There are such a lot of issues to do in Durres, Albania’s most historical metropolis positioned on the Adriatic Sea. Whether or not you like the seashore or are a historical past buff, there are some nice locations to go to in Durres for each type of traveler.
I spent over 2 months exploring Albania, which included spending time sightseeing the place often called ‘The Everlasting Metropolis’, Durres.
Whereas as we speak, Durres is house to Albania’s largest seaport, it’s additionally one of many largest vacationer facilities and has some stunning ocean, structure, and tradition to discover. This is likely one of the high locations to go to in Albania.
Should you’re planning a visit and are questioning what to do in Durres, listed below are my high 15 issues to do in Durres that can assist you get an itinerary collectively.
Finest Issues To Do in Durres
Durres is a coastal metropolis with big historic significance to the formation of Albania, so there are such a lot of enjoyable issues to do whereas right here.
Inside this submit, I’ve picked out a few of my favourite Durres points of interest that can assist you benefit from your time in Albania’s second metropolis.
1. Marvel on the Roman Amphitheater
Durres is packed stuffed with Roman and Byzantine structure, which exhibits its historic significance to Albania and the Balkans as a complete. Whether or not you go to for the traditional historical past or not, the sheer dimension and scale of the Roman amphitheater in Durres is bound to impress.
Nestled within the heart of the town, the amphitheater is arguably probably the most vital items of historical structure within the Balkans. The amphitheater was constructed within the 2nd Century BC, and it’s the largest ever constructed within the Balkan Peninsula, holding a capability of as much as 20,000 spectators.
At the moment, you may really enter the amphitheater to get an actual impression of the scale and scale of this superb development. It’s one of many high issues to do in Durres and is simple to entry from the middle of the town.
Handle: Durres Amphitheater, Rruga Kalase, Durres. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Embark on a Wine Tasting Tour
Among the best issues to do in Durres is to make a journey out of city on this stunning wine-tasting tour.
Winemaking is an historical custom in Albania and Durres marks the beginning of the wine-growing area, which extends alongside the mountains and coast to the north. For me, the wine-growing area is likely one of the most spectacular locations to go to in Durres.
On this tour, you’ll discover the gorgeous surroundings round Durres together with the peaceable Lake of Lalez, and can go to an area vineyard and winery the place you’ll study extra in regards to the Albanian wine-making course of.
Pattern a number of the greatest wines within the area together with a conventional native lunch. You’ll additionally get to strive the regionally produced Raki, which is the right method to finish your meal. This is likely one of the greatest locations to go to close to Durres and is a good exercise for {couples}.
Handle: Duka Vineyard, Lake Lalez, Durres. Click on right here for the situation, or click on the hyperlink above to e-book a tour.
3. Chill out at Durres Seaside
Durres is primarily a industrial port and is the second metropolis of Albania, so its seashores don’t evaluate to these on the Albanian Riviera. That mentioned, for those who’re in Durres and also you need to work in your tan, there’s an extended stretch of seashores to the south of the town ready to be explored.
The seashores stretch for over 10 kilometers and are backed by motels, eating places, and cafes. You’ll discover loads of loungers and facilities, together with water sports activities, alongside the stretch and the world is definitely accessible by taxi or native bus.
A day on the seashore is likely one of the greatest free issues to do in Durres and is an effective way to flee the hustle and bustle of the town heart.
Handle: Seaside of Durres. Click on right here for the central level of the seashore.
4. Go to the Archaeological Museum
Should you’re eager to study extra in regards to the historic significance of Durres then this museum is likely one of the high vacationer points of interest in Durres you gained’t need to miss.
It’s the biggest archaeological museum in Albania and is positioned within the coronary heart of the town, proper subsequent to the waterfront. The museum has artifacts and relics from the traditional Illyrian tradition, via the Roman and Byzantine eras, and into the Ottoman interval.
There’s a lot to do in Durres for historical past buffs and lovers alike, and the archaeological museum is extremely rated. It’s one in all my high locations to go to in Durres.
Handle: Durres Archaeological Museum, Rruga Taulantia 32, Durres. Click on right here for instructions to the museum.
5. Be a part of a Strolling Tour
A strolling tour is one in all my favourite methods to discover a brand new place, and with a lot historical past and tradition packed into Durres, this 3-hour tour of the town is the right introduction.
The tour begins within the heart, at Lira Sq., earlier than taking in the principle points of interest of Durres, lots of which seem on this listing. You’ll discover the Roman Amphitheater and the archaeological museum, go to the Venetian Tower, and see the place previous meets new on the Durres Promenade.
The tour is interactive, and the guides are glorious. This can be a good method to discover the town and get your bearings. It’s positively one in all my high picks for issues to do in Durres.
Handle: Liria Sq., Durres. Click on right here for the assembly level of the tour, or right here for additional particulars and reserving.
6. Hike the Through Egnatia
Should you like to hike, the Through Egnatia path shall be among the best issues you are able to do close to Durres. The Through Egnatia gives not solely a number of the greatest surroundings in Albania however in the entire Balkans.
The path itself is 475 kilometers lengthy and begins in Durres. It goes on to cross via a number of completely different international locations, together with the remainder of Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, and Turkey.
All through the path, you’ll hike via mountains, rivers, lakes, and streams, and even have views of the coast whereas passing via historical cities and civilizations.
Somewhat than trying the complete 475 kilometers, (you may for those who like!), stage one of many hike is an 18-kilometer path that passes via the attractive meadows, groves, and hills above Durres and begins in Golem.
I like to recommend testing the Through Egnatia web site for a useful information to exploring the path on foot. This is likely one of the greatest hikes in Albania. Should you’re trying to do some extra climbing, take a look at our article on the greatest Nationwide Parks within the nation.
Handle: Golem, Albania. Click on right here for the start line of the Through Egnatia in Golem.
7. Take a Tour of Kruje and the Holy Mountain
Among the best issues to do in Durres is to take a tour of the close by city of Kruje, which is round an hour away from Durres. This Kruje and Preza half-day tour collects you out of your lodge or hostel in Durres and the native information is nice at sharing the attention-grabbing historical past and tradition of this stunning metropolis.
You’ll go to the Kruje Bazaar which is likely one of the oldest in Albania and was the unique buying and selling level amongst the town’s most outstanding retailers. Subsequent, is a go to to the Skanderbeg museum to study extra in regards to the Albanian Nationwide hero of the identical title, who chances are you’ll already be aware of for those who’ve visited Tirana.
Kruja Fort and the mountain of Kruja, (also called the Adriatic Balcony), positively make the listing of locations to see in Durres. It’s a beautiful space that may train you a large number about Albania’s wealthy tradition and historical past and is an expertise I positively suggest, notably for those who love historical past. Click on right here to e-book a spot on the tour.
Handle: Click on right here for Kruje, Albania.
8. Head out to Spille Seaside
Spille Seaside is round 40 minutes south of Durres, and for me, a time out right here is likely one of the greatest issues to do round Durres.
Whereas Durres Seaside can get notably busy in the summertime, Spille Seaside stays comparatively calm. That mentioned, it’s lined with numerous seashore bars and eating places, so there’s a lot happening.
It’s among the best issues to do in Durres for households due to its comparatively calm and shallow waters, in addition to its spacious, sandy seashore for taking part in seashore video games.
Usually talking, the north finish of the seashore is the quietest, and it’s right here that you just’ll discover locals having fun with a little bit of afternoon solar. I really like the scrumptious meals served at Sunshine Spille restaurant right here, and it’s a stunning stretch of seashore too. Additional south is the place you’ll discover numerous seashore bars and extra of a celebration vibe.
Handle: Spille Seaside, Albania
9. Go to the Durres Mosque
The Grand Mosque of Durres, or Xhamia e Madhe because it’s referred to as in Albanian, is a stupendous Albanian Mosque that was inbuilt 1931. Initially constructed by King Zog, it was the biggest mosque in Albania of its period.
Throughout communist instances, the mosque was shut down by the dictator Enver Hoxha and the minaret was demolished. It was additional broken by an Earthquake in 1979.
Nonetheless, regardless of all of this destruction, the Mosque stays and has in some way withstood each pure disasters and dictatorships. It’s among the best issues to see in Durres as we speak for its stunning structure.
Handle: Durres Mosque, Rruga Dhimeter Kraja
10. Uncover the Byzantine Discussion board
The Byzantine Discussion board is likely one of the most acknowledged and exquisite monuments from the Roman and early Byzantine eras in the entire of Albania.
It was often called a Market Sq. and has some spectacular Corinthian columns to marvel at. Contained in the discussion board, Roman Thermal baths have been found, in addition to an Amphitheater.
At the moment, it’s just some steps away from the principle, newly renovated central sq., so it’s attention-grabbing to see the distinction between previous and new. It’s extra of a pass-by attraction, however as one of many primary locations to see in Durres, it’s value seeing and snapping a photograph of.
Handle: Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durres
11. Tour the Unbelievable Metropolis of Berat
Take a tour from Durres to the town of Berat, which is simply 90 minutes away and is likely one of the hottest locations within the nation. There are quite a few issues to do in Berat to maintain you busy.
This good Berat sightseeing day tour might be personalised relying on what you’d prefer to see however a number of the prospects embody a go to to the Iconic Fort of Berat, and the attractive Ottoman bridge named Gorica.
You’ll additionally go to the gorgeous neighborhoods, together with my most-loved, Mangalem, from which you’ll be able to see the well-known view of the 1000 home windows. It’s one in all my favourite excursions in Albania.
Should you love wine, the tour additionally presents the chance to go to the Cobo Vineyard to study in regards to the household wine-making enterprise, in addition to the possibility to pattern some native grapes. Berat ought to positively characteristic in your listing of issues to do close to Durres. Click on right here to e-book the tour.
Handle: Berat, Albania
12. Go to the UNESCO Metropolis of Gjirokaster
Whereas Gjirokaster is round 3 hours from Durres, it’s nonetheless doable to see the perfect of the city in a day. Alternatively, you could possibly spend an evening right here, which is what I like to recommend as a result of there are loads of issues to do there and staying means you don’t should rush round.
No matter you select to do, you completely ought to put this city on the high of your listing of locations to see close to Durres – it’s unimaginable.
A few of my favourite issues to do in Gjirokaster embody visiting the Fort of Gjirokastra to study the historical past of the world and of the fort itself, and for the superb views over the mountain ranges.
Simply exterior Gjirokaster is a household vineyard referred to as The Barrels, which is a must-visit. It serves unimaginable, do-it-yourself vegetarian meals, and wine, and the household are so hospitable and welcoming. You additionally sit proper below the vines, with a surprising view over the winery.
Handle: Gjirokaster, Albania
13. Discover Durres Fort
Durres Fort, or the Venetian Tower of Durres, is an historical fortress positioned within the heart of the city, not removed from the coast. It dates again to 400AD and was constructed by the Roman Emperor Anastasius I, who was born within the area. The Roman Emperor made Durres probably the most fortified cities within the space.
Extra just lately, in 1939, the fort was utilized by Albanian nationalists searching for to delay the Italian Military from invading the town.
At the moment, the fort has been transformed right into a bar with a rooftop terrace! It’s positively value a go to and is likely one of the loveliest issues to do in Durres for {couples} because it’s fairly a romantic setting. What’s extra, the proximity of the fort to the ocean makes for some glorious views.
Handle: Durres Fort, Durres
14. Stroll Alongside the Promenade
Taking an early morning stroll, or a sundown stroll alongside the promenade, is certainly of my favourite issues to do in Durres. Seize a morning espresso from Sophie Caffe whereas stretching your legs and respiratory within the sea air. I really like taking a relaxation to observe the fishermen fishing for the each day catch.
The very best time to go to the promenade is at sundown, because the sky places on a magical present; turning from pink to burnt orange to purple. It’s among the best issues to do in Durres at evening and is greatest skilled over a drink at Posh Lounge or over a scrumptious dinner at Artur Restaurant.
Handle: Durres Promenade, Shetitorja
15. Take a Day Journey to Montenegro
The northerly location of Durres makes ticking off a complete different nation throughout your journey an actual chance. This epic Budva and Kotor Bay tour will take you to a number of the hottest locations on the south coast of Montenegro and I extremely recommend you attempt to make it throughout your keep!
See the unique island of Sveti Stefan, as soon as a Fifteenth-century fortified island city turned luxurious resort. Go to the picturesque Kotor Bay and the UNESCO World Heritage Web site of Kotor together with its cobbled medieval previous city, and wander the Italian-influenced Budva Previous City, enclosed by the well-known metropolis partitions.
It’s a jam-packed day, however a extremely implausible alternative to see extra of the Balkans and a very completely different tradition. It’s among the best issues to do in Durres and you may e-book it right here.
Handle: Budva, Montenegro
Fast Journey Itineraries For Durres
Listed here are a number of urged itineraries that can assist you plan what to do in Durres:
1 Day in Durres Itinerary
Should you solely have sooner or later in Durres, I like to recommend taking this strolling tour to study a bit about probably the most historical metropolis in Albania. The strolling tour is an effective way to tick off lots of the greatest issues to do in Durres which are featured on this listing, such because the Amphitheater and the Fort.
Within the afternoon, seize a drink on the rooftop terrace within the fort and take a stroll alongside the promenade to admire the gorgeous sundown and spherical off your day completely.
2-3 Days in Durres Itinerary
When you’ve got an additional couple of days to spend in Durres, I like to recommend that you just observe the above one-day itinerary.
On the second day, e-book a day journey to one of many different cities in Albania like Berat or Kruja to find extra of Albania. Spend your closing day in Durres absorbing the solar and sipping a chilly drink on Durres or Spille Seaside.
1 Week in Durres Itinerary
When you’ve got one week in Durres, you’ll be capable to tick most of this stuff to do off of the listing. For day journeys, I positively suggest that you just go and see Berat and Gjirokaster and the wine tour can be glorious. The wine area is admittedly stunning, and the tour is a implausible method to expertise a unique aspect of Durres.
The Amphitheater and the Fort are each must-sees in Durres so ensure you go to these. The beauty of Durres is that the principle points of interest are very shut to one another, so that you’ll don’t have any downside wandering round and leisurely ticking them off as you please.
After all, ensure you pencil in some enjoyable time on the seashores between all of the sightseeing in Durres.
The place to Keep in Durres
These are a number of of the perfect neighborhoods in Durres for vacationers:
Durres Seaside – Finest for Households
Should you’re visiting Durres to benefit from the seashore, then you definitely’ll positively need to keep on Durres Seaside. It’s an ideal place for households because it’s inside strolling distance of the seashore and all of the native facilities you’ll want.
The EKA luxurious house incorporates a terrace and a balcony and is absolutely geared up. It’s positioned simply throughout the highway from the seashore.
Previous City – Finest for First-time Guests
The Previous City is the perfect place to remain in Durres for these visiting the town for the primary time. You’ll be inside strolling distance of all of the historic websites, in addition to many implausible foods and drinks choices within the metropolis. If you wish to take some day journeys, it’s additionally a really perfect location to decide on as a base.
Resort Giulia Albergo is ideal for {couples} searching for a bit of luxurious. This stunning lodge is near all the principle points of interest in Durres and has a stunning restaurant on website too.
Rruga Curilla – Finest for Seaside Views
Positioned within the hills to the North of Durres, is Rruga Curilla. Dotted alongside this primary highway are some good cafes, bars, and eating places.
The lodging round listed below are a bit of extra luxe than most you’ll discover within the different neighborhoods, so for those who’re after a soothing journey, it is a excellent choice. I like to recommend Resort Hillside Seaside for the great views and spacious rooms.
Finest Eating places in Durres
Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Durres:
Olivia’s Fish Home
Olivia’s Fish Home is a candy little restaurant positioned alongside Rruga Carulla and is one in all my favourite locations to go to in Durres for unimaginable seafood. Ask the chef for his suggestions. He’s notably assured and rightly so, his meals is unimaginable, and also you actually gained’t depart upset. Click on right here for instructions.
Artur Restaurant
Artur Restaurant serves a mix of seafood and Italian meals. After all, being so near the coast, the seafood is recent and scrumptious and the restaurant itself could be very fairly inside. This can be a great spot to eat and gives a wonderful view of the sundown from the higher flooring; making it perfect for a extremely romantic evening out. Click on right here for instructions.
Pastarella
You must go to Patarella for, you guessed it, pasta. All the pieces is recent and scrumptious and there’s a pleasant view of the ocean. I like to recommend the meat mushroom pasta and the grilled shrimp. Additionally they have a wonderful wine listing, so if that’s your drink of selection, you’ll adore it right here. Click on right here to view its location.
Meison Bistro
For scrumptious meals and cheap costs, in addition to a implausible location on the promenade, it’s essential to go to Meison Bistro. The fish is admittedly good right here because the restaurant has its personal fish market, so you may relaxation assured that the meals shall be recent. The salmon tartare and calamari have been scrumptious once I visited. Click on right here to view on a map.
Pista E Vogel Iliria
Pista E Vogel Iliria is a implausible restaurant positioned on Durres Seaside with stunning views over the ocean. Whereas predominantly a fish restaurant, there’s additionally an Italian providing, together with pasta dishes, they usually serve an excellent steak too. Price a go to for those who’re staying by Durres Seaside. Click on right here for instructions.
Getting To Durres
Most individuals will journey to Durres from Tirana, as that’s the place the Worldwide Airport is positioned.
It takes round 45 minutes to get from Tirana to Durres and the simplest method to journey is to both seize a taxi, which can value round 2500 LEK ($20), or take the bus. Make sure you affirm a worth with the taxi driver earlier than you set off.
The buses depart from the central bus station in Tirana and run ceaselessly at round each half-hour between 6:30 am and seven:30 pm. The ticket will value round 150 LEK ($1.50). Once you arrive in Durres, you’ll be round a 10-minute stroll from the town heart.
Alternatively, you may hire a automobile, which shall be helpful for taking some day journeys from Durres. Durres is a really walkable metropolis, so that you’ll be capable to attain most locations on foot and gained’t should depend on public transportation.
Issues To Do in Durres: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Durres:
Durres is understood for being a big port metropolis, but in addition for being probably the most historical metropolis in Albania. There are many nice historic websites to go to in Durres.
The very best time to go to Durres is through the summer time months. Should you go to throughout Might and June it’ll be very heat however not as crowded as in July and August.
Sure, notably if you are interested in historical historical past. Should you’re based mostly in Tirana, it’s positively value a go to to see a little bit of the coast and chill out on the seashore.
A few days or an extended weekend is the right period of time to see all the perfect issues to do in Durres.
Sure. Durres, and Albania as a complete, could be very secure. As with anyplace, pickpockets are round so remember to deal with your issues, however in any other case you’re unlikely to expertise any points.
The most well-liked issues to do in Durres are to go to Durres Fort and go to the seashore. It additionally has some nice seafood eating places to take pleasure in for those who’re a little bit of a foodie like me!
My favourite seashore in Durres is Spille Seaside, which is round 40 minutes south of Durres. The sand and sea are each clear, and the seashore is admittedly large and much much less crowded.
You completely should strive seafood in Durres. It’s tremendous recent and cooked very well right here. There are some glorious seafood eating places featured within the listing above.
In Closing
There’s a lot extra to Durres than simply being a serious port metropolis. Not solely are there some implausible issues to do in Durres itself, nevertheless it makes for an ideal location for those who’re trying to discover the remainder of Albania, and even Montenegro too.
I hope this text helps you propose what to see in Durres and that you’ve got a superb journey!
