After departing Tirana, we stop for a short coffee break in Durres. Durres is one of the most famous seaside cities in Albania because it is only 45 minutes from the capital city Tirana. We will have a coffee in a cafe with a sea view towards the Adriatic Sea. And we will pass by the Roman Amphitheater of Durres and the Venetian Tower for about 30 minutes.

The Roman Amphitheater of Durres was build in the 2nd century AD. At the time, Durres was called "Dyrrachium" and it was a part of the Roman empire. The Roman Emperor Trajan was leading the empire and Rome was flourishing. The Roman Amphitheater of Durres used to host gladiator spectacles and other events. It was an attraction for the citizens, travelers and merchants. The theatre could seat approximately 15000 to 18000 spectators. The theatre was rediscovered only recently in 1966. We will walk along the pathway above the theatre, from where you can look down onto the arena.

The Venetian Tower of Durres is a large round tower that remains of the former Durres Castle. The castle was initially built in the 5th century by the Byzantine Emperor Anastasius. The Venetians extended the castle in the first half of the fifteenth century when Durres was ruled by the Republic of Venice. Today, few structures of the castle remain, only the tower and one ancient wall can be seen.

Apollonia is an archaeological park in center of Albania. In the ancient times, Apollonia was an important Greek city. The city was founded in 588 BC by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth. However, it was during the Roman period that the city of Apollonia really flourished. In the 4th century AD, Apollonia was an important economic city and trade center. The city was known for its famous school of philosophy. Cicero, a famous Roman public speaker, called Apollonia "a great and important city". And the city was also one of the most important gateways to the Via Egnatia, which was a Roman trade route through the Balkans. The ruins of Apollonia were re-discovered in the beginning of the 19th century. The park is set of a hilly plateau and it is surrounded by calming nature.

After visiting Durres, we drive south towards the large coastal city Vlore. Vlore is a very popular and large beachside city. It is also the starting point of the Albanian Riviera, which leads from Vlore southwards to Saranda. The city is built around a large horseshoe bay in the sea. Along the bay, there is a popular beachside promenade called Lungomare. Along this promenade, you can find many shops, restaurants, clubs, coffee houses and bars.

After spending some time at Vlore beach, we will make a 30 minute stop at Zvernec Island. Zvernec Island is a little island in the Narta Lagoon. A long bridge leads you from the mainland to Zvernec Island. On the island, you can visit the little Zvernec monastery. The island is a beautiful location to take pictures.