Following the political changes of the late twentieth century, the region underwent a transformation that created several countries sharing closely related cultural roots. Travelling here reveals a different, less-explored Europe, where recent history and cultural diversity coexist in what many consider Europe's least-known region.
Albania remained for decades quite isolated even from other socialist countries.
For this New Year's Eve we have two departures to Albania on 28 and 29 December: one designed for fans of trekking and another with a more cultural focus, exploring classical Albania and Macedonia. Below are the details of this second option, with an improved itinerary to make the most of each day and reduce time spent travelling.
We will welcome the New Year in one of the Balkans’ most beautiful places.
October transforms Europe. Forests begin to change colour, temperatures become more comfortable for walking, and many destinations regain their tranquillity after summer.
Three different ways to enjoy autumn travel in Europe.
Travelling to Albania in June: two ways to start summer by discovering the Balkans.
The Balkans hold some of the continent’s most spectacular landscapes, with a history and authenticity hard to find elsewhere. Departing on 23 June, we offer two trips to one of Europe’s least-known destinations. Albania.
Last places on small-group trips departing in June.
We still have places on many of our June trips. Some of our most popular trips, however, are fully booked or have only a few places left. If you have a few days off and want to discover a destination beyond the usual tourist routes, check that your chosen trip is still available.
With May just around the corner, we still have places on some of our trips. If you haven’t decided yet, here are three destinations with availability in May, from Southeast Asia to lesser-known Europe.
Last places for May trips in one of our small groups.
Spring 2026 is just around the corner, and most of our trips are fully booked. If you still have time to get away, we have a few places left for Albania on a special route combining culture, nature and adventure in the Balkans.
A route through Albania and North Macedonia, combining cultural visits with accessible walks.
The Republic of North Macedonia was, until recently, a little-known corner of Europe. It was only after the recent dispute with Greece over its name—from Macedonia to today’s North Macedonia—that some travellers began taking an interest in this intriguing country in eastern Europe.
Albania and North Macedonia are two of Europe’s least-known countries,
Albania is attracting more and more travellers. It offers an appealing combination of history, unspoilt nature and living culture. Its Mediterranean beaches, rugged mountains and villages of traditional houses appeal to many different types of traveller.
Each option has its own pace and focus. It depends on what you're looking for: culture, nature or an overview of the Balkans.
There are still places in Europe waiting for an opportunity to be discovered. And so it is with Albania; with a slightly smaller area than that of Catalonia or Galicia, the Republic of Albania remains one of Europe's least-known countries.
Since the end of a long dictatorship in 1991, Albania has begun opening up to the world, gradually revealing its hidden treasures. Today, we share images of a country with a distinctive, authentic character: unspoilt beaches with crystal-clear waters, mountains, historic cities and villages that preserve their traditions.
The route is challenging: demanding climbs, limestone formations that take your breath away in every sense, and terrain that tests your legs and spirit. But every step is worth it. Beyond the imposing landscapes are the people. In every village we pass through, a story, a smile and a lovingly prepared meal await. We sleep in family homes, sharing meals, customs and a warmth that money cannot buy.
Albania surprises anyone who delves into its culture, gets to know its people and discovers its untouched landscapes. Like Iran, it is one of those countries about which we have preconceived ideas, prompting travellers to reset their expectations and start from 0 when they get there.
The former Soviet Union was dissolved and the Berlin Wall fell, but Albania continued to resist reforms for years.
The mix of bunkers, fourth-hand Mercedes-Benz cars, codes of honour (the incomparable Kanun) and former communists we encounter leaves no one indifferent; Tirana could even be called modern (it is!), but What we like most about Albania are the scenes that remind us of our own past, not so many years ago. Mmm... those generous servings of aniseed spirits and liqueurs at the village bar.
Albania is moving towards full reopening as of next Monday, 1 June. The new rules that will enter into force will allow tourists to visit as the 14-day quarantine requirement is removed.
Albania opens borders as the country moves towards full reopening.
Albania will reopen day-care centres and kindergartens and will start its tourist season on June 1, said Tuesday (26/05) the minister of health. The local press in Albania issued new rules to be adopted this week.
On 25 May, the Prime Minister of Montenegro, Dusko Markovic, stated that there had been no new coronavirus cases in the country for 20 days. To underline the point, he removed his protective mask before the press conference.
Montenegro opens its borders to tourists from countries with low levels of coronavirus infection.
The Prime Minister of Montenegro said on Monday (25/05) that the borders open from 1 June for citizens of countries that meet the entry criteria of the Montenegrin health authorities: have at present up to 25 patients with covid-19 per 100,000 people.
Albania, a country that until the 1990s turned its back on Europe under the threat of an invasion that never came. Now it is moving swiftly towards the future. South of Tirana discover Albania’s monuments and history. Ancient villages of Ottoman origin, well preserved and declared World Heritage by the UNESCO . Citadels, archaeological sites and ancient historic centres delight history and architecture enthusiasts.
Would you like to discover Albania? We have departures in September and October, as well as a special 10-day New Year trip.