How to Plan Your Full Day Trip to Durres, Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery

Are you planning a trip to Tirana and looking for the perfect day trip to explore the history of Albania? Look no further than the Full Day Trip to Durres, Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery. With over 2500 years of Albanian history and regional development, this tour is sure to satisfy the history buff in you. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything you need to know to plan your perfect day trip.

Experience

The Full Day Trip to Durres, Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery is an experience unlike any other. You’ll get to explore the picturesque port city of Durres, which was an integral part of the Roman Empire, and see the largest amphitheater in the Balkan Peninsula. You’ll step back in time at the Apollonia Archaeological Park and marvel at the sights of the Ardenica Monastery. And throughout it all, you’ll enjoy fantastic aerial views of Albania.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of this tour include:

– Exploring the historic port city of Durres, founded around the 7th century BC.
– Visiting the Amphitheatre of Durrës, which once had a capacity for 20,000 people and is considered the largest amphitheater in the Balkan Peninsula.
– Enjoying a quick coffee break by Durres’ Marina or the city’s contemporary modern cent
– Stepping back in time at the Apollonia Archaeological Park.
– Marveling at the sights of the Ardenica Monastery.

Full Description

The tour begins with a drive towards Albania’s second-largest town, the port city of Durres. Founded around the 7th century BC, Durres became an integral part of the Roman Empire, so much so that the Via Egnatia initiated in this city. After exploring the town, we will visit its most priced attraction, the Amphitheatre of Durrës, which once had a capacity for 20,000 people and is considered the largest amphitheater in the Balkan Peninsula. Then, we will enjoy a quick coffee break by Durres’ Marina or the city’s contemporary modern cent.

Our next stop is the Apollonia Archaeological Park, where you’ll step back in time and explore Albanian history. Apollonia is one of the most significant ancient cities in Albania, which once had over 60,000 inhabitants. It was founded in the 7th century BC as a Greek colony on the Illyrian coast. The city flourished during the 4th and 3rd centuries BC when it had its own independent currency and was a center of trade and culture in the region.

After exploring the Apollonia Archaeological Park, we’ll continue our journey to the Ardenica Monastery. The monastery is located in the hills near the town of Fier and is a significant site for Orthodox Christians. It dates back to the 13th century and is home to many colorful frescoes and icons.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy fantastic aerial views of Albania and learn more about its rich history and culture.

Booking the Tour

Ready to book your Full Day Trip to Durres, Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery? Visit the GetYourGuide booking page to secure your spot today.

Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water. We hope you have a great time on your tour of Albania!

An Insider’s Guide to Durres, Albania

Durres is a seaside city located on the Adriatic coast of Albania. It’s one of the oldest cities in Albania with a history dating back to the 7th century BC. Durres is a beautiful city offering a mix of old and new with its ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and modern amenities. In this guide, we’ll explore how to plan your full-day trip to Durres, Apollonia, and Ardenica Monastery, and uncover some of the hidden gems of Durres.

Local Attractions

Durres is filled with historical sites that are worth visiting. Start with Durres Castle, located in the heart of town, it’s an ancient fortress dating back to the 5th century. Another popular attraction is the Roman Amphitheatre, which was built in the 2nd century AD. It was used for gladiatorial games, and it had seats for more than 15,000 spectators. The Archaeological Museum of Durres is another must-visit attraction, displaying a collection of artifacts from ancient Albania. Lastly, don’t forget to visit the Venetian Tower – made of stone and brick, the tower is said to date back to the 15th century.

Dining Spots

Durres has a variety of dining options, from seafood restaurants to traditional Albanian eateries. Go to the Port of Durres for a fresh seafood dinner where you can enjoy views of the sea while having a meal. The classic Albanian dish is Tave Kosi, a lamb and yogurt bake, which can be found at most restaurants in Albania. Another dish you shouldn’t miss is byrek, which is a savory pastry made with cheese and spinach. Go to Kolonat if you’re looking for a quick bite, or if you’re looking for something more upscale, head to the AquaMarine Restaurant in the Grand Park Hotel.

Cultural Experiences

If you’re interested in learning more about Albanian culture, there are several museums and cultural centers worth visiting. The Ethnographic Museum, located in the house of a wealthy 19th-century family, will give you a peek into the lifestyle of the upper class during that time period. You can also visit The House of Leaves, which is a museum dedicated to the history of the Albanian secret police during communism. Lastly, there’s the Aleksander Moisiu Theatre, which is named after one of Albania’s most famous actors. The theatre puts on performances all year round, so check if there’s anything scheduled during your visit.

Local History

Durres has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The city was founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century BC and has since been occupied by various civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottoman Empire. When you’re exploring the city, there’s a lot of history to discover. Stroll through the Old Town to see the traditional Ottoman houses, or wander through the Archaeological Park to see the ruins of the Roman city. The great part about Durres is that you can experience the city’s history firsthand by visiting the ancient sites.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, there are some lesser known attractions worth visiting. First up is the Durres Flee Market – it’s open on Sundays and is an excellent place to find souvenirs, antiques, and local products. Another unique experience is visiting the Bektashi World Center, a Sufi order that promotes peace and tolerance. The center is located in the scenic village of Kryegjate, which is about an hour’s drive away from Durres. Finally, if you’re a nature lover, you can visit the Divjake-Karavasta National Park, which is located near the city. The park has beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and wetlands, and is home to more than 220 bird species.

Durres is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax on the beach, this charming city on the Adriatic coast of Albania is well worth a visit. Make sure to plan your day trip to Durres, Apollonia, and Ardenica Monastery in advance so you don’t miss out on all the wonderful experiences the city has to offer.