How to Visit Apollonia
Have you ever imagined strolling through a beautiful classical city, with it’s white marble columns, surrounded by ancient Greeks or maybe Romans? Then a trip to Apollonia might be right up your street. We were completely captivated by this ancient, peaceful place and could have stayed for days. Find out exactly how to visit Apollonia Archaeological Park, including how to get there, entrance fees, opening times and loads more useful information for your trip.
What is Apollonia
Apollonia is a reminder of the ancient Greeks in Albania. Named after the Greek God, Apollo, the settlement began life in 600 BC as a Greek trade colony. Later, the Romans developed it into a thriving city around 200 BC. The Roman Emperor Augustus is said to have studied Philosophy here.
Unfortunately, the city came to a rather murky end in the 4th century after a huge earthquake literally changed the landscape. The malarial swamps slowly moved closer to the city and eventually took over, making the city uninhabitable.
Today you can still visit the ruins of the ancient city. They are damaged but enchanting and very worthy of a day trip.
Where is Apollonia
The ancient city of Apollonia sits near the modern day village of Pojan, near Fier, in Albania. The nearest large town is Vlore, which is around 40 minutes by car. The nearest airport is Tirana which is roughly 2 hours drive from Apollonia.
Why Visit Apollonia
A visit to Apollonia is like going back in time. The ancient ruins are well preserved in parts and the park is peaceful and surrounded by beautiful nature. There is a lot to see on this vast site. So, if you’re into history or nature, this is the place to be. Here are just a few of the highlights
The Bouleuterion
This was the seat of the Boule, or city council. An inscription was found in Greek saying “For remembrance and reverence of Vil Valentine Fur Prokul, the cohort perfect in Syria, tribune of the Ge,ina Legionin Pannonia, aganothestes by Quint Vil Krispin Fur Prokul, prytan, agonothetes, archiereus for all life.” The Bouleuterion was raised in their honour and is also known as the “Agonothetes’ Monument”.
The Triumphal Arc
The impressive four pillars of the Triumphal Arc sit in front of the Bouleuterion. They were once covered with white marble tiles. These are damaged but the monument’s beauty remains striking.
The Odeon
The Odeon served for many musical and literary performances, as well as official meetings. It had a capacity of around 300 viewers.
Temenos
The sacred area (Temenos) was surrounded by a decorative wall. Within the walls lies the Temple of Apollo. The Apollonian Arc has been well preserved.
The Museum and Monastery
One of the highlights of a visit to Apollonia is the Museum of Archaeology, situated by the old Monastery of Saint Mary. The Monastery of Saint Mary was constructed on the site in the 13th century and includes a beautiful Byzantine church. Much of these buildings were constructed with materials from the ancient city of Apollonia.
The archaeological museum has an extensive collection of artifacts from excavations of the city.
Wildlife in the Area
As well as some beautiful trees and grasslands, Apollonia is also home to one special animal. Hermann’s tortoise is a threatened species that can be found in the ancient city of Apollonia.
How to Get to Apollonia
Working out how to visit Apollonia can be a challenge, especially without a car. We have provided driving and public transport options from three of the nearest towns and cities to Apollonia.
How to Visit Apollonia From Tirana
To drive from Tirana to Apollonia will take just under 2 hours. The route follows the main road going to the south of Albania so the roads are large and pretty quick. There is parking when you arrive at the Archaeological Park.
It is possible to get to Apollonia by bus. However, this route can be a bit more complicated. The simplest way is to take a bus from Tirana to the town of Fier. You can catch this bus at the Rr Myhedin Llegami stop in Tirana. The journey will take around 2½ hours and cost 300 Lek.
When you arrive in Fier, just ask someone at the bus station and they will tell you how to get to the village of Pojan. From the centre of Pojan, there is a 20 minute walk to the site – there are signs to follow if you look carefully.
Alternatively, ride the bus from Tirana to Fier then take a taxi the rest of the way to Apollonia. Remember, always negotiate the fare before getting in the cab or call up and book a taxi directly. We paid 2,000 Lek (€17) for a return journey and the driver waited for us for 2 hours at the site. Try ALBES Taxis, Fier +355 800 3333 they are really helpful and speak English. If you plan to stay longer (highly recommended), then two separate journeys will be required.
There are also organised day trips from Tirana that will provide the transport for you. Try GETYOURGUIDE for a hassle free transfer.
How to Visit Apollonia From Vlora
The drive from Vlore to Apollonia is relatively simple and should take under 40 minutes. Most of the route is highway, only the last portion after Fier is along smaller roads.
There are also regular buses from Vlore to Fier leaving from the Intercity bus stop. The bus takes around 40 minutes and costs 250 Lek. On arrival in Fier, directions to Apollonia are the same as above.
How to Visit Apollonia From Berat
To drive from Berat will take just over an hour. You can also catch a furgon from Berat to Fier which will take up to an hour and a half and cost 300 Lek.
How Much Time Will You Need to Visit Apollonia
It is possible to visit Apollonia in a couple of hours. However, we would recommend at least half a day. If you plan to explore the whole site and the beautiful surrounding nature, then the full day would be ideal.
When to Visit Apollonia Archaeological Park
Apollonia Archaeological Park is not a popular tourist location. It remains relatively under the radar and is a real hidden gem. Locals often use the area as an idyllic picnic spot. Other than that, you may not see many other people. The weather is warm from spring until Autumn making it really pleasant to visit any time. The winter is mild compared to northern Europe but there can be a bit more rain.
We visited in late October and the sun was out and the park was quiet, perfect!
Apollonia Archaeological Park Opening Times
The opening times for Apollonia Archaeological Park are as follows – 9:00 – 17:00 for winter season and 09:00 – 20:00 for summer season. Last entry to the museum is one hour before closing.
Many of the ruins are accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. However, some are uphill and some paths are stepped, which might be a challenge.
Is there an Entrance Fee to Visit Apollonia Archaeological Park
The entry fee to Apollonia Archaeological Park is 600 Lek for an adult. This includes full access to all of the site including the museum and the monastery. Parking at the site is free.
How to Visit Apollonia – What to Pack
So you have decided to explore the ancient city! Here are some suggestions of what you might pack when you visit Apollonia –
- Take plenty of water, maybe some snacks. There is nothing much nearby except the restaurant
- Wear sturdy shoes for exploring
- Bring a hat and keep covered to avoid the strong sun in the summer
- Don’t forget sun cream and sunglasses
- Wear long trousers to fend off the spikey shrubs if you hike around the park
- Take loads of photos of this amazing area
- An extra layer in case the temperature drops
Where to go next
Ready for another Balkan adventure? Can’t get enough of ancient history? Check out Butrint National Park, near Saranda, in southern Albania.
Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.
Have you visited Apollonia or Albania? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!
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