We love —
- Exploring Lake Bovilla’s turquoise waters and mountain landscapes before discovering Krujë’s Ottoman bazaar, traditional crafts and fascinating history.
- Sailing through Vlore Marine Park to Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula, with hidden coves, crystal-clear waters and coastal beauty.
- Discovering Albania’s natural wonders and cultural treasures, from dramatic canyons and ancient fortresses to the flavours and traditions of local villages.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected for our members by our experts
Discover Albania —
Your stay in Albania offers the perfect blend of ancient history, breathtaking scenery and Mediterranean charm. Based at the elegant Crowne Plaza Durrës by IHG on the Adriatic coast, you'll uncover a destination of remarkable contrasts, from Roman ruins and colourful cities to secluded islands, dramatic canyons and unspoilt beaches. Full-day excursions to Sazan Island, the Karaburun Peninsula and Lake Bovilla reveal Albania's natural beauty, while time in Durrës, Tirana and Krujë showcases its rich cultural heritage. Between coastal relaxation, Ottoman history and authentic local flavours, this sun-soaked escape promises an unforgettable introduction to one of the Balkans' best-kept secrets.
Suggested 6-night itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Crowne Plaza Durrës by IHG
Arrive at Tirana International Airport (TIA) and enjoy your included transfer to Crowne Plaza Durrës by IHG, an elegant five-star hotel overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Settle into your room and toast the beginning of your holiday with a complimentary welcome cocktail before making the most of the hotel's indoor pool, spa and fitness centre. Round off your first day with dinner, included as part of your half board stay.
Day 2: Discovering Historic Durrës
After breakfast, explore Durrës, one of the oldest cities on the Adriatic. Visit its impressive Roman Amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and ancient Byzantine Forum before discovering fascinating archaeological treasures that trace the city's Greek, Roman and Byzantine past. Later, stroll along the lively seafront promenade, pause for lunch at your leisure and enjoy panoramic views from the former Royal Villa of King Zog before returning to your hotel for dinner.
Day 3: Vlore, Sazan Island & the Karaburun Peninsula
Set off on a full-day excursion to the spectacular Vlore Marine Park. Cruise to Sazan Island, once a secret military base and now a haven of untouched landscapes, hidden tunnels and panoramic sea views. Continue to the rugged Karaburun Peninsula, where dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches and the famous Haxhi Ali Cave provide the perfect setting for swimming and snorkelling in the crystal-clear Ionian Sea. Return to Durrës in the evening for dinner at your hotel.
Included excursion: English-speaking guide, transport and hotel transfers.
Day 4: Tirana
Travel to Albania's vibrant capital and discover a city where history and modern culture meet. Explore Skanderbeg Square, admire the beautiful Et'hem Bey Mosque and climb the Clock Tower for panoramic views before visiting the fascinating Bunk'Art 2 museum, housed within a former Cold War bunker. Spend time in the lively Blloku district, now filled with stylish cafés, boutiques and restaurants, before returning to Durrës for dinner.
Day 5: Lake Bovilla & Krujë
Journey by 4x4 through the spectacular landscapes surrounding Lake Bovilla, where emerald waters and rugged mountains create one of Albania's most beautiful natural settings. A short hike to Mount Gamti rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views before a light lunch in peaceful surroundings. Later, discover the historic town of Krujë, birthplace of national hero Skanderbeg, and browse its charming Ottoman bazaar, renowned for handmade carpets, traditional crafts and local souvenirs.
Included excursion: English-speaking driver-guide, transport and hotel transfers.
Day 6: Wellness by the Adriatic
Enjoy a slower pace today with time to unwind at the hotel. Relax in the indoor pool, spa or fitness centre, or make the most of your €30 massage voucher before spending the afternoon on Durrës' long sandy beach or strolling along the seafront. Dinner is served back at the hotel this evening.
Day 7: Farewell to Albania
Enjoy one final breakfast overlooking the Adriatic before spending your remaining time relaxing at the hotel or exploring Durrës at your own pace. Pick up a few local delicacies, from olive oil and mountain honey to traditional raki, before your included transfer to Tirana International Airport (TIA) for your flight home.
Day trip to Bovilla Lake and Kruje from Durres —
Discover two of Albania's most captivating treasures on a full-day journey combining dramatic landscapes and fascinating history. Travel by 4x4 through the scenic Bovilla canyons to the shimmering waters of Lake Bovilla, where a short hike to Mount Gamti reveals breathtaking views over the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains. After a relaxing break surrounded by nature, continue to Krujë, the birthplace of national hero Skanderbeg, to explore its historic streets, Ottoman bazaar and traditional crafts.
Voucher practical information:
- Type of excursion: Guided tour
- Duration: Approximately 8 hours
- Availability: Wednesdays and Saturdays
- Languages: English, Spanish and Italian
- Pick-up: 8:45am
- Meeting point: Your hotel
- Transfers: Included
- Suitable for: All ages (children must be accompanied by an adult)
Included:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Comfortable vehicle transport
- Fuel, parking fees and tolls
- Guide and vehicle expenses
- Taxes
Not included:
- Meals and drinks not mentioned above
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities
- Anything not specified under Included
Cancellation policy:
- Free cancellation up to 6 hours before check-in.
Day trip to Vlore with boat cruise to Sazan Island and Karaburun Peninsula —
Crowne Plaza Durres by IHG 5* —
The Crowne Plaza Durres by IHG 5* is a modern and elegant hotel located directly on Albania's stunning Adriatic coast. Situated in the country's oldest city, it combines refined design with warm service, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and comfort. With 132 tastefully furnished rooms, you'll find accommodations perfectly suited for both leisure and business trips.
Your room —
Enjoy a stay in a Standard Sea View King Room.
Sea View King Room (26 m²)
Wake up each morning to the beauty of the Adriatic Sea in the Sea View King Room. As comfortable as it is elegant, it will be the perfect haven to enhance your seaside getaway.
Your dining choices
This is a half board stay. Your breakfast and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).
Treat yourself to a gourmet escape with Mediterranean flavours at La Belle restaurant. Fresh seafood, quality meats, and seasonal ingredients are prepared with the utmost care. The refined atmosphere and carefully curated wine selection make every dinner a truly memorable culinary experience. In addition, the hotel offers several other dining and beverage options, including a rooftop bar with spectacular views of the Adriatic – the perfect spot to enjoy an aperitif at sunset. Whether for breakfast, a light lunch, or a late dinner, the diverse range of bars and restaurants invites you to discover new flavours each day and to punctuate your stay with culinary delights.
Your time
Just for you:
- 1 x 3000 ALL voucher for a massage (per person, per stay)
- 1 x day trip to Vlore with boat cruise to Sazan Island and Karaburun Peninsula
- 1 x day trip to Bovilla Lake and Kruje from Durres
For relaxation, the hotel offers a wide range of leisure and wellness activities. In the spa area, you can book classic treatments as well as relaxing massages, or enjoy a few laps in the large indoor pool.
Those who are more athletic will find what they're looking for at the fitness center, unless you'd prefer to explore the surrounding area.
The hotel's surroundings also offer numerous activities: stroll along the vast sandy beach or wander along the lively promenade of Durrës. The proximity of historical sites, markets, and cultural attractions makes it easy to vary your activities and discover the region and its people.
Included excursions —
Day trip to Vlore, cruise to the island of Sazan and the Karaburun peninsula
Take off for an unforgettable day of history and nature, visiting the island of Sazan, a former Communist military base, and the wild Karaburun peninsula with its heavenly beaches and crystal-clear waters. Explore caves, dive into exceptional marine biodiversity, and relax in unspoilt surroundings.
Day trip from Durres to Lake Bovilla and Kruje
Discover the natural beauty of Lake Bovilla with a panoramic hike to Mount Gamti and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and forests. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in history in Kruje, the birthplace of national hero Skanderbeg, and explore its Ottoman bazaar filled with handcrafted treasures.
Optional excursions —
Day trip to Berat from Durres
Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique experience combining history, culture and breathtaking scenery. Located just a short distance from Durres, this destination is ideal for a day trip.
Day trip from Durres to Lake Bovilla and Kruje
Discover the natural beauty of Lake Bovilla with a panoramic hike to Mount Gamti and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and forests. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in history in Kruje, the birthplace of national hero Skanderbeg, and explore its Ottoman bazaar filled with handcrafted treasures.
Day trip to Vlore, cruise to the island of Sazan and the Karaburun peninsula
Take off for an unforgettable day of history and nature, visiting the island of Sazan, a former Communist military base, and the wild Karaburun peninsula with its heavenly beaches and crystal-clear waters. Explore caves, dive into exceptional marine biodiversity, and relax in unspoilt surroundings.
Day trip to Prizren from Durrës
Set off on a day trip from Durrës to explore Prizren, with its Ottoman heritage, iconic historic sites and authentic Balkan atmosphere.
Day trip to Berat and the Sineci Canyon – Full-day tour
Set off from Durrës for a day trip to discover the spectacular scenery of the Sineci Canyons and the historic town of Berat, combining nature walks with UNESCO-listed heritage sites.
Stay connected with an unlimited data plan
Add an unlimited mobile data plan to stay connected with complete freedom, without any risk of exceeding your allowance. Activate your eSIM and enjoy continuous connectivity wherever you go: share the internet with your loved ones, find the best places around you, use your GPS without stress and enjoy your favourite apps to the full, without worrying about your usage.
Your journey to Albania —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Durres —
Situated on Albania’s Adriatic coast, Durrës is one of the country’s oldest and most dynamic cities, blending seaside charm with ancient heritage. Once an important port of the Roman Empire, today it is a lively resort destination where golden beaches meet archaeological treasures and Mediterranean flavours. Its relaxed coastal atmosphere, rich history, and vibrant culture make Durrës a perfect getaway for sunseekers and explorers alike.
Must-sees:
- Durrës Amphitheatre: Discover one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the Balkans, right in the heart of the city.
- Durrës Archaeological Museum: Explore artefacts spanning millennia, from Illyrian relics to Byzantine icons.
- Venetian Tower: Climb this 15th-century fortification for panoramic views of the waterfront and old town.
- Durrës Beach: Stretch out on long sandy shores lined with cafés, beach clubs, and family-friendly resorts.
- Byzantine Forum: Wander through the remains of ancient columns and mosaics that reveal the city’s layered history.
Culinary culture
Durrës cuisine celebrates fresh seafood, Mediterranean ingredients, and local traditions. Enjoy grilled fish, seafood risotto, or pasta with prawns at beachfront restaurants. Pair your meal with Albanian wine or raki, and finish with a dessert like trileçe or baklava. The city’s promenade is perfect for an evening stroll followed by gelato or espresso at a seaside café.
Dive deeper
Take a short drive to nearby vineyards and olive groves, or explore the countryside dotted with castles and archaeological sites. The Durrës Marina area offers yachting, sunset cruises, and lively nightlife, while day trips to Tirana or the rugged Karaburun Peninsula provide a broader glimpse of Albania’s beauty.
Good to know
The currency is the Albanian lek (ALL), though euros are often accepted in tourist areas. Durrës is about 35 km from Tirana International Airport, making it easily accessible for short stays. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the Adriatic waters are warm and the coastal vibe is at its liveliest.
