From Tirana: Cultural Day Trip to Korça, Pogradec & Lake Ohrid

What your day looks like

This full-day tour through Southeastern Albania offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. The region has long been known for its cultural diversity, its mix of ethnic communities, its rich culinary traditions, and its centuries-old winemaking culture. We begin our journey from Tirana at 8:00 AM and head toward Korça, our first destination. Close to the Greek border, Korça is considered one of Albania’s most important cultural cities. It is home to the First Albanian School and has historically been an important trading center. Here, we will explore the Old Bazaar, a charming district recently restored and full of life again. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk along Korça’s main pedestrian boulevard, one of the city’s most vibrant areas lined with cafés, restaurants, shops, and bars. At the end of the boulevard stands the city’s Orthodox Cathedral, built in 1992 right after the fall of communism. It is an impressive structure with great artistic and architectural value. After our time in Korça, we continue toward Pogradec, a peaceful town lying beneath a soft hillside on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Not far from Pogradec is Drilon, a poetic and relaxing place that has inspired many artists. Its shallow waters, willow trees, and tranquil environment make it a romantic spot often chosen by newlyweds for their wedding photos. We will also visit one of the most distinctive villages in the area, mainly inhabited by Orthodox families. Known for its unique traditions and for appearing in one of Albania’s most famous films, the village is often compared to a small Venice because of the natural water springs running through it. During a short walk in Pogradec, you’ll have the chance to explore both its old quarter, where traditional architecture is still preserved, and the newer part of the city. The lakeside promenade, a favorite place for locals to take their afternoon strolls, offers a peaceful and scenic end to the day. We return to Tirana in the late afternoon.