Weekend Getaway Fom Tirana/Durres : Gjirokastër & Ksamil

From $580 • 2 days • Enjoy Travel and Tours • Albania, Gjirokastër, Sarandë • Meet on location or pickup • Free until 1 day before

View all (10)

Why we love it?

The Weekend Getaway from Tirana/Durres offers a two-day exploration of Albania's rich cultural and natural heritage, focusing on Gjirokastër and the stunning beaches of Ksamil. Ideal for travelers seeking a blend of history and relaxation, this tour includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gjirokastër, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Participants can engage in a cooking class featuring local cuisine, followed by a traditional lunch. The itinerary also includes time at Butrint, an ancient archaeological site, and the picturesque Ionian coast, providing a distinctive combination of culinary experiences and scenic beauty. Accommodations are arranged in a comfortable three-star hotel in Sarandë or Ksamil, ensuring a restful stay.

Inclusions

Lunch
2-Days Professional Driver and Guide Fees
Transportation with a private Modern comfortable minivan or Car
Cooking Class and Traditional Lunch in Gjirokaster
Accommodation for one night 3 Stars Hotel in Sarande or Ksamil
Entrance fees in Gjirokastra castle . Skendulaj House and Butrinti archeological site

Exclusions

Hotel Cost of the second night in Tirana

Itinerary

Day 1 Gjirokastër: The Stone City & UNESCO Heritage and Cooking Clas

Morning – Departure from Tirana Early departure toward southern Albania Scenic drive through the mountains and valleys of the Drino River Late Morning – Explore UNESCO Gjirokastër Guided tour through: Gjirokastër Castle – panoramic views & rich military history Old Bazaar – cobblestone streets, artisan shops, local crafts Skenduli House or Zekate House – traditional Ottoman-era architecture Stories of life, culture, and folklore from local guides Traditional Lunch in Gjirokastër Enjoy an authentic Albanian meal featuring: Qifqi (rice balls – local specialty) Imam Bajalldi or Speca të mbushur Seasonal salads and local desserts

Afternoon – Hands-On Cooking Class

Join a local family or culinary studio for a guided cooking experience Prepare classic dishes like Byrek or Fërgese

Learn about traditions, ingredients, and local culinary techniques , Enjoy the dishes you prepare together with fresh bread and local raki

Evening – Transfer to the Riviera Drive to the Ionian coast (Sarandë)

Dinner by the sea with fresh seafood, salads, and local wine

Overnight stay near the beach

Day 2 Butrint & Kasmil Ionian Coast

Butrint National Park

Morning – Visit to Butrint National Park (UNESCO) Guided discovery of Albania’s most important archaeological site, including: The Theater The Lion Gate The Baptistery The Basilica Byzantine and Roman structures surrounded by pristine nature Midday – Traditional Village Lunch Near Butrint Enjoy a rich Albanian meal featuring: Tavë Kosi or Tavë Dheu House-made pickles Village bread, olives, and fresh herbs Dessert prepared with local ingredients Afternoon – Beach Time in Saranda Relax on the beautiful Ionian coast in Ksamil Time for swimming, sunbathing, photography, and coastal walks Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and peaceful seaside atmosphere Early Evening – Return to Tirana Scenic drive back to Tirana with short rest stops Arrival in the evening

Please Note

Not wheelchair accessible
Not stroller accessible
Not suitable for pets
Infant seats unavailable
Our driver and guide will pick you up from the place you are staying in Tirana or the airport