Once known as the “North Korea of Europe,” Albania was closed off for decades under a strict communist regime. Today, it has opened its doors to the world—offering a fascinating contrast to its neighbor, North Macedonia. This unique day tour invites you to discover both the striking differences and surprising similarities between these two Balkan countries.

Travel comfortably by bus or minibus as you enjoy a complete scenic tour around Lake Ohrid, one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. Along the way, you'll stop at iconic and charming locations including the Bay of Bones, Pogradec, Lin, and Drilon.

In Pogradec, enjoy free time to relax and have lunch at your own pace. In the picturesque village of Lin, take a coffee break and stroll through narrow streets lined with traditional houses. For those who wish, there is an optional walk to the ancient Roman basilica—highly recommended for history lovers and photographers alike.

During the journey, you'll also spot the famous concrete communist-era bunkers, silent reminders of Albania's past, scattered across the landscape.

The village of Lyn was nice but involves walking up steep hills about which we were not informed by the guide. At least 2 elderly people were struggling. They need to be warned and given the option to stay in the lower part of the village. There was little of interest to see on the walking tour of Podrega

An absolute belter of a trip. Fantastic value for money. The guide, Vladimir and the driver were exceptional. Great knowledge, informative and ?? safe for the entire time. The views and scenery were outstanding. Really pleased we booked a huge highlight of our trip. Highly recommended.

The tour was really interesting, in general. It is not, however, suitable for people with disabilities and I felt really sorry for a woman on the trip who was unable to do most of the activities. People need to be told that there is a considerable amount of climbing involved.

The driver was very good. Guide was not very professional, he insulted albadian people and their culture was not appropriate on an albanian visit tour. He decided that we wouldn't spend time in the Albanian city because it was raining but we have been told that we would get an hour's stop. We did not stop on the way back at the Bay of bones. Is it cold? What was also included in the trip? He told us information what was not historically correct as part of the tour. Overall very disappointed .

It was a really good day trip. Getting through passport control to Albania took about 45 minutes, but once through we saw lots of interesting things. For lunch time you're asked if you'd like a reservation at a hotel restaurant where the coach parks outside. I decided to go with a couple of others, but we walked out after 25 minutes as the service was so bad. Our tour guide was fantastic and did a great job in looking after us. The driver also great taking on the challenge of difficult roads.

The guide Yordan, or Jordan was very informative and friendly. His insights into Albania history was interesting. He guided us very well.

Why you’ll love this…

Visit two countries in one unforgettable day
It's a perfect mix of nature, history, and discovery
Come across authentic villages, history, and local culture
Cross borders, travel through time, and uncover Balkan history brought vividly to life by a passionate local guide

Important to know

Know in advance:

Please note that on Tuesdays the tour will be held in Dutch, while the other days are provided with an English-speaking guide.
Please provide your pickup address at checkout and contact the local operator or TUI-representative after booking to confirm the pickup place and time.

Remember to bring:

Sunscreen and enough drinking water during warm weather
You'll need to present a valid ID or your passport on the border;
Please wear comfortable shoes

Cancellation policy

Receive a 75% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

What’s included

Guided tour
Transportation in air-conditioned coach
Pickup and drop-off from designated areas

What’s not included

Food and drinks
Personal expenses

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Location

Meeting point:

Pickup is included for accommodations in or between Pestani or Ohrid. You'll be picked up at your accommodation or a given pickup point close to it.

Provider

KTM Voyage

What people say about this experience

4.1/5

All reviews are verified

Based on 79 reviews

Review categories

Safety

4.4/5

Value for money

4.3/5

Staff

4.4/5

Service

4.4/5

All ratings (79)

5 stars (26)

33%

4 stars (37)

47%

3 stars (13)

16%

2 stars (3)

1 star (0)

J
JAMES
Traveled with family
September 2, 2025
3.8
United Kingdom
The village of Lyn was nice but involves walking up steep hills about which we were not informed by the guide. At least 2 elderly people were struggling. They need to be warned and given the option to stay in the lower part of the village. There was little of interest to see on the walking tour of Podrega
J
Jdwhu & lufcnicky
Traveled as a couple
August 18, 2025
5
United Kingdom
An absolute belter of a trip. Fantastic value for money. The guide, Vladimir and the driver were exceptional. Great knowledge, informative and ?? safe for the entire time. The views and scenery were outstanding. Really pleased we booked a huge highlight of our trip. Highly recommended.
K
Kate
Traveled with family
August 17, 2025
3.8
United Kingdom
The tour was really interesting, in general. It is not, however, suitable for people with disabilities and I felt really sorry for a woman on the trip who was unable to do most of the activities. People need to be told that there is a considerable amount of climbing involved.
B
Bower
Traveled with family
August 5, 2025
1.8
United Kingdom
The driver was very good. Guide was not very professional, he insulted albadian people and their culture was not appropriate on an albanian visit tour. He decided that we wouldn't spend time in the Albanian city because it was raining but we have been told that we would get an hour's stop. We did not stop on the way back at the Bay of bones. Is it cold? What was also included in the trip? He told us information what was not historically correct as part of the tour. Overall very disappointed .
M
Mimms
Solo traveler
July 30, 2025
4.2
United Kingdom
It was a really good day trip. Getting through passport control to Albania took about 45 minutes, but once through we saw lots of interesting things. For lunch time you're asked if you'd like a reservation at a hotel restaurant where the coach parks outside. I decided to go with a couple of others, but we walked out after 25 minutes as the service was so bad. Our tour guide was fantastic and did a great job in looking after us. The driver also great taking on the challenge of difficult roads.
N
Nic
Traveled as a couple
July 26, 2025
4.6
United Kingdom
The guide Yordan, or Jordan was very informative and friendly. His insights into Albania history was interesting. He guided us very well.