appeal to you. It would definitely do the trick, anyway! Theth National Park just features some, like, amazing alpine scenery, alright? Plus, that’s a real, almost stunning part of the Albanian Alps, really! It takes a really early start plus a bit of driving. And I mean the views you see? They might reward you by being unbelievable, honestly. During this day tour you might explore spots such as, you know, the Grunas Waterfall, the Lock-in Tower, plus the Blue Eye (a lovely natural pool). Plus, you can have lunch with local families for a real experience, you know, into the area’s culture, actually! The roads to Theth? I mean they could be a bit rough. Yet a 4×4 vehicle? I mean it’s definitely something to get to experience the adventure of Theth, right? Read our full review: Theth National Park Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Viator)
- Kruja and Mount Sarisalltik: A blend of history plus great views from Kruja Castle plus religious importance at Mount Sarisalltik, alright?
- Berat: Like, you know, the City of a Thousand Windows. It has, like, unique architecture and cultural spots to explore, actually.
- Durrës and Apollonia: This combination of ancient history is really, you know, super educational, offering some unique views into Albania’s ancient past.
- Lake Ohrid: A great trip with boat rides on Europe’s deepest lakes. I mean, plus that visit to North Macedonia could be cool, right?
- Theth National Park: This natural experience through the Albanian Alps should probably stun you, if you are willing to hop on a bus!