Welcome to Durres: Albania’s Ancient Port with a Modern Soul
Visit Durres, Albania’s ancient port city with a modern soul. Just 30 km west of Tirana, Durres is one of the oldest and most vibrant destinations in the Balkans. With a strategic location along the Adriatic coast, visiting Durres means exploring 2,700 years of history, relaxing on golden beaches, tasting fresh seafood, and diving into rich local culture.
Whether you’re into Roman ruins, beachside relaxation, or exploring traditional flavors, Durres has something for everyone. If you’re planning to visit Durres in 2025, this guide has everything you need.
What makes Durres special?
- Ancient monuments and archaeological treasures
- Long stretches of golden beach
- Fresh seafood and traditional Albanian cuisine
- Cultural events and vibrant nightlife
- High-end hotels and cozy guesthouses
Experience visiting Durres in Albania like a local with this complete 2025 travel guide.
Top historical attractions in Durres
- Amphitheatre of Durres: Built in the 2nd century AD, this Roman wonder could hold up to 15,000 spectators.
- Archaeological Museum: Home to thousands of artifacts from Illyrian, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.
- Byzantine Forum and Roman Baths: Open-air relics from the ancient urban center.
- Venetian Tower & City Walls: Fortifications with a panoramic view over the city and sea.
- Arapaj Basilica: A 6th-century Christian church with a beautifully preserved mosaic floor.
- Fatih Mosque: A rare example of Ottoman architecture built in 1503
- Aleksander Moisiu House: Celebrating the life of the famous Albanian-Austrian actor.
Best beaches to visit in Durres
- Durres beach – The most visited beach in Albania, popular for families and nightlife.
- Currila beach – Smaller and quieter, ideal for sunsets and seafood dining.
- Lalezi bay – Clean, tranquil, and lined with pine trees. A favorite for weekend getaways.
- St. Pjeter beach – Remote and surrounded by nature; perfect for solitude and snorkeling.
What to eat when you visit Durres
Durres is a seafood heaven. Local fishermen bring in daily catches that are prepared in traditional and mediterranean styles.
Must-try dishes:
- Grilled seabass or dorado with local herbs
- Octopus with white wine and garlic
- Shrimp pasta
- Tave Dheu (liver in clay pot)
- Fergese (pepper-cheese dish)
- Fresh olives and homemade rakia
👉 Explore the Top 5 Seafood Restaurants in Durres for the best culinary experiences by the sea.
Events to experience while visiting Durres
Durres offers a lively cultural calendar that enhances every visit:
- International Film Summerfest – Outdoor screenings near the amphitheatre.
- Artisan Markets – Handmade local crafts on display during weekends.
- Wine & Olive Oil Festivals – Taste local products directly from farmers.
These festivals add unique value when you visit Durres, blending tradition with modern expression.
Nature escapes near Durres
- Cape of Rodon – Featuring Skanderbeg’s Castle, hidden beaches, and the Church of St. Ndou
- Ishem Village – Beautiful white houses, organic farming, and wine tastings.
- Rrushkull forest & kryevidh hills – Excellent for hiking, picnicking, and nature photography.
Where to stay when you visit Durres in 2025
From luxury resorts to boutique stays, Durres has something for every type of traveler.
Best areas to stay:
- Volga Promenade – For city life and nightlife
- Plepa & Shkembi i Kavajes – Ideal for beach access
- Lalezi Bay – For luxury and privacy
👉 See the Top 5 Five-Star Hotels in Durres with sea views, spa services, and rooftop lounges.
3-Day Itinerary: How to experience Durres
Day 1 – Ancient sights & sunset views
- Walk the Volga Promenade
- Visit the Amphitheatre, Archaeological Museum, and Venetian Tower
- Sunset dinner by the sea
Day 2 – Beach & culture
- Morning at Lalezi Bay
- Afternoon visit to Arapaj Basilica
- Evening: enjoy live music and seafood in Currila
Day 3 – Nature & local flavors
- Explore Cape of Rodon
- Lunch with locals in Ishem
- Return for shopping or a final stroll along the beach
Essential travel tips
- Best Time to Visit: May to October for beach, spring/fall for festivals
- Getting There: 30 minutes from Tirana International Airport
- Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
- Languages: Albanian (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Transport: Taxi, local buses, or car rental recommended for short trips
Why Durres belongs on your travel list?
Durres isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience.
From walking ancient streets to eating fresh seafood by the sea, visiting Durres in Albania offers a journey that’s rich in history, vibrant in culture, and deeply relaxing.
Whether it’s your first time in Albania or your fifth, make 2025 the year you explore Durres to the fullest.
