Kosovo & Macedonia Adventure: Tirana to Pristina
Kosovo & Macedonia Adventure: Tirana to Pristina
$1499
Kosovo & Macedonia Adventure: Tirana to Pristina
8 Days Starting in Tirana, Albania and ending in Pristina, Kosovo
Visiting: Tirana, Ohrid, Bitola, Skopje, Prizren, Pristina
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26360
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Balkans with the "Kosovo & Macedonia Adventure: Tirana to Pristina" tour. This adventure begins in Tirana, Albania, and takes you through the stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of North Macedonia and Kosovo. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Ohrid on a scenic boat tour, and dive into the local flavors with a hands-on cooking demonstration. Explore the vibrant streets of Skopje, the charming pedestrian avenues of Bitola, and the historic Prizren Fortress at sunset. Discover the cultural highlights of Pristina, including the Gracanica Monastery and the iconic Newborn monument. Travel in comfort with private vehicles and enjoy stays in locally-run hotels, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience. This tour is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure, culture, and culinary delights in the Balkans.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tirana
Location: Tirana
Accommodation Name: Hotel Idea Tirana
Arrive at any time.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Tirana/Ohrid
Location: Tirana, Ohrid
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal View Ohrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the border into North Macedonia and travel to the beautiful city of Ohrid, referred to as the "Jerusalem of the Balkans" due to its 365 churches with one for each day of the year. Take some free time to find lunch in one of the bazaars and then take a short boat cruise to admire the city's highlights and the surrounding scenery. The rest of the day is free to continue exploring or to relax.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
ACTIVITY: Climb aboard for a short boat cruise of Lake Ohrid, the deepest and oldest lake in Europe, boasting an imposing medieval fortress and mountainous backdrop. This pristine lake straddles the border between North Macedonia and Eastern Albania, and acts as home to more than 200 different species.
Day 3: Ohrid
Location: Ohrid
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal View Ohrid
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Set off with your CEO this morning on an walking exploration of Ohrid. Discover the old town with it's iconic landmarks and historic architecture then wander through the local bazaar. Later, join a chef to learn about local delicious specialties that will serve as a light lunch lunch before visiting the Roman amphitheatre. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to continue exploring or to relax at the hotel before an optional dinner out in the evening.
While getting to know Ohrid, keep an eye out for the 900 year old tree located near Old Town - a true Ohrid landmark.
ACTIVITY: Embark on a walking tour of the city where you'll enjoy the stunning exterior of the San Perivlepta and San Sofia churches. Next, head inside the architecturally striking Monastery of Saint Clement Ohrid, believed to have been built when Saint Clement first arrived in the area at the request of Boris I of Bulgaria. Finish off with a short tour at the Roman Amphitheatre, the only Hellenistic-type theatre in the country, built in 200 BC.
ACTIVITY: Make a stop along the walking tour to meet with a local chef. Learn all about the regional culinary delicacies of the area and how to prepare them while enjoying small plates of delicious food as a light lunch before continuing on your way.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON There's plenty to see and do; today is your day to explore.
Day 4: Ohrid/Skopje
Location: Ohrid, Bitola, Skopje
Accommodation Name: Hotel Premium Skopje
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Wave goodbye to Ohrid this morning as you depart for Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. Stop in Bitola for a pleasant walk along the pedestrian street called Shirok Sokak before travelling onward to wine region. Sample the local flavours before ending in the capital. Later, set off on foot with your CEO to see some of the city's striking architecture followed by a walk up to the Castle of Kale to revel in the city views. The rest of the day is free to continue exploring or to relax.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Wander through Sirok Sokak, the pedestrian street of Shirok Sokak. Known as the fashion street, locals tend to dress up to enjoy a walk and a coffee while enjoying beautiful views of the city.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: The historically rich Stobi region is located close to the archaeological site, ancient Paenian. It was captured into the Kingdom of Macedon where it became the capital and remains a significant historic site. Archaeologists found early evidence of wine making in the form of in home grape presses, showcasing the lengthy past of this delicious art.
Learn the intricacies of wine making on a tour of the winery before sampling some wine and enjoying a light lunch.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Head out for an orientation walk passing Byzantine era buildings, Turkish baths, caravanserais and hamams, all reminders of the intricate Ottoman history. Witness the quirky electric street art and multiple imposing statutes dotted around the city. View the birthplace of Mother Theresa and stop in the hidden lower level of the iconic Gradski Trgovski Centar to see Skopje’s largest collection of street art.
Day 5: Skopje/Prizren
Location: Skopje
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prizreni Prizren
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed morning before driving across the border into Kosovo and to the city of Prizren. Set off with your CEO on an orientation walk through town along the Bistrica river, crossing the iconic old stone bridge and onto the cobble-stoned Shadervan square. The rest of the afternoon is free before re-grouping in the evening for a walk up to the town fortress for beautiful sunset views of the town, river and valley.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy an exploratory walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like some of the main sights in the area, supermarkets, and ATMs.
ACTIVITY: Dating back to 1100 BC, the Prizren Fortress was built by the Byzantines and expanded by Serbian kings throughout the 12th, 13th, and 14th centuries before Ottoman rulers took over until their expulsion in 1912. Walk up the steep incline to this historic site to enjoy the sunset and views of the town, river, and valley.
Day 6: Prizren
Location: Prizren
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prizreni Prizren
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day in Prinzen to explore the city, take a wine tasting excursion or to relax. Perhaps join your CEO for a morning visit to the filigree shops to browse the textiles and shops or head out on a leisurely hike along the Bistrica River to see the local shepherds.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY There's plenty of things to do; today is yours to explore.
Day 7: Prizren/Pristina
Location: Prizren
Accommodation Name: Hotel Begolli Pristina
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed morning in Prizren before journeying onward to Pristina, the bustling commerce hub and capital of Kosovo. Explore the city's highlights with your CEO on a walking exploration and get immersed in its rich history before taking the rest of the day free for individual exploration or to relax at a cafe. Head out in the evening for an optional final dinner out with the group.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Get to know Pristina on a walking tour through the highlights. Witness the 1389 battle of Kosovo memorial, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Gracanica Monastery, followed by the Newborn monument and the brass statue of Bill Clinton, commemorating his role in ending the war for independence.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Day 8: Pristina
Location: Pristina
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
What's Included
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Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group at the start of the tour.
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Regional Cooking Demonstration
Participate in a hands-on cooking demonstration and enjoy a light lunch in Ohrid.
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Boat Cruise on Lake Ohrid
Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ohrid.
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Walking Tour of Ohrid
Explore the city of Ohrid on a guided walking tour.
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Visit Bitola
Walk along the Sirok Sokak in Bitola.
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Winery Tasting
Experience a winery tour and tasting with a light lunch.
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Skopje Walking Tour
Discover Skopje on a guided walking tour.
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Prizren Orientation Walk
Get oriented with a walk through Prizren.
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Prizren Fortress Sunset Walk
Enjoy a sunset walk to Prizren Fortress.
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Pristina Walking Tour
Explore Pristina on a guided walking tour.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and tips are not included.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities not listed in the inclusions are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with private vehicles, enjoy scenic walks, and embark on a picturesque boat tour, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey across the stunning landscapes of Kosovo and Macedonia.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in locally-run hotels for 7 nights, offering a mix of traditional character and modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant and convenient experience throughout your journey.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
1. YOUR CEO
It is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places.
2. LUGGAGE
In Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. We use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses etc. and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times. We highly recommend travelling with a backpack or duffel bag over any wheeled luggage options.
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officer's (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. G Adventures understands the importance of breakfast to start your day, we strive to include a basic breakfast wherever possible. A typical breakfast may include toast, coffee and tea, however this may vary depending on the city. Should breakfast not be included, your CEO can suggest some local options.
Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. While trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients.
For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
About Accommodation
It is important to note that accommodation in Europe tend to be quite different to other areas of the world you may have travelled in. Buildings and rooms are generally old and may not have been renovated or maintained to the highest standard. Downtown hotels in Europe were not built to be hotels but rich owners houses, which have been changed into hotels. Therefore unusual room sizes are common as large rooms have been partitioned in the past, resulting in rather "thin" walls. Reception areas, rooms and bathrooms tend to be very small as they were often added into an existing room, and may have a hand nozzle rather than a conventional shower head.
On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations.
Note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your CEO to organize one for you with reception.
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels (max 15-20 mins.)
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses private vehicles for transportation, ensuring a comfortable journey. There are also scenic walks and a picturesque boat tour included in the itinerary.
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What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will stay in locally-run hotels for 7 nights, which offer a mix of traditional character and modern amenities. These accommodations are designed to provide a pleasant and convenient experience throughout your journey.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts and 2 lunches. Meals are generally not included when there is a choice of eating options, allowing for flexibility in dining choices.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as a welcome moment with your CEO, a regional cooking demonstration in Ohrid, a boat cruise on Lake Ohrid, walking tours in Ohrid, Skopje, and Pristina, a visit to Bitola, a winery tour and tasting, and a sunset walk to Prizren Fortress.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, you must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on this tour. Minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old must be at least 12 years old.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) during the tour?
The CEO accompanies the group trips to take the hassle out of your travels and help you have the best trip possible. They provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. They are not traditional guides but have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited.
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What should I consider when packing for this tour?
It is recommended to use a backpack for convenience, as space is limited on transportation. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage, so it should be compact and lightweight. Be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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