Durrës, Vlorë Beach & Zvërnec Island with Private Tour Guide and Private Car

Durrës Beach - After leaving Tirana, the tour makes a brief coffee stop in Durrës, a renowned seaside city in Albania, just 45 minutes from the capital. Enjoy a coffee at a café with a view of the Adriatic Sea. The tour includes a 30-minute visit to the Roman Amphitheater of Durrës and the Venetian Tower.

Durrës Amphitheatre - Constructed in the 2nd century AD, the Roman Amphitheater of Durrës was part of the Roman Empire when the city was known as “Dyrrachium.” Under Emperor Trajan, Rome thrived, and the amphitheater hosted gladiator events, attracting citizens, travelers, and merchants. It could accommodate 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.

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

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

Vlorë Beach - After Durrës, the tour heads south to Vlorë, a popular beachside city and the starting point of the Albanian Riviera, stretching to Saranda. Built around a horseshoe bay, Vlorë features the Lungomare promenade with shops, restaurants, clubs, and bars.

Zvërnec Islands - Following time at Vlorë beach, the tour stops for 30 minutes at Zvërnec Island in the Narta Lagoon. A long bridge connects the mainland to the island, where visitors can explore the small Zvërnec monastery and capture beautiful photos.

Driving along the Albanian Riviera, including Llogara Pass, Dhërmi Beach, Jalë, Borsh, Porto Palermo, Saranda, Ksamil

Llogara Pass - From Vlorë, the tour continues along the coastal road towards Saranda, stopping at Llogara Pass, the highest point at 1,027 meters. The pass offers a stunning viewpoint for photos, with views of Palasë Beach, Dhërmi village, and the Ionian Sea.

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

Dhërmi Beach - Dhërmi Beach, a famous spot in the Albanian Riviera, is a charming village with hillside houses and a long beach. It attracts a lively crowd in summer. Visitors can relax and swim before continuing.

Jalë Beach - Jalë Beach, a small village in the Albanian Riviera, is known for its clear water and tranquil setting, surrounded by hills. Visitors have free time to explore.

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

Porto Palermo Castle - Porto Palermo, a large bay in the Albanian Riviera, is home to the Castle of Ali Pasha, a triangular fortress on a small island. The castle offers picturesque views from the rooftop. Although often attributed to Ali Pasha, the castle was 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, it served as a Soviet submarine base.

Borsh Beach - Borsh Beach is notable for its length and clear blue water. Visitors can choose to stay near restaurants or find solitude along the beach. A good restaurant is available.

Saranda - Saranda, a lively coastal city near the Greek border, is often called “the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera.” It offers a variety of dining and entertainment options. In the evening, the city lights up, and visitors can explore the promenade.

Ksamil Beach - Ksamil Beach, described as “the pearl of the Albanian Riviera,” is a stunning beach with white sand and bright green water. Four small islands are nearby, including the famous twin islands connected by a narrow strip. Visitors can swim to the nearest island or rent a boat or kayak to explore further.

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

Lekuresi Castle - Overlooking Saranda, Lekuresi Castle is a 16th-century Ottoman fortress offering panoramic views of Corfu and the Ionian Sea. Despite being partly in ruins, it remains a significant symbol of the region’s history and culture.

Butrint National Park - Butrint, a UNESCO Heritage site, was a Greek, Roman, and Biscopic city. Its unique archaeological ruins are surrounded by water and nature, creating a beautiful setting.

Ksamil Islands - Ksamil Beach, “the pearl of the Albanian Riviera,” features white sand and bright green water. Four nearby islands, including the twin islands, offer opportunities for exploration by swimming, boat, or kayak.

The Blue Eye of Albania & Gjirokastër UNESCO site with Private Tour Guide and Private Car

The Blue Eye - The Blue Eye of Albania is a stunning natural freshwater spring with bright blue water, resembling a human eye. The spring is over 50 meters deep, and visitors can jump in, though the water is cold year-round.

Gjirokastër - Gjirokastër, a UNESCO heritage city, offers a glimpse into its Ottoman past with stone houses and cobblestone streets, earning it the nickname “stone city.” Known as a “museum city,” it features beautiful historical buildings.

Gjirokastër Castle - Perched on a hill, Gjirokastër Castle offers views of the city and its stone houses. One of the largest hilltop castles in the Balkans, it was built in the 12th century and expanded over time. It served as a prison from 1930.

Gjirokastër Bazaar - The Old Bazaar, dating back to the Middle Ages, is Gjirokastër’s traditional marketplace, featuring craftsmen, souvenir shops, and coffee houses. Visitors can find handmade items along the cobblestone street 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.