Semi-Private Tour Albanian Riviera; Saranda, Ksamil & Dhermi

Traveling along the Albanian Riviera offers a chance to see some of Europe’s most breathtaking coastlines without the crowds and hefty prices of neighboring Mediterranean hotspots. This 5-day semi-private tour from Tirana, organized by Co Adventures, promises an authentic taste of Albania’s coastal charm—complete with pristine beaches, historic castles, and lively seaside towns. We’ve taken a close look at what this experience involves, and it’s clear that this trip offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and relaxed beach time.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the itinerary is jam-packed with visits to Ksamil’s turquoise waters, Borsh’s expansive sandy beaches, and Dhermi’s lively seaside vibe. Second, the inclusion of Lekursi Castle perched above Saranda adds a historical touch to the trip, providing a stunning vantage point of the Ionian Sea. And third, the comfortable 3-star accommodations and private transport make exploring the coast both easy and relaxing. That said, a possible consideration might be the variable group size and pace—some travelers could find it a bit fast-paced if they prefer more leisure at each stop.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, beach days, and cultural sights in a small-group setting. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a well-rounded experience without sacrificing comfort, especially if you want to maximize your time in South Albania’s most beautiful coastal spots.

Good To Know

• Scenic Coastal Views: The tour offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy stunning panoramas of the Ionian Sea.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines cultural sites, beaches, and leisure time, giving a rundown of the Albanian Riviera.
• Comfort and Convenience: Included private transportation and 3-star hotels ensure a smooth and relaxing trip.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit local towns like Himara and Dhermi for genuine seaside charm.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours before with a full refund, ideal for spontaneous plans.
• Small Group Feel: Whether private or small groups, the tour promotes a personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Tirana to Saranda with a Stop at Lekursi Castle

The journey starts from Tirana, where you’ll be picked up and driven toward the southern coast. The highlight of the first day is a visit to Lekursi Castle, perched on a hill above Saranda. From here, you’ll get sweeping views over the city and the Ionian Sea—a perfect spot for photos and a sense of the region’s historical significance. The drive itself offers scenic landscapes, but the castle’s vantage point really makes it worth the trip.

Afterward, you’ll settle into your hotel in Saranda, a vibrant seaside town that’s become a popular base for exploring the Riviera. We loved that the accommodation is in a 3-star hotel with breakfast included, providing a good balance of comfort and value.

Day 2: Relaxing on Ksamil’s Beaches

This is a day dedicated to sun, sand, and swimming. Ksamil is renowned for its turquoise waters and small island coves, making it an ideal spot for leaping into the sea or just lounging on soft sand. One review mentioned the “beautiful, clear waters perfect for swimming,” which perfectly captures the vibe here.

You’ll have ample free time to explore or relax at your leisure—whether that’s sunbathing, taking photos, or enjoying a seaside snack. The tour provides a portable beach umbrella and mat, which are handy for setting up your own little retreat.

Day 3: Borsh and Porto Palermo Castle

Today’s drive takes you along the coast to Borsh, which is notable as the longest and largest beach in the Ionian Sea. Here, you’ll experience expansive sands and a tranquil atmosphere—an excellent place for a long walk or a quiet swim.

Next, a visit to Porto Palermo Castle adds a historical dimension. The castle, situated on a small peninsula, offers both a glimpse into Albania’s past and fantastic views over the sea. Many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to combine cultural sights with natural beauty on this day.

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Day 4: Himara and Dhermi’s Seaside Charm

This day is all about the lively yet relaxed vibe of Himara and Dhermi. In Himara, you’ll find a blend of historical sites and vibrant streets, perfect for wandering. Free time in Dhermi allows you to soak up the sun on its beaches or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Reviewers have called Dhermi’s beaches “clean and inviting,” and many highlight the chilled-out atmosphere.

Day 5: Vlora Bay and Return to Tirana

The final day offers a relaxed morning along Vlora Bay, famed for its beautiful coastline. You can enjoy some last moments of seaside leisure before heading back to Tirana. The drive provides scenic views, and the trip concludes with hotel drop-off, making travel arrangements straightforward.

What Makes This Tour a Good Deal?

Given the included breakfasts, private transport, and site entry tickets, the cost provides solid value. The accommodation quality in 3-star hotels balances comfort with affordability, and the small-group or private options ensure more personalized attention—something you rarely get on larger bus tours. Plus, the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

While meals and beach towels are not included, most travelers find that the overall expense remains reasonable considering the stops and amenities. You might want to bring your own beach towel and sunscreen, as these are not provided, but the tour supplies essentials like umbrellas and mats, which are thoughtful touches.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a comprehensive yet relaxed way to explore the Albanian coast. If you love stunning scenery, cultural landmarks, and beach time, this tour hits all those notes. It’s especially suited for those who prefer small group settings or private tours over large bus excursions, ensuring a more intimate experience.

If you’re someone who wants the flexibility to explore at your own pace, this tour’s itinerary strikes a good balance. But if you prefer more leisure or longer stays in one place, you might find the schedule a little brisk.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Bring comfortable shoes for walking around towns and castles. Pack a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel for beach days. Since the tour doesn’t include meals beyond breakfast, prepare to enjoy a variety of seaside restaurants, especially in Ksamil and Dhermi, where fresh seafood and local dishes are abundant.

Note: Smoking is not permitted during the tour, so be mindful if you’re a smoker. Also, all participants should have their own health and travel insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes accommodation and breakfast in 3-star hotels, private transportation, a professional English-speaking guide, entry tickets to sites, hotel pick-up and drop-off in Tirana, as well as tourist and road taxes.

Are meals other than breakfast included?
No, lunches, dinners, drinks, and snacks are not included, so you should plan for these separately. There are plenty of seaside eateries along the route.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended. You may also want to bring your own beach towel and snacks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the itinerary isn’t explicitly designed for children, families comfortable with small-group travel and walking will enjoy the day trips. It’s not recommended for wheelchair users.

How long is each day’s drive?
The exact durations aren’t specified, but the itinerary is designed for a manageable pace, with plenty of time spent at each location.

Will I have free time during the stops?
Yes, each stop offers free time for relaxing, exploring, or taking photos. For example, in Ksamil, you’ll have enough time to swim and unwind.

Is the tour exclusively private or can I join a small group?
Both options are available—private tours or small group experiences—allowing you to choose what suits your travel style.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day semi-private tour of the Albanian Riviera offers a well-rounded taste of South Albania’s natural beauty, history, and seaside charm. With comfortable accommodations, private transport, and carefully curated stops, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to explore more and relax more in a stunning coastal setting. The combination of scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and pristine beaches makes it especially appealing for travelers who value authentic experiences and scenic landscapes.

If your idea of a perfect vacation involves soaking up the sun on crystal-clear beaches, wandering through quaint coastal towns, and enjoying comfortable, hassle-free travel, this tour is worth considering. It’s best for those who prefer small group settings and want to see a variety of highlights without feeling rushed, making it a great way to discover Albania’s hidden gems along the shimmering Ionian coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: