Detail
| Founded | c. 600 BC; the name Apollonia first appears 588 BC |
| 44 BCE | Octavian receives news of Caesar's death |
| Now | Archaeological park with a 13th-c. monastery on site |
Research by ARBËR, the Living Museum of Albania. Published facts are verified or presented as open debate.
Getting to Apollonia from Tirana
- By road
- 122 km
- Drive each way
- 2 h 15 min
- Time there
- 2 h
Apollonia works as a day trip from Tirana with a private driver: door-to-door pick-up, stops wherever you like, back the same evening.
Apollonia: questions travellers ask
What is Apollonia known for?
A Greek colony founded c. 600 BC by some 200 Corinthians under the oikist Gylax, established, notably, with the local Illyrians' approval. It became a celebrated school of philosophy. Octavian was studying here in 44 BC under Athenodorus of Tarsus when he learned Caesar had been assassinated.
How far is Apollonia from Tirana?
About 122 km by road, roughly 2 h 15 min each way by car. Tour Alb drives it door to door from anywhere in Tirana in a private vehicle, and the driver waits while you explore.
Can you visit Apollonia as a day trip from Tirana?
Yes. With about 2 h 15 min of driving each way and 2 h on the ground, Apollonia fits into one day from Tirana. A private driver makes it easy: pick-up at your door, stops wherever you like, and back the same evening.
How do I get to Apollonia without renting a car?
Hire a private driver. With Tour Alb you can build your own route through Apollonia and nearby places on our trip builder; we plan the road, the stops and any nights, then reply with a price.
