Durrës: The Complete Guide

Durrës, located in Central Albania on the coast, is one of the country’s most popular seaside destinations. The city offers visitors a mix of beautiful beaches, lively promenades, and a welcoming atmosphere. The beaches of Durrës are perfect for those looking to relax by the sea, with clear waters and soft sand, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Many of the beachside cafes and restaurants offer fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes, providing a great place to enjoy a meal with a view of the Adriatic Sea.
Aside from its stunning coastline, Durrës is known for its bustling waterfront and vibrant nightlife. The city comes alive in the evenings, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants offering entertainment until late at night. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing evening with a drink or dance the night away, Durrës has plenty to offer. The city’s vibrant social scene is a major draw for both locals and tourists alike.
For those interested in culture, Durrës has several attractions to explore. The Roman amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans, is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the city’s ancient past. Additionally, the Archaeological Museum showcases a rich collection of artifacts that highlight the city’s long history, from the Roman period to the Ottoman era. Durrës combines beach relaxation with cultural exploration, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both leisure and history.
Table of Contents
- History of Durrës
- Durrës in Prehistoric and Ancient Times
- Durrës Under Illyrian and Roman Rule
- Durrës in the Middle Ages
- Durrës in Modern Times
- 7 Best places to See in Durrës
- Getting to Durrës by Air
- Getting to Durrës by Train
- Getting to Durrës by Car
- Travelling around Durrës
- Durrës Byzantine Forum
- Durrës Great Mosque
- Durrës Amphitheatre
- Aleksandër Moisiu’s House-Museum
- Durrës Archaeological Museum
- Royal Villa of Durrës
- Durrës Castle
- 11 Best Day Trips from Durrës
- Where to Stay in Durrës
- Best Time to Visit Durrës
- How to get to Durrës
History of Durrës
Durrës in Prehistoric and Ancient Times
The headland at the north of the Bay of Durrës forms a natural harbor, which ships have anchored at since the 7th century BC. The city was first founded by ancient Greek colonists from Corinth and Corcyra (modern-day Corfu) in 627 BC. Initially known as Epidamnos, the city was part of the ancient region of Illyria. The early settlers were likely drawn to the area due to the silver mines located inland, which provided a valuable resource for the growing colony. Epidamnos prospered until internal conflicts arose between its founding cities, Corinth and Corcyra, which led to war and disrupted the colony’s stability.
Durrës Under Illyrian and Roman Rule
By the 4th century BC, the Illyrian kings Glaukias and Monum had taken control of the growing city, minting their own coins as a mark of their power. Some of these coins can still be found in the Durrës Archaeological Museum, showcasing the city’s increasing influence in the region. As the city continued to expand, it became known as Dyrrachium and grew into a vital part of the Roman Empire. Dyrrachium had a population of about 40,000 people and was a key location along the Via Appia, a major Roman road that connected Rome to Brindisi in southeast Italy. Across the Adriatic, the Via Appia changed its name to the Via Egnatia, extending through Durrës and Apollonia, and continuing across the Balkan Peninsula to Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). In the 4th century CE, Durrës became the capital of the Roman province of Epirus Nova. The Romans also constructed a large amphitheater in Durrës in the early 2nd century, which still stands today as one of the city’s most significant historical landmarks.
Durrës in the Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, Durrës became a contested city, as it was fought over by various empires and kingdoms. The Bulgarian, Venetian, and Ottoman dominions each laid claim to the city, recognizing its strategic importance due to its position on the Adriatic coast and its access to key trade routes. Throughout this period, Durrës endured numerous battles and sieges as different powers sought control of the city. Despite these conflicts, it remained an important hub for trade, culture, and military activity in the region.
Durrës in Modern Times
After the Albanian Declaration of Independence in 1912, Durrës briefly served as the capital of the Principality of Albania, though this period was short-lived. During World War II, the city was under the control of Italy and later Nazi Germany, both of which utilized Durrës for military purposes. Following the war, the city experienced significant expansion during the communist era in Albania. Under communist rule, Durrës grew rapidly, with the construction of new infrastructure and the development of industries, transforming the city into one of Albania’s major urban centers. Today, Durrës is a bustling city that blends its ancient heritage with modern development, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Visiting Durrës for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Durrës on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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7 Best places to See in Durrës
This complete guide to Durrës not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Durrës and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Durrës Byzantine Forum

Location: Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës, Albania | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Durrës Byzantine Forum
Durrës Great Mosque

Location: Rruga Aleksander Goga Durrës Albania | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Durrës Great Mosque
Durrës Amphitheatre

Location: Rr e Kalasë | Hours: 9am-7pm Apr–mid-Oct, to 6pm mid-Oct–Mar | Price: 200 lekë | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Durrës Amphitheatre
Aleksandër Moisiu’s House-Museum

Location: Rruga Kolonel Tomson Durrës Albania | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Aleksandër Moisiu’s House-Museum
Durrës Archaeological Museum

Location: Rr Taulantia 32, Durrës, | Hours: 9am-7pm | Price: 300 lekë | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Durrës Archaeological Museum
Royal Villa of Durrës

Location: Vila e Zogut Albania Rruga Kont Urani 34 2000, Albania | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Royal Villa of Durrës
Durrës Castle

Visiting Durrës Castle
Best Day Trips from Durrës
A day trip from Durrës offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Durrës provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Via Egnatia

Location: Bulevardi i Palmave Golem Albania | Website | Distance: 10.5km
Visiting Via Egnatia
Tirana

Visiting Tirana
Krujë

Visiting Krujë
Lushnjë

Visiting Lushnjë
Lezhë

Visiting Lezhë
Burrel

Visiting Burrel
Elbasan

Visiting Elbasan
Rrëshen (Mirditë)

Visiting Rrëshen (Mirditë)
Fier

Visiting Fier
Librazhd

Visiting Librazhd
Berat

Visiting Berat
Where to Stay in Durrës
Durrës, Albania’s coastal gem, offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether you’re seeking beachfront luxury, boutique charm, or budget-friendly options, Durrës has something for everyone.
Beachfront Luxury
For those desiring a luxurious seaside experience, Grand Blue Fafa Resort stands out. This 5-star resort boasts expansive pools, private beach access, and elegant rooms with panoramic sea views. Its all-inclusive amenities and proximity to the beach make it a top choice for relaxation and indulgence. (Grand Blue Fafa – Durres – Albania – George Malamidis Hotel Photographer)
Boutique Charm in the City Center
If you prefer staying in the heart of the city, Art Gallery Boutique Hotel offers a blend of modern design and artistic flair. Located near the historic center, this hotel provides easy access to attractions like the Roman amphitheater and vibrant local cafes. Guests can enjoy curated art pieces and a cozy atmosphere during their stay.
Family-Friendly Options
Traveling with family? Sol Tropikal Durres caters to families with its spacious rooms, kid-friendly facilities, and proximity to the beach. The hotel offers a variety of recreational activities, ensuring both relaxation and entertainment for all ages.
Budget-Friendly Stays
For budget-conscious travelers, Vila Sula Guesthouse provides comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. Situated close to the city center and the beach, this guesthouse offers clean rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for those looking to explore Durrës on a budget.
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.
Durrës Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Durrës
The best time to visit Durrës, Albania, largely depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a delightful time to visit Durrës, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The weather is comfortably warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring the city’s historic sites, strolling along the beach, and enjoying picnics by the sea. Additionally, spring sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic experience.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Durrës, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is the best time to visit if you enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports on the beautiful beaches along the Adriatic coast. Durrës is known for its lively atmosphere during the summer months, with beachfront cafes, restaurants, and bars bustling with activity. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds, especially in popular tourist areas.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another great time to visit Durrës, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. The weather remains pleasant, allowing you to continue enjoying outdoor activities such as sightseeing, exploring the city’s ancient ruins, and sampling local cuisine at seaside restaurants. Additionally, autumn offers opportunities to experience cultural events and festivals celebrating Albanian traditions and harvest season.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is the quietest time to visit Durrës, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. While the weather may not be suitable for swimming or sunbathing, it’s an excellent time to explore indoor attractions such as museums, art galleries, and historic sites. Additionally, winter offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s local culture and cuisine away from the tourist crowds.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Durrës depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of summer, the mild temperatures of spring and autumn, or the peaceful ambiance of winter, Durrës offers something for every traveler throughout the year.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 11°C 55°F
- February 13°C 60°F
- March 15°C 63°F
- April 20°C 71°F
- May 23°C 77°F
- June 29°C 87°F
- July 29°C 94°F
- August 31°C 91°F
- September 29°C 88°F
- October 23°C 78°F
- November 17°C 65°F
- December 13°C 58°F