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Ancient Crossroads: Albania, Greece + Macedonia

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Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Countries Visited

Albania , Greece , Macedonia

  1. Day 1
    Day 1 - Welcome to Tirana, Albania
    On arrival, you’ll be escorted to the Hotel Plaza. Meet your fellow travelers and Trip leader Alexander over cocktails and dinner. Meals D
  2. Day 2
    Day 2 - Excursion to Shkodra
    After breakfast, you’ll embark on a full-day excursion to Shkodra. This is one of Europe’s oldest cities, filled with historic landmarks and fascinating stories from centuries past. By special arrangement, your sightseeing begins at a workshop that produces many of the colorful and highly-detailed Carnevale masks that you will find in the shops of Venice; it’s a fascinating visit and a reminder of Shkodra’s historic ties to the famous Italian city on the opposite shores of the Adriatic.
     
    Continue to Rozafa Castle. Built on a rocky hilltop, the remains of this ancient stone castle are impressive and on a clear day, its strategic setting offers terrific views of the city and open countryside all the way north to the distant mountains and Serbian border. It’s a great place to enjoy a glass of the local brandy.
     
    Heading back to Tirana, you’ll stop in Lezhë, a charming town that traces its roots to the ancient days of Greece when it was known as Lissus. Here you’ll enjoy lunch at Mrizi i Zanave, famed for its finely prepared, organic farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy the scenic drive back to Tirana where you’ll have time to relax and refresh at General Tours hotel before this evening’s dinner.  Meals B+L+D
  3. Day 3
    Day 3 - Exploring Tirana + Krujë
    This morning, we’ll travel to historic Krujë. At a centuries-old Dervish monastery, the caretaker will share insight into the beliefs and traditions of ancient Sufism. At the Ethnographic Museum, set in a 200-year-old Ottoman house, we’ve arranged for a private meeting with the curator; enjoy coffee as you learn more about Albania’s history and people After lunch at a restaurant set within the ancient castle walls, you’ll enjoy some free time to explore the old bazaar where you can meet artisans and carpet weavers who belong to local guilds that have functioned since Ottoman times.
     
    Return to Tirana for a guided afternoon tour of the Albanian capital including the Blloku district. Enver Hoxha’s villa was located in this neighborhood and during his dictatorship, this area was the exclusive enclave of government officials and the Communist Party elite; other citizens would not have been able to even enter. Today Blloku, or the Block, has become one of Tirana’s most vibrant districts – home to some of the city’s most popular cafes, restaurants and boutiques. It’s the perfect place to gain an understanding of Albania’s Communist-era history and its effect on the country’s modern life and attitudes. This afternoon’s sightseeing also takes you to Skanderbeg Square, where you’ll find many of Tirana’s other notable landmarks including the 18th-century Et’hem Bey Mosque and the statue of Albania’s national hero for whom the Square is named. In the 15th century, Skanderbeg was a warrior and nobleman who defended his native land in battles against the Ottomans. Mingling with residents here in the lively square offers insight into local life and culture. This evening, you’ll dine at Era.  Meals B+L+D
  4. Day 4
    Day 4 - Durrës + Apollonia + Gjirokastra
    Just 21 miles west of the vibrant capital, Durrës is a historic Adriatic port – one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Focusing upon its wealth of ancient landmarks, General Tours guided tour this morning includes the ancient Byzantine Walls and the spectacular Roman Amphitheater. Built in the 2nd century to accommodate up to 20,000 spectators who came to witness Gladiator combats, this is one of the largest ancient Roman arenas in the Balkans. Surrounded by modern high rise buildings in the heart of town and only partially excavated, it is nonetheless an impressive site! We’ll also visit the ancient Roman Baths and the Venetian Tower, a 15th-century addition to the much older Byzantine Fortress that was one of the most powerful defensive buildings along the western Adriatic.
     
    After lunch, we’ll visit the Ardenica Monastery, situated on a remote hilltop surrounded by a vast sweep of Albanian countryside. Originally founded by a 13th-century Byzantine Emperor, this revered landmark is home to splendid interior frescoes. But it’s also a living religious community and special arrangements have been made for us to meet with one of the resident monks. This experience promises a chance to learn about religious life in Albania since the fall of Communism.
     
    We’ll continue to Apollonia for a tour of its remarkably preserved ruins. Set in a region of gently rolling terrain and forest, this picturesque archaeological site was once home to an estimated 70,000 people who lived inside its ancient city walls. Among its impressive landmarks are the remarkable 2,000-year-old Odeon and the Monastery. Guided by one of the site’s archaeological directors, General Tours afternoon visit promises a rich look into the ancient world. Late in the day, we’ll continue to Gjirokastra and check in to the Hotel Praga. You’ll have time to refresh before General Tours dine this evening at Arra.  Meals B+L+D
  5. Day 5
    Day 5 - Discover Gjirokastra
    Also recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, Gjirokastra is a splendid town perched along the slopes of the Drino Valley. Clustered around the ancient 13th-century citadel is an outstanding collection of homes typical of the Balkans… Turreted homes reflect the city’s 17th-century Ottoman heritage while other buildings show the architectural and cultural influences of later eras, especially the early 19th century. With General Tours expert guide, you’ll explore along Gjirokastra’s steep cobblestone streets, learning about the region’s history and culture as General Tours visit notable landmarks including two museums set inside the fortress walls. Then spend time with the matriarch of a Balkan family for deeper insight into the city’s enduring traditions – as well as what life was like during Albania’s Communist era.
     
    In the afternoon, a literature professor from the local University will share some readings from the works of Ismail Kadare, the Nobel-nominated author who used this historic town as the setting for many of his stories. Continuing your tour of Gjirokastra, General Tours specialist guide will bring Kadare’s literary works and characters to life as he ties various local sites to the passages you’ve just enjoyed. It’s a fascinating and entertaining way to learn more about the town and one of the country’s most beloved authors. This evening, you’ll enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine and a performance by Iso Polifonia, an internationally acclaimed polyphonic choir.  Meals B+L+D
  6. Day 6
    Day 6 - Onward to Ioannina + Kalambaka, Greece
    Departing Gjirokastra this morning, we’ll travel across the border into northern Greece to Ioannina. Founded by the Emperor Justinian along the shores of beautiful Lake Pamvotis, this historic castle town is now the vibrant capital of Epirus. General Tours city tour reveals a rich multicultural heritage with ancient Christian, Jewish and Islamic influences, from the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece to the impressive Aslan Pasha Mosque, built in 1618.
     
    After lunch at a charming lakeside restaurant, we’ll continue General Tours journey to the modern town of Kalambaka – the gateway to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring architectural assemblages. Here in a region of seemingly inaccessible sandstone peaks, medieval monks settled upon these towering pinnacles from the 11th century onwards. In the 1400’s, overcoming enormous logistical and engineering challenges, twenty four monasteries were built atop these “columns in the sky.” A century later, their remarkable frescoes heralded a key state in the development of post-Byzantine art.
     
    This afternoon, we’ll visit the Holy Monastery of Great Meteora, the largest and oldest of the monasteries. We’ll begin General Tours tour in the lovely courtyard – embellished with remarkable frescoes from the 16th century. Inside this 700-year-old monastery, you’ll also see the original sacristy and fascinating exhibits of ancient icons and centuries-old codices and manuscripts. As the sun dips towards the horizon, General Tours guide will lead you to a prime vantage point to take in the spectacular panorama of the sun as it sets over the Meteora hills. We’ll enjoy dinner and a tranquil overnight at the lovely Amalia Hotel.  Meals B+L+D
  7. Day 7
    Day 7 - Meteora Monasteries + Heraclea + Skopje
    Seemingly suspended in the air, only six of the original twenty four ancient monasteries remain. This morning, we’ll visit one of the most spectacular. Perched on a steep and magnificent rocky outcrop, the Holy Trinity Monastery is reached by a staircase that ascends from the foot of the sandstone pinnacle. The main cathedral of Holy Trinity was constructed in the 1400’s; its fabulous interior frescoes are the work of two monks who painted them in 1741. Also of great interest is a small circular rock-hewn church embellished with fine paintings from the late 1600’s.
     
    We’ll of course have a chance to take in the spectacular view from the Monastery before General Tours continue onward to Florina, a charming Greek town close to the Macedonian border. We’ll savor the rich bounty of the region at a local restaurant renowned for its fine farm-to-table cuisine before continuing across the border. At Heraclea Lyncestis, a local archaeologist leads General Tours exploration of this ancient city – founded by King Philip of Macedon in the 4th century BCE. Even long after King Philip’s reign, the town retained its wealth and importance due to its strategic location on an important route connecting Rome and Constantinople; among its impressive sites is an amphitheater built by Emperor Hadrian in the first century. Indeed, Heraclea Lyncestis continued to thrive through the Byzantine and Ottoman eras, and General Tours specially guided tour reveals an ancient city that endured in wealth and power across centuries and empires.
     
    Early this evening at the Tikves Winery, we’ll sample their fine vintages before sitting down to a congenial dinner with selected wine pairings. Tonight finds us at the Hotel Limak in Skopje.  Meals B+L+D
  8. Day 8
    Day 8 - From Skopje to Ohrid, Macedonia
    After breakfast, we’ll embark on a sightseeing tour here in Skopje, the inviting Macedonian capital. A construction boom over the past decade has graced the city with a new abundance of fountains, buildings, bridges and statues, but there are still plenty of centuries-old landmarks that attest to Skopje’s long and rich heritage - encompassing Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Notable among the landmarks we’ll see this morning is the imposing 5th-century fortress, dramatically situated on the city’s highest point overlooking the Vardar River. We’ll stand upon the monumental 600-year-old stone bridge that spans the river in the heart of town and visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa, dedicated to the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate who lived here from 1910 to 1928. We’ll also meet with a young city artist to hear their personal insight into the city’s rapid growth over the past decade and its emergence as one of Europe’s most unique capitals. Before lunch, you’ll have time to explore the cobblestone streets and browse the colorful markets of the sprawling Old Bazaar, which has existed here since Ottoman times.
     
    In the afternoon, General Tours depart for Ohrid where we’ll check in to the inviting Hotel Unique Resort & Spa, ideally situated on the lakefront promenade close to the landmarks of Old Town. You’ll have time to relax or explore along the promenade before General Tours enjoy the fine Macedonian and Continental cuisine of Belvedere, a charmingly decorated restaurant along the shores of Lake Ohrid.  Meals B+L+D
  9. Day 9
    Day 9 - Ancient Ohrid
    The captivating lakeside town of Ohrid is one of the oldest in all of Europe. The Cyrillic Alphabet was created here in the 9th century, a key development that allowed the missionary brothers Saints Cyril and Methodius, to continue their missionary work throughout the Slavic world. Indeed, for the next thousand years, Ohrid was regarded as the cultural heart of the Slavic world.
     
    Delving into these rarely-studied chapters of history and showcasing remarkable cultural treasures of the Byzantine, Renaissance and Slavic eras, General Tours full-day sightseeing begins with important city landmarks like the 11th-century Fortress ruins that overlook Lake Ohrid and the city’s rooftops. With 18 guard towers and long sections of its massive walls still intact, it’s easy to comprehend why this was considered to be one of the most impregnable strongholds in the Balkans. In the medieval church of St. Sophia, you’ll marvel at centuries-old frescoes widely hailed as among the finest examples of Byzantine art in the Balkans. As you explore the town with General Tours expert guide and stroll in the bustling Old Bazaar, you’ll also learn firsthand about the region’s rich artistic traditions – including fine silver filigree work, woodcarving, and famous Ohrid Pearls.
     
    We’ll end General Tours morning on a relaxing high note with a cruise on Lake Ohrid, the perfect way to take in the beauty of the city and its surrounding region – including the mountain slopes of Galicia National Park. For lunch, we’ll enjoy the traditional Balkan cuisine of Dalga, a charming restaurant situated on the lakefront in the heart of Old Town. After a bit of free time to relax or to stroll the evocative ancient streets of Ohrid at your own pace, we’ll depart on an excursion that takes us along the eastern shores of the lake into the beautiful landscapes of Galicica National Park. General Tours destination is the Monastery of Saint Naum, dramatically set on a rocky outcrop where the Black Drim River flows into Lake Ohrid. General Tours tour of the monastery reveals a wonderful Byzantine treasure, originally built more than 1,000 years ago – but renewed and enlarged over the centuries. Inside, its wonderful icons and frescoes date mostly from the 16th and 17th centuries. But earlier etchings from the Byzantine Greek era can also be seen. After dinner at a nearby restaurant, we’ll return to the Hotel Unique Resort & Spa in Ohrid.  Meals B+L+D
  10. Day 10
    Day 10 - Back to Tirana
    After breakfast, we’ll depart Ohrid and make General Tours way across the border back into Albania. In the quiet village of Labinot, we’ll stop to experience a slice of rural Albanian life. We’ll also visit small museum where residents have gathered and preserved relics of the Communist era. In Elbasan, we’ll sit down to lunch at a charming restaurant situated within the massive walls of the town’s historic 15th-century castle. After lunch, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the castle grounds including the King Mosque; built in 1482, this is the oldest active mosque in Albania. We’ll also visit St. Mary’s, an Eastern Orthodox church and monastery that also dates back to the 15th century.
     
    We’ll continue General Tours journey back to Tirana for another night at the deluxe Hotel Plaza. You’ll have time to relax and refresh before General Tours get together for General Tours Farewell Dinner.  Meals B+L+D
  11. Day 11
    Day 11 - Depart Tirana
    Transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Meals B

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Inclusions

Health and Safety Protocols for Alexander Roberts Tours

Alexander+Roberts Tours is committed to your well-being and safety while you travel.

  • All Alexander+Roberts staff will maintain appropriate physical distancing at all times.
  • All high-touch surfaces in coaches and private cars – like door handles, railings, armrests, and window controls – will be sanitized each morning and regularly throughout the day.
  • Alexander+Roberts expert guides and drivers will wear face masks whenever in proximity to guests.
  • Alexander+Roberts staff have been trained on Extra Care procedures – and how to respond to issues that may arise as you travel.
  • Complimentary face masks and hand sanitizer will be available in all vehicles while touring.
More Space + Extra Care While Touring
  • Larger luxury motorcoaches so each traveler will have two seats to themselves while touring.
  • Private airport transfers with a spacious luxury vehicle when you come and go for every tour.
  • Regular and frequent sanitizing of all high-touch vehicle surfaces.
  • Prearranged entry for all sightseeing minimizes standing in line with other travelers.
  • Whisper Headsets for groups of 5 or more allow for proper physical distancing while sightseeing, except for certain nature activities in remote areas like the Amazon.
More Space + Extra Care While Dining
  • Alexander+Roberts carefully selects restaurants to avoid crowded high-capacity venues; Alexander+Roberts emphasizes fine farm-to-table dining with attentive and efficient service – and the choice to dine al fresco whenever available.
  • No large-group dining; enjoy more spacious dining settings and smaller, well-spaced tables for included meals.
  • Restaurant staff will follow the guidance of local health authorities and WHO protocols which may include facial coverings.
Extra Care at Luxury Hotels
  • Alexander+Roberts hotels are always selected for their outstanding locations, evocative ambiance, impeccable service – and cleanliness.
  • Alexander+Roberts partners include the most respected luxury brands – like Belmond, Four Seasons, Park Hyatt, Kempinski and JW Marriott; they are now leading the industry with their sophisticated hygiene standards and protocols to ensure the well-being of all their guests.
  • Hotels will be continuously and rigorously vetted to ensure that they are following established WHO guidelines including social distancing and sanitizing procedures of guestrooms and public spaces.
  • Hotel breakfasts will usually feature à la carte service and group seating will be replaced by smaller, appropriately distanced tables.
And Always... Alexander+Roberts Distinctive Style

In a Small Group of Never More than 16 Guests or on a Privately Guided Tour for just your traveling party, their experienced guides have the flexibility to adjust your sightseeing based upon local conditions – to avoid times of heaviest traffic and crowding, for example. Alexander+Roberts can dine in smaller authentic restaurants, minimize the time waiting in lines, and leave a lighter footprint. You'll learn the history and stories behind the world's most iconic landmarks, immerse more deeply in the wonders of the natural world, and delight in genuine cultural engagement not possible in a larger group. It's travel without a crowd.

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Questions & Answers

Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

Each person is allowed one "check-in," and one "carry-on." Remember to take all valuables with you as "carry-on", because electronic equipment, cameras, laptops, jewelry, business documents and money are not covered by the airlines' liability, so always carry them aboard with you.

Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

Alexander Roberts Tours Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4
Accommodations
4
Itinerary
4.2
Professional Staff
4.4
Repeat with Operator
3.8
Value for Money
3.8

Ratings based off 105 reviews about Alexander Roberts Tours - currently showing 1 reviews with comments only

Our tour guide was the best! He was knowledgeable about the country, always early, courteous and made us feel welcome in his country. Our tour had a side trip that was incredible due to our guide's particular experiences, The pick of our guide for our trip was absolutely perfect. Thank you for making our trip so wonderful.

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