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

Oxford Hotel, Tirana (nights 1-3)

A boutique hotel set in the heart of the old town and within walking distance from the city’s main sights. There is a restaurant, a lounge café with a seating area, a cocktail bar with a terrace overlooking the city, and a wine cellar. Modern guestrooms feature air conditioning, safes, TVs, mini-bars, hairdryers, and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Vlora International, Vlore (night 4)

Located between Vlore’s main boulevard and its seaside promenade, this hotel sits at the centre of the coastal city. Guests have access to two restaurants, five different bars. an indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness centre, and a spa. Stylish guestrooms benefit from safes, mini-bars, TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Vola, Sarandë (night 5)

A relaxed hotel positioned just a short walk from Sarandë beachfront. The restaurant serves local dishes and there’s a terraced bar and an outdoor swimming pool. Guestrooms are simple and have TVs, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Gjirokastra, Gjirokastra (night 6)

Enclosed by mountains and with a villa-style design, this hotel is close to many of the city’s museums. There is an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant. Warm, old-world guestrooms have TVs, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Onufri, Berat (night 7)

This hotel is nestled between Berat’s mountain landscapes and the Osumi river. A restaurant serves Mediterranean-style cuisine, Cosy guestrooms have wooden floors and ceilings, and come with TVs, safes, mini-bars, and free Wi-Fi.

 

 

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