Explore Berat(Unesco) and Apollonia From Tirana/Durres

Set out on a captivating journey through Albania’s rich cultural heritage with a private tour from Tirana or Durres. Uncover the UNESCO-protected gem of Berat, where stunning Ottoman architecture complements the idyllic landscapes. Explore the ancient ruins of Apollonia, a testament to the nation’s deep-rooted history. Savor a delightful local lunch, and learn about the well-preserved archaeological wonders that await. This exceptional experience offers a unique opportunity to explore Albania’s treasures, leaving you with lasting memories and a desire to discover more.

About Your Stay

• Set out on a private full-day tour from Tirana or Durres to explore the UNESCO-designated city of Berat and the ancient ruins of Apollonia.
• Enjoy a personalized and flexible experience with a knowledgeable driver-guide, including transportation, meals, and gratuities.
• Discover Berat’s well-preserved Ottoman architecture, visit Berat Castle, and explore the Onufri National Museum.
• Wander through the impressive archaeological site of Apollonia, featuring an amphitheater, temples, and the remains of the ancient library.
• Pricing starts at $112.67 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

The full-day private tour from Tirana or Durres takes visitors to the UNESCO-designated city of Berat and the ruins of Apollonia.

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable guide/driver, lunch, dinner, and all necessary tips and gratuities.

Travelers can explore at their own pace, with the flexibility to customize the experience.

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, but it’s accessible to those with service animals or strollers.

Pricing starts from $112.67 per person, varying based on group size, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Meeting and Pickup

Hassle-free hotel pickup or a preferred meeting point is available for this tour. The tour representative will arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Guests can start the tour directly from their hotel or choose a more convenient meeting location. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.

Travelers can sit back and relax as the knowledgeable driver-guide handles all the transportation details, allowing them to focus on exploring the UNESCO-designated city of Berat and the ancient ruins of Apollonia at their own pace.

This private tour guarantees that only your group participates, providing a personalized and flexible sightseeing experience.

Tour Experience

Typically, a moderate physical fitness level is required for this tour, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, service animals are allowed, and the tour is stroller accessible.

The private tour ensures that only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized and flexible exploration at your own pace. Your knowledgeable driver-guide will be on hand to provide insights and facilitate a seamless experience throughout the day.

Whether you’re interested in the UNESCO-designated city of Berat or the ruins of Apollonia, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Albania’s rich history and cultural heritage at your own leisurely pace.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing for this private tour starts from $112.67 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

Some key points about pricing and availability:

1. The cost-per-person decreases as the group size increases, providing better value for larger parties.
2. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start, offering flexibility for travelers.
3. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, giving travelers peace of mind.

Ultimately, this comprehensive tour provides a hassle-free, personalized experience to explore the UNESCO-designated city of Berat and the ruins of Apollonia at a reasonable price point.

Itinerary: Berat and Apollonia

This private tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the UNESCO-designated city of Berat and the ancient ruins of Apollonia. Travelers begin their day with a visit to the charming "City of a Thousand Windows," exploring its historic Ottoman architecture, the Citadel, and the Onufri National Museum. After a local lunch, the tour proceeds to the ruins of Apollonia, once a thriving ancient Greek city. Visitors can wander through the impressive archaeological site, admiring the well-preserved amphitheater, gymnasium, and other remnants that provide a glimpse into Albania’s rich past.

Destination	Highlights
Berat	– UNESCO-listed "City of a Thousand Windows" – Ottoman-era architecture – Citadel and Onufri National Museum
Apollonia	– Ancient Greek archaeological site – Amphitheater, gymnasium, and other ruins

Highlights of Berat

The UNESCO-designated "City of a Thousand Windows" captivates visitors with its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and rich history.

Berat’s highlights include:

1. The Berat Castle, a magnificent hilltop fortress dating back to the 13th century, offering panoramic views of the city and the Osum River.

2. The historic center, featuring charming neighborhoods like Mangalem and Gorica, lined with traditional white-walled houses with distinctive wooden balconies.

3. The Onufri National Museum, housed in the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral, showcasing a renowned collection of 16th-century Byzantine-style icons and frescoes.

Exploring Berat’s well-preserved cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes makes it a must-visit destination on any Albania itinerary.

Exploring Apollonia Ruins

After exploring the historic charms of Berat, the tour continues to the ancient Greek ruins of Apollonia. Established in the 6th century BC, Apollonia was a thriving port city and intellectual center. Visitors can wander the impressive ruins, including the imposing city walls, the well-preserved amphitheater, and the remains of temples, markets, and baths.

Feature	Description
Amphitheater	Remarkably intact, this grand structure could seat up to 15,000 people.
Library	The city’s library, one of the largest in the ancient world, is still partially standing.
Archaeological Museum	Housing an impressive collection of artifacts, the museum offers insights into Apollonia’s rich history.
Views	Perched atop a hill, the site commands sweeping vistas over the surrounding countryside.

The tour allows ample time to explore these captivating ruins and learn about Apollonia’s pivotal role in ancient Greek civilization.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Travelers who’ve embarked on this private tour to Berat and Apollonia have generally expressed positive sentiments, highlighting the knowledgeable guidance provided by the driver-guides.

Reviewers on platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor have praised the tour’s flexibility, allowing them to explore at their own pace.

However, some have reported issues with tour confirmations and the company’s reliability.

The overall rating for this experience stands at 4.0 out of 5, with:

1. Knowledgeable guides
2. Enjoyable experiences
3. Occasional concerns about tour confirmations and company reliability

Questions About Staying Here

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour allows for a flexible and customized experience. Guests can work with the knowledgeable driver-guide to adjust the itinerary and pace of the tour to suit their interests and preferences.

Is There an Option for a Multi-Language Guide?

Yes, the tour offers the option of a multi-language guide. Customers can request a guide who speaks additional languages besides English to enhance their experience and ensure clear communication throughout the tour.

How Long Does the Tour Typically Last?

The full-day private tour typically lasts around 8-10 hours, allowing ample time for flexible exploration of the UNESCO-designated city of Berat and the ancient ruins of Apollonia with a knowledgeable driver-guide.

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to pack snacks and water, as the tour involves moderate physical activity over the course of the day.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour provider offers discounts for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 20% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above get a 10% reduction in the per-person rate. Travelers should inquire about these discounts when booking the tour.

Worth The Stay

This captivating full-day private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Albania’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of Berat, admire its Ottoman architecture, and uncover the ancient ruins of Apollonia, providing an insightful glimpse into the country’s captivating history. With a local lunch and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Albania’s cultural and historical treasures.