Bovilla Lake and Tirana City Tour From Durres or Golem

Tirana , Albania

Bovilla Lake and Tirana City Tour From Durres or Golem

Active

(12 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the perfect mix of culture and nature on this full-day tour from Durrës or Golem. Discover Tirana’s top landmarks, including Skanderbeg Square, the Pyramid, and the vibrant Blloku district, while learning about Albania’s unique history and modern life. Then escape to the mountains for a scenic hike at Bovilla Lake, famous for its turquoise water and panoramic viewpoints. This tour combines urban exploration with breathtaking nature, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Albania in one unforgettable day.

Available options

Bovilla Lake and Tirana City Tour From Durres or Golem

Pickup included

What's included

Gamti Mountain entrance fee

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Discover Tirana’s past and present on a guided walking tour through its most iconic areas. Begin at Skanderbeg Square, the city’s main landmark, and learn how Tirana transformed from a communist capital to a vibrant modern city. Walk along the Central Boulevard, lined with government buildings and historic architecture. Visit the newly renovated Pyramid of Tirana, once dedicated to Enver Hoxha and now a symbol of Albania’s rebirth. Continue into Blloku, the former restricted area reserved only for communist leaders, today filled with cafés, street art, and lively urban life. See Enver Hoxha’s former villa from the outside and hear stories about the regime and daily life under dictatorship. Finish near Air Albania Stadium, a modern hub that represents the new face of Albania. This tour covers history, culture, architecture, and local insights—perfect for first-time visitors who want to understand Tirana in just a few hours.

Travel for 45minutes to Lake Bovilla. The lake provides a beautiful natural setting for recreational activities such as picnicking and hiking. Additionally, the area surrounding the lake is known for its scenic beauty, making it a favorite spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.

We will continue our tour with hiking the Gamti Mountain. Mali i Gamtit is part of the Dajti Mountain range, which is located near Tirana, the capital city of Albania. It's a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering beautiful scenery and various trails for outdoor activities. The area is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to explore.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The tour total duration includes travel time

About Tirana

Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, is a city where Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences blend to create a unique urban tapestry. Known for its colorful buildings, lively cafes, and rich history, Tirana offers a dynamic mix of old and new that captivates visitors.

Top Attractions

Bunk'Art 2

A Cold War-era bunker turned museum, Bunk'Art 2 offers a fascinating look into Albania's communist past. The museum features exhibits on the history of communism, the secret police, and the Cold War.

Historical 1-2 hours €5

Blloku

Blloku is Tirana's most vibrant district, known for its lively nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. Once the exclusive residential area of communist leaders, it has transformed into the city's entertainment hub.

Entertainment Evening or full day Free to explore, varies by venue

Dajti National Park

Dajti National Park offers stunning views of Tirana and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike, enjoy nature, or take the cable car for panoramic views.

Nature Half day or full day €5 for cable car, free for hiking

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb and rice, topped with a yogurt and egg sauce.

Main Dish Contains dairy and meat

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, baked until golden and flaky.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Fërgesë

A hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Dajti National Park Mountain biking in the surrounding hills Paragliding near Tirana Visiting Blloku for cafes and people-watching Enjoying a spa day at a local wellness center Relaxing at a traditional hammam (Turkish bath) Exploring Bunk'Art 2 and other museums Attending a performance at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring Tirana, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. The city is in full bloom during spring, while autumn provides a warm, pleasant climate.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Italian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tirana is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas.

Getting there

By air

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza • 20 km from city center

By bus

Tirana Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Tirana. The system is affordable and covers most major areas, though it can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: TaksiTirana, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Blloku Pazari i Ri Kamza

Day trips

Berat

120 km from Tirana • Full day

Berat, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Windows,' is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore Ottoman-era houses, churches, and the Berat Castle.

Durrës

35 km from Tirana • Half day or full day

Durrës is Albania's largest beach resort, offering a mix of relaxation and history. Visitors can enjoy the beach, explore the Roman amphitheater, and visit the Archaeological Museum.

Krujë

30 km from Tirana • Half day or full day

Krujë is a historic town known for its medieval castle, bazaar, and the Ethnographic Museum. It's a popular day trip from Tirana, offering a glimpse into Albania's medieval past.

Festivals

Tirana International Film Festival • November Tirana Jazz Festival • November Tirana Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Bunk'Art 2 for a fascinating look into Albania's communist past.
Explore the vibrant Blloku district for nightlife, dining, and shopping.
Take a day trip to Berat or Durrës for a mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation.
Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek at traditional restaurants and cafes.
Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and reduce your carbon footprint.