UNESCO Heritage Tour: Ancient Lin & Royal Tombs of Selca

Pogradec , Albania

UNESCO Heritage Tour: Ancient Lin & Royal Tombs of Selca

Active

(1 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the ancient stilt houses of Lin — unique wooden settlements that tell tales of a bygone era.
Immerse yourself in local traditions in the charming village of Lin.
Walk through the stunning Basilica and Mosaic — marvels of early Christian art and architecture.
Experience the mysterious communist-era bunker perched on the peninsula.
Drive through the historic Mokra region via Qaf Thane and pause at the legendary Goliku Bridge, part of Via Egnatia.
End your journey at the Royal Tombs of Selca, monumental resting places of Illyrian royalty from ancient Pelion — a site of incredible cultural heritage.
On the way back, surprise awaits at the abandoned Communist nickel factory in Gur i Kuq.

This is not just a tour — it’s a voyage through time and culture. Ready to explore? Book your spot now!

Available options

UNESCO Heritage Tour: Ancient Lin & Royal Tombs of Selca

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation amenities with my car offer a comfortable and safe driving experience, including clean space, air conditioning, and flexible stops on demand, ensuring convenience and reliability.

Detailed itinerary

Our journey begins in Pogradec, driving along the stunning lakeside road that traces the Albanian shore of Lake Ohrid—an area protected by UNESCO for its exceptional natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Our first optional stop is at the prehistoric pile dwellings near Lin,dating back to around 8200 years ago. These wooden structures, built on stilts above the water, reveal the lifestyle of Neolithic lake communities.
We then continue to the quaint village of Lin, nestled on a small peninsula. Known for its picturesque setting and peaceful rhythm, Lin is also an archaeological treasure. A short hike leads to the Early Christian Basilica on the hilltop, featuring well-preserved 6th-century floor mosaics with floral and geometric motifs.
For those eager to explore more, an optional trail leads to the cape’s summit, where a Cold War-era bunker—once converted into a secret chapel—overlooks the lake.
The tour concludes inland at the Royal Tombs of Selca, part of the Illyrian city of Pelion.

.One of the highlights of our journey through the Mokra region is the stop at Golik Bridge, a historic stone bridge nestled in a serene mountain landscape. Believed to date back to the Ottoman period, this arched structure was once a vital crossing point for caravans and travelers navigating the ancient trade routes that connected the Albanian highlands to the lowlands. Its architecture reflects traditional stone masonry techniques, blending harmoniously with the surrounding nature. Today, the bridge stands as a quiet testament to centuries of movement, commerce, and cultural exchange. The peaceful setting invites visitors to pause, admire the craftsmanship, and enjoy the sound of the flowing stream below.

At the Royal Tombs of Selca, visitors will explore a remarkable archaeological site featuring monumental rock-cut tombs dating back to the 4th–3rd centuries BCE. These tombs are believed to be the final resting places of Illyrian rulers from the ancient Pelion kingdom. The site showcases intricate architectural details, such as Ionic columns and carefully carved facades, reflecting the artistic and cultural achievements of the Illyrian civilization. Nestled in a serene natural setting, the tombs offer a unique glimpse into ancient burial practices and the rich heritage of the region, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Road Rinia Rd, in front of NERANXI store.

About Pogradec

Pogradec is a charming lakeside town in southeastern Albania, known for its stunning views of Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration.

Top Attractions

Lake Ohrid

Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse wildlife. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to explore the shoreline; activities vary in cost

Lin Village

Lin is a traditional Albanian village near Pogradec, known for its historic houses, cobblestone streets, and traditional crafts. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.

Cultural Half day Free to explore; small fees for museums and workshops

Drilon Nature Park

Drilon Nature Park is a beautiful park located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Nature Half day Free entry

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian baked dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt sauce

Dinner Contains meat and dairy

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat

Snack Vegetarian options available

Fergese e Pogradecit

A traditional dish from Pogradec made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, baked in a clay pot

Dinner Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding mountains Boating and water sports on Lake Ohrid Sunbathing and swimming at the lakeside beaches Picnicking in Drilon Nature Park Exploring historic sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Swimming, boating, and fishing in Lake Ohrid Visiting traditional Albanian villages like Lin

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the lake. The town is lively with various events and festivals.

20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F) 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Greek, Macedonian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Pogradec is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Tiranë International Airport Nënë Tereza • 130 km (81 miles) from Pogradec

By bus

Pogradec Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are the primary mode of transport within Pogradec and to nearby attractions. They are affordable and frequent.

Taxis

Available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Lakeside Area

Day trips

Ohrid, North Macedonia

50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day

Ohrid is a historic town in North Macedonia, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, historic churches, and beautiful lakeside setting.

Berat, Albania

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the 'Town of a Thousand Windows' for its Ottoman-era architecture and historic churches.

Festivals

Festival of Culture and Tourism • August Pogradec Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit the local markets for fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts
Take a boat tour on Lake Ohrid to see the town from a different perspective
Explore the historic sites and museums to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage
Enjoy a traditional Albanian meal at a local restaurant, such as Tavë Kosi or Fergese e Pogradecit
Attend a local festival or event to experience the vibrant culture and hospitality of Pogradec