Durres, Albania’s second-largest city, is a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean charm. Situated along the Adriatic coast, it offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences—from exploring Roman ruins to lounging on sandy beaches. Here’s an expanded guide to help you make the most of your visit.
🏛️ Top Historical Sites in Durrës
Steeped in over 2,000 years of history, Durrës is one of the oldest cities in Albania and a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. From Roman amphitheaters to Byzantine chapels and Ottoman fortresses, its historical sites paint a vivid picture of the civilizations that once thrived here. This section explores the must-see landmarks that bring Durrës’ past to life.
Roman Amphitheatre
The Roman Amphitheatre of the city stands as a breathtaking testament to Albania’s rich history. Built in the early 2nd century AD under Emperor Trajan, this massive arena once captivated up to 20,000 spectators with thrilling gladiator battles and grand spectacles. As the largest amphitheatre in the Balkans, it highlights Durrës’ pivotal role as a cultural epicenter during Roman times.
Amidst the city’s relentless urban sprawl and seismic upheavals, the amphitheatre stands resilient, a testament to an ancient legacy. Ongoing restoration reveals its hidden wonders: underground passageways, stone seats, and a Byzantine chapel with intricate mosaics. Visitors can delve into its depths to truly experience the grandeur of Roman engineering.
📍 Location: In the heart of Durrës, just a short walk from the main square
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee: Approx. 300–500 ALL (subject to change)
Archaeological Museum
Perched by the city’s vibrant waterfront, the Archaeological Museum of Durrës (Rruga Taulantia 32, Durrës 2000, Albanië) invites you on a captivating journey through ancient history. Established in 1951, it stands as Albania’s largest archaeological museum, showcasing over 3,000 mesmerizing artifacts from Greek to Byzantine eras.
Discover the captivating treasures of our collection: Greek amphorae, Roman sarcophagi, intricate mosaics, and exquisitely carved busts of Venus and Apollo. Step into the past as the museum unveils the vibrant daily life, beliefs, and funerary customs of ancient Dyrrachium’s inhabitants. A must-visit for history enthusiasts eager to delve deeper into the city’s scattered ruins!
📍 Location: Rruga Taulantia, near the promenade
⏰ Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
🎟️ Entry Fee: Approx. 500 ALL
Durres Castle & Venetian Tower
Constructed in the 5th century AD by Emperor Anastasius I, a native of the place, the Durres Castle (Kalaja e Durrësit) stood as a formidable guardian against invasions. Through time, it evolved and strengthened under Venetian and Ottoman influences, becoming an enduring symbol of resilience.
The Venetian Tower, a striking circular stone bastion, stands as the castle’s most iconic feature. It offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the city below. Its well-preserved walls whisper tales of ancient military prowess and create a perfect backdrop for sunset photography. This captivating site also hosts vibrant cultural events and intimate local exhibitions, making it a hub of history and artistry.
📍 Location: Rruga Anastas Durrsaku
⏰ Opening Hours: Open 24/7 for exterior visits; check locally for tower interior access
🎟️ Entry Fee: Free (fees may apply for events or guided tours)
🌊 Beaches & Natural Attractions
The Adriatic coastline of Durrës is home to some of Albania’s most inviting beaches. Stretching for miles, the shoreline offers everything from lively public beaches to secluded spots perfect for relaxation. In addition to sun and sand, nearby natural sites like Shkëmbi i Kavajës provide opportunities for snorkeling and coastal walks. Here’s where to go to soak in the sun and sea.
Durres Beach
The city’s main beach stretches for over 10 kilometers, offering golden sands and shallow waters, making it ideal for families. It’s lined with numerous cafes and bars, providing a lively atmosphere.
Golem Beach
Located a short distance from the city center, Golem Beach is quieter and less commercialized, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed environment.
Shkëmbi i Kavajës
This beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and is a favorite spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Where to Stay in Durrës: Hotels for Every Budget
Whether you’re looking for five-star luxury or a cozy local guesthouse, Durrës offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler. From beachfront resorts with spa services to charming boutique hotels in the city center, you’ll find plenty of comfortable options. This section breaks down the best places to stay based on location, amenities, and budget.
| Hotel Name | Location | Highlights | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Adriatik | Shkëmbi i Kavajës, Durres Beach | Luxury hotel with a private beach, outdoor pool, and spa. Stunning Adriatic views. | Private beach, restaurant, bar, fitness center, spa. |
| Hotel Vila 7 | Near the center of the city | Boutique hotel with stylish accommodations and easy access to city attractions. | Free Wi-Fi, restaurant, spacious rooms with modern amenities. |
| Hotel Palace | Durres Beach, near the promenade | Luxurious seafront hotel offering beautiful views of the coastline. | Restaurant, beach access, bar, wellness center. |
| Tropikal Resort | Golem Beach, Durres | Family-friendly with all-inclusive services and stunning sea views. | Outdoor pool, private beach, children’s playground, restaurant, bar. |
| Ajsel Hotel | Close to the city center of Durres | Mid-range hotel offering great customer service and proximity to attractions. | Free Wi-Fi, restaurant, air-conditioned rooms, event facilities. |
| Lido Hotel | Near Durres Beach | Tranquil beachside location ideal for relaxation and exploration. | Restaurant, private beach access, outdoor pool. |
| Hotel Nais | 1 km from the city center, near Durres Beach | Modern hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms. | Restaurant, bar, free Wi-Fi, private parking. |
| The Beach Hotel | Shkëmbi i Kavajës | Beachfront hotel with easy beach access and modern amenities. | Swimming pool, restaurant, beach access, outdoor bar. |
| Hotel Bleart | Durres Beach, 2 km from the city center | Offers excellent value for money with easy access to beach and attractions. | Free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, air-conditioned rooms. |
| Royal G Hotel | 15 minutes from the city center | Luxurious hotel combining comfort, luxury, and affordability. | Pool, private beach access, restaurant, event spaces. |
Durres offers a variety of accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure by the Adriatic coast. Let me know if you need more details on any of these hotels!
🍽️ Durrës Food Guide: What & Where to Eat
The city offers a lively dining experience along its picturesque waterfront promenade, where the Adriatic breeze and stunning sea views enhance every meal. Rooted in coastal geography and Mediterranean heritage, the cuisine shines with fresh seafood, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables crafted with simplicity and care. Enjoy warm Albanian hospitality as you savor each bite in this enchanting setting.
Seafood enthusiasts will find paradise here, with grilled sea bream, calamari, and shrimp risotto gracing the menus of many seaside taverns. Dive into traditional Albanian cuisine by savoring byrek—a flaky pastry bursting with cheese, spinach, or minced meat. Conclude your culinary adventure like a local: sip on raki, the national grape brandy often paired with fruit or nuts.
🥘 Must-Try Local Dishes
- Grilled Fish or Seafood Pasta – Freshly caught and grilled or served with local herbs and olive oil.
- Byrek – Traditional savory pie filled with cheese, meat, or spinach, wrapped in flaky dough.
- Fërgesë – A rich and creamy dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often served with bread.
- Tavë Dheu – Baked lamb or beef in a clay pot with cheese and tomato sauce.
- Trilece – A sponge cake soaked in three types of milk, a popular Albanian dessert.
- Raki – A powerful grape-based spirit enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif.
🍴 Recommended Restaurants in Durrës
| Restaurant | Location | Specialty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aragosta Restaurant | Rruga Taulantia, along the beach promenade | Upscale seafood and Mediterranean cuisine | Lobster pasta, octopus salad, elegant ambiance with sea views |
| 2 Kitarrat | Rruga Taulantia, near the Venetian Tower | Fresh seafood, traditional Albanian dishes, and live music | Mixed grill platters, fërgesë, home-style byrek |
| Pastarella | Along Durrës Beach promenade | Italian-Albanian fusion, with fresh seafood pasta and risotto | Truffle pasta, seafood risotto, romantic sunset setting |
| Artur Restaurant | Golem area, slightly south of the city | Modern Albanian cuisine with international twists | Lamb chops, vegetarian options, excellent local wines |
| Piazza Restaurant | Central Durrës, near Skanderbeg Square | Traditional dishes with a modern presentation | Tavë kosi, beef filet, trilece dessert |
| Troy Piceri Grill House | Near the beach area of Shkëmbi i Kavajës | Wood-fired pizzas and Balkan grilled meats | Meat platters, pizza with Albanian toppings, cold local beer |
☕ Cafés & Sweets
- Bar My Way – A modern café with seafront views, great for cocktails or a morning espresso.
- Gelateria Çaça – One of the best spots for homemade gelato along the boardwalk.
- Charlotte Café – Chic coffee bar and pastry spot, popular with locals and visitors alike.
💡 Dining Tips
- Reservations Recommended: Especially in summer or weekends, as popular spots fill up fast.
- Tipping: A 10% tip is appreciated but not mandatory.
- Cash or Card? Many places accept cards, but smaller restaurants and cafes may prefer cash (Albanian Lek).
- Local Wines: Try white wines from Berat or reds from Përmet — Albanian wine is an underrated treat.
🛶 Activities & Things to Do in Durrës
- Via Egnatia Trail: This ancient Roman road stretches from Durres to Istanbul. Hikers can explore the first 18 kilometers, passing through lush meadows and offering scenic views of the Adriatic coast.
- Durres Marina: A modern harbor area featuring shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or to enjoy a sunset drink.
- Great Mosque of Durrës: Built in 1931, this mosque is an architectural blend of Islamic and local styles. Though it was closed during the communist era, it has since been restored and remains an active place of worship.
🧭 Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: May to September offers warm weather ideal for beach activities. However, visiting in late spring or early autumn can provide a more tranquil experience.
- Getting Around: While Durres has a bus system, renting a bicycle or scooter can be a convenient way to explore the city and nearby beaches.
- Currency: The local currency is the Albanian lek (ALL). While credit cards are accepted in many establishments, it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns or rural areas.
- Language: Albanian is the official language. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic phrases in Albanian can enhance your experience.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots in Durrës
Durrës is full of picturesque moments just waiting to be captured. From golden hour over the Adriatic to ancient ruins set against modern skylines, it’s a dream for photographers and content creators alike. Here’s where to go to capture the perfect shot—and maybe even a few lifelong memories.
- Sunset at Durres Beach: Capture the stunning hues as the sun sets over the Adriatic.
- Roman Amphitheatre: Photograph the ancient ruins juxtaposed against the modern city backdrop.
- Durres Marina: The marina’s reflections during the golden hour provide excellent photo opportunities.
Day Trips from Durrës
While Durrës has plenty to offer, its location also makes it a great base for exploring nearby Albanian destinations. Venture out to UNESCO heritage cities, hilltop castles, or hidden beaches just a short drive away. These recommended day trips offer a broader look at the region’s beauty, culture, and history—perfect for enriching your travel experience beyond the coast.
1. Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows (UNESCO Site)
Travel Time from Durrës: ~2.5 hours by car
Why Go: Explore one of Albania’s most iconic and well-preserved Ottoman-era cities, known for its hillside houses and cobbled streets.
Stroll through the charming Mangalem and Gorica quarters, visit the Berat Castle overlooking the Osum River, and admire Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques. Don’t miss the Onufri Museum, which showcases brilliant 16th-century religious iconography.
Highlights:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Berat Castle with panoramic views
- Local wine tasting at nearby vineyards
- Onufri Iconography Museum
2. Krujë – The Historic Castle Town
Travel Time from Durrës: ~1 hour by car
Why Go: Step into Albania’s proud past in this mountain town, home to national hero Skanderbeg and the site of fierce resistance against the Ottoman Empire.
Explore Krujë Castle and its impressive museum dedicated to Skanderbeg. Walk the Old Bazaar to find handcrafted souvenirs, traditional carpets, and silver jewelry. The town also offers stunning views over the surrounding plains and coastline.
Highlights:
- Skanderbeg Museum inside Krujë Castle
- Ottoman-style Old Bazaar
- Ethnographic Museum
- Mountain views and photo opportunities
3. Cape of Rodon (Kepi i Rodonit) – A Hidden Coastal Gem
Travel Time from Durrës: ~1.5 hours by car + short hike
Why Go: Discover a dramatic peninsula on the Adriatic Sea, offering nature, history, and seclusion in one spot.
A short hike through pine forest trails leads you to the Rodoni Castle ruins, built by Skanderbeg in the 15th century. The views from the cliffs are spectacular, and the quiet beaches nearby are perfect for a peaceful swim or picnic away from crowds.
Highlights:
- Rodoni Castle ruins
- Secluded beaches and turquoise waters
- Hiking through scenic coastal trails
- Ideal for a quiet day in nature
4. Tirana – Albania’s Colorful Capital
Travel Time from Durrës: ~45 minutes by car or bus
Why Go: Immerse yourself in Albania’s vibrant capital city Tirana, filled with eclectic architecture, museums, cafés, and nightlife.
Visit Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the colorful Pazari i Ri market. For a break from the city, take the Dajti Express cable car up Mount Dajti for panoramic views and forest walks.
Highlights:
- National History & Bunk’Art Museums
- Dajti Mountain Cable Car
- Colorful street art and vibrant café culture
- Tirana Pyramid and Skanderbeg Square
5. Apollonia Archaeological Park – Ancient City in the Countryside
Travel Time from Durrës: ~2 hours by car
Why Go: Step back into antiquity at one of Albania’s most important archaeological sites.
Apollonia was a major Greek and later Roman city, home to a renowned academy where Emperor Augustus studied. The site includes a theater, library ruins, a Byzantine monastery, and sweeping countryside views.
Highlights:
- Ancient Greek and Roman ruins
- Quiet rural setting with scenic landscapes
- Archaeological museum housed in a monastery
- Less crowded than more famous sites
✨ Tips for Day Trips
- Car Rental: The easiest and most flexible option for day trips.
- Public Transport: Available to major cities like Tirana and Berat, but may be less convenient for rural sites.
- Guided Tours: Consider joining a local tour for added historical insight and stress-free travel.
- Pack Snacks & Water: Especially for more remote areas like Cape of Rodon.
❓Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Visiting Durrës
1. Is Durrës safe for tourists?
Yes, Durrës is generally safe for tourists. Like any destination, it’s wise to take normal precautions—watch your belongings in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit streets late at night. Albanians are known for their hospitality, and crime rates are relatively low in tourist zones.
2. Can you swim in the sea in Durrës?
Absolutely. The Adriatic Sea along Durrës’ coast is warm and shallow, especially in summer months. The water is safe for swimming, particularly at Durrës Beach and Golem Beach, which are popular with both locals and visitors.
3. What’s the best time to visit Durrës?
The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities. For fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, consider late May, early June, or September.
4. Do people in Durrës speak English?
English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. However, learning a few basic Albanian phrases (like faleminderit for “thank you”) is appreciated and can enhance your travel experience.
5. What currency is used in Durrës?
The local currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL). While credit and debit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, it’s advisable to carry some cash for taxis, small cafes, and markets.
6. How do I get to Durrës from Tirana International Airport?
Durrës is about 35 km (22 miles) from Tirana International Airport. You can get there by:
- Taxi (about 30–40 minutes, approx. 3,000–4,000 ALL)
- Bus (direct buses from the airport to Durrës run regularly)
- Car rental if you prefer flexibility
7. Can I use euros in Durrës?
Some tourist areas and hotels may accept euros, but it’s not guaranteed. It’s best to exchange to Albanian Lek or withdraw cash from ATMs for better rates and wider acceptance.
8. Is Durrës suitable for family travel?
Yes, Durrës is very family-friendly. The beaches have gentle slopes and shallow waters, and many resorts offer playgrounds, pools, and family amenities. Historical sites and food options also cater to a range of ages.
9. Are there vegetarian or vegan food options in Durrës?
Yes, while Albanian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants offer vegetarian options like grilled vegetables, cheese dishes, and fresh salads. Vegan choices are more limited but growing—just ask the staff, as many dishes can be customized.
10. How many days should I spend in Durrës?
A stay of 2 to 4 days is ideal for exploring the city’s highlights—historical sites, beaches, and local food—while also allowing time for a day trip or two to nearby attractions like Krujë or Cape of Rodon.
Durres offers a unique blend of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Whether you’re lounging on its sandy beaches, exploring ancient ruins, or savoring local delicacies, this place promises an unforgettable experience.