Fier might not be as famous as Tirana or Berat, but it’s a surprisingly good base for exploring Albania’s archaeological and natural treasures. The city’s proximity to key sites like Apollonia, Bylis, and Divjake makes it ideal for travelers eager to uncover Albanian history and landscape. We’re especially fond of trips that combine ancient ruins with scenic parks or include local experiences, like the Day tour of Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery from Tirana. This tour offers a solid introduction to Byzantine architecture and ancient sites, with the bonus of enjoying Albanian cuisine. It’s a perfect choice if you want a well-rounded day of culture and history.
Fier’s offerings also include longer excursions—such as guided day trips to Berat or combined natural and archaeological adventures—that suit different interests and schedules. Whether you’re into ancient history, birdwatching, or exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites, there’s a Fier-based tour that will fit your style. Now, let’s explore the best of these experiences.
1. Day tour of Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery from Tirana
At number 1, this full-day tour of Ardenica Monastery and Apollonia offers a classic taste of Albania’s Byzantine and ancient roots. You’ll explore Ardenica’s well-preserved monastery with its stunning frescoes and peaceful setting. Then, you’ll visit the archaeological site of Apollonia, where the Roman theater and baths still stand as a testament to the city’s importance in antiquity. This tour is perfect for history lovers who want a balanced mix of religious heritage and ancient ruins. The highlight is the lunch featuring traditional Albanian dishes cooked with fresh, local ingredients, making the experience both tasty and authentic.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive approach in just one day. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights into the Byzantine era and Roman architecture. With a duration of 8 hours, it’s suitable for travelers with limited time but eager to see key sites. The reviews are excellent, with a perfect 5/5 score, emphasizing the quality of the experience.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, culturally-rich day that combines religious art with ancient history, ideal for travelers seeking depth in a manageable time frame.
2. Green Line: Vlora-Apollonia-Divjake-Berat Guided Day Trip
Number 2 on our list is the Green Line guided day trip, which is perfect for those wanting a broader scope. Over approximately 12 hours, this tour takes you from Vlora along the coast to explore Apollonia’s ancient ruins, then into the natural beauty of Divjake-Karavasta National Park, and finally to Berat, the UNESCO-listed “City of a Thousand Windows.” The itinerary includes a traditional Albanian lunch in Berat, with plenty of time to walk through its medieval alleys and castle.
What makes this tour special is its combination of archaeology, nature, and culture. You’ll see ancient Roman theaters, take in the wild birdlife at the lagoon, and end in Berat, which offers a unique look at Ottoman architecture. The reviews are glowing, with a 5/5 rating, reflecting how much travelers appreciate the diverse experiences packed into one day.
Bottom Line: This tour is suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day of history, scenic nature, and culture in one trip.
3. From Durres: Karavasta Lagoon & Apolonia Ancient City Tour
Number 3 is the From Durres: Karavasta Lagoon & Apollonia, combining nature and archaeology in a 6-hour journey. This tour offers a boat tour in Albania’s largest lagoon, where you might spot diverse bird species and enjoy the peaceful scenery. Subsequently, you’ll wander through Apollonia’s ruins, including theaters, temples, and the agora, guided by experts who bring the ancient city to life.
What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of the boat trip, which provides a different perspective on Albania’s landscapes. Reviewers comment that the lagoon is “so beautiful,” and the guide’s storytelling adds richness to the visit. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those with limited time who still want to see top archaeological sites.
Bottom Line: A short but impactful tour that combines birdwatching and ancient ruins, perfect for nature and history enthusiasts alike.
4. Day Tour of Apollonia and Berat from Tirana
At number 4, this full-day tour from Tirana offers an in-depth exploration of two UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll start at Apollonia, walking through its well-preserved ruins and learning about its Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman past. Afterwards, the itinerary takes you to Berat, with stops at Berat Castle, the Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, and the Ethnographic Museum.
This tour is ideal for travelers interested in layered history and architecture. The 10-hour duration makes it manageable for those wanting a comprehensive experience without overdoing it. The guides are praised for their storytelling and passion for Albanian history, making each site come alive.
Bottom Line: A detailed, culturally immersive day suited for history and architecture buffs, with plenty of time to appreciate Berat’s charm.
5. Day tour to: Apollonia, Narta Lagoon & Zvernec Monastery
Number 5 shines for its blend of archaeological and natural sights. This full-day trip takes you from Tirana or Durrës, visiting Apollonia, then the Narta Lagoon, famous for pine forests and birdlife, and finally the Zvernec Monastery, a beautiful Byzantine structure on a small island. The tour includes comfortable transportation and a flexible itinerary.
The highlight is crossing the wooden bridge to Zvernec Monastery, which provides a peaceful setting for reflection and photos. Reviewers appreciate the beautiful views and well-organized schedule. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of history, nature, and some peaceful downtime.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a relaxed, diverse day with plenty of opportunities for photography and quiet moments.
6. Day Tour to Fier – Discover Albania’s Historical Heart
Offering a deeper dive into local culture, this day trip to Fier focuses on Apollonia and the natural beauty of the Myzeqe Plain. Starting from the Oxygen Boutique Hotel, you’ll visit Apollonia’s archaeological park, enjoy a traditional lunch at Egnatia restaurant, and take a walk in the surrounding natural park. The 15-hour schedule is long but rewarding, packed with history and scenic landscapes.
The tour’s strength lies in its balance of archaeological exploration and culinary experience, making it ideal for those wanting to connect with Albanian culture on multiple levels. The reviews show a high satisfaction rate, praising the local guides and the authenticity of the experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers with a full day to dedicate, especially those interested in combining archaeology with local cuisine.
7. Exploring Ancient Albania
Number 7 offers a comprehensive look at Apollonia and Bylis, two major archaeological sites. Starting from Tirana, this day trip walks you through Apollonia’s temples, theater, and Roman roads, then to Bylis, with its ancient theater and ruins. The tour emphasizes the ancient civilizations that shaped Albania, appealing strongly to history enthusiasts. It also includes a relaxed walk along Vlorë’s waterfront, adding a touch of leisure.
Guests praise the guides’ storytelling ability and the chance to see two significant sites in one day. The focus on ancient ruins and local cuisine makes it a full-value day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers eager to understand Albania’s ancient past and enjoy some coastal scenery afterward.
8. Fier: Byllis Archaeological Park Guided Tour
Number 8 features a guided tour of Byllis, a less-visited site that offers a glimpse into the Illyrian civilization. In about 3.5 hours, you’ll explore basilicas, the theater, and ancient city walls, learning about the region’s early history. The site’s peaceful setting makes it suitable for a more relaxed, in-depth exploration.
The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide and the chance to see a site that’s off the typical tourist trail. It’s perfect for history lovers who want a quieter experience.
Bottom Line: A good choice if you’re interested in early Albanian history and prefer an intimate, less crowded environment.
9. From Tirana/Durres/Golem: Durres Amphitheater & Apollonia Tour
Number 9 combines two key archaeological sites on a full-day tour from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem. You begin at Apollonia with an archaeologist-led tour, then visit Durres’ famous Roman amphitheater and explore the city streets. This blend of Roman ruins and scenic coastal towns offers an engaging cultural experience.
Guests mention the “guided tour of Apollonia” as a highlight, along with Durres’s vibrant street art and history. An 8-hour schedule that balances history with a taste of local life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to combine archaeology with a lively coastal atmosphere.
10. Fier: Day Trip to Apollonia and Bylis with Guide & Tickets
Number 10 offers a hassle-free visit to Apollonia and Bylis, with guided tours and entry tickets included, saving you hassle and money. The 8-hour tour is perfect for those who want a straightforward, informative experience of two important archaeological sites, focusing on ancient Albanian treasures.
Guests appreciate the convenience of guided visits and the chance to learn from local experts. It’s best for travelers seeking an efficient, well-organized cultural day trip.
Bottom Line: A solid option if you want to maximize your archaeological sightseeing without worrying about logistics.
11. Fier: Apollonia Archaeological Park Tour with Entry Ticket
Number 11 provides a quick, 2.5-hour exploration of the Apollonia Archaeological Park. With an entry ticket included, this is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to see the main highlights of this ancient city. The guided visit covers the key ruins and walks you through the history of Apollonia’s significance.
Reviewers mention the guide’s engaging storytelling and the well-maintained site. It’s a great option for a quick cultural fix.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those with limited time who want a concise but meaningful visit.
12. Tirana to Bylis & Apollonia: Private day trip
Number 12 offers a personalized experience, perfect for travelers who want a flexible, private tour. Starting from Tirana, you’ll visit both Byllis and Apollonia, with tailored itineraries that suit your interests. The private aspect allows for deeper exploration and spontaneous stops.
Guests love the customization and the chance to explore at their own pace. It’s ideal for families or small groups wanting a more intimate experience with knowledgeable guides.
Bottom Line: A flexible, personalized approach suited for those who prefer private tours and customized schedules.
13. Vlorë: 2-Day tour – Apollonia, Berat, Divjake, Belsh with Rafting
Finally, the Vlorë 2-day tour offers an extensive exploration combining ancient sites, Berat’s architecture, and adventure activities like rafting. Over two days, you’ll visit Apollonia, Divjake, Belsh, and Berat, with a rafting trip on the Osumi River included. This is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience combining culture, history, and adrenaline.
The tour is well-suited for active travelers ready to spend two days exploring and enjoying outdoor activities. It’s a bit pricier but offers exceptional diversity.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a multi-day, adventure-filled exploration of Albania’s highlights.
$272 per person
How to Choose
When deciding which tour is right for you, consider your interests, time, and budget. If you want a quick but rich cultural experience, the Day tour of Apollonia and Ardenica is a solid pick. For a broader experience that mixes history, nature, and UNESCO sites, the Green Line trip offers excellent value.
Those interested in birdwatching or natural parks should consider the Karavasta Lagoon, while history buffs will appreciate the exploring ancient Albania tour’s focus on Bylis and Apollonia. Private options, like the Tirana to Bylis & Apollonia ensure a tailored experience if flexibility is your priority.
Booking early, especially during peak travel months, will help secure your preferred date and avoid missing out on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Fier and its surroundings offer a wealth of experiences for travelers interested in history, nature, and authentic Albanian culture. Whether you prefer a short overview or an immersive multi-day adventure, there’s a tour tailored to your interests. For history lovers, the ruins of Apollonia and Bylis stand out, while nature aficionados will enjoy the birdwatching at Karavasta Lagoon or the rafting in Osumi River.
For a balanced mix, the Day tour of Apollonia and Ardenica Monastery and Green Line trip are excellent choices. Those seeking a more personalized or active experience should consider private tours or multi-day options.
No matter what fits your style, booking ahead guarantees your spot on these highly-rated adventures, making your stay in Fier all the more memorable.