Durres - Discovering Albania

Travelling to Durres

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Durres, a pretty good destination in Albania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Durres and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Durres, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Albania, here's everything to know about Durres for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Durres

Durres is a coastal city located in western Albania, on the Adriatic Sea. It is recognized for having beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. Durres is one of the oldest and most historic cities in Albania, dating back to the 7th century BC, and was an important trading center in ancient times. Today, it is a popular tourist destination offering visitors a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, sightseeing historical landmarks, attending festivals, and enjoying a tasty local cuisine. The city is also well-connected and a great hub to explore other parts of Albania.

What to visit in Durres

Sure, here are some tourist attractions of Durres, Albania along with some information about each one: 1. Durres Amphitheatre - This ancient Roman structure is a must-visit attraction in Durres. Built in the 2nd century AD, it is one of the largest amphitheatres in the Balkans and could seat up to 15,000 spectators.
2. Durres Castle - Located in the heart of the city, Durres Castle has been standing for centuries and has been a witness to many important events in the history of Durres. It was built by the Byzantines in the 5th century AD and expanded by the Venetians in the 15th century. 3. Durres Beach - Stretching for over 10 km, Durres Beach is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. With its soft sand and shallow waters, it's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a long walk.
4. Durres Archaeological Museum - This museum houses an extensive collection of archaeological finds from the ancient city of Durres and its surrounding areas. It includes artifacts from the Illyrian, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods, as well as objects from the Ottoman and medieval eras.
5. King Zog's Palace - Once a royal residence, King Zog's Palace is now used as a government building. It was built in the early 20th century and is a fine example of neo-renaissance architecture.
6. Venetian Tower - This tower was built in the 15th century by the Venetians to protect the city from invaders. It is now used as an art gallery and offers stunning views of the coast and the city.
7. Durres Bazaar - The bazaar is a bustling marketplace that offers a wide range of goods, from locally-made handicrafts to fresh produce and meat.
8. Ethnographic Museum - Housed in an old Ottoman house, the museum showcases the everyday life and culture of Albanian people from the 18th to the 20th century. It includes traditional costumes, household items, and agricultural tools.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Durres has to offer. Visitors to the city will surely find plenty of things to see and do!

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Durres.

When to go on holiday to Durres

The best time to go on holiday to Durres, Albania is from late May to early October. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to explore the city, enjoy the beaches, and participate in outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that July and August are the peak season months, and the beaches can get crowded with tourists. If you're looking for a quieter holiday, consider going in May, June, or September, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds have thinned out.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Durres

There are several ways to get to Durres in Albania: 1. By plane: The nearest airport is Tirana International Airport, located about 30 kilometers from Durres. From there, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach Durres.
2. By bus: You can take a direct bus from major cities in Albania or neighboring countries such as Greece, Montenegro, and Kosovo. The bus station in Durres is located in the city center.
3. By train: Limited train services operate from Tirana to Durres, with a journey time of about 1 hour.
4. By car: You can rent a car or hire a taxi to travel from other parts of Albania or neighboring countries to Durres. The city is easily accessible via the SH2 highway.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Durres in Albania!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Durres, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Durres

Sure, here are some typical foods from Durres in Albania: 1. Byrek - This is a savory pastry made with phyllo dough, and can be filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. It's a very popular breakfast food.
2. Tave Kosi - This is a casserole dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt. It's a hearty and filling dish that's perfect for colder weather.
3. Fergese - This is a dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and melted cheese. It's often served as a side dish or appetizer.
4. Qofte - These are meatballs that are made with beef or lamb, and can be served with a tomato-based sauce or on their own.
5. Lakror - This is another type of savory pastry that's similar to byrek, but is often filled with spinach and eggs.
6. Jani Me Fasule - This is a bean stew that's often served with bread. It's a simple and delicious dish that's perfect for a chilly evening.
7. Pite - This is a savory pie that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including spinach, cheese, and meat.
8. Baklava - This is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and honey or syrup. It's a popular dessert that's often served with tea or coffee.
You can find general info about typical foods in Albania here.

Is Durres an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Albania, Durres can be relatively expensive for tourists, especially during peak tourist season. However, compared to Western European countries, Durres is still considered to be a fairly affordable destination. It is possible to find reasonably priced accommodations, dining options and entertainment in Durres, especially if you avoid the most popular tourist areas. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before traveling to any destination to ensure that you stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Durres

Some of the best areas to find accommodation in Durres, Albania are: 1. Durres Beach Area - Offers a range of hotels and resorts with stunning views of the beach.
2. Durres City Centre - This area is home to a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and hostels, and it's an excellent choice if you want to stay near the city's main attractions and landmarks.
3. Golem Area - Golem is a popular beach area located just outside the city, and it has numerous hotels and resorts with beach access.
4. Maminas Area - A quieter area with a few hotels and villas, it's perfect for those who want a peaceful and relaxing stay.
5. Plepa Area - Offering a range of apartments, guest houses, and villas, Plepa is a great choice for families or groups traveling together.
You can check hotel prices at Durres here:
Booking.com

Is Durres a safe destination for tourists?

Durres is generally considered a safe place for tourists, but like any other city, it is always advisable to take precautions and remain vigilant. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in crowded areas such as markets, bus stations or beaches. It is recommended that tourists keep their valuables safe and avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas at night. Additionally, be cautious of scams, especially involving taxi drivers, and only use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps. Overall, however, Durres is a friendly and welcoming city that attracts many visitors every year.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Albania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Durres.

What type of travelers will enjoy Durres the most?

Durres, Albania offers a mix of attractions for everyone, making it a great destination for couples, families, and young people looking for fun.
Couples can enjoy romantic walks on the beach, sunset dinners at the waterfront cafes, and visits to historical landmarks like the Durres Amphitheatre. The city also offers several spas and wellness centers for couples to relax and unwind.
Families can enjoy a variety of activities, such as water sports, beach volleyball, and swimming in the fresh Mediterranean waters. The city also offers an aquarium and a zoo, perfect for wildlife lovers. Young people can take advantage of the lively nightlife in Durres with several bars and clubs, and music festivals in the summer.
Overall, Durres offers something for everyone, making it a great destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Durres

In Durres, you can move around by taxi, bus, or by renting a car. Taxis are readily available and affordable, but be sure to negotiate a price before getting in. Buses are also affordable and operate throughout the city, but it can be a bit confusing to figure out which bus to take. Renting a car is a good option if you plan on doing a lot of exploring outside the city or if you prefer more freedom and flexibility in your schedule. However, be aware that Albanian drivers are known for being aggressive and the roads can be narrow and challenging to navigate.

What to see around Durres

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Durres, Albania. Some of the most popular destinations are: 1. The city of Tirana - the capital of Albania, with vibrant culture, fascinating history, and plenty of sights to explore.
2. Berat - one of the most picturesque towns in Albania, with a medieval fortress and charming Ottoman-era houses.
3. Kruja - the birthplace of Albania's national hero Skanderbeg, with a lovely old town bazaar, an interesting ethnographic museum, and stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
4. The Albanian coast - there are several great beaches and seaside towns within easy reach of Durres, including Vlora, Saranda, and Dhermi.
5. Lake Ohrid - a beautiful mountain lake shared between Albania and neighboring North Macedonia, with crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain scenery.
6. The Albanian Alps - if you're feeling adventurous, you can take a day trip to the rugged and remote Albanian Alps, where you can explore traditional mountain villages and hike in some of the most scenic areas of the country.
For every travel information about Albania you can click here.

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