Durres, Vlore Beach & Zvernec Island with Private Tour Guide and Private Car

Durrës Beach - After leaving Tirana, the first stop is for a brief coffee break in Durres. Known as one of Albania’s most renowned seaside cities, Durres is conveniently located just 45 minutes from the capital, Tirana. Enjoy a coffee at a café with a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea. The tour includes a 30-minute visit to the Roman Amphitheater of Durres and the Venetian Tower.

Durres Amphitheatre - Constructed in the 2nd century AD, the Roman Amphitheater of Durres was part of the Roman Empire when the city was known as “Dyrrachium.” Under Emperor Trajan’s rule, Rome was thriving. This amphitheater hosted gladiator events and other spectacles, attracting citizens, travelers, and merchants. It could accommodate around 15,000 to 18,000 spectators and was rediscovered in 1966. Visitors can walk along the pathway above the theater for a view of the arena.

Durres Castle - The Venetian Tower is a significant remnant of the former Durres Castle, initially built in the 5th century by Byzantine Emperor Anastasius. The Venetians expanded the castle in the 15th century when Durres was under the Republic of Venice. Today, only the tower and one ancient wall remain.

Apollonia Archaeological Park - Located in central Albania, Apollonia was a significant Greek city founded in 588 BC by colonists from Corfu and Corinth. It flourished during the Roman period, becoming an important economic and trade center in the 4th century AD. Known for its school of philosophy, Cicero described Apollonia as “a great and important city.” It was a key gateway to the Via Egnatia, a Roman trade route through the Balkans. Rediscovered in the early 19th century, the park is set on a hilly plateau surrounded by serene nature.

Vlore Beach - After exploring Durres, the journey continues south to Vlore, a bustling coastal city and the starting point of the Albanian Riviera. Built around a large horseshoe bay, Vlore features the popular Lungomare promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, clubs, coffee houses, and bars.

Zvërnec Islands - Following time at Vlore Beach, a 30-minute stop at Zvernec Island is planned. Located in the Narta Lagoon, a long bridge connects the mainland to Zvernec Island, where visitors can explore the quaint Zvernec Monastery. The island offers a picturesque setting for photography.

Driving along the Albanian Riviera, including Llogara Pass, Dhermi Beach, Jale, Borsh, Porto Palermo, Saranda, Ksamil

Llogara Pass - From Vlore, the drive continues along the coastal road towards Saranda, with a stop at the Llogara Pass. This mountain pass, the highest point on the coastal road at 1027 meters, offers a stunning viewpoint for photographs. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of Palase Beach, Dhermi Village, and the Ionian Sea.

After visiting Llogara Pass, the journey descends along winding roads to the Albanian Riviera’s most beautiful beaches, featuring Mediterranean villages, historical castles, Orthodox churches, white beaches, hidden caves, and olive trees.

Dhermi Beach - Dhermi Beach, a renowned spot in the Albanian Riviera, is a charming village with hillside houses and an extensive beach. Popular in summer for its lively atmosphere, it’s an ideal place to relax and swim before continuing the tour.

Jale Beach - Jale Beach, a small village in the heart of the Albanian Riviera, is famous for its crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by hills, it offers a quieter experience. Visitors have free time to explore the beach.

Himare - Himare, a larger village in the Albanian Riviera, features a traditional hillside village with views of the beach and sea. A short walking tour of the old village showcases traditional hillside houses and offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea.

Porto Palermo Castle - Porto Palermo, a large blue bay, is home to the Castle of Ali Pasha. This triangular fortress on a small island in the bay offers picturesque views from its rooftop. Although often attributed to Ali Pasha, the castle was actually built by the Venetians, sharing a design with the Venetian castle in Butrint. The history was likely altered during the communist era to align with nationalist ideas. During communism, the castle served as a Soviet submarine base.

Borsh Beach - Borsh Beach is notable for its impressive length. Visitors can choose to stay near others by the restaurants or find solitude along the beach. The water is perfectly clear and blue, and a good restaurant is available.

Saranda - Saranda, a lively coastal city near the Greek border, is often referred to as “the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera.” The city offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. In the evening, the city lights up, and visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, with free time to explore.

Ksamil Beach - Ksamil Beach, described as “the pearl of the Albanian Riviera,” is a stunning beach in southern Albania. With its white sand and bright green, clear waters, it’s considered the country’s most beautiful beach. Four small islands near the beach, including the famous twin islands connected by a narrow strip of land, offer opportunities for exploration. Visitors can swim to the nearest island or rent a boat or kayak to reach the others.

Lekuresi Castle and Butrint UNESCO Park with Private Tour Guide and Private Car

Lekuresi Castle - Overlooking Saranda, Lekuresi Castle is a historic 16th-century fortress from the Ottoman period. Strategically positioned to control land and sea routes, it offers panoramic views of Corfu and the Ionian Sea, especially at sunset. Despite being partly in ruins, it remains a significant symbol of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Butrint National Park - Butrint, Albania’s most impressive UNESCO Heritage site, was historically a Greek city, a Roman city, and a bishopric. Its unique blend of archaeological ruins, surrounded by water and nature, creates a stunning setting.

Ksamil Islands - Ksamil Beach, known as “the pearl of the Albanian Riviera,” is a paradise-like destination in southern Albania. With its pristine white sand and bright green, clear waters, it’s the country’s most beautiful beach. Four small islands near the beach, including the famous twin islands connected by a narrow strip of land, offer exploration opportunities. Visitors can swim to the nearest island or rent a boat or kayak to reach the others.

The Blue Eye of Albania & Gjirokaster UNESCO sight with Private Tour Guide and Private Car

The Blue Eye - The Blue Eye of Albania is a breathtaking natural freshwater spring. Its vibrant blue water, resembling a human eye, is a captivating sight. The spring’s dark underwater cave forms the “pupil,” while the bright blue water forms the “iris.” Adventurous visitors can dive into the spring, which is over 50 meters deep, though the water remains icy cold year-round.

Gjirokaster - Gjirokaster, a UNESCO heritage city, offers a glimpse into life during the Turkish Ottoman Empire. Known as the “stone city,” it features typical stone houses and cobblestone streets. As a “museum city,” Gjirokaster is filled with beautiful historical buildings, making it a delightful place to explore.

Gjirokaster Castle - Perched atop a hill, Gjirokaster Castle offers spectacular views of the historical city and its traditional stone houses. As one of the largest hilltop castles in the Balkans, it dominates the city. Originally built in the 12th century by the Byzantine government, it was later renovated during the Byzantine, Ottoman, and King Zog’s rule. From 1930, it served as a prison for government dissenters.

Gjirokastra Bazaar - The Old Bazaar of Gjirokaster, dating back to the Middle Ages, is the city’s traditional marketplace. It features a variety of craftsmen, souvenir shops, and coffee houses. Visitors can purchase handmade wooden items, handwoven rugs, and delicate lace. The cobblestone street of the Bazaar is set on a steep hillside.

• Private transportation
• Private Tour Guide
• Entrance fees
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off

• Meals
• Excluded: Accommodation/Hotel, please book your own hotels

The Albanian Riviera is among the most stunning coastal regions in Europe. However, many travelers are still unaware of the breathtaking beaches along the Ionian Sea, which keeps the area serene and unspoiled.

During the tour, participants will visit the most beautiful beaches of the Albanian Riviera. They will explore popular attractions such as the Blue Eye of Albania and Ksamil Beach, as well as discover hidden treasures like Zvernec Island and Jala Beach. Additionally, the tour guide can tailor the experience to suit individual preferences.

Highlights
⦁ Breathtaking views along the Albanian Riviera coastline
⦁ Ample free time for swimming and sunbathing at the beaches
⦁ Excellent value tour: includes a private tour guide and entrance fees
⦁ Comfortable round-trip transportation from Tirana by private vehicle

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