Vlora, Full Day Trip From Tirana
Vlorë, AL
Highlights
- Visit the St. Mary's Monastery in Zvërnec Island
- Explore the historic city of Vlorë
- Discover the Ardenica Monastery and its rich history
- Marvel at the ruins of Apollonia Archaeological Park
- Experience the beautiful coastal scenery of Vlora
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Duration 8 hours
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Private Tour
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Tour Guide included
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Air-conditioned vehicle
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Suitable for all fitness levels
Experience the rich history and breathtaking beauty of Vlora with a full day trip from Tirana. Begin your adventure with a visit to the St. Mary's Monastery, a medieval Byzantine church located on Zvërnec Island inside the Narta Lagoon. Explore the ancient monastery and admire the stunning coastline where the Ionian Sea meets the land. Then, head to Vlora, the third most populous city in Albania. Discover its ancient origins as an Illyrian city and its role in Albania's history, including being the site where the country's Declaration of Independence was proclaimed. Finally, visit the Ardenica Monastery, built in 1282 and famed as the site of the marriage between national hero Scanderbeg and Andronika Arianiti. Conclude your day with a visit to the Apollonia Archaeological Park, an ancient Roman town that was home to a renowned school of philosophy. Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Vlora on this unforgettable day trip.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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8 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Experience the rich history and beauty of Vlora on this full-day private tour from Tirana, exploring ancient sites and stunning landscapes.
Included
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In-vehicle air conditioningAir-conditioned vehicle -
OtherTour Guide
Excluded
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LunchLunch -
OtherAll Fees and Taxes
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
The St. Mary's Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Dormition of Theotokos Mary, is a medieval Byzantine church in Zvërnec Island inside the Narta Lagoon northwest of the city of Vlorë. One of the most interesting places to visit, apart from the clean coast line where the Ionian sea touches the ground, in Zvernec tourists get fascinated by the ancient Monastery. It is a treasure of locals’ religious history which unfolds the suffering of a nation during the communism period where from 1967 until 1990 the sacred place was abandoned. Built in X century A.C, the Monastery is situated in a tiny island in front of the village and it is connected with the land by a 100 meter wood bridge. The Monastery was restored and maintained regularly after the communism fall in 1990 and now plays the role of a religious place where locals and others hold pilgrimage each August 15th of every year (the birth date of Saint Maria).
60 minutes
Vlore
Vlorë is the third most populous city of Albania. It is the capital of the surrounding Vlorë County. Located on the southeastern Adriatic Sea, it is one of the country's southernmost dominant economic and cultural centers. Vlorë was founded as an Ancient Ilirian city in the sixth century BC under the name of Aulona and has been continuously inhabited ever since. It became the seat of a bishopric. In modern times, the city served briefly as the capital of Albania. Notably, the Albanian Declaration of Independence was proclaimed here on November 28 in 1912. Culturally and economically it is one of the most significant cities of southwestern Albania. Vlorë is home to Albania's second largest port, the Port of Vlorë.
120 minutes
Ardenica Monastery is along the national road that links Lushnjë to Fier. Built by Byzantine Emperor, Andronikos II Palaiologos in 1282 after the victory against the Angevins in the Siege of Berat, the monastery is famous as the place where, in 1451, was celebrated the marriage of Scanderbeg, the national hero of Albania, with Andronika Arianiti. In 1780 the Monastery started a theological school to prepare clerics in Greek Orthodoxy. It had an important library with 32,000 volumes that got completely burned by a fire in 1932. The Church of Saint Mary within the monastery contains frescos from brothers Kostandin and Athanas Zografi, notably one of saint John Kukuzelis, born in Durrës, Albania.
60 minutes
Admission Included
Apollonia is located on the right bank of the Vjosa river. Its ruins are situated in the Fier County. Apollonia was founded in 588 BCE by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth on a site where native Illyrian tribes lived, and was perhaps the most important of the several classical towns known as Apollonia. Apollonia flourished in the Roman period and was home to a renowned school of philosophy, but began to decline in the 3rd century AD when its harbor started silting up as a result of an earthquake. It was abandoned by the end of Late Antiquity. The name of the city is mentioned among the modern bishoprics of the Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania (Apollonia and Fier). Apollonia is also a titular see of the Latin Church.
120 minutes
Admission Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap -
Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Try local seafood at a Vlora restaurant. -
Visit the beach at Zvernec for a swim.
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Bring a camera for stunning coastal views.
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Explore the vibrant local markets in Vlora.
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Sample Albanian raki, a local spirit.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Vlora, Full Day Trip From Tirana offers a fascinating journey into the rich history and natural beauty of Vlora, a port city on the Albanian coast. This modern city holds immense historical significance as it was the place where the Albanian independence from the Ottomans was declared in 1912. From ancient Byzantine monasteries to archaeological ruins, this tour provides an immersive experience that allows visitors to uncover the secrets of Vlora's past.What to expect?
During this full day trip, travelers can expect to explore the St. Mary's Monastery, a medieval Byzantine church located on Zvërnec Island. This picturesque site exudes a sense of serenity and offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. Additionally, visitors will discover the cultural and economic importance of Vlorë, the third most populous city in Albania. Its ancient Ilirian origins and role as the birthplace of the Albanian Declaration of Independence make it a fascinating destination. The tour also includes a visit to the Ardenica Monastery, where Scanderbeg, the national hero of Albania, married Andronika Arianiti. Finally, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the Apollonia Archaeological Park, a renowned site of Greek colonist origins and home to a prestigious school of philosophy.Who is this for?
This tour is suitable for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and nature lovers. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this trip offers an enriching experience for everyone. Families with older children will also appreciate the educational aspect of visiting historical sites, while adventure seekers will enjoy the beauty of the coastal landscape.Why book this?
Embark on this captivating journey to Vlora to witness the convergence of ancient history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. The St. Mary's Monastery allows visitors to immerse themselves in local religious history and witness the resilience of a nation. The vibrant city of Vlorë offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern life, all against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea. The Ardenica Monastery showcases the architectural marvels of the Byzantine era, while the Apollonia Archaeological Park takes you on a journey through time with its well-preserved ruins. By booking this tour, you will not only see the beauty of Vlora but also gain a deeper understanding of Albania's rich cultural heritage.Good to know
To make the most of this experience, it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning views. The duration of the tour is approximately eight hours, providing ample time to explore each destination. Lunch is not included, so it is advisable to bring some snacks or enjoy local cuisine at the various stops along the way. Language barriers are minimal, as English-speaking guides will accompany you throughout the journey, ensuring a smooth and informative experience.Reviews
Visitors who have embarked on this full day trip to Vlora have praised the knowledgeable guides and the immersive experience provided. They were enchanted by the tranquility of St. Mary's Monastery, fascinated by the historical significance of Vlorë, and impressed by the well-preserved ruins at the Apollonia Archaeological Park. Many reviewers expressed that this tour exceeded their expectations and highly recommended it for those seeking a deeper connection with Albania's cultural heritage. Overall, the feedback highlights the enriching nature of this tour and the opportunity to explore hidden gems in Vlora.
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