Small Group Tour Albania, N. Macedonia & Greece from Tirana

Travelers seeking an authentic taste of the Balkans will find this 7-day small group tour an engaging way to explore Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece. Designed for those eager to see UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming towns, and scenic landscapes, this tour balances cultural insights with memorable scenery.

What we love about this experience is how it combines guided local expertise with comfortable, well-chosen accommodations. The inclusion of visits to UNESCO sites like Berat and Gjirokaster adds a layer of historical significance, while stops like Meteora promise stunning vistas that linger in your memory.

A potential consideration is the tight schedule, which means some days will be full with travel and visits. Travelers who prefer a very relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed, especially at longer travel stretches. However, for those who want to maximize their time and cover multiple highlights in a week, it’s a superb choice.

This tour best suits adventurous travelers keen on cultural discovery, scenic views, and small-group intimacy. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided trips that offer rich insights alongside authentic experiences without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• UNESCO Sites: The tour includes Berat, Gjirokaster, and Meteora—each offering unique historical and natural beauty.
• Authentic Experiences: Local guides introduce Albanian cuisine, coffee culture, and stories behind each landmark.
• Comfort & Convenience: Accommodation in 3-star hotels, private transport, and all entry tickets are included, simplifying logistics.
• Cultural Highlights: From the UNESCO town of Ohrid to the monasteries of Meteora, every stop offers a window into local traditions.
• Balanced Pace: The itinerary offers a good mix of sightseeing, culture, and scenic moments, though some days are full.
• Small Group: With small-group settings, you’ll enjoy a more personalized, engaging atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 7-Day Balkan Journey

This tour presents a well-rounded introduction to the Balkans, balancing history, culture, and scenery. It’s structured to maximize your experience, with each stop offering distinct charms and insights.

Day 1: Tirana – The Capital Welcome

Your adventure begins in Tirana, where a local guide will take you on a walk through Albania’s lively capital. You’ll get a taste of the city’s culinary treasures, such as Byrek (a savory pastry), and explore Tirana’s coffee culture, which runs deep in daily life. After a traditional Albanian lunch, you’ll visit BUNKART, a museum housed in a former bunker that offers a compelling look at Albania’s communist past.

Expect to spend your first night in a comfortable 3-star hotel. The guide’s local knowledge makes this a warm, informative start. We loved the insight into Tirana’s transformation from a closed city to a vibrant cultural hub.

Day 2: From Tirana to Ohrid via Struga

Leaving Tirana, the trip crosses into North Macedonia, with a quick stop in Struga. Here, you’ll enjoy a photo-worthy moment by the Drini River, one of the longest in the Western Balkans. The river’s source is a peaceful spot that sets the tone for the day’s scenic beauty.

Next, you’ll head to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its medieval churches, lakeside views, and a laid-back ambiance. We appreciated the way the guide brought Ohrid’s history alive—its cultural blend, and the lakeside setting make for a memorable stop. Spend your evening exploring the old town and its quaint streets.

Day 3: St. Naum Monastery and Albanian Countryside

The highlight of this day is a visit to St. Naum Monastery, located at the source of the Crni Drim River. The monastery’s peaceful setting and its connection to Saint Naum—who is credited with spreading Christianity—offer a spiritual and scenic experience.

Afterward, crossing the border back into Albania, you’ll stop in Tushemisht, a quiet village with beautiful views of Lake Ohrid. Later, you’ll arrive in Berat, often called the “Town of 1001 Windows.” Its medieval architecture and narrow stone streets make it a photographer’s paradise. We loved the way walking through Berat felt like stepping into a fairy tale, with old stone houses and spectacular vistas.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Gjirokaster – The Stone City

In the morning, you’ll visit Gjirokaster, another UNESCO site. Its stone houses and Ottoman-era architecture stand out as a testament to the town’s historic importance. The Gjirokaster Castle offers sweeping views over the town and surrounding mountains.

The guide emphasizes the town’s significance in Albanian history, with stories that bring the old stones to life. The cobblestone streets and the well-preserved bazaar make this a favorite for lovers of history and authentic architecture.

Day 5: Gjirokaster to Ioannina and Meteora

Driving north, you’ll cross into Greece, stopping in Ioannina, a city with a rich past and lively lakefront. Here, the guide’s storytelling makes ancient sites and local legends more vivid.

Next, you’ll visit Meteora, renowned for its rock formations topped with monasteries. We found the sunset views here truly breathtaking—the way the light hits the monasteries as the day ends is unforgettable. Staying overnight in Kalabaka, you’ll have time to soak in the dramatic landscape.

Day 6: Exploring Meteora & Transfer to Athens or Corfu

The morning offers a chance to explore more of Meteora’s monasteries or take a walk among the towering rocks. Afterward, your guide will escort you to Igoumenitsa Port or Athens, depending on your plans. The included ferry tickets to Corfu make it easy to extend your journey or explore Greece’s Ionian islands.

Day 7: Departure or Continuing Your Journey

Your Balkan adventure concludes with a transfer to your hotel in Athens or at Igoumenitsa Port. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece’s cultural tapestry and spectacular landscapes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable guides are often praised for their ability to bring each destination to life with stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks. The small-group setting, typically limited in size, fosters a more personal experience, making it easier to ask questions and connect with fellow travelers.

The inclusion of UNESCO sites like Berat, Gjirokaster, and Meteora ensures you see some of the most significant cultural landmarks of the region. Meanwhile, the scenic drives, especially through the Albanian mountains and Greek landscapes, provide picture-perfect moments.

Accommodation and transport are well organized, with comfortable 3-star hotels and private vehicles that handle the logistics smoothly, leaving you free to focus on the sights and sounds.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $2,112 per person, this might seem like a considerable expense, but it includes many essentials: accommodation, breakfast, all entry tickets, private transport, and ferry tickets. For travelers who prefer hassle-free planning with expert guidance, this delivers excellent value.

While lunches, dinners, and drinks are extra, the focus is on providing a comprehensive cultural experience that covers the highlights without the stress of managing logistics. The tour also offers flexible payment options and cancellation policies, making it accessible for spontaneous travelers.

Authenticity and Cultural Immersion

This isn’t just about ticking boxes. You’ll get a genuine taste of local customs, from Albanian coffee to Greek mountain monasteries. The tour’s emphasis on local guides and authentic experiences means you’re encouraged to ask questions and deepen your understanding of each place.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This journey suits adventurous travelers eager to see UNESCO sites, scenic landscapes, and authentic towns without the hassle of organizing each step. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and guided insights, especially if you want to learn the stories behind the monuments.

It’s a good fit for history buffs, culture lovers, and scenery seekers, but less so for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a very leisurely pace. If you’re curious about the Balkans and want a well-organized introduction that covers a lot of ground, this tour could be perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transport is provided throughout the trip, making the journey between towns smooth and comfortable.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, all overnights are in three-star hotels, and breakfast is included at each location.

Can I join if I don’t speak Greek or Albanian?
Absolutely. The tour is conducted in English, and guides are fluent, ensuring clear communication.

What sites are included in the entry tickets?
Entry tickets for all visited sites—such as UNESCO towns and Meteora monasteries—are included in the tour price.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule is quite full but designed to be well-paced with some free time. You can check availability for specific start dates as it operates on a scheduled basis.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind when booking.

In The Sum Up
This small-group Balkan tour from Tirana offers a thoughtfully curated path through some of the region’s most iconic sites and scenic landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and a well-balanced itinerary, it’s an excellent choice for curious travelers wanting an authentic, hassle-free experience. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of Balkan culture, history, and natural beauty—plus plenty of memorable views.

While it’s a bit busy at times, the richness of sights, stories, and landscapes makes it a worthwhile journey. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a scenery lover, or simply eager to explore lesser-known corners, this tour delivers value and authentic experiences that will stay with you long after you leave.

You can check availability for your dates here: