Did you know ...

Did you know that Albanian people are some of the most hospitable people in the world?

Did you know that Albania was declared the world's "first" atheist state in 1967?

Did you know what happened to the imams and priests?

What about when sacred writings were found at a university during communism? 

Join us at Albania Ventures for a 90-minute historical walking tour. 

On this tour, you will:

• See an unusual 18th century mosque 
• Take in the majesty of an Orthodox cathedral 
• Walk on the square that was a battleground for democracy
• Be inspired by stories of the bravery of Albanian heroes

COST & TIPS

The walking tour costs 15 Euro. Optional tips may also be given at the end of the tour.

ITINERARY

• National Opera House
• Skanderbeg Statue
• Et'hem Bey Mosque
• Italian-style Municipality Buildings
• Eastern Orthodox Church
• Pyramid
• Prime Minister’s Office
• Communist-era Bunker
• Former Dictator Enver Hoxha’s Villa

TESTIMONIALS

"My daughter and I experienced a fantastic  guided tour of the centre of Tirana with insightful
details and stories about its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Josh and Sarah’s passion and knowledge made the tour truly memorable. I highly recommend it."

- Dan Dupree, United Kingdom

"I really loved how Sarah and Josh made the history of Albania come alive."

Charles Parton, Ohio, USA

"Going around in Tirana with Albania Ventures gives you great opportunity to see the city, understand the country, its history. Highly recommended."

- Gellert Horvath, Hungary

"Great tour, full of history, information and nice spots! Recommended!"

- Luana Lima, Brazil 

"It was the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon in Tirana. Highly recommend for couples, solo travelers, friend
groups and travelers of all ages."

- Kelsey Kay Love


"I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the history of Albania via walking from one notable city centre Tirana building to another. Both Sarah and Josh are enthusiastic, well prepared and knowledgeable guides. I would highly recommend Albania Ventures Tours to anyone interested."

- Neil Harvey, Manchester, UK



Check out more testimonials here! 

Are you ready to unearth untold stories of bravery and compassion?

Curious about the remarkable bond between Albanian and Jewish communities?

Ever wondered what motivated Albanian Muslims to save Jewish families during WWII?

Discover the heroes that will inspire you like never before!

Experience a 90-minute journey through Tirana's streets, guided by an expert in local history.

Unravel the stories of Albanian families who risked everything to shelter Jewish people during the darkest days of WWII.

From the first Jewish people who came to Albania in the 2nd century through the period of the Ottoman empire, we’ll introducing you to Albania, the language and the history of Jewish people in Albania.

Cost & Tips

The walking tour is 15 Euro. Optional tips will be collected at the end of the tour. People have given tips from 5 to 40 Euro/person. Any guests are welcome and any amount is appreciated. 

 

Itinerary

Et'hem Mosque

Just as the mosque has unique paintings on the outside, people in Albania who embraced Islam have been uniquely prepared to rescue those seeking protection.

Skenderbeg Statue

We’ll learn about the unique role that Skenderbeg and his predecessor Lek Dukagjin had.

Italian-built Ministries and Municipality.

We’ll learn about the edict of King Zog to open the borders of Albania to Jewish people in 1938 just before the Italians took over Albania.

 

Blloku Area

Then, we’ll weave our way through the streets of the Blloku area, as you hear moving accounts of stories of sacrifice and compassion of Albanian families who sheltered Jewish people in their homes.

Holocaust Memorial

The tour is completed at the Holocaust Memorial where we’ll stop in a moment of honoring those who died during the holocaust and to honor the Albanian families who risked their lives to protect Jewish people.

Embark on a journey of remembrance and solidarity, where the echoes of the past resonate with the promise of a brighter future. Join us and become part of a legacy of compassion that knows no bounds. 

Albania Ventures Recommendations:

"Great tour with some different topics out of the mainstream."

- Luana Lima, Brazil

"My daughter and I experienced a fantastic  guided tour of the centre of Tirana with insightful details and stories about its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Josh and Sarah’s passion and knowledge made the tour truly memorable. I highly recommend it."

- Dan Dupree, United Kingdom

"It was the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon in Tirana. Highly recommend for couples, solo travelers, friend groups and travelers of all ages."

- Kelsey Kay Love


"I really loved how Sarah and Josh made the history of Albania come alive."

Charles Parton, Ohio, USA


"We learned so much about Albania’s rich history and culture and would highly recommend Miekley Tours to anyone
interested."

- Jonathan Dingeldein, Iowa, USA



Check out more testimonials here! 

Did you know ...

... that the Albanian hero helped stop the advance of the Ottoman armies against Europe?

... that Albania was declared the world's "first" atheist state in 1967?

... that 6th century gospel manuscripts were hidden for centuries?

... the gospel inspired Christians to start first Albanian school for girls?

Join us to be inspired with the stories of heroes from Albania through the rich Christian history in this country!  

COST & TIPS

The walking tour costs 3 Euro.

Optional tips will be collected at the end of the tour. Tip amounts have ranged from 5 Euro to 40 Euro per person.

Advanced reservation is recommended. 

ITINERARY

We will go inside two churches on this tour.

1. National Opera House

- From early Christian church history to iron-clad communist days where (almost) nobody came in or out, this is where we'll set the stage for what unfolded in Albania

2. Skanderbeg Statue

- As a young boy, Gjergj Kastriot was taken from his home and trained to fight in Ottoman wars. He was given the name Skenderbeg

- You'll hear how he deserted the Ottoman army to return to Albania 

- We'll also consider what happens when changing one's religion is more of a strategic political move than a personal conviction 

3. Et'hem Bey Mosque

- Learn about the unusual paintings on the mosque walls

- Grapple with what happened in the mosques and churches during communism

4. Italian-style Municipality Buildings 

- Architecture gurus, this is your chance to see Italian-era buildings

- You'll hear stories of how Albanians--both Christians and Muslims--saved Jewish people during WWII 

5. Orthodox Church

- Learn about the 6th-century gospels hidden for generations from Ottoman armies to Hitler's henchmen.

- Enter the largest cathedral of its kind in the Western Balkans. 

6. St. Paul's Cathedral 

- Hear the inspiring faith of what one Albanian priest did to welcome others into his parish

- Meet an Albanian hero of faith - she didn't intend to be a hero and you might be surprised she's Albanian! 

7. Pyramid

- Originally built as a shrine to the dictator during the oppressive communist regime

- Find out about what happened when Brother Andrew left Bibles during communism 

8.  Communist-era Bunker

- Hear the sad origin of one of over 300,000 bunkers designed to protect Albania from American imperialists

- Hear the story of Gjerasim Qiriazi, a gospel preacher turned educational pioneer

9.  Enver Hoxha's Villa

- Visit the former dictator's home 

- Hear incredible stories of reconciliation and forgiveness in the 30 years since 

- Dream of how Albania might be a beacon of light in the next 30 years

TESTIMONIALS

"Going around in Tirana with Albania Ventures tours gives you a great opportunity to see the city, understand the country, its history. Highly recommended."

-Gellert Horvath, Hungary

"My daughter and I experienced a fantastic  guided tour of the centre of Tirana with insightful details and stories about its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Josh and Sarah’s passion and knowledge made the tour truly memorable. I highly recommend it."

- Dan Dupree, United Kingdom

"We really enjoyed our tour with Josh and Sarah! We learned so much about Albania and its history. I truly appreciated the stories they shared and the information they provided about this beautiful country. I had just finished reading the book Free by Lea Ypi before my tour, and found this tour helped me to gain an even better understanding of some of the complexities of Albania’s past. I highly recommend Albanian Ventures to anyone visiting Albania!"

- Noelle Slagel, South Carolina, USA

"I really loved how Sarah and Josh made the history of Albania come alive."

Charles Parton, Ohio, USA



"We learned so much about Albania’s rich history and culture and would highly recommend Albania Venture tours to anyone interested."

- Jonathan Dingeldein, Iowa, USA



Check out more testimonials here! 

Have you tasted...

.... steaming hot oven-baked pastries called "byrek"

... the best coffee in Europe

... "Petulla" a traditional Albanian breakfast food

Did you know ...

... that Albanian heroes helped stop the advance of the Ottoman armies against Europe?

... that Albania was declared the world's "first" atheist state in 1967?

... what about when sacred writings were found in the university during communism? 

Join us at Albania Ventures to be inspired with the stories of heroes from Albania!  

In this 4-hour walking tour, you will :

• Visit the Bunk'art 2 museum
• Taste some local food and drink favorites
• Hear incredible stories of heroes throughout Albania's history
• Enjoy a walk through the picturesque boulevard of Tirana

Advanced reservation is required.

COST & TIPS 

What's included in the 50 Euro cost?

- All food and drinks

- Bunk'art 2 museum entrance

- Visit to Orthodox Cathedral

- Guided historical walking tour through Tirana

What's not included? 

Tips are not included in the cost. Optional tips will be collected at the end of the tour.

MINIMUM PARTICIPANT NUMBER

There is a minimum number of four participants required for this tour. If you register with the less than four participants, you will be notified if the tour is canceled. 

ITINERARY

1. New Market Breakfast

- Enjoy "Petulla," Albanian-style donuts, with honey.

- Petulla is not gluten free, but the coffee everywhere is great!

2. National Opera House

- From early Christian church history to iron-clad communist days where (almost) nobody came in or out

- Hear about one Albanian singer who went to Vienna and lived to tell an unbelievable story

3. Skanderbeg Statue

- As a young boy, Skenderbeg was forced to fight in Ottoman wars

- What happened when deserting the army and he returned home?

4. Et'hem Bey Mosque

- Learn about the unusual paintings on the mosque walls

- Grapple with what happened in the mosques during communism

5. Bunkart

- A relic from the dark period of communism

- This museum tells how imprisonment and death were used to terrorize people 

- We will enter the museum and have time for tour guests to explore at their own pace

6. Italian-style Municipality Buildings 

- Architecture gurus, this is your moment!

7. Orthodox Church

- Learn about the 6th-century gospels hidden for generations from Ottoman armies to Hitler's henchmen.

8. Pyramid

- Originally built as a shrine to the dictator during the oppressive communist regime

9.  Communist-era Bunker

- Step inside a bunker designed to withstand tank artillery 

10.  Enver Hoxha's Villa

- Visit the former dictator's home

- Hear about his rise to power and reign of terror 

11. Byrek & Raki 

- Enjoy a delicious oven-baked pastry filled with spinach, cheese and meat or tomatoes 

- Finish it off with a sip of "Raki," made from distilled grapes or other fruit.

TESTIMONIALS

"Great tour, learned a lot!"

-Nick Poss, Oklahoma, USA

"The ghost of Albania past is still hunting the present. For many the only way to end the suffering is to leave the country. At the same time Albania today has become a global hotspot for tourism. How is this possible? The Albania Ventures tour is a good place to start to find your answers. Josh and his team boldly leads you to the contradiction that is Albania with all of it's wonders , beauty , struggles and challenges. The tour is a must for anyone visiting Albania."

- D.C. Chang, USA

"I really loved how Sarah and Josh made the history of Albania come alive."

Charles Parton, Ohio, USA

"My daughter and I experienced a fantastic  guided tour of the centre of Tirana with insightful details and stories about its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Josh and Sarah’s passion and knowledge made the tour truly memorable. I highly recommend it."

- Dan Dupree, United Kingdom

"Josh and Sarah’s knowledge of Albanian history has enriched my cultural understanding. I would highly recommend this tour to folks visiting for the first time and to those who have been in Albania for a long time!"

- Mandy Biles, Texas, USA

"It was the perfect way to spend a sunny
afternoon in Tirana. Highly recommend for couples, solo travelers, friend
groups and travelers of all ages."

- Kelsey Kay Love



"We learned so much about Albania’s rich history and culture and would highly recommend Albania Venture tours to anyone interested."

- Jonathan Dingeldein, Iowa, USA



Check out more testimonials here! 

Did you know that some refer to themselves as "atheist" Christians? 

Did you know that Muslims in Albania protected Jewish people in WWII?

Did you know that Albania has been invaded by larger foreign powers?

In the US, people often think of religion as personal choice.

Historically in Albania, religion is more connected with traditions, family and history, 

On this tour, we'll explore the religious dynamics in the life of Albania's national hero. 

Skenderbeg was:

• was born into a Catholic family
• forcibly converted to Islam as a child
• returned to Albania when he deserted the Ottoman army.

Join us to learn more about him and other key aspects of religion in Albania. 

COST & TIPS

This walking costs 10 Euro, and this will be collected at the beginning of the tour. 

Optional tips will be collected at the end of the tour. People have given tips from 5 Euro to 40 Euro. Our guides appreciate any tip amount. 

Advanced reservation is recommended.

ITINERARY

1. Skanderbeg Statue

- Skenderbeg fought in Ottoman wars

-  He deserted the army and returned home

- What happens when changing religions is more a strategic political move than personal conviction 

2. Et'hem Bey Mosque

- Learn about the unusual paintings on the mosque walls 

- And about the unique expression of Islam in Albania

3. Municipality 

- how and why Muslim Albanians protected Jewish people in WWII

4. Orthodox Church

- About 6th-century gospels hidden for generations

- Extraordinary stories of unity across religious boundaries 

5. Catholic Church

- We'll consider aspects of tradition historically and as it related to today

- Hear stories of Albanians such as Mother Theresa 

6.  Pyramid 

-  Built as a shrine to the former dictator 

- Learn what happened when Albania was declared an "atheist" state

- Learn about Protestant figures and the Evangelical movement

- Reflect on current challenges with religion, tolerance and morality

TESTIMONIALS

"Albania has a very complicated history. The ghost of Albania past is still haunting the present, and for many the only way to end the suffering is to leave the country. At the same time Albania today has become a global hotspot for tourism. How is this possible? The Albania Ventures tour is a good place to start to find your answers. Josh and his team boldly leads you to the contradiction that is Albania with all of it's wonders, beauty, struggles and challenges . The tour is a must for anyone visiting Albania."

- D.C. Chang, USA

"The Albania Ventures tour was amazing."

-Elliot Bender, Arkansas, USA


"We especially enjoyed hearing about life in Albania during communism! Some of the stories were surprising! It gives a whole new perspective when talking with the locals to know some of the things they've lived through. The tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. We have recommended all our friends in Tirana to take this tour!"

Sarah Parton, Ohio, USA

"We learned so much about Albania’s rich history and culture and would highly recommend Albania Venture tours to anyone interested."

- Jonathan Dingeldein, Iowa, USA

"My daughter and I experienced a fantastic  guided tour of the centre of Tirana with insightful
details and stories about its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Josh and Sarah’s passion and knowledge made the tour truly memorable. I highly recommend it."

- Dan Dupree, United Kingdom

Check out more testimonials here! 

Have you tasted...

.... steaming hot oven-baked pastries called "byrek"

... the best coffee in Europe

... "Petulla" a traditional Albanian breakfast food

Experience the culture, people and history of Albania through food!

On this 4-hour walking tour, you will:

• Taste some amazing local food and savor traditional drinks at multiple restaurants
• Hear incredible stories of heroes throughout Albania's history
• Learn about Albanian culture through food, drink and hospitality
• Enjoy a walk through the picturesque streets of Tirana

COST & TIPS

The cost of this tour is 40 Euro/person.

Optional tips may also be given to the guide at the end of the tour. 

Advanced reservation is required.

ITINERARY

1. New Market Breakfast

- Enjoy "Petulla," Albanian-style donuts, with honey.

- Savor the luscious fruit (whatever is in season)

2. National Opera House & Skenderbeg Square

- Learn about music and entertainment during iron-clad communist days 

- Hear about one Albanian singer who went to Vienna and lived to tell an unbelievable story

- Learn about ancient hospitality customs and how they impact people today

3. Tirana Castle 

- Stop for a coffee at the Byzantine-era Tirana castle

- Learn about cafe culture (including business meetings and dating)

4. Korca Specialty  

- Enjoy a delicious meatball sandwich (don't eat too much since the real lunch is coming!)

- Taste local beer and try a sip of "Raki," which is made from distilled grapes or other fruit.

5. Turkish Delight

- Do you what it means for a couple to serve Turkish delight? 

- Find out and taste it at one of Tirana's top sweet stores 

6. New Market Shopping

- Take a stroll through the new market to see some of the best local dairy, meat and vegatables. 

7.  Traditional Albanian Lunch 

- From stuffed peppers to a yogurt-based casserole, enjoy one of the best meals in town!

- Learn where you can come back for traditional folk dancing

TESTIMONIALS

"My daughter and I experienced a fantastic  guided tour of the centre of Tirana with insightful details and stories about its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Josh and Sarah’s passion and knowledge made the tour truly memorable. I highly recommend it."

- Dan Dupree, United Kingdom

"Great tour, full of history, information and nice spots! Recommended!"

- Luana Lima, Brazil 

"Going around in Tirana with Albania Ventures gives you great opportunity to see the city, understand the country, its history. Highly recommended."

- Gellert Horvath, Hungary

"I really loved how Sarah and Josh made the history of Albania come alive."

- Charles Parton, Ohio, USA

"It was the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon in Tirana. Highly recommend for couples, solo travelers, friend groups and travelers of all ages."

- Kelsey Kay Love, USA

Did you know ...

Did you know that Albanian people are some of the most hospitable people in the world?

Did you know that Albania was declared the world's "first" atheist state in 1967?

Did you know what happened to the imams and priests?

What about when sacred writings were found at a university during communism? 

Join us at Albania Ventures for a 90-minute historical walking tour.   

On this tour, you will:

• Be inspired by stories of Albania heroes
• Enjoy a walk through the picturesque boulevards of Tirana
• See the Et'hem Bey Mosque, an Orthodox cathedral and other key historical sites.

COST & TIPS

Tips: The walking tour is free. Optional tips will be collected at the end of the tour. People have tipped from 5 to 40 Euro/person. Any guests are welcome and any amount is appreciated.

This walking tour does not require advance reservation but if fully booked, preference will be given to those that have completed the booking procedures.

ITINERARY

• National Opera House
• Skanderbeg Statue
• Et'hem Bey Mosque
• Italian-style Municipality Buildings
• Eastern Orthodox Church
• Pyramid
• Prime Minister’s Office
• Communist-era Bunker
• Former Dictator Enver Hoxha’s Villa

TESTIMONIALS

"My daughter and I experienced a fantastic  guided tour of the centre of Tirana with insightful details and stories about its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Josh and Sarah’s passion and knowledge made the tour truly memorable. I highly recommend it."

- Dan Dupree, United Kingdom

"Great tour, full of history, information and nice spots! Recommended!"

- Luana Lima, Brazil 

"Going around in Tirana with Albania Ventures gives you great opportunity to see the city, understand the country, its history. Highly recommended."

- Gellert Horvath, Hungary

"I really loved how Sarah and Josh made the history of Albania come alive."

Charles Parton, Ohio, USA

"It was the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon in Tirana. Highly recommend for couples, solo travelers, friend
groups and travelers of all ages."

- Kelsey Kay Love


"I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the history of Albania via walking from one notable city centre Tirana building to another. Both Sarah and Josh are enthusiastic, well prepared and knowledgeable guides. I would highly recommend Albania Ventures Tours to anyone interested."

- Neil Harvey, Manchester, UK



Check out more testimonials here! 

Did you know ...

Did you know that Albanian people are some of the most hospitable people in the world?

Did you know that Albania was declared the world's "first" atheist state in 1967?

Did you know what happened to the imams and priests?

What about when sacred writings were found at a university during communism? 

Join us at Albania Ventures for a 60-minute historical walking tour.   

On this tour, you will:

• Be inspired by stories of Albania heroes
• Enjoy a walk through the picturesque boulevards of Tirana
• See the Et'hem Bey Mosque, an Orthodox cathedral and other key historical sites.

COST & TIPS

Tips: The walking tour is free. Optional tips will be collected at the end of the tour. People have tipped from 5 to 40 Euro/person. Any guests are welcome and any amount is appreciated.

This walking tour does not require advance reservation but if fully booked, preference will be given to those that have completed the booking procedures.

ITINERARY

• National Opera House
• Skanderbeg Statue
• Et'hem Bey Mosque
• Italian-style Municipality Buildings
• Pyramid
  
• Communist-era Bunker
  
• Former Dictator Enver Hoxha’s Villa

TESTIMONIALS

"My daughter and I experienced a fantastic  guided tour of the centre of Tirana with insightful details and stories about its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. Josh and Sarah’s passion and knowledge made the tour truly memorable. I highly recommend it."

- Dan Dupree, United Kingdom

"Great tour, full of history, information and nice spots! Recommended!"

- Luana Lima, Brazil 

"Going around in Tirana with Albania Ventures gives you great opportunity to see the city, understand the country, its history. Highly recommended."

- Gellert Horvath, Hungary

"I really loved how Sarah and Josh made the history of Albania come alive."

Charles Parton, Ohio, USA

"It was the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon in Tirana. Highly recommend for couples, solo travelers, friend
groups and travelers of all ages."

- Kelsey Kay Love


"I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the history of Albania via walking from one notable city centre Tirana building to another. Both Sarah and Josh are enthusiastic, well prepared and knowledgeable guides. I would highly recommend Albania Ventures Tours to anyone interested."

- Neil Harvey, Manchester, UK



Check out more testimonials here!