From Tirana: 2-Day Permet and Gjirokaster Tour

From Tirana: 2-Day Permet and Gjirokaster Tour

Planning a quick escape from the buzzing streets of Tirana to explore some of Albania’s most scenic regions? This 2-day guided tour offers a taste of the country’s natural beauty, historic towns, and authentic cuisine. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines relaxation, culture, and stunning landscapes—all within a manageable itinerary.

We particularly liked the chance to unwind in the Lungarica Thermal Baths, the authentic feel of Gjirokastra’s cobbled streets, and the opportunity to learn about Albanian history through visits to the House of Enver Hoxha and the Ethnographic Museum. The price-point of $230 per person offers decent value when you consider the guided service, transportation, and included meals.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s small group size—limited to just three participants—means it’s more intimate but also requires advance booking. It’s ideal for travelers craving a mix of nature, history, and local flavor, especially if they’re comfortable with some walking on uneven surfaces. If you’re after a quick, authentic taste of southern Albania’s highlights, this could be just the trip for you.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Experiences: Visit thermal baths, historic museums, and explore local cuisine.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy stunning mountain views en route from Tirana to Përmet.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Albania’s history through carefully curated visits.
• Small Group: Limited to 3 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Optional Accommodation: Stay overnight in Gjirokastra, adding comfort and time for exploration.
• Value: The $230 price covers guided tours, meals, and entrance fees, offering a good value for the experience.

What This Tour Offers and What to Expect

Starting from Tirana early in the morning, this tour takes you on a roughly 3.5-hour drive through Albania’s lush, mountainous terrain—an experience in itself. The journey is filled with sweeping vistas that hint at the region’s natural beauty, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Day 1: Discovering Përmet and Lungarica Thermal Baths

Once in Përmet, the highlight is definitely the Lungarica Thermal Baths. Located near the Vjosa River, these waters are heated naturally to about 30°C to 40°C, which feels just right for relaxing muscles after a morning of travel. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties, especially for skin ailments and joint pains, making it a true wellness stop.

Guests have noted that the baths are quite popular among locals, giving the experience a genuine feel—no overly commercialized spa here. The waters are clean, and the surroundings peaceful, perfect for unwinding in nature’s own spa. One reviewer mentioned, “The thermal waters are warm and soothing, and the scenic setting makes it even better.”

After soaking, it’s time for a traditional Albanian lunch. Expect dishes like qifqi (rice balls with herbs), tave kosi (lamb and yogurt casserole), and fresh fish caught from the Vjosa River. The meals are hearty and flavorful, giving you a taste of local culinary traditions.

Day 2: Exploring Gjirokastra’s Historic Charm

The next morning begins with a light breakfast at a local café—think traditional Albanian coffee paired with small pies. Then, it’s time for the historical part of the trip.

The House of Enver Hoxha is a significant stop, offering insights into the life of Albania’s former leader. While some reviews mention that it provides an interesting glimpse into communist-era history, others suggest it’s a straightforward museum and not overly elaborate. Regardless, it’s a valuable stop for understanding Albania’s recent past.

Following this, the Ethnographic Museum showcases traditional life in Gjirokastra, with displays of clothing, tools, and household items. The museum offers context that enriches your walk through Gjirokastra’s narrow, cobblestoned alleys. As one reviewer put it, “Walking through the streets felt like stepping back in time, with the historic architecture and views over the Drino valley.”

You’ll get time to explore the city’s unique Ottoman-style architecture, which is one of the town’s defining features and a UNESCO-listed site. Light lunch options in Gjirokastra focus on local dishes, allowing you to relax and soak in the atmosphere before heading back to Tirana.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Practical Side

Transportation is by private vehicle with a guide, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The small group size—just three travelers—means you’ll get plenty of personalized attention and can ask questions about the sites and Albanian culture along the way.

The tour’s cost of $230 per person covers guiding, entrance fees, meals, and overnight accommodation in Gjirokastra (if selected). Not included are dinner and personal expenses, so it’s a good idea to carry some local currency for additional snacks or souvenirs.

While the full day in Përmet involves some walking around the thermal baths and town, expect uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must. The scenic drive offers many photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera.

The Value of the Experience

At this price point, the tour offers solid value considering the inclusions: guided visits, meals, and an overnight stay. Instead of trying to cobble together these sites independently—which could be more costly and less convenient—this guided package streamlines the experience and offers local insights you might miss on your own.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour provider has a relatively low rating (1.7), which suggests that some travelers might have found the experience less organized or the service inconsistent. Reviews mention that the tour is good for seeing the highlights but perhaps not for those expecting luxury or highly personalized service.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic drives and cultural exploration, especially if they prefer small, intimate groups. It’s perfect for those who like a mix of relaxation (thermal baths), history, and authentic local cuisine.

It might not be ideal for families with small children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility restrictions due to uneven surfaces and walking distances. Also, those expecting a highly polished, luxury experience might find the low provider rating a concern.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Permet and Gjirokastra tour offers an accessible way to experience Albania’s natural beauty, historic sites, and traditional flavors. The inclusion of thermal baths, UNESCO-listed towns, and local eateries makes it a well-rounded option for curious travelers.

While the small group size and guided approach offer personalized moments, potential travelers should weigh the mixed reviews regarding the provider’s overall rating. Hands-on, sincere experiences are likely, but some organizational hiccups might occur.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic adventure with plenty of scenic and cultural highlights, this tour provides good value and a chance to see a side of Albania that’s both beautiful and historically meaningful. Be prepared for some walking, bring your camera, and enjoy the stunning views and friendly local atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 5 years due to walking on uneven surfaces and the nature of the activities.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers guided visits, entrance fees, breakfast, the thermal baths, and an overnight stay in Gjirokastra if selected.

How long is the drive from Tirana to Përmet?
The drive takes about 3.5 hours, passing through scenic mountainous areas which are part of the overall experience.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I bring on this tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and some local currency are recommended.

Is there an option to stay in Gjirokastra overnight?
Yes, accommodation in Gjirokastra is included if you choose that option, allowing more time to explore the town.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are part of the package, featuring traditional Albanian dishes. Dinner is not included.

Embark on this journey for a genuine taste of Albania’s landscapes, history, and culture. It’s a compelling way to see the country’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself.

You can check if your dates are available here: