Discover Vlora and visit the Archaeological Park of Amantia

You will depart from Vlora at 9 am and travel about an hour south along the Vlora River, also known as Shushice. This riverside area holds a unique charm—sometimes the river broadens into wide stretches, other times it narrows into small streams, all framed by vibrant, colorful rocks.

This tour offers a chance to explore authentic Albanian villages as well. Your first stop is Brataj, a village of around 2,000 people within the municipality of Selenice. Here, the river takes center stage with its clear, crystalline blue waters. The Vlora River is crossed by three ancient stone bridges—Peshkepi, Drashovica, and Kote. These high-arched bridges, built to withstand flooding during rainy seasons, stand as impressive historic structures.

This region is steeped in history, having witnessed significant battles during World War II. In August 1920, Albanian nationalists successfully pushed back Italian forces during the Valona War. Later, in 1940, the Greek army advanced into the Vlora valley, repelling the Italian fascist invasion in the Battle of Himara. In 1943, after the Germans took over former Italian bases, fierce fighting occurred in the Battle of Drashovica, where Albanian partisan forces led by generals Hysni Kapo and Tasim Murati dealt heavy losses to the German troops.

Near the Drashovica Bridge, you will visit the War Memorial and the Arch of Drashovica, a monumental complex designed by Muntaz Dhrami and erected in 1980. This impressive square honors the fallen heroes of 1920 and 1943, celebrating the Albanian people’s fight for liberation.

Following the monument visit, you will explore the village of Brataj itself. Later in the morning, enjoy a refreshing bath near the Venetian-style Brataj Bridge, dating back to the 1500s, where the river widens peacefully.

After lunch, the final stop of the day is the village of Ploc, home to the Archaeological Park of ancient Amantia. Amantia was a fortified Greek polis built between the 6th and 3rd centuries BC, strategically positioned in the Vlora valley. Today, the archaeological park spans 15 hectares and features the remains of the acropolis, a Doric temple dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite, a well-preserved stadium, and city walls—offering a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s ancient past.