Durres Albania Travel Guide
Exploring Durres means stepping into a continuous narrative. You trace its past through monumental constructions and subtle architectural details. The city’s present is equally engaging, with its lively streets, bustling port, and beautiful coastline. Whether days uncover archaeological wonders or simply enjoy the sea breeze, Durres brings a memorable and varied travel experience. A destination merging the old with the new, bringing both discovery and relaxation on the Adriatic.
Durres sits about TWO-THIRDS of an hour from Tirana International Airport (TIA). Frequent bus services and taxis link the airport. Direct ferry connections also run to Bari and Ancona, Italy.
Local buses travel inside the city. Many central attractions are walkable. Ride-sharing apps exist as well.
Durres holds a strategic position on Albania's central Adriatic coast. This metropolis sits on a broad bay, bringing a protected harbor, a maritime hub for many centuries. The immediate geography includes a flat coastal plain extending inland, with the city itself built upon ancient foundations and modern expansions.
The city's extensive coastline features one of Albania's longest and most popular sandy beaches, the Plazhi i Durrësit. This beach stretches for approximately 10 kilometers south of the central area, lined with hotels and beach clubs. North of the key port, smaller the beaches have a quieter alternative. Beyond, a rich agricultural region thrives with olive groves and vineyards.
A maritime hub for millennia.
Popular for tourism.
Fresh local produce.
Habitat for various bird species.
Port links to Italy, highway to Tirana.
The city's favorable coastal location, combined with accessible hinterlands, led to its flourishing as a port city for many centuries. This continues today, with the port remaining a driver of the local economy and a connection point for visitors. The adjacent terrain, from coasts to agricultural fields, brings a diverse environment.
Durres enjoys a Mediterranean weather with hot, summers that are arid and mild, wet winters. This pattern influences its rhythm and appeal to visitors. Peak summer temperatures often climb above 35°C in July and August.
The shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often symbolize the optimal time to visit, with pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and fewer crowds. Winters are brisk and damp, with most beachfront businesses closed.
Durres's identity has been formed by its location on the Adriatic, fostering trade and cultural exchange for millennia.
Durres carries a history spanning nearly three millennia, each era leaving an imprint on its terrain and character. Its story began in 627 BC when Greek colonists from Corinth and Corcyra founded Epidamnos, later Dyrrachium. The city quickly grew into a bustling trading hub due to its protected harbor.
Under Roman rule, Dyrrachium's prominence grew. It became a Roman colony and a point on the Via Egnatia, linking Rome to Byzantium. This strategic role made it a battleground, particularly in Caesar's civil war. The Romans invested heavily in the city's infrastructure, building baths, a forum, and the magnificent Amphitheatre.
Founded as Epidamnos in 627 BC by Greek colonists. A vibrant trading hub.
Became Dyrrachium, a significant harbor on the Via Egnatia. Where you can find a grand amphitheatre.
Byzantine defenses against invaders. Contested by Bulgarians, Normans, and Venetians.
Ottoman conquest in the late 15th century saw port decline. Later, it served as Albania's capital (1913-1920). Suffered damage in World Wars and earthquakes. Communist era brought industrialization.
Ancient Roman Amphitheatre. Archaeological Institution with artifacts.
Plazhi i Durrësit, a long sandy beach. Sunbathing plus water-based fun.
Engage with genuine Albanian life. Affordable dining and experiences.
Fresh seafood dominates the local menu. Grilled fish and octopus are popular.
Try Tavë Kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) or Fergesë (peppers, tomatoes, cheese).
Byrek (flaky pastry) and souvlaki (grilled meat skewers) are tasty options.
