Classic Albania - Land Of The Eagle

Experience the rich religious and cultural heritage of one of Europe’s most overlooked destinations, Albania. From the country’s expansive history — showcased in its impressive Ottoman landmarks and remarkable archaeological sites — to its dramatic natural landscapes, there is no shortage of sights along the Adriatic coast, still largely untouched by mass tourism. As you explore Albania’s classical monuments, you’ll also discover a dynamic modern culture thriving in its cities. Colourful murals brighten communist-era buildings, while innovative galleries and art installations have emerged from Enver Hoxha’s former ‘mushroom’ bunkers, transforming relics of the past into symbols of creative renewal.

Discover a city of striking contrasts in the capital, Tirana, where medieval heritage stands alongside lively boulevards and contemporary cafés. The historic towns of Krujë and Shkodër offer insight into the legacy of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. Along the coast, Vlorë and Sarandë boast breathtaking Adriatic views and vibrant seaside promenades. Step back in time at the UNESCO-listed ruins of Butrint and Apollonia, where ancient Greek and Roman civilizations once flourished. Historic towns such as Gjirokastër and Berat — famously known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” — complete the journey, offering a captivating glimpse into enduring traditions and the vibrant multicultural heritage of this Adriatic gem.

 

 Date:

Friday 8th - Friday 15th October 2027

 

 Duration:  

8 Days/ 7 Nights

 

 Board Type:

Bed & Breakfast

 

 Prices:

Double/ Twin - £1379pp

Single - £1674 (only 3 avaliable)

 

 Deposit: 

£285pp non-refundable deposit upon booking and balance due 14 weeks prior to departure

 

Excursions Included:

• Tour of Tirana and Durrës

• Tour of Krujë

• Tour of Shkodër

• Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg Museum

• Vlorë

• Llogara National Park 

• Ali Pasha Castle

• Sarande

• Butrint

• Gjirokastër

• Tour of Berat

• Tour of Apollonia Archaelogical Park

 

 Coach Departs:

Cock Hotel - 1.30am

Sixfields - 1.45am

 

Should the holiday you require show no availability, please contact us:

 thefootstepsteam@outlook.com

 01604 717939

We may be able to obtain additional rooms upon request

Tirana International Hotel (nights 1-3)

Start your holiday with a stylish city break staying at the Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, perfectly located on Skanderbeg Square in the vibrant heart of Tirana. Fully renovated, this elegant hotel combines modern comfort with exceptional service and stunning city views. Relax in beautifully designed rooms, savour delicious cuisine at the panoramic La Pergola restaurant, or unwind in the lively café lounge, with excellent facilities including free Wi-Fi and 24-hour service.

Hotel Partner & Spa, Vlorë(night 4)

This modern 4-star hotel in Vlorë offers stylish, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, TV, and a desk for a comfortable stay. Enjoy a buffet breakfast at the on-site restaurant and make full use of excellent facilities including a swimming pool, spa, indoor pool, hot tub, steam room and fitness area. Ideally located just a 5-minute drive from Plazhi i Vjetër Beach and within walking distance of Temple of Kuz Baba, it’s the perfect base for exploring the beauty and culture of the area.

Hotel Vola, Sarandë (night 5)

Enjoy a relaxed stay at this family-run hotel in Sarandë, ideally located by a pebbly beach at the start of the road dezk Butrint. Open year-round, the hotel offers comfortable, simply styled rooms offering sea-views, air conditioning, TV, fridge and Wi-Fi. Guests can unwind by the outdoor pool, dine on local cuisine in the restaurant, or relax with a drink on the terrace bar overlooking the sea.

Hotel Kalemi Two, Gjirokastra (night 6)

Stay in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era house in the heart of Gjirokastër, close to its historic Old Bazaar and within easy reach of Berat. This charming boutique hotel offers  air-conditioned rooms, blending traditional stone and wood features with modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, dine in the on-site restaurant and relax with a drink at the bar. With a rooftop terrace boasting panoramic views of the city and castle, plus a peaceful garden setting and thoughtful services throughout, it provides an authentic and comfortable stay in one of Albania’s most historic destinations.

Hotel Plaza Berat (night 7)

Plaza Hotel Berat offers a luxurious and contemporary stay in the heart of downtown Berat. Designed with elegance and comfort in mind, the hotel features 36 stylish, individually decorated rooms with memory foam beds, Smart TVs, minibars, rainfall showers and balconies. Guests can enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast each morning, while key attractions such as the Lead Mosque and Ethnographic Museum are just a short walk away

 

 

Price Includes:

• Return flights from London Stansted with hold luggage

• 7 nights staying on a Bed & Breakfast Basis

• Escorted by Newmarket Holidays with a friendly and experienced Newmarket Tour Manager

• Tours of Tirana and Durrës                                          

• Tour of Vlorë, including a visit to the Monastery of Adrenica

• Drive along the Albanian Riviera with visits to Llogara National Park, Ali Pasha Castle and Sarandë

• Tour of UNESCO-listed Butrint and Gjirokastër

• Day trip to Berat and the Apollonia Archaeological Park with visit to the Onufri Museum

• Footsteps goody bag per room

• Footsteps Tour Manager onboard throughout

• Return coach travel from Northampton

 

Please Note: This is a very active tour with lots of walking on some days and with so many areas covered there will be a lot of coach travel. A lot of walking on steep ascents to Castle/monasteries and sometimes in high temperatures. Ensure hats, sensible shoes, water bottle and insect repellent packed (for national park.) Albanian facilities for less mobile passengers may be not as well provided as other countries in Europe eg usually only 1 lift in hotel and can take only 2 pax at a time.

 

Flight info:

Flights with Ryanair

London Stansted (STN) 7.10am - Tirana (TIA) 11.05am

Tirana (TIA) 19.45pm - London Stansted (STN) 21.50pm