There are such a lot of issues to do in Durres, Albania’s most historic metropolis situated 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 form of traveler.
I spent over 2 months exploring Albania, which included spending time sightseeing the place often called ‘The Everlasting Metropolis’, Durees. Whereas at this time, Durres is residence to Albania’s largest seaport, it’s additionally one of many greatest vacationer facilities and has some stunning ocean, structure, and tradition to discover.
When you’re planning a visit and are questioning what to do in Durres, listed below are my prime 15 issues to do in Durres that can assist you get an itinerary collectively:
Greatest 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 put up, 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 filled with Roman and Byzantine structure, which reveals its historic significance to Albania and the Balkans as an entire. Whether or not you go to for the traditional historical past or not, the sheer measurement and scale of the Roman amphitheater in Durres is certain to impress.
Nestled within the middle of town, the amphitheater is arguably some of the necessary items of historic structure within the Balkans. The amphitheater was constructed within the 2nd Century BC, and it’s the largest ever built in the Balkan Peninsula, holding a capability of as much as 20,000 spectators.
Right now, you’ll be able to really enter the amphitheater to get an actual impression of the scale and scale of this wonderful building. It’s one of many prime issues to do in Durres and is simple to entry from the middle of town.
Tackle: Durres Amphitheater, Rruga Kalase, Durres. Click here for directions.
2. Embark on a Wine Tasting Tour
Among the finest issues to do in Durres is to make a journey out of city on this stunning wine-tasting tour.
Winemaking is an historic 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 among 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 be taught extra concerning the Albanian wine-making course of.
Pattern among the greatest wines within the area together with a conventional native lunch. You’ll additionally get to attempt the regionally produced Raki, which is the proper technique to finish your meal. This is among the greatest locations to go to close to Durres and is a good exercise for {couples}.
Tackle: Duka Vineyard, Lake Lalez, Durres. Click here for the location, or click on the hyperlink above to e-book a tour.
3. Calm down at Durres Seaside
Durres is primarily a business port and is the second metropolis of Albania, so its seashores don’t evaluate to these on the Albanian Riviera. That stated, if you happen to’re in Durres and also you need to work in your tan, there’s a protracted stretch of seashores to the south of town ready to be explored.
The seashores stretch for over 10 kilometers and are backed by inns, eating places, and cafes. You’ll discover loads of loungers and facilities, together with water sports activities, alongside the stretch and the realm is well accessible by taxi or native bus.
A day on the seashore is among the greatest free issues to do in Durres and is an effective way to flee the hustle and bustle of town middle.
Tackle: Seaside of Durres. Click on here for the central point of the beach.
4. Go to the Archaeological Museum
When you’re eager to be taught extra concerning the historic significance of Durres then this museum is among the prime vacationer points of interest in Durres you gained’t need to miss.
It’s the most important archaeological museum in Albania and is situated within the coronary heart of town, proper subsequent to the waterfront. The museum has artifacts and relics from the traditional Illyrian tradition, by way of 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 very rated. It’s considered one of my prime locations to go to in Durres.
Tackle: Durres Archaeological Museum, Rruga Taulantia 32, Durres. Click here for directions to the museum.
5. Be part of a Strolling Tour
A strolling tour is considered one of 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 city is the proper introduction.
The tour begins within the middle, at Lira Sq., earlier than taking in the primary points of interest of Durres, lots of which seem on this record. 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 wonderful. It is a sensible technique to discover town and get your bearings. It’s positively considered one of my favourite issues to do in Durres.
Tackle: Liria Sq., Durres. Click here for the assembly level of the tour, or here for additional particulars and reserving.
6. Hike the Through Egnatia
When you like to hike, the Through Egnatia path can be among the best issues you are able to do close to Durres. The Through Egnatia gives not solely among 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 go by way of a number of completely different nations, together with the remainder of Albania, North Macedonia, Greece, and Turkey.
All through the path, you’ll hike by way of mountains, rivers, lakes, and streams, and even have views of the coast whereas passing by way of historic cities and civilizations.
Fairly than trying the complete 475 kilometers, (you’ll be able to if you happen to like!), stage one of many hike is an 18-kilometer path that passes by way of the attractive meadows, groves, and hills above Durres and begins in Golem.
I like to recommend trying out the Via Egnatia website for a useful information to exploring the path on foot.
Tackle: Golem, Albania. Click on here for the start line of the Through Egnatia in Golem.
7. Take a Tour of Kruje and the Holy Mountain
Among the finest issues to do in Durres is to take a tour of the nearby town of Kruje, which is round an hour away from Durres. This Kruje and Preza half-day tour collects you out of your resort 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 among the oldest in Albania and was the unique buying and selling level amongst town’s most distinguished retailers. Subsequent, is a go to to the Skanderbeg museum to be taught extra concerning the Albanian Nationwide hero of the identical identify, who chances are you’ll already be conversant in if you happen to’ve visited Tirana.
Kruja Fortress and the mountain of Kruja, (often known as the Adriatic Balcony), positively make the record of locations to see in Durres. It’s an exquisite space that may train you numerous about Albania’s wealthy tradition and historical past and is an expertise I positively suggest, notably if you happen to love historical past. Click on here to book a spot on the tour.
Tackle: Click 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 among the greatest issues to do round Durres.
Whereas Durres Seaside can get notably busy in the summertime, Spille Seaside stays comparatively calm. That stated, it’s lined with a lot of seashore bars and eating places, so there’s lots occurring.
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.
Typically talking, the north finish of the seashore is the quietest, and it’s right here that you simply’ll discover locals having fun with a little bit of afternoon solar. I 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 a lot of seashore bars and extra of a celebration vibe.
Tackle: Spille Beach, 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 good looking Albanian Mosque that was built in 1931. Initially constructed by King Zog, it was the most important mosque in Albania of its period.
Throughout communist occasions, the mosque was shut down by the dictator Enver Hoxha and the minaret was demolished. It was additional broken by an Earthquake in 1979.
Nevertheless, 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 at this time for its stunning structure.
Tackle: Durres Mosque, Rruga Dhimeter Kraja
10. Uncover the Byzantine Discussion board
The Byzantine Discussion board is among 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 had been found, in addition to an Amphitheater.
Right now, it’s just some steps away from the primary, 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 important locations to see in Durres, it’s price seeing and snapping a photograph of.
Tackle: Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durres
11. Tour the Unbelievable Metropolis of Berat
Take a tour from Durres to town of Berat, which is simply 90 minutes away and is among the hottest locations within the nation.
This sensible Berat sightseeing day tour might be personalised relying on what you’d prefer to see however among the potentialities embody a go to to the Iconic Fortress 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 considered one of my favourite tours in Albania.
When you love wine, the tour additionally presents the chance to go to the Cobo Vineyard to be taught concerning the household wine-making enterprise, in addition to the possibility to pattern some native grapes. Berat ought to positively characteristic in your record of issues to do close to Durres. Click on here to e-book the tour.
Tackle: Berat, Albania
12. Go to the UNESCO Metropolis of Gjirokaster
Whereas Gjirokaster is round 3 hours from Durres, it’s nonetheless potential to see the very best of the city in a day. Alternatively, you might spend an evening right here, which is what I like to recommend as a result of there are many 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 prime of your record of locations to see close to Durres – it’s unimaginable.
A few of my favourite things to do in Gjirokaster embody visiting the Castle of Gjirokastra to be taught the historical past of the realm and of the fort itself, and for the wonderful views over the mountain ranges.
Simply outdoors 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 beneath the vines, with a shocking view over the winery.
Tackle: Gjirokaster, Albania
13. Discover Durres Fortress
Durres Fortress, or the Venetian Tower of Durres, is an historic fortress situated within the middle 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 some of the fortified cities within the space.
Extra not too long ago, in 1939, the fort was utilized by Albanian nationalists looking for to delay the Italian Military from invading town.
Right now, the fort has been transformed right into a bar with a rooftop terrace! It’s positively price a go to and is among 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 wonderful views.
Tackle: Durres Castle, Durres
14. Stroll Alongside the Promenade
Taking an early morning stroll, or a sundown stroll alongside the promenade, is unquestionably 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 like taking a relaxation to observe the fishermen fishing for the each day catch.
The most effective 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.
Tackle: Durres Promenade, Shetitorja
15. Take a Day Journey to Montenegro
The northerly location of Durres makes ticking off an entire different nation throughout your journey an actual chance. This epic Budva and Kotor Bay tour will take you to among the hottest locations on the south coast of Montenegro and I extremely counsel you try 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 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 very incredible 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 here.
Tackle: Budva, Montenegro
Fast Journey Itineraries For Durres
Listed here are just a few steered itineraries that can assist you plan what to do in Durres:
1 Day in Durres Itinerary
When you solely have someday in Durres, I like to recommend taking this walking tour to be taught a bit about probably the most historic 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 record, such because the Amphitheater and the Fortress.
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 have an additional couple of days to spend in Durres, I like to recommend that you simply 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 remaining day in Durres absorbing the solar and sipping a chilly drink on Durres or Spille Seaside.
1 Week in Durres Itinerary
When you have one week in Durres, you’ll have the ability to tick most of these items to do off of the record. For day journeys, I positively suggest that you simply go and see Berat and Gjirokaster and the wine tour can be wonderful. The wine area is basically stunning, and the tour is a incredible technique to expertise a unique aspect of Durres.
The Amphitheater and the Fortress are each must-sees in Durres so be sure you go to these. The beauty of Durres is that the primary 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.
In fact, be sure you pencil in some stress-free time on the seashores between all of the sightseeing in Durres.
The place to Keep in Durres
These are just a few of the very best neighborhoods in Durres for vacationers:
Durres Seaside – Greatest for Households
When you’re visiting Durres to benefit from the seashore, you then’ll positively need to keep on Durres Seaside. It’s an incredible place for households because it’s inside strolling distance of the seashore and all of the native facilities you’ll want.
The EKA luxury apartment encompasses a terrace and a balcony and is absolutely geared up. It’s situated simply throughout the highway from the seashore.
Previous City – Greatest for First-time Guests
The Previous City is the very best place to remain in Durres for these visiting town for the primary time. You’ll be inside strolling distance of all of the historic websites, in addition to many incredible foods and drinks choices within the metropolis. If you wish to take some day journeys, it’s additionally a great location to decide on as a base.
Hotel Giulia Albergo is ideal for {couples} looking for a little bit luxurious. This stunning resort is near all the primary points of interest in Durres and has a stunning restaurant on web site too.
Rruga Curilla – Greatest for Seaside Views
Positioned within the hills to the North of Durres, is Rruga Curilla. Dotted alongside this important highway are some sensible cafes, bars, and eating places.
The lodging round listed below are a little bit extra luxe than most you’ll discover within the different neighborhoods, so if you happen to’re after a calming journey, this can be a excellent choice. I like to recommend Hotel Hillside Beach for the fantastic views and spacious rooms.
Greatest Eating places in Durres
Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Durres:
Olivia’s Fish Home
Olivia’s Fish House is a candy little restaurant situated alongside Rruga Carulla and is considered one of 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 disillusioned. Click here for directions.
Artur Restaurant
Artur Restaurant serves a mix of seafood and Italian meals. In fact, being so near the coast, the seafood is recent and scrumptious and the restaurant itself could be very fairly inside. It is a great spot to eat and gives a superb view of the sundown from the higher flooring; making it best for a very romantic evening out. Click here for directions.
Pastarella
It’s important to go to Patarella for, you guessed it, pasta. Every part 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. In addition they have a superb wine record, so if that’s your drink of selection, you’ll find it irresistible right here. Click here to view its location.
Meison Bistro
For scrumptious meals and affordable costs, in addition to a incredible location on the promenade, you’ll want to go to Meison Bistro. The fish is basically good right here because the restaurant has its personal fish market, so you’ll be able to relaxation assured that the meals can be recent. The salmon tartare and calamari had been scrumptious after I visited. Click here to view on a map.
Pista E Vogel Iliria
Pista E Vogel Iliria is a incredible restaurant situated on Durres Seaside with stunning views over the ocean. Whereas predominantly a fish restaurant, there’s additionally an Italian providing, together with pasta dishes, and so they serve an excellent steak too. Price a go to if you happen to’re staying by Durres Seaside. Click here for directions.
Getting To Durres
Most individuals will journey to Durres from Tirana, as that’s the place the Worldwide Airport is situated.
It takes round 45 minutes to get from Tirana to Durres and the simplest technique to journey is to both seize a taxi, which can price round 2500 LEK ($20), or take the bus. Be 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 continuously at round each half-hour between 6:30 am and seven:30 pm. The ticket will price round 150 LEK ($1.50). If you arrive in Durres, you’ll be round a 10-minute stroll from town middle.
Alternatively, you’ll be able to lease a automobile, which can be helpful for taking some day journeys from Durres. Durres is a really walkable metropolis, so that you’ll have the ability 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 thought for being a big port metropolis, but additionally for being probably the most historic metropolis in Albania. There are many nice historic websites to go to in Durres.
The most effective time to go to Durres is in the course of the summer time months. When 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 historic historical past. When you’re based mostly in Tirana, it’s positively price a go to to see a little bit of the coast and chill out on the seashore.
A few days or a protracted weekend is the proper period of time to see all the very best issues to do in Durres.
Sure. Durres, and Albania as an entire, could be very safe. As with anyplace, pickpockets are round so you should definitely deal with your issues, however in any other case you’re unlikely to expertise any points.
The preferred issues to do in Durres are to go to Durres Fortress and go to the seashore. It additionally has some nice seafood eating places to take pleasure in if you happen to’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 basically vast and much much less crowded.
You completely should attempt seafood in Durres. It’s tremendous recent and cooked very well right here. There are some wonderful seafood eating places featured within the record above.
In Closing
There’s a lot extra to Durres than simply being a serious port metropolis. Not solely are there some incredible issues to do in Durres itself, but it surely makes for an incredible location if you happen to’re trying to discover the remainder of Albania, and even Montenegro too.
I hope this text helps you intend what to see in Durres and that you’ve got an excellent journey!
