From Tirana/Durres: Gjirokastra UNESCO old town & Ardenica

Start your day with a scenic drive from Tirana to Gjirokastra, which takes around four hours, including a 30-minute rest stop. After driving for about one and a half hours, your first stop is at Ardenica Monastery. Here, you will visit the monastery and enjoy a coffee break and relax for about 30 minutes with a beautiful tophill view. Afterward, continue your journey to Gjirokastra. Once you arrive, your guide will introduce you to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and beautiful Ottoman architecture. Take a walk through the old bazaar, where you can explore, take photos, and shop for unique souvenirs while enjoying the lively atmosphere and traditional crafts. Next, visit Gjirokaster Castle, one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Albania. The castle sits on a hilltop and offers fantastic views of the city. During your one-hour visit, you’ll learn about its fascinating history and explore the old walls and towers. After the castle visit, enjoy free time for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try delicious Albanian dishes and relax before continuing the tour. After lunch, take some time to explore on your own, visit the old bazaar again, or walk along the narrow, stone streets of the city. Before leaving Gjirokastra, you will visit Skenduli House (optional), a well-preserved Ottoman-era house built in the 1700s that shows how people lived centuries ago. End your day with a relaxing drive back to Tirana, thinking back on the wonderful sights and experiences from the day. This tour offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation, giving you a memorable experience of Albania's unique charm