Globaltravelbook, a licensed travel agency in Malta covered by the Insolvency Fund TRA/G/32.
Why visit Albania:
Discover a side of Europe still untouched by mass tourism, where majestic mountains meet crystal-clear rivers, and centuries of history blend seamlessly with warm Balkan hospitality.
This journey through Northern Albania reveals the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. From the lively streets of Tirana and the historic charm of Shkodër, to the untouched wilderness of Theth and Valbona Valley, every day brings a new adventure. You’ll hike to the stunning Grunasi Waterfall and the Blue Eye of Theth, cruise through the fjord-like beauty of Komani Lake, and swim in the turquoise waters of the Shala River, Albania’s hidden paradise.
Along the way, you’ll stay in welcoming guesthouses, dine on homemade mountain cuisine, and connect with local traditions that have been passed down for generations. The journey even crosses briefly into Kosovo, adding an extra cultural layer with a stop in the historic town of Prizren.
How to Proceed:
Arrival Airport
Tirana Airport
Departure Airport
Tirana Airport
Requirements
Upon arrival at Tirana International Airport, you will meet your guide and transfer to your accommodation in either Tirana or Shkodër, depending on your arrival time. If staying in Tirana, after check-in, you will embark on a guided city tour, visiting Skanderbeg Square, Et’hem Bey Mosque, Bunk’Art 2, and the lively Boulevard district before enjoying dinner at a traditional restaurant. If heading to Shkodër, after checking in, you will explore the city’s historic center, and, if time allows, hike up to Rozafa Castle for breathtaking views over Lake Shkodër before enjoying a local dinner and settling in for the night.
Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Oxygen Boutique Hotel (Tirana) or Promenade Hotel (Shkoder) or similar
After breakfast, you will begin your journey to the Albanian Alps, making a scenic stop at Qafë Thore Pass (1,700m altitude) for stunning views before arriving in Theth. Upon arrival, you will check into your guesthouse and have lunch before exploring the village, where you will visit the historic Theth Church and the legendary Lock-in Tower, which tells the story of Albania’s centuries-old Kanun law.
You will embark on a trek to Grunasi Waterfall, a magnificent 30-meter cascade with natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim. After returning to the guesthouse, you will enjoy a homemade dinner featuring traditional northern Albanian dishes and relax in the peaceful mountain setting.
Included: Breakfast & dinner
Accommodation: Alpet Hotel & Restaurant or similar
After a hearty breakfast made from fresh local products, you will drive 15 minutes to Nderlysa and begin a scenic one-hour hike to the Blue Eye of Theth, a breathtaking natural spring with ice-cold turquoise waters, ideal for swimming or simply enjoying the stunning surroundings. After the return hike, you will have lunch in the mountains at Buni i Bajraktarit before heading back to Shkodër. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and spend the evening strolling along the city’s lively promenade, with an optional visit to the lakeside village of Shirokë ( cycling).
Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Promenade Hotel or similar
An early departure at 06:30 AM with a take-away breakfast will take you to the Komani Lake terminal, where you will board a boat for a 1.5-hour journey through one of Albania’s most breathtaking landscapes, often compared to the Norwegian fjords. Upon arrival at Shala River, a remote paradise accessible only by boat, you will have free time to swim in its crystal-clear waters, hike along the riverbanks, or relax in nature. A traditional lunch will be served at a riverside guesthouse. In the evening, you will have the option to stay overnight at a guesthouse along the river, where you can enjoy a bonfire under the stars, or return by boat and stay at a villa overlooking Komani Lake, where you will have dinner and rest for the night.
Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: 5 Stinet Villas or similar
After breakfast, depending on your overnight location, you will either take an early return boat at 07:30 or enjoy a relaxed breakfast before boarding the 10:00 AM ferry for a 2.5-hour cruise through the dramatic Komani Lake canyons. Upon arrival in Fierza, you will drive toward Valbona Valley, one of Albania’s most spectacular alpine regions, where you will check into your guesthouse and have lunch surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. In the afternoon, you will explore the valley with an optional jeep tour, stopping at sites such as Valbona Waterfall (if it has water), the Old Mill on the Valbona River, and the glacial lake Liqeni i Xhemes. After an adventurous day, you will return to your guesthouse for a delicious homemade dinner and enjoy a quiet evening in the fresh mountain air.
Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Breezy Hotel or similar
After breakfast, you will depart from Valbona and travel toward Tirana, passing through Kosovo, with a stop in the charming town of Prizren. Here, you will visit the Prizren Fortress for breathtaking panoramic views, explore the Ottoman-era Old Stone Bridge and Sinan Pasha Mosque, and stroll through the bustling bazaar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and taste local specialties. After enjoying a traditional lunch at a well-known restaurant in Prizren, you will continue your journey toward Tirana, making scenic stops along the way. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have the option to attend a special traditional Albanian dinner show featuring live folk music and dance to celebrate your final night in Albania.
Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Oxygen Boutique Hotel or similar
On your last day, after breakfast at the hotel, you will have some free time to explore Tirana at your own pace, with optional visits to Bunk’Art 1, a ride on the Dajti Express Cable Car for one last breathtaking view.. Your guide will then transfer you to the airport, ensuring you arrive three hours before departure, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure through Albania’s northern wonders.
This itinerary is available from the third week of April to the end of October, when weather conditions are ideal for hiking, river activities, and lake cruises.
Moderate fitness is recommended. The trip includes short to medium hikes (e.g., Grunasi Waterfall and Blue Eye of Theth) and some walking in towns and villages. Most activities can be tailored for comfort.
Accommodations range from 3–4 star hotels in cities to charming guesthouses in mountain villages, offering comfort and authentic local experiences.
Yes, all transfers, including airport pick-up/drop-off, intercity travel, and the Komani Lake ferry, are included. Local guides will accompany you throughout the journey.
Yes, older children and teenagers who enjoy hiking and nature will enjoy the adventure. Some activities may require supervision or adjustment for younger children.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Most EU, US, and UK citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Check with your local consulate before traveling.
Yes! Private or small-group versions can include optional hikes, extra cultural experiences, or adjustments for pace and comfort.
+356 79059949 | +356 99248945
explore@globaltravelbook.com
| Cookie | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| cookielawinfo-checbox-analytics | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". |
| cookielawinfo-checbox-functional | 11 months | The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". |
| cookielawinfo-checbox-others | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. |
| cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". |
| cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". |
| viewed_cookie_policy | 11 months | The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data. |
