Apollonia & Durres | History & Local Food

Albania’s southern coast boasts a rich tapestry of ancient history and captivating local culture. Travelers can uncover the ruins of Apollonia, where expert guides illuminate the significance of well-preserved structures like the Temple of Artemis. Then, they’ll enjoy the vibrant city of Durres, home to a magnificent Roman amphitheater and an extensive archaeological museum. But the journey doesn’t end there – visitors can savor the region’s culinary delights, from delectable seafood dishes to traditional sides and the sweet indulgence of Albanian baklava. This tour promises to be a feast for both the mind and the palate.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Food Tours In Tirana.

Quick Points

• Explore the ancient ruins of Apollonia, including the well-preserved Temple of Artemis, to gain insights into the site’s historical significance.
• Discover the historic city of Durres, featuring guided tours of its archaeological treasures like the Roman amphitheater and Durres Archaeological Museum.
• Savor the regional flavors of Apollonia and Durres during a delicious lunch, showcasing local cuisine such as octopus salad, grilled fish, and traditional Albanian baklava.
• Immerse in the cultural heritage of the archaeological sites, guided by knowledgeable experts who provide in-depth understanding of the structures and their historical roles.
• Enjoy the convenience of pickup and drop-off service, private transportation, and a multi-lingual guide to ensure a seamless and enriching tour experience.

Tour Highlights

Exploring the ancient ruins of Apollonia, travelers visit the impressive Temple of Artemis, where an archaeologist provides insights into the site’s history.

After a coffee break at the nearby Golem Beach, the tour continues to the Odeon, a well-preserved ancient theater, and the impressive Triumphal Arch.

Visitors then head to the historic city of Durres, where they embark on a guided tour of the ruins, including the ancient Roman amphitheater.

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy a delicious lunch and afternoon tea, seeing the rich cultural heritage of these fascinating archaeological sites.

Exploring Apollonia

The tour begins with a captivating exploration of the ancient ruins of Apollonia, once a thriving Greek and Roman settlement.

Led by an expert archaeologist, visitors explore the site’s rich history, uncovering the secrets of the Temple of Artemis, the Odeon, and the Triumphal Arch.

As they wander through the well-preserved structures, they gain insights into the architectural and cultural significance of this important archaeological site.

The guided tour provides a comprehensive understanding of Apollonia’s role in the region’s past, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the region’s enduring legacy.

Discovering Durres

After exploring the ancient ruins of Apollonia, the tour continues on to the historic city of Durres.

Here, visitors embark on a guided tour of the city’s archaeological treasures. They’ll discover the impressive Roman amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans, and marvel at its impressive scale and well-preserved state.

The tour also takes them through the Durres Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts uncovered from the city’s long history.

Throughout the visit, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into Durres’ role as an important port and trading hub, allowing travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Culinary Delights

Throughout the day’s adventure, visitors savor the regional flavors of Apollonia and Durres. The tour includes a lunch break, where travelers can indulge in local specialties.

Seafood dishes, featuring the fresh catch from the Adriatic Sea, are particularly popular. Guests might sample delectable octopus salad or grilled fish accompanied by traditional sides like roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

For dessert, the tour may offer a taste of Albanian baklava, a flaky pastry layered with nuts and sweet syrup. Complementing the meal, refreshing Turkish-style coffee and tea provide a moment of respite.

This culinary experience allows visitors to enjoy the gastronomic heritage of these ancient cities.

Cultural Immersion

Intertwined with the culinary delights are the rich cultural traditions that permeate the ancient cities of Apollonia and Durres.

On this immersive tour, visitors can explore the captivating history of these archaeological sites, guided by knowledgeable experts.

Explore the Temple of Artemis, the Odeon, and the Triumphal Arch, learning about the intricate details and significance of each structure.

The tour also includes a visit to the coastal town of Durres, where the ruins offer a glimpse into the region’s storied past.

Through this cultural exploration, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of these remarkable Albanian destinations.

Practical Information

This tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off service for visitors, with a private vehicle transporting them from their hotels in Tirana or Durres.

Lunch and afternoon tea are included, along with coffee or tea, and drinks.

The tour can accommodate up to 8 travelers and has a multi-lingual guide available.

Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking.

Confirmation is provided within 48 hours for last-minute bookings.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the minimum drinking age is 18 years.

Based on reviews, this tour has been rated highly, with no negative ratings across platforms.

Visitor’s Feedback

Visitors to this tour have, by and large, expressed immense satisfaction with their experiences.

The tour boasts a perfect 5-star rating across the major review platforms, with reviewers highlighting several key aspects:

• The knowledgeable and engaging local guide, who brings the ancient ruins of Apollonia and Durres to life with their expertise
• The seamless logistics, including hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a comfortable private vehicle for transportation
• The inclusion of delicious local cuisine and refreshments, which complement the historical exploration
• The opportunity to discover lesser-known gems, such as the Triumphal Arch and the Odeon, in addition to the more prominent sites

Since You Asked

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The tour provider is flexible and open to adjusting the itinerary based on your interests and needs. Just let them know your specific requests when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour company offers flexibility to extend the duration. Travelers can request additional time at the sites or add stops to the itinerary for an extra fee. The tour guide can accommodate customized requests based on the travelers’ interests.

Do You Provide Special Accommodations for Children or Seniors?

The tour operator does not provide any special accommodations for children or seniors. The maximum group size is 8 travelers, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Dietary requirements should be advised at booking.

How Flexible Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. There are no fees for last-minute cancellations, making the tour easy to adjust as needed.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific language for the tour guide. The tour provider offers multi-lingual guides, so you can ask for your preferred language when booking the tour.

The Final Verdict

Apollonia and Durres offer a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant local culture. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of Apollonia, uncover the significance of the Temple of Artemis, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Durres, home to a magnificent Roman amphitheater. The culinary experience is equally rewarding, with delectable seafood dishes, traditional sides, and the irresistible sweetness of Albanian baklava. This tour provides a true feast for the senses, leaving a lasting impression on all who embark on this journey.