2-Day Tour: Palasë Beach, Vlorë, Apollonia & Wine Tasting

Traveling through Albania often feels like uncovering a well-kept secret, especially in the south. This 2-day tour offers a curated glimpse into some of the region’s most captivating sights, from tranquil beaches to ancient ruins and flavorful local wines. It’s a well-balanced mix designed for those who love scenic drives, cultural discoveries, and authentic tastes—all wrapped in a comfortable, private group setting.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances adventure with relaxation. You get to swim in crystal-clear waters at Palasë Beach, savor panoramic mountain views over a delicious lunch, and walk among ruins that whisper stories of bygone civilizations. The inclusion of wine tasting adds a delightful, authentic Albanian twist. One thing to consider – this tour involves some walking on uneven surfaces and includes a fair amount of driving, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule and some physical activity. Perfect for culture seekers, nature lovers, and wine enthusiasts looking for an immersive experience that’s both relaxed and enlightening.

Key Points

• Beautiful beaches and seaside relaxation at Palasë Beach
• Breathtaking mountain views from Llogara Pass and a mountain-view restaurant
• Historical exploration of Apollonia’s ancient Roman ruins and Ardenica Monastery
• Authentic Albanian cuisine paired with a variety of local wines at Albanica Winery
• Scenic coastal sunset in Durres offers a perfect end to the adventure
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles with a knowledgeable guide

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the 2-Day Albanian Adventure

This tour from Tirana is tailor-made for travelers eager to experience the essence of Southern Albania without the hassle of planning every detail. It combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and leisure time to create an insightful, balanced itinerary. Expect comfortable transportation, friendly guides speaking English, Italian, Albanian, or Arabic, and a small, private group that ensures personalized attention.

What makes this experience stand out is how it manages to pack so much into just two days, all with a pace that feels relaxed and genuine. You won’t feel rushed, but you’ll cover a good deal of ground, soaking in diverse landscapes—from coastal vistas to ancient ruins—without feeling exhausted. It’s particularly suited for those who want an authentic taste of Albania’s highlights, with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop fully.

While the tour offers tremendous value, keep in mind that it involves some walking on uneven surfaces and a fair amount of driving—so it’s best for travelers in good health and comfortable with a bit of physical activity. If you’re seeking a comprehensive intro to Southern Albania’s culture, history, and natural beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: From Tirana to Palasë Beach, Llogara Pass & Vlorë

Your day begins in Tirana with a comfortable, air-conditioned ride southward. A scenic coffee stop early on breaks up the drive and offers a chance to stretch and admire the landscape. The real highlight begins at Palasë Beach, a hidden gem along Albania’s Green Coast. Known for its turquoise waters and peaceful vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a dip, sunbathing, or relaxing at a beach bar.

Here, the reviews reflect a fondness for the beach’s tranquility. One traveler mentioned, “Palasë felt like having a private slice of paradise,” appreciating how the waters are clear enough for a refreshing swim. Expect some free time to explore, swim, and unwind, with opportunities to snap photos of the stunning coastline.

Next, the journey continues along the Llogara Pass, renowned for its dramatic scenery where mountains meet the sea. A stop at the summit provides panoramic views that make the drive worthwhile—ideal for photos and just soaking in the natural beauty. Lunch at a mountain-view restaurant offers local Albanian dishes, giving you a taste of regional flavors amid spectacular scenery.

Day 1 Evening: Vlorë and Zvernec Monastery

Arriving in Vlorë in the evening, you’ll settle into your accommodation. After a short rest, a visit to Zvernec Monastery offers a peaceful retreat on a small island accessible via a charming wooden bridge. Surrounded by tranquil waters and pine trees, it’s a place that feels almost untouched by time.

Your day ends with a relaxed dinner along the Lungomare promenade, where you can enjoy fresh seafood or other Albanian specialties, often accompanied by drinks—perfect for unwinding after a day of travel and exploration.

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Day 2: Ancient Ruins, Monasteries & Wine Tasting

Morning: Exploring Apollonia

Starting with breakfast at your hotel, you’ll head inland to Apollonia, once a thriving Greek and Roman city. Walking through the archaeological site, you’ll encounter ancient ruins, including temples, mosaics, and the on-site museum. Many visitors comment on how evocative the site is, with one saying, “Walking among the ruins felt like stepping back in time.”

The on-site monastery adds a spiritual dimension, offering quiet reflection amid history. It’s a perfect spot to appreciate Albanian heritage and the layers of civilizations that have shaped the landscape.

Midday: Ardenica Monastery

Next, the tour takes you to the Ardenica Monastery, perched on a hillside with sweeping views across the countryside. This monastery is famous for hosting the wedding of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, and it’s a site filled with architectural charm and historical significance. Expect a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of photo opportunities.

Afternoon: Winery Visit and Tasting

After soaking up some culture, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch at Albanica Winery, where authentic Albanian dishes are paired with a selection of local wines. Reviewers praise the wine tasting as a highlight, with one mentioning, “The wines were so good I bought a few bottles to take home.” You’ll get to sample a variety of local wines made on-site, offering insight into Albania’s emerging wine scene.

Late Afternoon: Durres and Sunset

Your journey wraps up in Durres, a lively coastal city. Here, you’ll witness a stunning sunset by the sea, a fitting end to your two days of adventure. Many find this moment especially memorable—perfect for a final toast and reflection before heading back to Tirana.

What to Expect and Practical Details

Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial given the distances and the variable terrain. The group size is private, ensuring a personalized experience, and guides are fluent in several languages, making communication smooth.

Timing is flexible based on availability, but expect a full-day schedule with some early mornings and late evenings, especially on Day 2. The walks at archaeological sites and Zvernec Monastery involve uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must. Bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, and water.

Included in the price are transportation, professional guides, hotel accommodation in Vlorë, breakfast, and all entry fees. However, meals not specified, additional wine tastings, and personal expenses are extra.

Value and Who it’s Best For

This tour combines scenic drives, historical sites, beach relaxation, and regional wine tasting into a package that feels well-rounded and authentic. For travelers craving a mix of culture, nature, and leisure, it offers excellent value—especially considering the inclusion of accommodation and guided visits.

If you love discovering new places at a relaxed pace and enjoy water, history, and local flavors, this tour is a fantastic option. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with some walking and a full schedule. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues, as some sites involve uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day adventure is a thoughtfully curated way to see some of Albania’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine stunning landscapes with cultural insights, topped with the chance to taste authentic Albanian wines. The scenic drives, peaceful beaches, and historical sites are sure to make this a memorable trip.

The tour’s flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and focus on authentic experiences make it a standout choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. Plus, the chance to watch a sunset by the sea in Durres provides a beautiful, calming conclusion to your Albanian journey.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, accommodation in Vlorë, breakfast, visits to Zvernec Monastery and Ardenica Monastery, and all fees and taxes.

Are meals included?
Breakfast at the hotel is included, and there is a lunch at a mountain-view restaurant on Day 1 and at Albanica Winery on Day 2. Other meals are not included.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Is there a wine tasting?
Yes, at Albanica Winery, you’ll get to taste local wines made on-site, with a variety of options to sample.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

How long are the travel distances?
The tour covers a fair amount of ground, including scenic drives to and from Tirana, with stops at multiple sites. Expect some long drives but with plenty of interesting scenery to enjoy.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals other than breakfast included?
No, meals besides breakfast are not included, but there are recommended places to enjoy local Albanian dishes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, young children should be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain.

How many people are in the group?
It’s a private group experience, which means you’ll have personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

This comprehensive 2-day tour is a fantastic way to see Southern Albania’s best, blending natural beauty, cultural sites, and regional flavors into an unforgettable experience. Perfect for curious travelers who want an authentic and relaxed adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: