Planning a trip to Durrës, Albania? Discover the best things to do, top beaches, historical landmarks, and local food in this vibrant coastal city near Tirana.
Welcome to Durrës: Albania’s Gateway to the Sea
Durrës, Albania’s second-largest city and biggest port, sits proudly on the Adriatic Sea just 30 minutes from Tirana. With a history that stretches back over 2,500 years, Durrës is a unique mix of ancient ruins, lively beach vibes, and modern energy.
Whether you’re coming for a beach holiday, a quick escape from the capital, or a dive into history, Durrës offers something for every traveler.
Why Visit Durrës?
- Just 35 km from Tirana – perfect for a day trip or extended stay
- Home to Albania’s largest Roman amphitheater
- Long sandy beaches and a vibrant promenade
- Great restaurants, nightlife, and seaside resorts
- Ideal for both history buffs and beach lovers
Top Things to Do in Durrës
1. Visit the Durrës Amphitheater
This impressive Roman amphitheater, built in the 2nd century AD, could once hold up to 20,000 spectators. It’s the largest in the Balkans and still partially buried beneath the modern city—an active archaeological site and a window into ancient Dyrrachium.
2. Durrës Archaeological Museum
Located along the waterfront, this museum holds a rich collection of artifacts from the Illyrian, Greek, and Roman periods. Don’t miss the beautifully preserved mosaics and statues that tell the story of Albania’s earliest civilizations.
3. Explore the Byzantine Walls & Venetian Tower
Wander the remains of the ancient city walls and climb the Venetian Tower for a great view. It’s especially scenic at sunset, and a café at the base makes it a lovely rest stop.
4. Stroll the Promenade (Volga Walk)
The seafront boulevard is perfect for an afternoon walk. It’s lined with bars, restaurants, and ice cream spots—locals love it for their daily xhiro (evening stroll).
5. Take a Day Trip to Cape of Rodon
About an hour away, this natural peninsula juts into the Adriatic with beautiful landscapes, a castle built by Skanderbeg, and fewer crowds than the city beaches.
Best Beaches in and Around Durrës
- Durrës Beach (Plazhi i Durrësit) – Long, sandy, lively, and full of restaurants and hotels.
- Golem – A little further south, ideal for families with a more relaxed vibe.
- Lalëzi Bay (Gjiri i Lalzit) – Less crowded, clearer water, luxury resorts and beach clubs.
- Currila Beach – Closer to the city center, pebbly but great for sunset dining and swimming.
Pro tip: For cleaner water, head a bit south or north of the main urban strip.
Where to Eat in Durrës
Seafood is king here. Restaurants serve fresh daily catches and classic Albanian-Mediterranean fusion.
- Artur Restaurant – Excellent fish dishes, popular with both locals and tourists.
- 2 Kitarrat – Romantic, by the sea, known for pasta and live music nights.
- Pastarella – Modern dining with international twists.
- Rimini – A staple for beachfront dining and cocktails at sunset.
Don’t miss trying fried calamari, mussels in white wine sauce, and a cold glass of local white wine or birra Korça.
Where to Stay
Durrës offers a wide range of options:
- Luxury: Adriatik Hotel, Hotel Epidamn
- Mid-range: Hotel Vila Koral, Royal G Hotel & Spa
- Budget: Amfiteatri Boutique Hotel, My Home Guesthouse
Airbnbs are popular in Golem and Lalëzi Bay for longer stays or family vacations.
Nightlife in Durrës
From beach bars to live music and clubs, Durrës has something happening almost every night in summer. Head to:
- Cinco Cavalli – Elegant beach club atmosphere.
- FaFa Beach Bar – Trendy beach vibes south of the city.
- Currila Strip – Seafront restaurants and bars that stay open late with DJ sets and cocktails.
Best Time to Visit Durrës
- June to September for full summer vibes, beach days, and nightlife.
- May and October are quieter but still warm.
- Spring and fall also ideal for sightseeing and exploring historical sites without crowds.
How to Get to Durrës
- By car: 30–45 min drive from Tirana or Tirana Airport (Rinas)
- By bus: Regular buses run from Tirana (depart from Regional Bus Terminal)
- By ferry: From Bari and Ancona, Italy (Durrës has an international port)
Final Thoughts: Where the Past and Present Collide
Durrës is Albania’s answer to a city that never sleeps—sun by day, music by night, and history all around. Whether you’re a beach bum, a curious traveler, or someone craving good food and sea air, Durrës is a must on your Albanian adventure.
