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Holidays to Durres offer a perfect mix of beach relaxation and historical exploration all within easy reach.

Best of both worlds

Less than an hour’s drive from the capital Tirana, Durres offers so many things to do and see. With golden sands to sink your toes into and enough historical gems to get your culture fix – it’s a city that ticks both boxes. A port city located between the Italian and Balkan coasts, it’s become a popular place for day trippers, seasoned travellers and locals to enjoy. You can take your pick from a stroll around the old town, where you’ll find a laid-back atmosphere and charming architecture, or take it easy on a relaxing boat trip along the Adriatic Sea.

Sip and Sea

From cocktail sips to vineyard trips, there’s plenty of fun to be had by the waters in Durres. Take a trip to the majestic hills of the city and mooch around the wineries. Duka Winery sits on the shores of Lalzi Bay, here you can enjoy a tipple in the tasting room, along with some tasty treats. If that’s not enough, then swing by a café or beach club and enjoy a drink or two as the sun sets over the Adriatic. And don’t miss out on the local favourite, Raki, a must-try for any tourist.

A stroll through history

Culture and history take centre stage in Durres. Explore this ancient city on foot and wander through the old streets where you’ll find links to the city’s past. The Roman Amphitheatre is a hotspot for anyone visiting the area. This 2700-year-old structure was only discovered in 1966 and it’s the largest ever built in the Balkans. Just stroll five minutes down the road, and you’ll hit the ancient walls of Durres Castle. The coolest spot there is the Venetian Tower, with a rooftop bar that serves up some seriously insta-worthy views across the city.

Further Reading

  • Travel Advice
  • Things To Do

    • At a Glance

    • Kick back and relax on Durres Beach
    • Grab a slice of traditional Byrek
    • Roam around the Roman Amphitheatre
    • Prep for your trip with our Holiday Extras

    Location

    View on the map View on the map

    Best time to go to Durres

    For the hottest and driest conditions, July and August see temperatures reach the early-thirties and rainfall is at its lowest – perfect for lazy beach days. If crowds aren’t your thing, then head to Durres between May and June or September and October where temps are still warm – rising to the mid-twenties and the city is a bit more relaxed. Winters in Durres are generally quiet and mild, but they do get chilly with soggy days in the period between November and March.

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    Top things to see and do in Durres

    Beach therapy

    Once you’re done exploring the city centre, hit up the sandy beaches where you’ll find plenty of spots to give your feet a rest. Since the city’s right by the coast, you’ve got beaches on your doorstep or quieter coves just a twenty-to-thirty-minute drive away – so lay back, relax and soak up some sun.

    The big beach

    Durres Beach is a popular sunbathing spot not far from the city centre, with over 10km of both public and private white sands. You can try your hand at jet-skiing or paddleboarding, and with a gentle slope into the sea it’s a perfect spot for some family-friendly fun. You’ll find restaurants and bars scattered up and down this long stretch of sand, so food and drink are taken care of, too.

    The secret beach

    A trip to Gjiri i Lalzit, known as Bay of Lalzi, is a must for those wanting an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Hop in the car and drive north for just 30-minutes and you’ll find a quiet cove of soft sand and calm waters all hidden behind a sea of green trees and hills.

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    Bargain Buys

    For cheap and cheerful buys, take a quick stroll from the city centre to Pazari i Pleshtit, one of Durres’ many flea markets. Shop like one of the locals and pick up handmade crafts, unique antiques and second-hand treasures here.

    Mid-range Buys

    Whilst you may not find the big high-street names here, Bluestar Shopping Mall has many little boutiques and shops offering local fashion brands, jewellery, art and toy shops for the kids. It’s the oldest and most popular shopping centre in Durres and it’s particularly busy at weekends.

    Designer Buys

    You can find a few luxury local brands in Durres but for the big designer labels head to the capital of Tirana. In less than an hour’s drive you can splash the cash on clothing and shoes from the likes of Hugo Boss and Alexander McQueen.

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    Lively Evenings

    Durres is a city that knows how to party. With a mix of beach clubs, nightclubs and live concerts, there’s enough to keep you busy until sunrise. Cinco Cavalli Beach Club is the place to be in the summer for live DJ sets and stage performances, like fire dancers and acrobats.

    Laid-Back Evenings

    Relaxing evenings in Durres are spent by the sea. Take a late-night stroll along the beach and find a cosy spot in one of the many wine or cocktail bars that are sprinkled along the coast. Or, head into the heart of the city and check out a rooftop bar for scenic views or a pub for local live music.

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    Byrek

    Crispy, thin layers of flaky pastry bursting with delicious fillings of salty cheese, meats or vegetables and then baked or fried until golden – this is a favourite across the Balkans and you’ll find these in cafés and restaurants up and down Durres. They’re also a popular street food and if you head to ‘Byrektores' – little bakeries dotted all over the city – they sell this fare by the slice.

    Raki

    A boozy tipple found in restaurants and bars all over Albania. It’s a strong fruit brandy, traditionally made from grapes or plums and you’ll find it’s a staple in any Albanian household. It’s mostly served as a shot and enjoyed as a slow drink, but some bars are now making cocktails with it too. It’s also not uncommon for the owner to come out and sit and sip with you.

    Petulla

    These delights are a firm favourite across Albania and can be found at food stalls all over the city. A bit like a doughnut, these golden brown, fried dough balls can be enjoyed as a naughty sweet treat being topped with powdered sugar, chocolate, honey or strawberry jam, and for a salty kick try them with feta cheese.

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