A TASTE OF ALBANIA – 5-DAY GOURMET TOUR

Arrival at Tirana Airport and transfer to Shkodra. Enjoy an afternoon sightseeing tour of the city. The architectural elements indicate a mix of Ottoman, Austrian, Italian, and Communist architectural styles. The walking tour will include the city center and Kol Idromeno promenade. Visit the Catholic Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Stephen, the first martyr in Shkodra. In the afternoon – “A Taste of Shkodra” Savor the rich flavors of the region with a variety of hearty meat dishes—tender veal, seasonal goat, and wild pork fillet—served alongside perfectly grilled vegetables. Indulge in Tespixhe, traditional Shkodra sweets, paired with aromatic mountain Cajupi tea. Delight in homemade yogurt, quince compote (komposto me ftua), fresh seasonal jams, and marmalades, served on warm, freshly baked bread. Every bite tells a story—the sweetness of forest fruits picked from nearby mountains, the freshness of local ingredients, and the authentic taste of Albanian culinary heritage. Overnight in Shkodra

Following breakfast, visit the Venetian Arts Mask Factory in Shkodra. Discover the fascinating craft behind Venetian masks at their source—witness each step of production up close and even purchase your own handcrafted mask. Creating a single mask is a meticulous process that takes days, making them highly valued and often expensive in Venetian markets. Continue to the legendary Rozafa Fortress, perched majestically above Shkodra Lake and the Adriatic Sea. The fortress is not only historical but also cultural, tied to the Albanian legend of Rozafa—a tale of sacrifice, love, and resilience. After exploring Rozafa Fortress, enjoy lunch at Mrizi i Zanave, a renowned restaurant known for authentic Albanian cuisine and fresh, local ingredients. After lunch, head to Kruja, a historic town famous for its medieval castle, bustling bazaar, and connection to national hero Skanderbeg. In the evening, enjoy organic, locally sourced food at charming restaurants and traditional eateries. Savor dishes such as chicken with porridge, roasted lamb, veal fërgesë (baked dish with cheese and peppers), and traditional desserts like Kabuni or ashure, according to Kruja tradition. The main drink is raki, a beloved Albanian spirit. Overnight in Kruja

Start your day in Kruja with a delicious breakfast—enjoying a nice cup of Albanian coffee is an absolute must! As you sip, take in the charming atmosphere of the town, from the red-roofed bazaar to the historic streets. Visit Kruja Castle, the Skanderbeg Museum, and the Ethnographic Museum, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage and daily life of northern Albania. Next, visit Uka Farm, a traditional Albanian agrotourism destination offering farm-to-table experiences. Enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes and local wine or beer made right on-site. Uka Farm is a place where nature and hospitality meet, offering exclusive foods grown and prepared with care. Continue to Berat—the UNESCO “City of a Thousand Windows.” Spend your afternoon indulging in the culinary delights of Berat, enjoying traditional dishes paired with local wines or raki. Stroll through the historic streets and taste artisan products such as honey, olive oil, cheeses, and pastries. Sample Vienezi i Beratit (cheese-stuffed steak) and Pispilia (traditional vegetarian dish). At a small, family-run tavern in the old Mangalem neighborhood, enjoy fërgesë, imam bajalldi, çomlek, and homemade Gliko Fiku i Eger (wild fig preserve), served with locally aged raki. Overnight in Berat

Start your day exploring the charming streets of Berat before the town awakens. Wander through the Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, admire the white Ottoman houses, and visit Berat Castle and its museums. Wine Tasting at Cobo Winery Discover the rich flavors of Albanian wines at Cobo Winery, nestled in the beautiful countryside near Berat. Taste a selection of hand-crafted wines and learn about local grape varieties and winemaking traditions directly from the vintners. After your visit, continue to Tirana for an evening of Albanian traditions. Enjoy a folk show with live music and dancing, while savoring authentic homemade dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of Albania. Overnight in Tirana

Morning in Tirana – Breakfast and Coffee like a Local Start your day with freshly brewed Albanian coffee and a hearty breakfast at a cozy café. Watch the city wake up, stroll through the center, and admire the blend of Italian-influenced architecture and modern style. Visit the National Historic Museum to explore Albania’s rich past. Optional (if time permits): Enjoy a special lunch in a traditional old house, paired with fine local wine. Taste classic dishes like Tavë Kosi (baked lamb with yogurt, eggs, and thyme) and Fërgesë e Tiranës me Speca (Tirana-style fërgesë with peppers), a local specialty that perfectly concludes your culinary journey. Free time until transfer to the airport (approx. 30 min). End of Our Service!