Cities and destinations · 📍 Fier
Fier and Apollonia by rental car: Ardenica and Byllis
The crossroads of the south, with two of the country's finest ancient cities, reached only by car.
Fier is the main crossroads of the south: here the roads to Vlorë, Berat and Tepelenë split. Many travellers pass without stopping, yet around the town are some of Albania's most impressive archaeological sites. Fier and Apollonia by rental car are easy to see in one day, because buses to them are rare and distances short.
Driving and parking in Fier
The motorway from Tirana and Durrës reaches Fier, from where the fast road continues to Vlorë. The town is flat with wide streets, but the centre and the market area are busy in the morning. Park in paid car parks or on side streets. For the archaeological sites you do not need to enter the centre: the roads split before the town.
Apollonia: the ancient city near Fier
Apollonia Archaeological Park
Archaeological park
A city founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BC, where the young Octavian, the future emperor Augustus, later studied. You can see the Monument of the Agonothetes, the odeon, the stoa and the walls, among olive trees and views over the plain.
Inside the park is also the Monastery of Saint Mary with the archaeological museum. Allow at least two hours and bring water and a hat in summer, as shade is scarce. Parking is next to the entrance.
Ardenica, Byllis and other places
Ardenica Monastery
Place of worship
A monastery with a frescoed church on a hill between Fier and Lushnjë. According to tradition, Skanderbeg married Donika here.
Byllis
Archaeological park
An ancient Illyrian city on a hill above the Vjosa valley, with a theatre, mighty walls and basilicas with mosaics. Far less visited than Apollonia, with wide views.
Seman beach
Beach
A long sandy beach with pine trees, quiet outside August. The last stretch of road may have potholes.
- Vlorë and the coast: 35 minutes. See Vlorë by car.
- The Karavasta lagoon and Divjakë: read the Myzeqe guide.
- Berat: 55 minutes. See Berat by car.
Practical tips for Fier
- The best one-day combination: Apollonia in the morning, Ardenica after lunch and sunset at Seman.
- Archaeological sites have opening hours and tickets that change with the season: check them before you go.
- If you continue to Vlorë, work out the cost with the trip cost calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Apollonia from Fier?
About 12 km, roughly 20 minutes by car.
How much time do I need for Apollonia?
At least two hours for the park and the museum.
Is Byllis worth it?
Yes, if you like quiet places. It is about 50 minutes from Fier and has beautiful views over the Vjosa.
How long does it take from Tirana to Fier?
About 1 hour 25 minutes on the motorway, without traffic.
