From Tirana: 2-Day Albanian Riviera & Dhermi Guided Tour

Traveling through Albania’s coastlines and historic sites in just two days might sound ambitious, but this guided tour from Tirana packs in a solid mix of stunning scenery, cultural gems, and relaxation time. Whether you’re keen on exploring ancient ruins, soaking up mountain vistas, or lounging on award-winning beaches, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of the Albanian Riviera.

One of the standout features? The scenic drives along the Ionian coast and through the lush Llogara Pass are genuinely spectacular. Plus, visiting Dhermi’s charming village and Palase Blue Flag Beach offers a perfect balance of culture and leisure. However, with a packed itinerary, you’ll want to be prepared for some early mornings and a fair amount of bus time — ideal if you’re eager to maximize your itinerary, but maybe less so if you prefer a slow pace.

This tour really suits travelers who get excited about diverse landscapes, history, and authentic local flavors. It’s great for those short on time but hungry for a rich, scenic experience that captures some of Albania’s best-kept secrets.

• Scenic drives and panoramic views: Experience the beauty of the Albanian Riviera and Llogara Pass.
• Historical highlights: Visit Apollonia’s ancient ruins and the 13th-century Ardenica Monastery.
• Beach relaxation: Enjoy the pristine, Blue Flag-certified Palase Beach.
• Tasting local wines: Sample Albanian wines at carefully selected wineries.
• Authentic cuisine: Savor traditional dishes at mountain and seaside restaurants.
• Well-organized logistics: Comfortable, air-conditioned transport with professional guides.

Day 1: From Tirana to the Albanian Riviera

Starting early from Tirana, the journey heads south along the coast. The first highlight is a stop in Vlora, Albania’s historic port city. Here, we loved the casual pause at a seaside bar with a coffee that seemed to taste better because of the view of the Ionian Sea stretching endlessly.

From Vlora, the drive climbs into the Llogara Pass, sitting at 1,027 meters. This mountain pass is a highlight in itself — the roads twist through lush forests, and the views over the coast are truly breathtaking. Several reviewers mention how the panoramic vistas make the drive memorable, with some describing it as “a photographer’s dream” and “a highlight just for the scenery.”

Descending towards Dhermi, you’ll get a preview of the Albanian Riviera’s charm. The village of Dhermi is a delightful mix of traditional stone houses and lively seaside taverns. We loved the relaxed vibe here, a place where time slows down. After a walk through the village, you’ll head to Palase Beach, awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and water quality. The clear, inviting waters and soft sands make it an ideal spot for a break and some seaside relaxation.

The tour includes a stop at a local restaurant in Llogara, where Albanian staples like grilled meats, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables are served with mountain views. It’s a chance to enjoy authentic cuisine and chat with local cooks about their recipes.

Overnight accommodation is in Vlora, allowing some rest after a day of scenic drives and exploration.

Day 2: History, Wine, and Coastal Charm

The second day kicks off with a visit to Vlora’s seafront promenade — a bustling stretch perfect for a morning walk and absorbing local life. Then, the focus shifts to the ancient city of Apollonia, founded in the 6th century BC. The ruins here are quite impressive; a real highlight is the theater and the museum displaying artifacts from Illyrian and Roman periods. Reviewers appreciate how the site offers a glimpse into the distant past without feeling overwhelming or overly commercialized.

Next up is the Ardenica Monastery, built in 1282. This Byzantine-era monastery is not only architecturally beautiful but also historically significant — it’s where Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero, married in 1451. Visitors often comment on how peaceful and well-preserved the site is, with frescoes that still evoke a sense of history.

The tour then takes you to local wineries in the Fier region, where you can taste some of Albania’s best wines. The experience is often described as a highlight because of the authenticity of the wine-tasting and the friendly guides who share insights into Albanian winemaking traditions. Paired with local snacks, this part feels both indulgent and educational.

On your way back to Tirana, a brief stop in Durrës offers a chance to see its Roman amphitheater and enjoy a walk along the seafront promenade, rounding out the trip with a touch of seaside leisure.

Comfortable transportation is a key feature here — an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off services in Tirana, Vlora, and Durrës. The group sizes are generally manageable, ensuring personalized guidance from knowledgeable guides who speak both Albanian and English.

Timing is quite full, with most activities carefully scheduled to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed. Expect early mornings and some long drives, but these are made more comfortable by scenic stops and engaging commentary.

Inclusions and costs: Entrance fees for Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery are covered, along with tolls, insurance, and fuel. There’s no included lunch or dinner, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries at your own pace.

This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive, though some sites with uneven terrain might require a bit of extra care.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the stunning drives and views as the trip’s biggest draw. One traveler remarked, “The scenery alone makes this worth it,” especially describing the Llogara Pass as “one of those places you want to keep taking photos of.”

Others appreciated the authenticity of the visits — especially the wineries and historic sites. A reviewer noted, “The guides really knew their stuff,” which added depth to the experience. The well-planned logistics and professional support from Lit Travel & Tours were consistently praised.

Some mention that lunch and dinner are not included, but that’s a plus for those who prefer to pick their own spots or try more local flavors. The tour’s pace is lively, so travelers eager to see as much as possible in two days will find it suits their style well.

The cost covers a lot — transportation, entrance fees, professional guides, and a well-curated itinerary. While you’ll want to budget for meals separately, the overall experience offers solid value, especially considering the diversity of sights covered.

The combination of scenic drives, historical sites, and beach time makes this tour a great way to get a broad sense of Albania’s charm without the hassle of planning each stop independently. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free, informative, and scenic adventure that hits both cultural and natural highlights.

This 2-day experience is perfect for travelers with limited time seeking a compact but immersive taste of Albania’s coast and history. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives and panoramic views, and are interested in authentic cultural experiences like wine tasting and visiting historic monasteries.

If you’re someone who values well-organized tours with knowledgeable guides and efficient logistics, this will appeal. It’s less ideal for travelers looking for a very slow pace or those with mobility issues — though accessible, some terrain may require extra care.

Finally, if your main goal is relaxation on the beach, it’s worth noting that the tour balances beach time with sightseeing, so plan to maximize your relaxation during the free moments.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides transport by air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off in Tirana, Vlora, and Durrës.

What sites are visited on the second day?
You will visit Vlora’s seafront, the ancient city of Apollonia, the Ardenica Monastery, and local wineries in the Fier region.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, fees to enter Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery are included. Other expenses like meals are not.

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

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, especially since it’s wheelchair accessible. However, consider your mobility if planning to walk extensively through ruins or uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and flip-flops for beach time.

Does the tour include meals?
No, meals are not included, so you can explore local restaurants or pack snacks.

How long is the drive?
Most drives are between scenic stops and sightseeing, but expect some long stretches to get between sites.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both Albanian and English.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, it’s designed for small groups, making it easy to meet others and enjoy the experience together.

This 2-day guided tour from Tirana offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. The stunning drive along the Albanian Riviera, combined with visits to ancient ruins and a relaxing beach, makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a broad taste of what Albania has to offer. The inclusion of wine tastings and authentic cuisine adds depth to the experience, showcasing local flavors and traditions.

Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to cover a lot of ground, this tour provides excellent value. The professionally guided, well-organized nature ensures a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and discovering hidden gems.

While it involves some early mornings and long drives, the payoff is a rich collection of memories and photographs of Albania’s stunning landscapes. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, scenic, and culturally enriching getaway, this tour is a smart option.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach lover, or simply seeking a taste of Albania’s natural beauty, this experience offers an authentic and enjoyable introduction to this captivating country.