4 activities in Durres, Albania

Kruja is a small town perched high on the face of a hill considered “the Adriatic Sea’s Balcony”, because of its altitude above mean sea level (approximately 1000 m).

Kruja was the centre of 15th-century Albanian resistance to the Ottomans under the leadership of national hero Gjerg Kastrioti “Skanderbeg”.

Visit the unique Skanderbeg Museum inside the restored castle and the Ethnographical Museum. The street leading up to the castle is built in the style of a Turkish bazaar; we can stroll along the old bazaar which has a wonderful selection of authentic antiques and souvenirs.

Berat is one of the oldest inhabited regions of Albania, more than 2400 years old, and with special status from UNESCO. It is a beautiful museum town, and it is Albania's second museum town, sometimes called "the city of a thousand windows" due to its particular architectural style with houses with lots of windows almost on top of each other.

Visit the castle, Onufri Museum, and several churches and mosques. Onufri was an Albanian master painter of the 16th. Many of his wonderfully painted icons still remain in the museum while others can be found in churches in Albania and Greece where he worked. Downtown we visit the Leaden Mosque, the King's Mosque, the Bachelor's Mosque and the Alveti Tekke, and the old Bridge of Gorica.

Since 2005, Gjirokaster has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of Albania. A visit to Gjirokaster begins with a comprehensive city tour that offers an overview of the city's unique character and landmarks.

One of the most significant landmarks in Gjirokaster is its Castle, which offers visitors an opportunity to explore the city's turbulent past and marvel at its impressive architecture. Additionally, the Weapons Museum and Ethnographic Museum provide an immersive experience into Albania's history, showcasing the region's traditional customs and weaponry.

After the guided tours, you can enjoy some leisure time to explore the rocky roads of this magnificent city in Europe. This presents a chance to encounter the local people, who are known for their warmth and hospitality.

Overall, a visit to Gjirokaster is a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in the region's rich cultural heritage and experience the warm hospitality of its local people.

Vlora is located in the southwest of Albania.

In ancient times Vlora was also known in ancient Roman period times documents as Aulona. In the beginning, it was only a port and has always been famous for its olive groves and vineyards.

Vlora is the city where Albanian independence from Ottomans was proclaimed on November 28th, 1912. Visit city center, Monument of Independence, ancient city walls 3rd Century BC, 15th-century mosque, main boulevard Vlore-Skele, Kanina Castle and Zvernec Monastery IX Century.