Durrës
Visit Durrës to explore Albania's oldest port and wide Adriatic beaches.
About Durrës and why you should visit it
Durrës sits on the central Albanian coast less than 40 minutes from Tirana by car, making it an easy travel destination for a day trip or a longer seaside stay. The city blends ancient ruins with a working port and a long sandy shoreline, so you can go from Roman stones to beach loungers in a single afternoon.
The compact historic center is walkable and lively, with cafes and fish markets clustered near the promenade. Travelers often appreciate the mix of archaeological sites and simple coastal pleasures, where local bakers still sell sesame bread early in the morning.
Roman amphitheatre, city walls, beaches, ferry to Italy, Archaeological Museum
Accommodations in Durrës
Discover the best accommodations for Durrës and start planning your holiday.
What to see and do in Durrës
Start at the Roman Amphitheatre, one of the largest in the region. You can still see the carved seating and the arena outline; during low season a few local guides will point out where gladiators once entered. Nearby, the Archaeological Museum houses mosaics and artifacts recovered from the city and the sea, and it gives context to the visible ruins scattered through the center.
Walk the old city walls and climb the Venetian Tower for a view over the port and the curve of the Adriatic. On clear days the ferry wakes heading for Bari and Brindisi are visible as white streaks on the water. There is a working harbor atmosphere here that feels authentic and unpolished, which many visitors find refreshing and worth its salt.
Popular things to do or visit include organized boat trips, beach time along the long sandy coast, and sampling fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. If you plan to stay overnight, search for the best hotel in Durrës near the promenade to be close to evening life and sunrise views over the sea. Pack a light sweater for evenings on the promenade; the breeze picks up after sunset.
- Explore the Roman Amphitheatre and nearby ruins
- Stroll the Rinia Park and seafront promenade
- Take the ferry to Italy for a day trip or an easy onward connection
- Visit the Archaeological Museum for local mosaics and finds
Other cities around Albania
These popular destinations have a lot to offer for you next holiday or city break.
