2-Day Private Ohrid Tour in Skopje, Prishtine Trip and Prizren

Discover North Macedonia and Kosovo in style with this private 2-day tour from Tirana. This carefully curated trip offers a seamless way to visit several highlights, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, panoramic mountain views, and vibrant old towns. With the convenience of hotel pickup and comfortable transportation, it’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting to explore without the hassle of organizing multiple transfers.

One of the things we love most about this tour is how customizable it is—meaning you can tailor the experience based on your interests, whether that’s history, scenery, or culture. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey informative and enjoyable.

A potential drawback? The itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer a leisurely pace or extra time at specific sites, it’s worth noting that this is more of a whirlwind experience. Still, for those with limited time who want a broad snapshot of this fascinating region, it’s hard to beat.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, culture, and scenic drives, and who prefer a guided experience to unlock local insights. It’s also ideal for those who want to see multiple countries in one trip—saving you the trouble of planning each leg individually.

Key Points

• Hassle-Free Experience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle ensures a relaxed journey through mountainous terrains and cities.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, adding depth and context to each stop.
• Flexible Itinerary: Fully customizable, allowing travelers to prioritize sights or experiences.
• Rich Cultural Highlights: From UNESCO sites in Ohrid to Skopje’s monuments and Prizren’s old town charm.
• Value for Money: At around $462, this tour provides a comprehensive experience in a short time, with all fees and taxes included.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Tirana to Ohrid and Skopje

The journey begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in Tirana, setting the tone for a smooth trip. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, leaving behind the Albanian capital and heading toward North Macedonia.

First stop: Kalaja E Elbasanit
This fortress, with its thick stone walls and surrounding neighborhood, offers a quick glimpse into the area’s history. It’s a 30-minute stop with entrance fees included, giving you just enough time to snap some photos and soak in the views. Reviewers note the mix of old and new buildings in the neighborhood, providing a tangible sense of local life blending history with modernity.

Next: Tsar Samuel’s Fortress in Ohrid
Arriving in Ohrid, a UNESCO-listed town, you’ll explore the fortress walls built by Tsar Samuel, one of the region’s most iconic rulers. It’s a roughly one-hour visit, where you’ll walk along ancient ramparts and imagine the bygone eras. Although the admission fee isn’t included, the views over Lake Ohrid and the old town are well worth the visit.

Then: Plaoshnik
This is a highlight—Sain t Clement’s Academy complex, built in 893. Here, you’ll walk around the church and learn about the Ohrid Literary School, which educated thousands of students and played a vital role in Slavic culture. Travelers love the free admission and the chance to stand where historic scholars once gathered. Expect a relaxed three-hour visit, including exploring the site and soaking up its tranquil atmosphere.

Photo stop: St. Jovan Kaneo
Perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid, this Macedonian Orthodox church is one of the most photographed spots in the area. Expect about 30 minutes for photos and taking in the views of Kaneo Beach and the old town below. Reviewers describe the scenery here as “breathtaking,” especially at sunset.

Optional Lunch:
Many choose to dine at lakeside restaurants—a chance to enjoy local cuisine while taking in the scenery. Although lunch isn’t included, the options tend to be relaxed eateries offering fresh fish and traditional dishes.

Drive to Skopje
In the afternoon, you’ll travel through mountainous terrain with panoramic vistas, arriving in Skopje for the night. This stretch isn’t just transportation; reviewers mention the stunning views, particularly the winding roads through the mountains, which add to the anticipation of the next day’s city exploration.

Day 2: From Skopje to Prishtina and Prizren

Morning: Skopje Fortress Kale
Starting the day walking through Skopje’s main fortress offers a great overview of the city’s history and architecture. The fortress, along with nearby mosques, the old bazaar, and the Ottoman-era hammam, forms the core of Skopje’s charming old town. One reviewer highlights the knowledgeable guide, Gleni, who shared stories about local culture and history with ease. Expect around two hours here, including a visit to Saint Mother Teresa’s memorial house, a touching tribute that adds a personal element to the sightseeing.

Drive to Prishtina, Kosovo
Following Skopje, the journey continues into Kosovo’s capital. Here, you’ll stroll along the main promenade, checking out the statues of Skanderbeg and Ibrahim Rugova—key figures in Albanian history and Kosovo’s independence. The walk lasts about two hours, giving a good taste of the city’s vibe, architecture, and key landmarks.

Visit Sinan Pasha Mosque in Prizren
The last leg takes you into the scenic town of Prizren, often hailed as Kosovo’s most picturesque destination. The Sinan Pasha Mosque, built in 1615, is a highlight, with its impressive minaret and history-rich walls. The old town’s narrow streets, the Catholic cathedral, Orthodox church, and historic houses offer a well-rounded experience of the town’s diverse heritage. It’s a two-hour walk, and reviewers mention the town’s “charm,” especially when exploring the old bazaar or the House of the League, where Albanian nationalists once coordinated their fight for independence.

Return to Tirana
After a full day exploring these regions, your driver will take you back to Tirana, approximately a two-hour drive. Many travelers appreciate how smoothly this part of the trip flows, thanks to the organized transport and the guide’s local insights.

The Value of the Experience

For around $462.58, this tour packs in more than just sights—it offers a taste of history, culture, and scenery across two countries, all with the convenience of a private vehicle and experienced guides. The inclusion of accommodation in Skopje simplifies logistics, allowing you to focus on exploring rather than planning.

Many reviewers underscore the knowledge and friendliness of the guides—Gleni from Skopje, for example, received praise for his storytelling and professionalism. His ability to weave historical facts with personal anecdotes made the tour more engaging.

The stops at UNESCO sites like Ohrid, along with the panoramic mountain drive, showcase the region’s diversity—ranging from ancient ruins to lively city streets. Travelers also appreciate the flexibility to customize the itinerary, which means you can focus more time on the sites that interest you most.

While a fast-paced schedule might not suit travelers craving a slow, contemplative experience, it’s perfect for those wanting an efficient overview of North Macedonia and Kosovo’s highlights. The trip’s reviews reveal that many find it a “fantastic tour,” with memorable moments—from stunning vistas to expert-guided history lessons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day private trip is ideal for travelers wanting a rundown of North Macedonia and Kosovo without the hassle of independent planning. History buffs, scenery enthusiasts, and culture seekers will find plenty to enjoy. It’s suitable for those who appreciate guides with local knowledge, as the reviews mention guides who are both informative and personable.

It’s also great for travelers on a tight schedule, as the tour covers several significant sites in just two days. If you’re looking for a well-organized, immersive experience with flexibility, then this tour offers excellent value.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or wish to spend longer at specific sites, you might want to consider a longer or more tailored option. The whirlwind nature is part of its appeal, but it may not suit those who want to linger over every detail or explore off the beaten path.

The Sum Up

In summary, this private 2-day tour from Tirana offers a balanced mix of cultural sites, scenic drives, and city highlights. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport makes it a hassle-free way to explore North Macedonia and Kosovo.

The stops at UNESCO sites, the panoramic mountain views, and the charm of Prizren make this experience a rich, memorable journey. The flexibility to customize the itinerary adds to its appeal, especially for travelers who want a personalized touch.

While it’s quite full-on, for those who want to see a lot in a short amount of time, this tour delivers excellent value and authentic insights. It’s best suited for travelers eager to combine history, culture, and stunning scenery in a well-organized, private setting.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free hotel pickup from Tirana, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What transportation is used?
Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort through the mountain roads and city streets alike.

How long is the overnight stay?
You will stay in Skopje for one night, with accommodation arranged in a shared twin or double room.

Which sites are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Elbasan fortress, Ohrid’s Tsar Samuel Fortress, Plaoshnik, St. Jovan Kaneo, Hagia Sophia Church, Skopje Fortress Kale, Prishtina’s main promenade, and Sinan Pasha Mosque in Prizren.

Are all entrance fees included?
Admission to Elbasan Fortress is included. The guide can advise on other sites; some, like Tsar Samuel’s Fortress and St. Jovan Kaneo, do not include entrance fees.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable, allowing you to prioritize the sights or experiences that interest you most.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 102 days in advance, indicating strong interest and early planning.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours before the start, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

This private tour from Tirana offers a fantastic way to cross borders, explore UNESCO sites, and enjoy scenic mountain views—all with expert guidance and comfort. Whether you’re after history, culture, or simply stunning landscapes, it’s a memorable way to experience this lesser-known corner of the Balkans.