Itinerary

1. Day 1: Tirana - Elbasan - Lin - Pogradec

   8:00 AM - Depart from Tirana

   • Begin your adventure with an early morning departure from Tirana, heading toward the ancient city of Elbasan.

   09:00 AM - Stop in Elbasan (1 hour)

   • Stretch your legs and explore Elbasan Castle, a historical fortress that once protected the city during the Ottoman Empire. Walk through its ancient walls, visit the small shops within, and enjoy a coffee at a local café with traditional byrek (savory pie).

   11:00 AM - Continue to Lin

   • Back on the road, your next stop is the charming village of Lin, a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Ohrid. This peaceful village is home to one of Europe’s oldest civilizations, with remnants of ancient Illyrian settlements and the renowned Lin Mosaic, dating back to the 6th century.

   1:00 PM - Lunch in Lin

   • Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a lakeside restaurant. Try the koran, a native trout from Lake Ohrid, freshly grilled and served with local side dishes.

   2:30 PM - Explore Lin

   • After lunch, take an hour to wander through Lin’s cobbled streets, visit the Lin Peninsula, and marvel at the panoramic views of the lake. The combination of history and natural beauty will leave you in awe.

   3:30 PM - Head to Pogradec

   • A short, scenic drive along Lake Ohrid’s shore takes you to the vibrant town of Pogradec.

   4:00 PM - Explore Pogradec

   • Once in Pogradec, stroll along the lakeside promenade. Visit Dr. Trifon Toskos’ House, a museum dedicated to one of the town's notable figures, or simply enjoy a relaxing walk by the water, taking in the peaceful atmosphere. Pogradec’s natural beauty and fresh air will instantly rejuvenate you.

   7:00 PM - Dinner in Pogradec

   • Feast on local delicacies at a traditional restaurant. Don’t miss out on tave kosi (lamb baked with yogurt) or fërgesë (a flavorful dish of peppers, cheese, and tomatoes) while sipping on local wine from the region.

   9:00 PM - Overnight in Pogradec

   • Settle into your cozy accommodation in Pogradec, ready to rest and recharge for the next day’s adventures.

2. Day 2: Pogradec - Drilon - Tushemisht - Korçë

   8:00 AM - Breakfast in Pogradec

   • Start your day with a hearty Albanian breakfast at your hotel or guesthouse. Enjoy fresh bread, local honey, and traditional cheeses while the peaceful morning breeze from Lake Ohrid refreshes your spirit.

   9:30 AM - Drilon National Park

   • Head to Drilon Springs, a beautiful park located just outside of Pogradec. The lush greenery, tranquil streams, and charming swan-filled ponds create a perfect spot for a peaceful walk.

   11:00 AM - Visit Tushemisht Village

   • Next, explore the nearby village of Tushemisht. Known for its picturesque stone houses and waterfront beauty, Tushemisht is also famous for being the filming location of the beloved Albanian movie "Zonja nga qyteti". Enjoy a coffee by the water and soak in the village’s traditional charm.

   12:30 PM - Lunch in Tushemisht

   • Indulge in a lakeside lunch featuring more of the famous koran fish paired with fresh local vegetables and regional wines. The serenity of the lake and the surrounding landscape make for a perfect dining atmosphere.

   1:30 PM - Depart for Korçë

   • After a delightful lunch, make your way to the cultural heart of southeastern Albania – Korçë, a journey of around one hour and thirty minutes.

   3:00 PM - Arrive in Korçë

   • Korçë greets you with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Start your exploration with a visit to the National Museum of Medieval Art, where you’ll find an impressive collection of Byzantine icons and religious artifacts. Stroll through the Old Bazaar, full of lively cafés, artisan shops, and local crafts.

   7:00 PM - Dinner in Korçë

   • Enjoy dinner at a traditional tavernë in the heart of Korçë. Try lakror, a delicious pie filled with spinach or meat, or petulla, a fried dough treat that pairs perfectly with homemade jams. Korçë’s culinary scene is a delightful experience of rich flavors and local traditions.

   9:00 PM - Overnight in Korçë

   • Rest in one of Korçë’s charming boutique hotels or guesthouses, reflecting on the day’s rich cultural experiences.

3. Day 3: Korçë Exploration and Return to Tirana

   8:30 AM - Breakfast in Korçë

   • Wake up to a beautiful Korçë morning and enjoy a traditional Albanian breakfast with fresh produce from the region.

   10:00 AM - Explore Korçë

   • Spend your morning wandering through the Korçë Cathedral (Resurrection of Christ Cathedral), one of the largest in Albania. Visit Mësonjëtorja, the first Albanian school, an important piece of the country’s history. Meander through the city’s wide boulevards, lined with French-style villas and vibrant street life.

   1:00 PM - Lunch in Korçë

   • Savor a leisurely lunch at one of the city’s traditional restaurants, enjoying local specialties like qofte (Albanian meatballs) or kulluri (a baked dish made of potatoes and cheese), topped off with a glass of raki or Korça’s famous beer.

   3:00 PM - Afternoon Stroll

   • Before departing, take a final stroll through Rinia Park or relax in one of Korçë’s cozy cafés, where you can sip on an espresso and soak in the town’s laid-back charm.

   5:00 PM - Departure for Tirana

   • Bid farewell to Korçë and begin your scenic drive back to Tirana, arriving by the evening with cherished memories of Albania’s hidden gems, its warm hospitality, and its rich cultural heritage.