Pogradec

Tours

Why not visit an extra country during your holiday? Until not so long ago, it was impossible to visit Albania because of a strict communistic regime. It was even called the “North Korea” of Europe. However nowadays, the country is liberated, you will have the opportunity to see the differences between the neighbors, North Macedonia and Albania. So, hop on, and trace the visible remains of the dictatorship that ruled Albania. By bus or minivan, you will visit the village of Lin, to experience the true Albanian local way of living. At first you will have the opportunity for a small coffee break. Active yourself with a short walk in this ancient village and optional you will have the opportunity to walk until you explore the ancient roman basilica and the astonishing view around it. We highly recommend to do so! On the way to our next stop, you will visit the bunkers that were built by the communistic regime of Enver Hoxha. This beautiful spot is a perfect place for memorable pictures. Afterwards, the tour will continue to the city of Pogradec. From here on, you will visit the local marketplace, the town park, the boulevard and statues. While walking our guide will provide cultural explanation about the patriarchal and modern differences in the Albanian culture. Before heading back to Ohrid, you will have some free time for lunch and a photo stop will be made at the prehistorical Bay of Bones. Interesting note: While making a whole lap around the lake of Ohrid, be aware how the colors of the water changes while driving.

Meeting point: On this tour we pick up all the traveleres from their hotels in Tirana City/Durres City/ Golem & Qerret area. Tour starts at 08:00 AM *(You must be at the meeting point 10 min before departure)* Duration: Daily (8-9 hours, aprox. 358 km round trip) Return Detail: Return to original meeting point. Recognition of Driver/Guide by badge or flag with our company logo. Itinerary -08:00 Departure -Stop for coffee break -Arrival in Drilon -Visit the National Park of Drilon and free time to enjoy the nature -Lunch Break -Arrival in Pogradec City where the visit continues around the Lake -Departure to Lin Village -Free stay with the Guide Instructions -Return to Tirana -End of Service-

️ 1. Ancient Theatre of Ohrid We begin our tour with a visit to the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, built in 200 BC during the Hellenistic period. It is the only theatre of its kind in North Macedonia. Nestled between two hills, its location provides excellent acoustics and natural shelter from the wind—ideal for performances in ancient times. ⛪ 2. Church of St. John at Kaneo Perched dramatically above Kaneo Beach, the Church of St. John the Theologian is one of the most iconic sites in Ohrid. It is dedicated to John of Patmos, the author of Revelation, and believed by many to be the Apostle John himself. ▶️ Pass by Saint Sofia Church On the way back from Kaneo, we pass by the Church of Saint Sofia, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, known for its well-preserved frescoes dating back to the 11th century. ️ Optional Boat Ride (€10 per person) From Kaneo, guests have the option to take a short boat ride back to Ohrid City Center, offering a scenic perspective of the lakeshore and historic skyline. ️ 3. Ohrid Old Town & Bazaar We continue exploring the Old Town and the vibrant Bazaar, where cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and local artisan shops reflect the city's rich multicultural past. Ohrid was once known as Lyhnidas, meaning “shining gemstone” in Latin. ️ 4. Bay of Bones (10-minute photo stop) We make a short stop at the Bay of Bones, an open-air museum built over Lake Ohrid, recreating a prehistoric stilt village from the Bronze and Iron Ages—an excellent place for a photo and a quick walk around the platform. ⛪ 5. Monastery of Sveti Naum We then visit the impressive Monastery of Saint Naum, founded in the 9th century. The monastery holds the tomb of Saint Naum and is considered a sacred site by Orthodox Christians. From 1912 to 1925, this area was part of Albania before returning to Yugoslavia. 6. Drilon National Park (30-minute stop) Back on the Albanian side, we stop at the serene Drilon National Park, famous for its spring-fed ponds, swans, shaded walkways, and natural beauty. A great spot to relax and take photos. ️ 7. Tushemisht Village & Traditional Lunch Our final stop is Tushemisht, a peaceful lakeside village in Albania with a deep connection to the Orthodox tradition. Here, we enjoy a delicious lunch by Lake Ohrid, with the chance to try the rare and delicious Koran fish, a unique trout species found only in this lake.

Explore the city of Korca, located off the beaten track in southeastern Albania, close to the Greek border. With a very particular character and atmosphere, it feels very different to most other places in Albania. Discover the incredible museums, restored Old Bazaar, and gorgeous heritage architecture that puts Korca up there among the favorite cities in the region. Home to around 80,000 people, Korca has a history that dates back to the 13th century. Discover the city of Korca on a guided walking tour. Explore incredible museum of medioval icons, and a visit at the beautiful churches of Voskopoja and a visit to the lake of Ohrid, Pogradec city and the picturesque village of Lin. Within Albania, it is known for being a hub of culture and education – most famously for being home to the first ever Albanian language school. The city is defined by green spaces, beer gardens, and a large university campus. Also called in Albania as small Paris or the city of serenades The city’s 1930s Italian Rationalist architecture is also worth noting.

In the beautiful capital of Albania, Tirana city , Get Transfer Albania run a very well equipped vehicle rental centre. We can assist you with vehicle rentals with driver or without a dedicated driver. You can choose from a wide range of vehicles, scooters and motor cycles. We also have eight seater mini van that can be hired with or without a driver. We offer expert English speaking tour leader service for private tours. Our tour leader will organize and customize the tour for you like a concierge. He is also a professional driver who will escort you at the discovery of Albania. Visit our Tours with driving guide or driver corner for many tour ideas! Medieval city’s , archeological sites, local vineyards, farmhouses and restaurants where you can taste the very best of traditional Albanian wines and food. We invite you to stop by and see first hand just what we have to offer. You will not be disappointed

Exploring Lake Ohrid and Its Enchanting Surroundings An unforgettable journey to one of Europe's hidden gems—Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning beauty and rich history. Join us as we traverse the picturesque landscapes of Albania and North Macedonia, uncovering the secrets of this ancient region. Departure from Tirana/ Durres (surroundings included) Our adventure begins bright and early, where you'll be picked up from your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned, new vehicle. As we leave the bustling city behind, we'll trace the historic routes once traveled by the Romans on their way to Constantinople. Coffee Break After a scenic drive, we'll pause for a quick coffee break by the Shkumbin River. This 15-minute stop will be the perfect moment to stretch your legs and savor a warm beverage before continuing our journey. A Stroll in Pogradec Our next stop is the charming town of Pogradec, where we'll take a leisurely 20-30 minute walk. This quaint town offers a delightful taste of local life, with its beautiful lakeside promenade and friendly atmosphere. Boating and Lunch in Drilon From Pogradec, we'll head to the peaceful retreat of Drilon. Here, we'll board a boat and glide across the tranquil waters, surrounded by lush greenery. After our boat ride, we'll enjoy a delicious meal by the lake Ohrid, taking in the serene environment for 1.5 to 2 hours. Visiting Saint Naum Next, we'll cross into North Macedonia to visit the stunning Saint Naum Monastery. With 30-40 minutes to explore, you'll have time to admire the breathtaking views and learn about the rich history of this sacred site, founded in 905 by Saint Naum of Ohrid. Exploring Ohrid Our journey continues to the historic city of Ohrid, often referred to as the "Jerusalem of the Balkans" for its numerous churches. We'll explore the highlights of the city, including a scenic walk along the wooden bridge by the lake, a visit to the magnificent Saint Sophia Church, and other notable landmarks. You'll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and immerse yourself in the local culture. Discovering Struga After exploring Ohrid, we'll head to the nearby town of Struga. Here, we'll enjoy a pleasant walk by the river, capturing beautiful moments with our cameras and soaking in the tranquil ambiance of this lovely town. Return to Tirana As our day comes to an end, we'll make our way back to Tirana, filled with memories of the breathtaking landscapes and historic treasures we've discovered. You'll be dropped off at your hotel, concluding a day of exploration and adventure. Join us on this enchanting journey and experience the magic of Lake Ohrid and its surroundings, where every moment is a story waiting to be told.

Book a reliable and comfortable transfer or tour with a bus agency that specializes in transportation services. Choose from airport transfers, intercity trips, or guided tours to various destinations. Ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for passengers, offering both flexibility and convenience. Cater to individuals, groups, and corporate clients, ensuring they can explore new places or travel to specific locations with ease. Be dedicated to providing high-quality transportation solutions, focusing on both transfers and guided tours. For transfers, manage seamless, hassle-free connections to and from airports, hotels, events, and other key locations, ensuring punctuality and comfort for all passengers. For tours, offer customized, scenic trips to popular attractions, historical landmarks, or unique destinations, providing knowledgeable guides and a memorable experience. The tours are designed to be flexible, accommodating various group sizes, from small intimate groups to large corporate events. Focus on customer satisfaction, offering various amenities like Wi-Fi, refreshments, and air conditioning, as well as ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers during their travels. Whether for leisure, business, or special events, strive to create an enjoyable journey with professional, courteous drivers and top-tier service.

Experience the best of North Macedonia on this full-day tour from Durres, traveling through beautiful landscapes to the towns of Sveti Naum and Ohrid and Pogradec. Begin your adventure with a stop in Pogradec on the Albanian side of the Lake, a peaceful town. Enjoy a coffee break along the scenic lake views and explore its tranquil surroundings. Continue to Sveti Naum old town and than to Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its historical charm and lakeside beauty. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Ohrid’s old town, where you’ll discover ancient churches, traditional architecture, and lively markets. Visit the iconic Church of St. John at Kaneo, perched above the shores of Lake Ohrid, and marvel at its panoramic views. No visit is complete without exploring Lake Ohrid itself, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, celebrated for its clear waters and historical significance. This tour combines cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local cuisine, making it the perfect day trip to experience the richness of North Macedonia. Return to Durres in the evening with unforgettable memories of this journey.

1. Pogradec - A Lakeside Paradise Promenade Walk by Lake Ohrid: Start your journey with a scenic stroll along the shores of Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the tranquil waters, enjoy the fresh air, and capture stunning photos of the surrounding landscapes. 2. Korça - The City of Serenades Old Bazaar of Korça: Wander through the historic bazaar, where cobblestone streets and artisan shops create a charming atmosphere. Find unique souvenirs and savor local delicacies. Korça Promenade: Take a relaxing walk on the city's main boulevard, lined with cafes, greenery, and the famous serenades of Korça. 360° Korça View Tower: Ascend the panoramic tower for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Don't forget your camera! Mirahori Mosque: Visit one of Albania's oldest mosques, showcasing stunning Ottoman-era architecture. Resurrection Cathedral: Marvel at the grandeur of this iconic cathedral, a symbol of modern Korça with its impressive domes and detailed frescoes. 3. Dardha Village - Alpine Charm Explore the Village: Discover the authentic charm of Dardha, known for its stone houses, lush greenery, and fresh mountain air. Learn about its history and traditions while exploring the scenic surroundings. Pista Ski Bigëll (Optional): During winter, enjoy skiing or snowboarding at this well-maintained ski piste. Additional fees apply for ski equipment and lift passes.

The goal of this tour is to cycle around the lake of Ohrid, which is a distance of a whooping 94 km! Encountering a dozen different idyllic (fishing) villages, ancient historical remaining’s and pure nature. On the road many photo stops and breaks will be made, for example, in the National Park of Galicica, where you will have the chance to make astonishing pictures. Your adventure starts in the city of Ohrid at 09:00, where your e-bike and gear are waiting. Bike until you reach the border and arrive into the town of Pogradec, where you will take a break and enjoy a well-deserved lunch. From Pogradec cycle back to North-Macedonia, passing Memlisht, Udenisht and Lin. After passing the border again, you will go via Mali Vlaj, Frangovo and Struga to the starting point in Ohrid, where your transfer will bring you back.