Durrës, Albania: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Durrës offers a wide variety of places to stay, from seaside resorts to boutique hotels set within the city’s historic streets. For travelers who want to be close to the beach, the area along the main Durrës Beach Promenade is ideal. Here, you’ll find long stretches of sand, beach bars, and plenty of seafront hotels with easy access to the Adriatic. A popular choice is Adriatik Hotel, one of the city’s most established luxury properties with elegant rooms, a spa, and sweeping sea views. Another favorite nearby is Vila One Beach Hotel, which offers modern accommodation and a peaceful location right on the waterfront, perfect for families and couples looking to unwind.

If you prefer being closer to the historic heart of Durrës, the city center provides a more urban atmosphere with easy access to cultural landmarks like the Amphitheatre, Archaeological Museum, and Venetian Tower. Staying here means you can explore most sites on foot while still enjoying restaurants and cafés nearby. A good choice in this area is Hotel Arvi, which overlooks the port and promenade, offering both comfort and convenience. Just a short walk away, Amfiteatri Boutique Hotel provides a more intimate stay with stylish rooms and a location steps away from the ancient amphitheatre, ideal for visitors drawn to the city’s Roman and Byzantine heritage.

For those seeking a quieter, more exclusive experience, the area south of Durrës, particularly around the beaches of Golem and Mali i Robit, is a great alternative. This stretch of coast is known for its pine forests, calm atmosphere, and upscale resorts. Supreme Hotel & Spa offers spacious rooms, a modern spa, and direct beach access, creating a relaxing seaside escape. Similarly, Fafa Premium Resort combines resort-style amenities with family-friendly facilities, making it a good base for longer stays. These southern resorts are perfect for travelers who want tranquility within easy reach of Durrës’ historic core.

Inland from the coast, boutique hotels and guesthouses in the hills above the city provide scenic views of the bay and a more local experience. This area offers a slower pace and the chance to enjoy the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. For a memorable hillside stay, Bel Conti Hotel offers a balance of elegance and serenity, while still being close enough to reach the beach within minutes. Altogether, whether you’re drawn to the energy of the city center, the long beaches of Plazh, or the peaceful retreats of Golem, Durrës has accommodations to suit every kind of traveler.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Durrës. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Visiting Durrës in Spring (Best)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Durrës, as the weather is pleasantly warm and the city comes alive with color and energy. From March to May, temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing around the amphitheatre, the archaeological museum, and the castle without the summer heat. The beaches begin to open for the season, and seaside cafés fill with locals enjoying the sunshine. Late spring also brings a number of cultural events and performances along the promenade, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent time for exploring both the coast and nearby attractions like Kruja or Cape of Rodon before the crowds arrive.

Visiting Durrës in Summer

Summer in Durrës, from June to August, is high season and the busiest time of year. The long sandy beaches are packed with sunseekers, and the Adriatic waters are at their warmest, averaging around 25°C. The city’s nightlife reaches its peak, with beach clubs, bars, and open-air restaurants hosting live music and parties that often last until dawn. This is also when the Durrës International Film Summerfest takes place, drawing both local and international visitors to outdoor screenings along the seafront. While it’s an exciting time to experience the city’s vibrant energy, be prepared for crowds and higher accommodation prices.

Visiting Durrës in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, offers a more peaceful and comfortable experience. The sea remains warm enough for swimming until mid-October, and daytime temperatures hover around 20°C. The summer crowds thin out, leaving plenty of space to enjoy the beaches and explore cultural landmarks at a leisurely pace. This season is particularly beautiful for photography, with golden light reflecting off the Adriatic and fewer tourists in the old town. Autumn also coincides with local food and wine festivals celebrating the harvest, making it a great time to sample Albanian cuisine and regional wines.

Visiting Durrës in Winter

Winter in Durrës, from December to February, is quiet and mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 8°C. While beach activities slow down, it’s still an appealing time to visit for those interested in history and local culture rather than sunbathing. The archaeological sites and museums are open year-round, and the city’s cafés and restaurants remain lively with local patrons. Around the New Year, Durrës hosts small festive events and fireworks by the sea, adding a touch of celebration to the tranquil off-season atmosphere. It’s a calm and affordable time to enjoy the city’s authentic side without the crowds.