Day 1: Durres, Vlore Beach & Zvernec Island with Private Tour Guide / Private Car

Durres - 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, 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 - Apollonia, located in central Albania, was a prominent 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 large and popular coastal city. Vlore marks the beginning of the Albanian Riviera, stretching south to Saranda. The city is nestled around a horseshoe bay, featuring 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, Zvernec Island is accessible via a long bridge from the mainland. Visitors can explore the quaint Zvernec Monastery and capture beautiful photographs.

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 most picturesque beaches of the Albanian Riviera, featuring Mediterranean villages, historical castles, Orthodox churches, white beaches, hidden caves, and olive trees.

Dhermi Beach - Dhermi Beach is a renowned destination in the Albanian Riviera. This charming village boasts hillside houses and an extensive beach. During summer, it attracts a youthful crowd and offers a lively atmosphere. Visitors can relax and swim before continuing the journey.

Jale Beach - Jale Beach is a quaint beach village in the heart of the Albanian Riviera, known for its crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by hills, it is often a quieter spot. Visitors have free time to explore the beach.

Himarë - Himare is a larger village in the center of the Albanian Riviera. The traditional hillside village offers views of the beach and sea. A small walking tour of the old village showcases traditional hillside houses and provides stunning views of the Ionian Sea.

The Castle of Porto Palermo - Porto Palermo is a vast blue bay in the Albanian Riviera, 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. Historical records may have been 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 walk along the beach for solitude. The beach features clear blue water and a quality restaurant.

Saranda - Saranda is a lively coastal city in southern Albania, near the Greek border, often referred to as “the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera.” The city offers a variety of restaurants, bars, clubs, and coffee houses. In the evening, the city lights up, and visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade. Free time is available in the evening to explore Saranda.

Ksamil Beach - Ksamil Beach is a paradise-like destination in southern Albania, often called “the pearl of the Albanian Riviera.” It is considered the most beautiful beach in the country, featuring a small peninsula with pristine white sand and bright green, crystal-clear waters. Four small islands are located near the beach, with the famous twin islands connected by a narrow strip of land. Visitors can swim to the nearest island or rent a boat or kayak to explore the more distant islands.

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

Lekuresi Castle - Overlooking the coastal town of Saranda, Lekuresi Castle is a historic 16th-century fortress built during the Ottoman period. It was strategically positioned to control surrounding land and sea routes, offering views of Corfu and the Ionian Sea. Today, its stone walls and towers provide breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset, making it a popular attraction. Despite being partly in ruins, Lekuresi Castle remains a significant symbol of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Butrint National Park - Butrint is Albania’s most impressive UNESCO Heritage site. Historically, it was a Greek city, a Roman city, and a bishopric. Butrint’s unique appeal lies in its archaeological ruins, surrounded by water and nature, creating a harmonious blend of history and natural beauty.

The Blue Eye - The Blue Eye of Albania is a stunning natural freshwater spring, renowned for its vibrant blue water. This natural wonder has become a tourist attraction due to its magical blue hue, which seems almost unreal. The spring resembles a human eye, with a dark underwater cave as the pupil and bright blue water as the iris. Adventurous visitors can dive into the Blue Eye spring, which is over 50 meters deep, but should be prepared for the icy water year-round.

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

Gjirokaster Castle - Perched atop a hill, Gjirokaster Castle is a large fortress offering 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 local Byzantine government, it was renovated and expanded during the Byzantine rule, the Ottoman Empire, and King Zog’s government. From 1930 onward, it primarily 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 products. The Bazaar’s cobblestone street is set on a steep hillside.

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

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

The Albanian Riviera is among Europe’s most stunning coastal regions. Despite its breathtaking beaches along the Ionian Sea, it remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, preserving its tranquility and pristine nature.

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 in a private vehicle

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