Vlora
— Tour overview
Vlora - The city on the edge of the Adriatic and Ionian Sea
The city of Vlora is one of the most beautiful cities of Albania, where the blueness of the sea, the beauty of nature, with the mountain and rocky slopes of the rugged coast of the south of the country, are combined.
Considered the pearl of Albanian tourism, Vlora is the city where both Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea melt, right in the Karaburun Peninsula.
In antiquity Vlora was known as Aulona, and is mentioned by many foreign travelers and chroniclers, as one of the main cities of Southern Illyria, which flourished after the fall of Apollonia and Orik. The importance of Vlora grew even further as the independence of Albania was declared in this city, by the Ottoman Empire, in 1912.
Among the most visited attractions within the city is the historic Museum of Independence, the sea terrace of Teqea of Kuzum Baba, located on a hill above the city, Murade mosque, near Vlora -Skelë boulevard, in the archaeological area near Flag Square, The Jewish Street etc.
The Narte Lagoon represents one of the largest and most important lagoons of Albania, which is located at the southern end of the coastal Plains.
The Monastery of Saint Mary on the island of Zvërnec constitutes an interesting pool of attraction for visitors and can be accessed through a narrow wooden bridge; The Castle of Canina, in the Southeastern part of the city, from which you can admire the bay of Vlora, the coastal plain and the lower valley of Shushica river.
The coasts of Vlora are the enchanting postcard of the Albanian Riviera, which begins with the descent of the Llogara Neck and follows with the magical panorama of the broken line of the Ionian Riviera, which creates bays, islands, peninsulas, and numerous beaches, one more fabulous than the other.
Considered the pearl of Albanian tourism, Vlora is the city where both Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea melt, right in the Karaburun Peninsula.
In antiquity Vlora was known as Aulona, and is mentioned by many foreign travelers and chroniclers, as one of the main cities of Southern Illyria, which flourished after the fall of Apollonia and Orik. The importance of Vlora grew even further as the independence of Albania was declared in this city, by the Ottoman Empire, in 1912.
Among the most visited attractions within the city is the historic Museum of Independence, the sea terrace of Teqea of Kuzum Baba, located on a hill above the city, Murade mosque, near Vlora -Skelë boulevard, in the archaeological area near Flag Square, The Jewish Street etc.
The Narte Lagoon represents one of the largest and most important lagoons of Albania, which is located at the southern end of the coastal Plains.
The Monastery of Saint Mary on the island of Zvërnec constitutes an interesting pool of attraction for visitors and can be accessed through a narrow wooden bridge; The Castle of Canina, in the Southeastern part of the city, from which you can admire the bay of Vlora, the coastal plain and the lower valley of Shushica river.
The coasts of Vlora are the enchanting postcard of the Albanian Riviera, which begins with the descent of the Llogara Neck and follows with the magical panorama of the broken line of the Ionian Riviera, which creates bays, islands, peninsulas, and numerous beaches, one more fabulous than the other.
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Book Tour
Overview
Included
Not included
What To Expect
Overview
On the way to Vlora we will stop in Ardenica for a short visit to the famous monastery where Skanderbeg, the National Hero got married.
Once in Vlora, we will visit Zvernec and Narta Lagoon as well as the city with its historical buildings. Trying local fish gastronomy is a must in this city. After sunset, we will drive towards Tirana.
Once in Vlora, we will visit Zvernec and Narta Lagoon as well as the city with its historical buildings. Trying local fish gastronomy is a must in this city. After sunset, we will drive towards Tirana.
Included
• Transport with a/c vehicle
• City Tour
• Driver / Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• City Tour
• Driver / Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not included
• Meals and drinks
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activity costs
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activity costs
What To Expect
Discover historical Vlora on a private day trip from Tirana
Visit the famous city of Albanian Independence.
Visit monasteries.
Try the local fish gastronomy.
Visit one of Europe’s oldest cities with private car and guide.
Hear history you’d miss alone and relax with handy hotel pickup.
This tour has other surprises on the way
Visit the famous city of Albanian Independence.
Visit monasteries.
Try the local fish gastronomy.
Visit one of Europe’s oldest cities with private car and guide.
Hear history you’d miss alone and relax with handy hotel pickup.
This tour has other surprises on the way
— Book
Book Tour
— Tour overview
Berat - the city of one over one windows
Berat, known as the “City of One Over One Windows”, is a historic city in Albania, located in the heart of the country’s lush landscape. Known for its picturesque beauty and rich cultural heritage, Berat offers visitors a glimpse into Albania’s fascinating past and a taste of its warm welcome.
A 2,400-year-old city, pride of Albanian architecture, wealth of culture and symbol of religious coexistence, has been proven in the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.
The first thing you will notice in Berat is its stunning natural environment.
The city is divided into two distinct parts: Kala (old town) and Mangalem (new city). Both are set in the backdrop of the Tomorri mountains and the Osum river winds through the valley, creating a mesmerizing view.
Across the Osum River, lies the Goricë neighborhood, with its houses facing Mangalem. The Arched Bridge of Gorica, built in 1780, is a beautiful architectural monument built to connect Gorica with Mangalem. The ottoman-era white houses in the old town with their many windows create a unique architectural spectacle, which has given Berat its nickname.
Historical significance: Berat has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with influences from the Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The city is home to many historic sites, including The Castle of Berat, a castle dating back to the 4th century.
Within its walls, you can explore the Byzantine churches of St Mary and St Michael, each featuring stunning frescoes. Furthermore, the Onufri Museum, located in St. Mary’s Cathedral, displays an extraordinary collection of religious art, including works by the renowned iconographer Onufri.
The city of Berat is not only an architectural wonderland; It is also a living museum of traditional Albanian life. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, you’ll meet locals who are proud of their heritage.
A visit to Berat will surely leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this enchanting Albanian pearl.
A 2,400-year-old city, pride of Albanian architecture, wealth of culture and symbol of religious coexistence, has been proven in the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.
The first thing you will notice in Berat is its stunning natural environment.
The city is divided into two distinct parts: Kala (old town) and Mangalem (new city). Both are set in the backdrop of the Tomorri mountains and the Osum river winds through the valley, creating a mesmerizing view.
Across the Osum River, lies the Goricë neighborhood, with its houses facing Mangalem. The Arched Bridge of Gorica, built in 1780, is a beautiful architectural monument built to connect Gorica with Mangalem. The ottoman-era white houses in the old town with their many windows create a unique architectural spectacle, which has given Berat its nickname.
Historical significance: Berat has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with influences from the Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The city is home to many historic sites, including The Castle of Berat, a castle dating back to the 4th century.
Within its walls, you can explore the Byzantine churches of St Mary and St Michael, each featuring stunning frescoes. Furthermore, the Onufri Museum, located in St. Mary’s Cathedral, displays an extraordinary collection of religious art, including works by the renowned iconographer Onufri.
The city of Berat is not only an architectural wonderland; It is also a living museum of traditional Albanian life. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, you’ll meet locals who are proud of their heritage.
A visit to Berat will surely leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this enchanting Albanian pearl.
Overview
Included
Not included
What To Expect
Overview
On the way to Berat we will drive through a beautiful country side where will be sightseeing the once called STALIN city.
Here we will be acquainted with the diesel pulling pumps installed since communism times. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kala; admire architectural landmarks including Berat Castle, the Red Mosque, and St. Trinity Church; visit the Museum of Iconography and National Ethnographic Museum; get introduced with ONUFRI, the master of XVI Century; learn about Berat mythology.
Discover historical Berat on a private day trip from Tirana
Free time in Berat: explore both with and without a guide
Traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant (optional)
Great-value tour: hotel pickup and all entrance fees included
Travelling through inner Albania for more country insights.
Here we will be acquainted with the diesel pulling pumps installed since communism times. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kala; admire architectural landmarks including Berat Castle, the Red Mosque, and St. Trinity Church; visit the Museum of Iconography and National Ethnographic Museum; get introduced with ONUFRI, the master of XVI Century; learn about Berat mythology.
Discover historical Berat on a private day trip from Tirana
Free time in Berat: explore both with and without a guide
Traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant (optional)
Great-value tour: hotel pickup and all entrance fees included
Travelling through inner Albania for more country insights.
Included
• Transport with a/c vehicle
• City Tour of Berat
• Driver/ Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• City Tour of Berat
• Driver/ Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not included
• Meals and drinks
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activity costs
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activity costs
What To Expect
• National Ethnographic Museum Berat
The National Ethnographic Museum of Berat, situated within a striking, typical 18th century two-story Berat residence, is a pleasant immersion into the lifestyle traditions of this fascinating town.
The museum’s pavilions are nicely organized within the two stories of the former residence.
The nice journey along the pavilions reveals an accurate panorama of the traditions and daily conditions of the lives of Berat’s prominent families.
• National Iconographic Museum Onufri
Built in 1797, this cathedral is situated at the highest altitude of the Berat Castle, though it can be a little difficult to find. While the Ottomans were Muslim, they allowed Christians to continue practicing their faith and build churches, though not very visibly.
This cathedral is one of them, a typical church of three naves and two rows of tall stone columns. Inside, you initially find yourself facing the Holy Altar with masterful engravings and paintings of Bible scenes in the incredibly lavish and ornate iconostasis of the Cathedral – the only one to have survived from the former metropolitan complex.
The iconostasis, created in 1807, the most eye-catching part of the interior of the church, is considered one of the greatest accomplishments of the 19th-century Albanian wood-carving masters. It stretches along the entire interior of the cathedral and includes twelve royal icons as well as twenty-seven small festive icons. The royal icons, objects of reverence and worship.
• Holy Trinity Church The Holy Trinity Church is a medieval Byzantine church which stands on a hill in the city of Berat in the Kalaja district of Southern Albania.
The National Ethnographic Museum of Berat, situated within a striking, typical 18th century two-story Berat residence, is a pleasant immersion into the lifestyle traditions of this fascinating town.
The museum’s pavilions are nicely organized within the two stories of the former residence.
The nice journey along the pavilions reveals an accurate panorama of the traditions and daily conditions of the lives of Berat’s prominent families.
• National Iconographic Museum Onufri
Built in 1797, this cathedral is situated at the highest altitude of the Berat Castle, though it can be a little difficult to find. While the Ottomans were Muslim, they allowed Christians to continue practicing their faith and build churches, though not very visibly.
This cathedral is one of them, a typical church of three naves and two rows of tall stone columns. Inside, you initially find yourself facing the Holy Altar with masterful engravings and paintings of Bible scenes in the incredibly lavish and ornate iconostasis of the Cathedral – the only one to have survived from the former metropolitan complex.
The iconostasis, created in 1807, the most eye-catching part of the interior of the church, is considered one of the greatest accomplishments of the 19th-century Albanian wood-carving masters. It stretches along the entire interior of the cathedral and includes twelve royal icons as well as twenty-seven small festive icons. The royal icons, objects of reverence and worship.
• Holy Trinity Church The Holy Trinity Church is a medieval Byzantine church which stands on a hill in the city of Berat in the Kalaja district of Southern Albania.