The Hidden Gems of Balkan

About this tour

ACTIVITIES

Activities Included in the Tour:

1.Cultural Exploration:

1.  Guided tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites (Berat, Gjirokastër, Butrint).
2.  Visits to historic landmarks such as Apollonia Archaeological Park and Porto Palermo Fortress.
3.  Exploring traditional neighborhoods and Ottoman-era architecture.
4.  Museum visits, including the National Museum in Tirana and the Onufri Icon Museum in Berat.

2. Scenic Sightseeing:

1.  Panoramic drives along the Albanian Riviera, featuring breathtaking coastal views.
2.  Exploration of Llogara National Park, offering stunning mountain and sea vistas.
3.  Visit to the Blue Eye Spring, a unique natural water phenomenon.

3. City Tours:

1.  Walking tours of Tirana’s key districts, including Skanderbeg Square, Bllok, and local bazaars.
2.  Discovering the port city of Vlora, where Albania declared independence.

4. Culinary Experiences:

1.  Enjoying traditional Albanian meals throughout the tour.
2.  Tasting local specialties in various regions, including fresh seafood along the coast.

5. Historical Insights:

1.  Learning about Albania’s diverse influences from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilizations.
2.  Insights into Albania’s communist past through sites like Bunk’Art 2 in Tirana.

6. Relaxation and Leisure:

1.  Free time to explore local markets, enjoy seaside towns, or relax in charming cafes.
2.  Comfortable stays in 3*+ and 4* hotels with modern amenities.

7. Photography Opportunities:

1.  Capturing stunning landscapes, architectural marvels, and authentic cultural moments.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of cultural discovery, scenic beauty, and relaxation, making it an ideal experience for travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of Albania.

Good to know

Guaranteed departures starting from 4 participants, with a maximum of 20.

• On certain dates, this tour may be conducted in collaboration with other partners.
• The tour follows a moderate pace and is not recommended for people with mobility issues or walking difficulties.
• Accessible from the age of 8.
• Minors traveling alone or with someone without parental authority must carry a travel authorization.
• EU and Schengen area citizens must have a valid national ID card or passport, valid for at least 3 months after the return date.
• Foreign and dual-nationality travelers must comply with the regulations applicable to their nationality and should consult their consulate for more information.

Hotel Infrastructure in Albania:

• Although rapidly developing, Albanian hotels may not always meet Western standards. Some accommodations might be located outside city centers.

Tour Program Adjustments:

• The itinerary is planned based on current schedules but may be subject to changes due to factors beyond our control, such as flight schedules, market days, ferry schedules, and weather conditions. However, all planned services will be provided except in cases of force majeure.
• Some sites in Albania may temporarily close without prior notice. In such cases, the program will be adjusted with the best possible alternative.
• The order of the itinerary may be reversed, but all visits will be maintained.
• Distances and travel times are approximate and may vary depending on local conditions.

Traveler Contact Information:

• It is essential to provide valid mobile phone numbers and email addresses at the time of booking to receive updates or changes regarding the itinerary, schedule, or delays.

Cancellation Policy by the Traveler:
If you need to cancel your trip before departure, you must inform the travel agency and your insurer as soon as possible in writing (email, letter, etc.) with acknowledgment of receipt. The cancellation date will be considered the date of the written notification. Cancellation fees apply as follows:
a) More than 60 days before departure:

• The amount paid by the client can either:
• Be transferred to another trip within 12 months following the cancellation, or
• Be refunded with a 15% cancellation fee deducted from the total trip price.

b) Cancellation fees:

• 30 to 15 days before departure: 50% of the total trip cost.
• 14 to 8 days before departure: 70% of the total trip cost.
• 7 to 3 days before departure: 100% of the total trip cost.

c) No refunds will be granted if a traveler does not show up for departure or leaves the tour midway for any reason.

Tour Operator’s Right to Cancel or Close Sales:

• The operator reserves the right to cancel the tour date if the minimum number of 2 participants is not met. Once the maximum of 20 participants is reached, the tour will no longer be available for booking.
• For more information on minimum and maximum participants or cancellation policies, please contact your travel agency.

Luggage Transport:

• Luggage is transported by vehicle, and travelers should carry only their daily essentials in a small backpack.

On-site Budget:

• Credit card usage may sometimes be declined and may incur high fees. However, currency exchange offices are widely available.
• Plan a small budget for personal expenses, non-included meals, and drinks.
• ATMs providing euros can be found in major cities such as Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastër, Saranda, and Vlora. However, it is recommended to arrive with cash in euros.

Tipping (Guide and Driver):

• A recommended amount of €25-50 per participant for the guide and €20-40 for the driver.
• Tipping is not mandatory but is considered a standard courtesy reflecting satisfaction with the service provided.

Travel Insurance:

• Travel insurance is mandatory. In case of an incident, travelers must contact their insurer first.

Vaccination Requirements:

• No mandatory vaccinations are required for Albania.
• Malaria is completely absent.

Responsible Travel Guidelines:
Every traveler can contribute to responsible tourism by following these guidelines before, during, and after the trip:

• Choose travel operators committed to sustainable tourism.
• Learn a few words of the local language.
• Pack only essentials and buy locally made souvenirs.
• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Always ask permission before taking photos of people.
• Properly dispose of waste and conserve resources.
• Preserve the sites visited.
• Prefer donating to associations instead of giving to beggars.
• Fulfill your commitments.
• Report any serious or intolerable situations observed.
• Support local initiatives.
• Share your experiences.

Let me know if you need any further assistance!