Apollonia Illyria

Apollonia, the ancient city founded in the 7th century BC, lies at the heart of Albania and boasts a rich history shaped by the Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. Visitors can explore the archaeological excavations, the Roman settlements, and the city's ancient theater, built in the 3rd century BCE. The famous, Agonothetes , roman houses, the obelisk and an area filled with archaeological ruins can also be found here. Within the archaeological park, you'll find the Church of St. Mary, constructed in the 13th century on the foundations of a 3rd-century Paleo-Christian church. From the top of the hill you can take in views of the Muzaka field, the Karaburun peninsula, and the island of Sazan. The monastery courtyard houses a museum featuring finds from excavations conducted in the city. Scattered throughout the park are thousand-year-old olive trees, a testament to the ancient culture of this region. Nearby in a few of kilometers away lies the Ardenica Monastery, dating back to the 13th century.
Berat

Berat, famously known as the "city of one window over another," has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. This picturesque gem of Albania and the Balkans is renowned for its enchanting neighborhoods such as Mangalem and Gorica, forming a beautifully preserved architectural ensemble. The city castle, an integral part of this ensemble, still houses residents to this day, making it a charming mini-town. Within its walls lies the city's iconographic museum, housed in the 18th-century Church of Saint Mary. The city offers a plethora of sights, including the Church of Saint Michael, Church of Saint Mary, Church of Saint Spyridon, as well as the Bachelor’s Mosque and the King’s Mosque. Bisected by the Osum River and nestled between Mount Tomorr and Mount Shpirag, the view from the castle is truly breathtaking. For those seeking adventure, the nearby Osum River canyons offer thrilling kayaking experiences. And, of course, no visit to Berat would be complete without savoring its local wine and traditional cuisine.
Gjirokaster

Gjirokastra, also known as The Magic Stone city, is located in South Albania and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008. With a history that dates back to 4 AD, its impressive architecture beckons visitors. The castle, which dominates the city and the Drino Valley, houses a weapons museum that captures the city's history from the Middle Ages. As you descend from the castle along the cobbled streets, you will enter the historic quarter with its medieval houses. In the city, you can explore various museums, such as the Ethnographic Museum and the Cold War Museum, as well as numerous traditional houses like the Skendulaj House organized as small museums, suchSkenduli House or Zekati House, offering a glimpse into the life of wealthy feudal families in the Middle Ages. For adventure seekers, the gentle slopes of Lunxheria offer many opportunities for hiking and daily horse-riding excursions. also Gjorokastra is only 45 minutes away from the natural park of Blue Eye
Butrint

Butrint, the most significant archaeological site in Albania and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992, dates back from 50,000 BC to the 19th century. Located between the Vivari Channel and the Ionian Sea at the Strait of Corfu, it is also a protected natural area. Inhabited by the Chaonians since 800 BCE, Butrint was influenced by Greek culture until the arrival of the Romans in 44 BCE. In the 5th century AD, it became an important Episcopal center with significant Christian structures. By the 14th century, Butrint had come under the control of the Byzantines, Angevins, Venetians, and eventually the Ottomans.In Butrint, you can explore well-preserved ruins such as the Agora, the Temple of Asclepius, Roman baths, the Roman aqueduct, the Basilica, the Baptisterium, and much more. From the Acropolis you will enjoy a wonderfull view of ionian coast. All these attractions are situated within a national park, covered with trees and vegetation, along Butrinti Lake. only 20 km from Saranda can be visitated in afternoon only 15 min driving