This day is devoted to the Bay of Kotor with its unique scenery. The first stop is at the town of Perast, a little settlement baroque in style, where a relaxing boat ride to the picturesque island of Our Lady of the Rocks starts. This artificial islet is home to a church known for its mystifying story and valuable artifacts like paintings by local artist, votive silver tablets, and a hair-made tapestry. After a short boat tour, marvelous Kotor kept in the medieval wall-frame welcoming us. A walking tour through the capital of Europe’s southernmost bay shows multicultural richness through the churches of Saint Nicholas and Saint Luka, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, and all the glory of this UNESCO site. Use your free time to continue wandering around the stone-paved town, or enjoy the offer of the fish restaurant at one of the romantic squares. For the end of this day, you are welcome to choose an optional excursion:

• Optional 1: A visit to the family-owned and operated shellfish farm. Here you will learn about oyster production and sample some fresh catches amid the charming atmosphere of Boka Bay.
• Optional 2: Try one of the most famous wines from Boka Bay, enjoy a wine tasting with a stunning view over Herceg Novi.

Overnight: Boka Bay.

Right there, high above and behind those hills, Montenegrin history begins and ends in the very same place. The first stop for the day is the Old Royal Town of Cetinje, in which you will learn about the Petrović Njegoš dynasty and the history of our country. The National Park Lovćen encompasses the central and the highest part of the Lovćen massif, covering an area of 6.400 hectares. On top of one of the mountain’s two imposing peaks, lies a magnificent mausoleum – the tomb of Montenegro’s greatest person in history: Petar II Petrović Njegoš. It takes 461 steps to climb to reach but it is a steep journey well worth the effort. At the very top, you will be rewarded with a spectacular viewpoint from the world’s highest mausoleum. Afterward, we continue to Njeguši, the village known as the birthplace of the royal dynasty Petrović and a ‘guardian’ of the authentic architecture and cuisine in the region. Njeguški sir and pršut (cheese and prosciutto of Njeguši), a real treat for true foodies, are both genuine contributions to Montenegrin cuisine, produced only in this area, following the traditional recipe for smoking and curing meat. Finally, the stunning view of Boka Bay will leave you in awe, while driving down the old, Austro-Hungarian 25-serpentine road. At first very rough and steep, but they actually symbolize a loving tribute to the former Queen of Montenegro – Queen Milena, as they form the first letter of her name – ’’M’’. Use the free evening and try out some of the finest Montenegrin wines, made from the authentic red grape variety Vranac, as well as some organic honey, figs, and a homemade spirit called rakija. It is highly recommended to enjoy these delicacies at the konoba – a small, traditional restaurants owned by local families, a true essence of Montenegrin’s warm hospitality and friendship. Overnight: Budva.

For this day, we have prepared an experience to remember during which you will have the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque nature of Skadar Lake National Park. The fishing village of Virpazar is a departure point for a boat ride on Skadar Lake. As you glide through the mirroring water, the numerous lake attractions reveal extraordinary birds, the water lilies in full bloom, and wild, secluded beaches. Skadar Lake has an area ranging from 370 to 530 square kilometers, depending on the water level, and it is the biggest lake in the Balkans. Afterward, we say goodbye to Montenegro until the next time and head across the border to get to know Skadar Lake from the Albanian side. The Albanian spirit is best felt by visiting the charming town of Shkodër, one of the oldest towns in Europe, unique for its narrow streets, stone walls, and ancient houses. Surrounded by pristine nature, a national park and Lake Skadar, the largest lake in Southern Europe, Shkodër has played an important geopolitical role throughout Albanian history. At the entrance of the town stands the Venetian Rozafa Castle, one of the biggest and most famous castles in Albania. It rises imposingly on a rocky hill, surrounded by the Buna and Drin rivers, and offers amazing views of Shkodër, Lake Skadar and its water-intersected surroundings. A major attraction in the town center is the well-preserved and popular pedestrianized Kole Idromeno street, which leads to the other sights of the town, including the Ebu Bekr Mosque, the Orthodox Cathedral of the Nativity, and the monument of Mother Teresa. The journey continues to our last stop of the day, even more charming town of Berat. Overnight: Berat.

We start with our morning tour of Berat. The city combines both eastern and western cultures, traditions and image. Berat is the pride of Albanian architecture under UNESCO protection, combining both eastern and western cultures, traditions, and images, making it more of an open-air museum than a city. This treasury of the history of Albania, with its arched Gorica Bridge, Byzantine Church of Saint Michael, and Ottoman monuments such as the Red Mosque, presents traces of the diverse cultures and traditions that once passed through this monumental “town of a thousand windows” in central Albania. Not only a heritage destination but a gourmet one too, Berat is known for its traditional dishes, and this is where you could taste local delicacies, such as “pula me përshesh” and “çorba e Tomorrit”, made in traditional restaurants and based on centuries-old recipes. On our way to Tirana, we will make a stop in Elbasan, the third largest city in Albania, located on the Shkumbin River. While the city was the main center of Albanian nationalism during Ottoman rule, Elbasan is best known for its castle district. Here you can still admire the old city walls built by the Ottoman sultan Mehmet II on the ruins of the Roman and Byzantine fortifications, which gave the city the name of EliBashan (“I put the hand”). Inside the fortress, while walking the cobblestone streets past old houses and excellent restaurants, you will see the Royal Mosque that dates back to the 15th century, the Orthodox Church of Saint Mary and the Sahati Clock Tower. Drive to Tirana, the capital city of Albania as well as its largest city. Overnight: Tirana.

The never-sleeping city of Tirana is the capital city of Albania, as well as its largest city. Situated on the banks of the Lana river, Tirana has outstanding architecture, wide boulevards, parks, shops, and cafés. The heart of Tirana is Skanderbeg Square, home of the ministerial buildings, as well as the National Opera, the National Bank and the National Library. The square is dominated by a statue of Lord Skanderbeg, an Albanian hero and symbol of freedom and independence. The Italian influence is carved into the architecture of the Mussolini period, mixing with the city’s most important landmarks, including the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the National Museum of History, the Clock Tower, and the Presidential Palace. Famous for its vibrant colors, many murals and works of art painted on the buildings by various artists, it is easy to understand why Tirana is known as ‘the city of colorful buildings’. Use your free afternoon to explore Tirana on your own, or book one of the optional experiences:

• Optional 1: Visit Kruja with Sightseeing. If you want to see more of Albania, head north of Tirana and visit Kruja. It is one of the most famous towns in Albania, as it was the home of Albania’s national hero Skanderbeg. A visit to Kruja starts with a walking tour through the Kruja Castle and admiring the stunning panoramic views. Inside, you can visit Skanderbeg or Ethnographic Museum. Afterward explore Old Bazaar Market on the slope of the hill. The market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and enjoying a coffee on the terrace.
• Optional 2: Visit Durres, with Sightseeing. If you want to see more of Albania, head west of Tirana and visit Durres. The coastal city of Durrësi, located a convenient 34 km from Tirana, is home to Albania’s largest port—and is one of the country’s most ancient cities. “The eternal city” over the Adriatic has a 3,000-year history, its founding dating back to 627 B.C.E. when the Corinthians and settlers from the ancient Greek city of Corcyra, situated in the island of Corfu, invaded the Illyrian territory of the Taulantii people. Because of its long history, the city is naturally brimming with ancient archaeological sites and findings, including the famous amphitheater of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, whose 15,000-seat capacity make it the second-biggest amphitheater in the Balkans.

Overnight: Tirana.

Breakfast and hotel check-out. As most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organization, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. Any guests who would like Boccato DMC Montenegro to organize a departure transfer on their behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.