Home to ancient monasteries and fascinating archaeological sites, Fier is a small city framed by hills in the heart of Albania. It’s on the doorstep of peaceful Adriatic beaches and Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, an important habitat for migratory birds travelling along the Adriatic flyway.
Things to do in Fier
Don’t miss a visit to the ancient city of Apollonia, which was founded during the 6th century BC on the banks of the Aous River. After wandering between its stone foundations and columned temples, pay a visit to the Museum of Apollonia, which exhibits artefacts uncovered from the site and is housed within the 14th-century Monastery of St. Mary.
A short drive from Fier to the surrounding hills will take you to Ardenica Monastery, which was established by Byzantine Emperor Andronikos II Palaiologos in the 13th century. It’s famed for hosting the wedding of Albanian national hero Skanderbeg to Andronika Arianiti and emerged as an important hub for nurturing the Albanian language. A highlight of the monastery is the Church of Saint Mary, which is decorated with elaborate frescoes painted by Kostandin and Athanas Zografi.
Looking for a day at the beach? Drive west to the pine-fringed sands of Seman Beach, which boasts a peaceful setting on the shores of the Adriatic Sea. To the north sprawls Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, a scenic landscape of wetlands, coastal meadows and woodlands that has been identified as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area. In addition to providing a refuge for the vulnerable Dalmatian pelican, the park is home to roe deer, golden jackals and red foxes.
Getting around Fier
Fier is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Tirana and Tirana International Airport. The bus terminal in Fier connects to destinations across Albania and the Balkan region and services the entire city.