Gjirokastra UNESCO & Ksamil Beach - From Tirana/Durres/Golem
Active
12h - 13h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the best of southern Albania in one day, from the UNESCO-listed old town of Gjirokastër to the turquoise beaches of Ksamil. A perfect mix of history, scenery & seaside time in one Day Tour.
Available options
Departure from Golem
Pickup included
Departure from Durres
Pickup included
Departure from Tirana
Pickup included
What's included
Pick up and drop-off from Durres or Golem (meeting points)
Air Conditioned transportation to the destination locations
Pick up and drop-off from Tirana
Road Taxes
English speaking tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Tirana or from a meeting point in Durrës or Golem. Sit back and relax as your professional tour guide takes care of everything, sharing interesting facts about Albania and the places you will visit along the way.
2
After a short coffee and restroom stop, we head to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Stone City.” Upon arrival, the guide will introduce the history of the city and walk with you to the old town. You will then enjoy your free time to explore the charming stone streets, visit the old bazaar, have a coffee, or enjoy a light snack while experiencing the authentic atmosphere of this historic city.
3
After Gjirokastër, we continue directly to Ksamil, one of Albania’s most famous seaside destinations, known for its white beaches and crystal-clear waters.
In Ksamil, depending on the season, you can swim, relax on the beach, enjoy food or drinks with a sea view, take photos, or rent a small boat to visit the nearby islands . Before your free time begins, the tour guide will clearly explain all available options and assist you if needed.
4
⏱ Seasonal schedule adjustment:
During the off-season (autumn–spring): More free time will be spent in Gjirokastër, as it is a year-round destination with museums, cafés, and restaurants fully open. In Ksamil, facilities are limited during this period.
During the summer season ( Mid April - September ): More free time will be allocated in Ksamil, allowing you to enjoy swimming, beach time, seaside restaurants, and island boat trips.
5
KNOW BEFORE YOU RESERVE:
PICK UP: If you select the hotel pick-up option, please note that in some cases, you may be kindly asked to walk a short distance (1–5 minutes) to a nearby main street. This is usually due to certain hotels being located on narrow streets where our buses cannot easily access
IMPORTANT: You’ll receive the final tour details via email and WhatsApp the night before the tour, between 22:30 and midnight. Pick-up times may slightly change depending on the schedule, so it’s very important to check our message. If you’re asleep when we send the info, just check it in the morning to confirm your pick-up time.
MOBILE DATA ROAMING: On the tour day, all communication will be via WhatsApp, so please make sure your phone number is linked to WhatsApp and you have mobile data/roaming enabled.
FITNESS LEVEL: Participants should have a basic level of fitness to comfortably complete the tour.
PICK UP/DROP-OFF FROM DURRES AND GOLEM IS INCLUDED
What's not included
Snacks and drinks
Museum / Castle entrance
Boat trips and Kayaks
Sunbeds
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
43 reviews
5★
40
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
74 reviews
5★
71
4★
0
3★
2
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Kindly note that this tour is not suitable for children under 4 years old
Not recommended for travelers with knee problems.
About Tirana
Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, is a city where Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences blend to create a unique urban tapestry. Known for its colorful buildings, lively cafes, and rich history, Tirana offers a dynamic mix of old and new that captivates visitors.
Top Attractions
Bunk'Art 2
A Cold War-era bunker turned museum, Bunk'Art 2 offers a fascinating look into Albania's communist past. The museum features exhibits on the history of communism, the secret police, and the Cold War.
Historical
1-2 hours
€5
Blloku
Blloku is Tirana's most vibrant district, known for its lively nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. Once the exclusive residential area of communist leaders, it has transformed into the city's entertainment hub.
Entertainment
Evening or full day
Free to explore, varies by venue
Dajti National Park
Dajti National Park offers stunning views of Tirana and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike, enjoy nature, or take the cable car for panoramic views.
Nature
Half day or full day
€5 for cable car, free for hiking
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tavë Kosi
A traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb and rice, topped with a yogurt and egg sauce.
Main Dish
Contains dairy and meat
Byrek
A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, baked until golden and flaky.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Fërgesë
A hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with bread.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Dajti National Park
Mountain biking in the surrounding hills
Paragliding near Tirana
Visiting Blloku for cafes and people-watching
Enjoying a spa day at a local wellness center
Relaxing at a traditional hammam (Turkish bath)
Exploring Bunk'Art 2 and other museums
Attending a performance at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring Tirana, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. The city is in full bloom during spring, while autumn provides a warm, pleasant climate.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Albanian
- Widely spoken: English, Italian
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Albanian Lek (ALL)
Time Zone
CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Tirana is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas.
Getting there
By air
- Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza • 20 km from city center
By bus
Tirana Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Tirana. The system is affordable and covers most major areas, though it can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaksiTirana, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Blloku
Pazari i Ri
Kamza
Day trips
Berat
120 km from Tirana • Full day
Berat, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Windows,' is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore Ottoman-era houses, churches, and the Berat Castle.
Durrës
35 km from Tirana • Half day or full day
Durrës is Albania's largest beach resort, offering a mix of relaxation and history. Visitors can enjoy the beach, explore the Roman amphitheater, and visit the Archaeological Museum.
Krujë
30 km from Tirana • Half day or full day
Krujë is a historic town known for its medieval castle, bazaar, and the Ethnographic Museum. It's a popular day trip from Tirana, offering a glimpse into Albania's medieval past.
Festivals
Tirana International Film Festival • November
Tirana Jazz Festival • November
Tirana Summer Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit Bunk'Art 2 for a fascinating look into Albania's communist past.
- Explore the vibrant Blloku district for nightlife, dining, and shopping.
- Take a day trip to Berat or Durrës for a mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation.
- Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek at traditional restaurants and cafes.
- Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and reduce your carbon footprint.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
