Private Day Tour from Tirana: Durres, Ardenica & Wine Tasting
Overview
Mobile ticket
A day where you can dive in time travel and indulge in rare Albanian wines, complemented with a fantastic view of vineyard hills and Adriatic Sea.
Walking tour of Durres Castle, Amphitheater and beachfront promenade.
Drive to the serene hills of Ardenica, visiting a 700 year old monastery followed by relaxing at Albanica Winery, tasting local wine from rare native grapes that grow in Albania only, accompanied with fresh food (meze) traditional way of serving wine.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Durres
Discover Durrës Castle and Roman Amphitheater in Durrës, Albania—a captivating day trip blending ancient history, seaside charm, and vibrant coastal vibes just 40 minutes from Tirana. Explore Durrës Castle, encircled by 5th-century fortified walls meticulously repaired through the Middle Ages and restored post-2019 earthquake. This historic fortress offers sweeping Adriatic Sea views and a gateway to Albania's layered past. Inside lies Albania's largest Roman Amphitheater, a 2nd-century AD marvel (~1800 years old) with impressive arches, underground tunnels, and gladiator arena remnants. (Entry tickets to the Amphitheater are not included) Stroll the iconic Durrës Beachfront Promenade (Plazhi i Durrësit), a lively 2-km palm-lined walkway perfect for beachside snacks, fresh byrek or qofte, seaside coffee, or picking up souvenirs like handmade crafts. Savor waterfront tavernas for seafood, mussels, and raki amid azure waters and beach clubs.
Ardenica Monastery
Discover Ardenica Monastery in Albania—a 700-year-old Byzantine gem on Ardenica hilltops, steeped in history and spiritual serenity. Founded in the 13th century by monks and proclaimed royal monastery by Byzantine Emperor Byzantios II in 1282, it gained eternal fame as the wedding site of Skanderbeg—Albania's national hero—in 1451 to Donika Arianiti, symbolizing medieval Christian heritage amid Ottoman threats. Step inside the stunning Church of Saint Mary, adorned with rare surviving original frescoes from the 14th-16th centuries, vividly depicting biblical scenes, saints, and intricate post-Byzantine artistry that showcases masterful techniques in color, composition, and emotional depth. Marvel at the magnificent wooden iconostasis, a 17th-century carved masterpiece towering before the nave, featuring ornate baroque motifs, gilded details, and hand-painted icons blending Orthodox iconography with Renaissance influences—true architectural and artistic treasures.
Options
Exploration and Wine Tasting
Wine tasting + appetizers Car, SUV, Minibus, Bus Pickup included
What‘s Included
All Taxes, Fuel and Fuel Surcharges
1 Wine tasting per person at Albanica Winery with mixed appetizers (meze)
Private Air-conditioned vehicle, 1-3 people standard car, 4+ people Van-Bus
Entry ticket at Durres Amphitheater.
Private Driver (Not a tour Guide)
Entry fees - Ardenica Monastery
No extra meals or Drinks.
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Related Experiences
Operated by Albanian Eagle Tours