Vlora, Llogara & Dhërmi: Albanian Riviera from Tirana/Durres

Travelers looking for a day that combines history, stunning scenery, and relaxation will find this tour to be a solid choice. It offers a well-balanced itinerary that showcases some of Southern Albania’s most admired sights, all packed into around 12.5 hours. Whether you’re short on time or eager to see the highlights, this trip could be just what you need.

What we love about this tour? First, it gives you the chance to walk through Vlora, a city of special significance in Albanian history. Second, the drive through Llogara National Park offers some of the most breathtaking vistas you’ll find along the coast. The one thing to keep in mind is that, with a full day of exploring, you’ll spend a good part of your time in the vehicle, so comfortable transport and a lively guide are essential.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a blend of cultural insight, natural beauty, and seaside leisure. If you’re not a huge fan of long bus rides but still want to see the highlights of the Albanian Riviera, this trip provides a good balance of stops and scenic drives. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and are okay with a busy day on the road.

Key Points:

• Comfortable transportation with pick-up from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem makes logistics easier.
• Scenic drives through Llogara National Park offer photo-worthy viewpoints.
• Historical highlights in Vlora introduce Albania’s independence history.
• Relaxation time at Dhërmi’s beaches is perfect for sunbathing or swimming.
• Guides with local knowledge enhance the experience with interesting stories.
• Good value for the price considering the diverse sights and full-day itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Breakdown of Your Albanian Riviera Day Trip

Starting the Day: Convenient Pick-Ups and Travel Comfort

The tour begins early, with pickup options from Golem, Tirana, or Durrës. This flexibility is a real plus — you can start the day without worrying about complicated transportation arrangements. The vehicle is described as an AC-equipped private car or spacious van, ensuring a comfortable ride even on the longer stretches.

The drive itself is part of the experience; expect a scenic journey along the coast and into the mountains. This isn’t a hurried trip — the relaxed pace allows you to enjoy the views and chat with your guide.

Exploring Vlora: Albania’s City of Independence

Your first stop in Vlora offers about an hour of free time. Here, we loved the chance to stroll along the lively seaside promenade, which is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. It’s a lively spot where you can soak in the atmosphere, watch boats bobbing in the bay, or enjoy a coffee with a view.

Vlora is historically significant because it’s where Albania declared independence in 1912. Depending on your interests, you might explore local markets, visit historic monuments, or simply enjoy the coastal scenery. The reviews praise guides for their friendliness and knowledge, which can make even a quick visit more meaningful.

Breathtaking Views at Llogara Pass

Leaving Vlora, the road ascends into the Llogara National Park. This part of the journey is what many travelers mention as a highlight — the breathtaking drive through winding mountain roads, with lookout points at the Llogara Pass at about 1,000 meters above sea level.

Stop here for about 30 minutes, which is enough to snap pictures of the panoramic views of the mountains meeting the sea. The air is crisp, and the scenery is dramatic, making it a perfect spot for photography and a breath of fresh mountain air. As one traveler noted, the viewpoints are truly remarkable, offering some of the best vistas along the coast.

More Great Tours Nearby

Relaxing on Dhërmi’s Beaches

Descending from the mountains, you arrive at Dhërmi, a town renowned for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. The three-hour stop here is designed for relaxation, so you can swim, sunbathe, or just enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Many travelers mention how the turquoise waters and soft sands create a perfect setting for unwinding.

The town’s promenade is also worth a stroll, soaking up the “Riviera” atmosphere. You’ll find that the beaches are less crowded than other parts of the Mediterranean, which adds to their charm.

Optional Extra: Visiting Himara

While not part of the main itinerary, it’s worth noting that the tour includes passing through Himara, known for its stunning coastline and charming old town. This adds an extra layer of cultural and scenic interest that travelers appreciate.

Wrapping Up the Day and Return Journey

After spending your afternoon in Dhërmi, the return trip heads back to Tirana, Durrës, or Golem. The roundtrip transportation ensures you can relax after an active day. Some travelers note that, although there is a lot of time spent in the vehicle, the scenic drives and interesting stops balance the long hours.

The tour concludes with drop-offs at your accommodation, making it a convenient end to a full day.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the price are the roundtrip transportation in a comfortable vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off from Tirana — an excellent value considering the logistics covered. The tour does not include lunch, drinks, sunbeds, or personal expenses, so bringing some cash or arranging for your own food is recommended.

The flexibility of reserve now, pay later and full refund with 24 hours’ notice adds peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

The Experience and Reviews from Others

Feedback from past travelers is largely positive, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on three reviews. Comments highlight friendly guides, stunning scenery, and value for money. One reviewer from Estonia called it a “great trip” with “amazing locations,” while a traveler from the Netherlands appreciated the knowledgeable guide Ali, who made the long drive enjoyable with his insights.

Some travelers note that spending a good portion of the day in a vehicle can be tiring, but most agree that the scenery and stops make it worthwhile. The guide’s friendliness and local knowledge are often praised as enhancing the experience.

The Value of This Tour

For $93 per person, this tour offers an opportunity to see three iconic locations of the Albanian Riviera without the hassle of planning multiple trips or transportation. You get a taste of history in Vlora, spectacular mountain scenery at Llogara, and beach relaxation in Dhërmi.

While it’s a full-day trip, the price covers transportation, guide, and the convenience of pickup and drop-off — which can be a significant saving compared to organizing separate excursions or self-drive options. It’s a good value, especially for those eager to see diverse sights efficiently.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want:

• A rundown of Southern Albania in one day
• The comfort of organized transportation and a knowledgeable guide
• A mix of cultural sites, scenic drives, and beach time
• Those who don’t mind a long day in the vehicle, as the itinerary involves quite a bit of travel
• Visitors looking for authentic natural landscapes and seaside charm without the hassle of planning every detail

It’s less ideal if you prefer slow-paced, in-depth visits or a more relaxed schedule with extended beach days and fewer stops.

This tour offers a well-rounded excursion into some of Albania’s most striking spots, from the historic roots of Vlora to the awe-inspiring mountain vistas of Llogara and the inviting beaches of Dhërmi. Its value lies in combining scenic drives, cultural insights, and leisure in a single day, making it a smart choice for travelers who want a taste of the Albanian Riviera without lengthy planning.

The guides’ friendly and knowledgeable approach, coupled with stunning views and good logistical setup, make this a memorable experience. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still crave a genuine taste of Southern Albania’s diverse charms.

In summary, this tour best suits those who appreciate scenic drives, cultural highlights, and beachside relaxation — all at a reasonable price. It delivers a snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and history, ideal for travelers seeking an active, engaging day trip.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12.5 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, and travel time.

Where do I get picked up from?
You can be picked up from Golem, Tirana, or Durrës, depending on your accommodation or location.

What’s included in the price?
The cost includes roundtrip transportation in an AC vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off from Tirana.

Are meals included?
No, lunch or drinks are not included, so plan to bring some cash or snacks for the day.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, it suits anyone who enjoys scenic drives, cultural visits, and beach time, and that’s comfortable with a busy schedule.

Do I need to prepare anything for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. Make sure your contact info is correct for the guide, especially if WhatsApp communication is needed.

This full-day journey into Albania’s coast offers a rewarding mix of sights and experiences, perfect for those eager to explore a beautiful yet often overlooked part of the Mediterranean.

You can check availability for your dates here: