bigtravelbuzzFier County is located in southwestern Albania and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Here are some places to visit in Fier County:
Apollonia Archaeological Park: This ancient Greek city is one of the most important archaeological sites in Albania, with ruins dating back to the 6th century BC. The site includes a theater, a forum, and several temples.
Bylis Archaeological Park: Located near the city of Ballsh, this archaeological site includes the ruins of an ancient city that was once a powerful political and economic center in the region.
Ardenica Monastery: This 13th-century monastery is one of the most important religious sites in Albania, with a beautiful Byzantine-style church and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Karavasta Lagoon: This large lagoon is home to a diverse array of bird species, including flamingos, herons, and pelicans. It’s a great place for bird watching and nature walks.
The city of Fier: The city of Fier is the administrative center of the county and has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It’s home to several museums, including the Museum of Apollonia, which showcases artifacts from the ancient city.
The village of Bylisht: This traditional village is known for its beautiful architecture and well-preserved Ottoman-era houses.
The beach at Divjaka-Karavasta National Park: This protected area is home to one of the largest and most beautiful sandy beaches in Albania, as well as a diverse array of flora and fauna.
The village of Cakran: This picturesque village is known for its traditional architecture, beautiful natural surroundings, and delicious local cuisine.
The city of Patos: This industrial city is home to several important oil refineries and has a rich history dating back to the Ottoman period.
Overall, Fier County offers a great mix of historical and cultural attractions, natural beauty, and traditional Albanian village life. It’s a great destination for those looking to explore a lesser-known part of Albania.
Best Time To Visit Fier County
The best time to visit Fier County is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the days are long. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, and the popular attractions can get crowded. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed experience, you can consider visiting Fier County during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are thinner. Additionally, Fier County has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters, so visiting during the winter months is also possible, though some attractions may have limited opening hours during this time.
Things to Do in Fier County
Here are some of the top things to do in Fier County:
Explore the ancient city of Apollonia: Visit the Apollonia Archaeological Park and explore the ruins of this ancient Greek city, including a theater, temples, and a forum.
Visit the Ardenica Monastery: This 13th-century Orthodox monastery features a beautiful Byzantine-style church and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Relax on the beaches of Divjaka-Karavasta National Park: This national park is home to a beautiful coastline with several beaches, including Gjiri i Plazhit and Karavasta Beach.
Discover the traditional village of Lushnja: Take a stroll through the streets of Lushnja, known for its traditional architecture, and visit the Lushnja Ethnographic Museum to learn more about the local culture and history.
Visit the town of Fier: Explore the town of Fier and its many cultural and historical sites, including the Fier Castle, the Museum of History and Ethnography, and the bazaar.
Enjoy the local cuisine: Fier County is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, including dishes like fërgesë, qifqi, and tavë kosi. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area.
How to get around in Fier County
Fier County has a good road network, and getting around by car or taxi is the most convenient way to explore the area. You can rent a car from the Tirana International Airport or in the town of Fier. There are also taxis available in the towns and cities, and they are usually metered.
Alternatively, you can also use public transportation to get around Fier County. Buses connect the major towns and cities, and there are also minibuses and shared taxis known as furgons, which operate between smaller towns and villages. However, be aware that public transportation schedules can be irregular, and it may not always be possible to find a direct route to your destination.
Where to eat in Fier County
Fier County offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Albanian cuisine to international dishes. Here are some places to eat in Fier County:
Fier Bazaar: This bustling market in the town of Fier is a great place to sample local specialties like fërgesë, qifqi, and tavë kosi.
Sofra e Ariut: Located in the town of Fier, this restaurant offers a variety of traditional Albanian dishes, including grilled meats, fresh salads, and homemade bread.
La Maree: This seafood restaurant in the town of Divjaka is known for its fresh seafood dishes and beautiful seaside location.
Pishat e Buta: This restaurant in the town of Lushnja is known for its traditional Albanian cuisine, including grilled meats, stews, and homemade desserts.
Rapsodia e Këlcyrës: This restaurant in the village of Këlcyrë serves traditional Albanian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh lamb and goat.
Bar Restaurant Safari: Located near the Divjaka-Karavasta National Park, this restaurant offers a mix of international and Albanian cuisine, including grilled meats, fresh seafood, and pizza.
Famous street stalls in Fier County
Fier County is known for its vibrant street food scene, and there are plenty of street stalls and food vendors offering a variety of tasty snacks and meals. Here are some famous street stalls in Fier County:
Qofte në Furre: This popular street food stall in the town of Fier serves delicious meatballs (qofte) baked in a wood-fired oven. The meatballs are made with a mixture of beef and lamb, and are served with fresh bread and a variety of sauces.
Byrek: Byrek is a traditional Albanian pastry made with layers of phyllo dough filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. There are several street stalls in Fier County that specialize in making byrek, and it’s a popular snack or breakfast food.
Tavë Kosi: Tavë Kosi is a traditional Albanian dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt. There are several street food vendors in Fier County that specialize in making Tavë Kosi, and it’s a hearty and delicious meal.
Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and syrup. There are several street vendors in Fier County that sell baklava, and it’s a popular dessert.
Kebab: Kebab is a popular grilled meat dish in Albania, and there are several street vendors in Fier County that specialize in making kebab. The meat is marinated in a variety of spices and is served with fresh bread and a variety of sauces.
Where to stay in Fier County
Luxury accommodation
Fier County has a few luxury accommodation options for visitors who are looking for a more upscale stay. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Fier County:
Hotel Fieri: Located in the heart of Fier, Hotel Fieri is a modern and luxurious hotel that offers comfortable rooms and suites. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a spa with a sauna and a Turkish bath.
Vila Rias: Vila Rias is a luxury hotel located in the town of Roskovec, just a short drive from Fier. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center, and it offers spacious rooms and suites with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Hotel Gjoka: Hotel Gjoka is a luxurious hotel located in the town of Patos, just a short drive from Fier. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center, and it offers comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities.
Hotel Millennium: Hotel Millennium is a luxurious hotel located in the town of Ballsh, just a short drive from Fier. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center, and it offers spacious rooms and suites with elegant decor.
Hotel Vila Zeus: Hotel Vila Zeus is a luxurious hotel located in the town of Divjaka, just a short drive from Fier. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool, and it offers comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities.
Where to stay in Fier County
Budget accommodation
Fier County offers several options for budget accommodation that are suitable for travelers on a tight budget. Here are some of the best budget accommodation options in Fier County:
Hotel Fieri 2: Located in the heart of Fier, Hotel Fieri 2 offers comfortable rooms and suites at affordable prices. The hotel features a restaurant, a bar, and a 24-hour front desk.
Hotel Palace Fier: Hotel Palace Fier is a budget hotel located in the town of Fier, just a short drive from the city center. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities, and it features a restaurant, a bar, and a 24-hour front desk.
Hotel Bujtina Leon: Hotel Bujtina Leon is a budget hotel located in the town of Roskovec, just a short drive from Fier. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with traditional decor, and it features a restaurant, a bar, and a garden.
Hotel Class: Hotel Class is a budget hotel located in the town of Patos, just a short drive from Fier. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, and it features a restaurant, a bar, and a 24-hour front desk.
Guest House A&G: Guest House A&G is a budget guesthouse located in the town of Divjaka, just a short drive from Fier. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms, and it features a garden and a terrace.
Travel Tips Fier County
Here are some travel tips for visiting Fier County:
Weather: Fier County has a Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny.
Transportation: The easiest way to get around Fier County is by car or taxi. There are also buses and minibusses that connect the different towns and villages in the county.
Language: Albanian is the official language of Fier County, but many people also speak English, especially in the larger towns and cities.
Currency: The official currency of Albania is the Lek (ALL). Credit cards are widely accepted in the larger towns and cities, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases.
Safety: Fier County is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions like keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.
Culture: Fier County is home to many historical and cultural sites, including ancient ruins, museums, and traditional villages. Be sure to learn about the local customs and traditions before visiting these places, and show respect for the local culture.
Food: Fier County is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a variety of vegetable dishes. Be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re there.