In recent years, Durrës has earned the title of Albania’s tourism capital, a city visited almost year-round. With the tourist season stretching from May to November and the potential for year-round tourism, this 3,000-year-old city has sparked curiosity among travelers from all corners of the globe.
But how can you explore Durrës in just three days?
The following guide is designed to serve as a roadmap for international visitors spending 2-3 days in Durrës.
Day 1
After arriving in the city—whether by air via Rinas Airport, ferry cruises, or road routes—your first stop will be the hotel you’ve booked.
Once settled, you’re free to explore the city center, which is easily walkable. Along the way, you can visit numerous archaeological and historical sites such as the Venetian Tower, the City Walls, the largest Amphitheater in the Balkans, the Circular Forum, Roman Baths, the Hammam, and more.
For lunch, you can dine at one of the city’s many restaurants or those along the coastline. Depending on your preferences, you can enjoy traditional Albanian dishes, Italian cuisine, or fresh seafood. To complement your meal, we recommend sampling local wines, Albanian beers, or the traditional Albanian spirit, rakia.
In the afternoon, consider a visit to the former villa of King Zog, located on the hill. The royal villa recently opened to the public, has not undergone restoration, and still bears the marks of damage from the tragic year of 1997.
Built in the 1920s at the highest point of the hill, the villa offers breathtaking views of the city, the coastline, and stunning sunsets.
You can spend the evening dining at restaurants featuring live Albanian music or dancing to the latest music hits at seaside clubs.
Day 2
Spend the day immersed in the natural beauty surrounding Durrës. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, the city’s outskirts provide a refreshing escape into lush greenery, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
For adventure lovers, an ATV ride is a fantastic way to explore the areas of Kallm, Sektori Rinia, or Cape of Rodon. Kallm tour lasts 90 minutes, while Sektori Rinia tour takes 3-4 hours. For a full-day experience, the Cape of Rodon tour is an excellent choice.
If ATV rides aren’t your style, you can rent a car to explore the city’s outskirts at your own pace, discovering the charming beauty of the surrounding areas.
Ishëm area, the most remote administrative unit of the municipality of Durrës, offers not only natural beauty but also numerous cultural monuments. Highlights include the Rodon Castle, surrounded by the sea and stunning natural landscapes, the Church of St. Anthony (Shna Ndou) with its Romanesque-Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century, and Ishëm Castle, built in the 16th century.
After hours spent enjoying nature, the perfect way to end the day is with a nice dinner at one of the agritourism spots of Durrës. These venues serve the finest traditional Albanian dishes made with organic ingredients. Many of them, particularly on weekends, host evenings with live music.
Day 3
You can’t leave Durrës without spending a day at the beach. The warm weather allows for sunbathing and swimming from May to the end of November.
With 64 kilometers of coastline offering a mix of shallow sandy beaches, pebble shores, and rocky cliffs, Durrës provides countless opportunities for a delightful seaside retreat.
If you prefer lively and bustling beaches, the areas of Plazhi i Madh, Shkëmbi i Kavajës, or Gjiri i Lalzit are perfect for you. However, if you seek tranquility, unspoiled beaches, and secluded coves, plan a day at Kallm, Porto Romano, or Cape of Rodon.
For trips to these untouched beaches, ensure you bring your own food and drinks, as amenities may not be readily available.
As the day concludes, so does your journey. Prepare to leave the city, hopefully with a lasting impression of the city, and, like many other tourists, you’ll return to visit it again in the future…
