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Things to do in Durrës

• Relax at Durres Beach

  
  

  Durres Beach stretches for roughly 10 kilometers along the Adriatic coast and is the nearest seaside escape from Tirana. It has become one of Albania’s most visited summer destinations. The broad, sandy shoreline allows ample space for visitors, even during peak months. Its shallow waters extend far from shore, making it ideal for families with young children. The beachfront is lined with numerous bars and restaurants, offering everything from light snacks to seafood dishes.

  The beach is known for its lively and upbeat atmosphere. Vendors walk along the sand selling local treats like grilled corn and ice cream, while music from nearby clubs fills the air. For added comfort, visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas at various points along the coast. The energy of the area makes it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

  As evening approaches, the beach takes on a more relaxed tone. The sunsets over the Adriatic Sea cast warm colors across the sky, offering a scenic end to the day. The best time to enjoy Durres Beach is between June and September, although the area tends to become especially crowded during July and August.

  
  

• Hiking Adventure: Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain Day Tour

  
  

  Located just a short distance inland from the coast, Bovilla Lake is one of Albania’s most striking yet lesser-known natural landscapes. This 5-hour excursion leads you through peaceful rural scenery before reaching the deep blue reservoir framed by rugged limestone cliffs. The trail to the viewpoint is approximately 2.5 kilometers and remains accessible for casual hikers. At the summit, visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of the lake’s turquoise waters, steep canyon edges, and the surrounding peaks of Gamti Mountain.

  The tour is enhanced by knowledgeable local guides who not only ensure a comfortable pace but also offer helpful insights into the area’s geography and natural features. They point out ideal photo locations and provide background stories that enrich the experience. Following the hike, there is an option to dine at a nearby restaurant that overlooks the lake, although meals are not included in the package.

  This outing presents a refreshing contrast to Albania’s coastal resorts and busy urban areas. It offers a tranquil escape into nature, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. With transportation provided to and from your hotel, the tour offers a convenient way to explore a more secluded and scenic part of the country without the stress of planning logistics.

  
  
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• Off-Road ATV Adventure in Kallmi, Albania

  
  

  For travelers seeking adventure beyond the usual sights of Durrës, the ATV quad bike tour through Kallmi offers a dynamic outdoor experience. Participants ride 2023-model ATVs across scenic trails that wind through rolling hills, offering sweeping views of the Durrës port and the Adriatic coast. Kallmi remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, allowing visitors to explore rugged terrain rarely seen by most travelers.

  Tour guides provide thorough safety instructions and are attentive to both beginners and experienced riders. Along the way, they share insights into Albania’s history, including landmarks such as the country’s iconic wartime bunkers. The tour also includes photo opportunities at several lookout points, and riders can choose between solo or two-seater options depending on preference.

  Though the entire ride lasts approximately 90 minutes, the experience is packed with memorable moments. From navigating natural trails to discovering hidden viewpoints, the tour captures a more adventurous side of Albania. It is a compact yet thrilling way to connect with the country’s landscape in a setting far removed from crowded tourist routes.
  

  
  
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• Off-Road Adventure: Karavasta Lagoon 4x4 Safari

  
  

  This 4x4 off-road tour through Karavasta Lagoon offers a well-balanced blend of nature, wildlife, and adventure. Starting with hotel pickup from Tirana or Durrës, the journey leads to Divjaka National Park, where the experience begins with a peaceful walk along a wooden boardwalk shaded by tall pine trees. At the park's visitor center, guests may catch sight of the rare Dalmatian pelican, one of the lagoon’s most iconic species. The nearby viewing tower provides a panoramic view of the entire lagoon and surrounding wetlands.

  Following the nature walk, the tour shifts gears with an off-road ride along the sand dunes surrounding Karavasta Lagoon. With a professional driver navigating a specially equipped 4x4 vehicle, travelers cross rugged beach terrain and explore parts of the park that are inaccessible to regular vehicles. Binoculars are available for birdwatching, allowing participants to spot a wide range of native and migratory birdlife within the lagoon’s protected ecosystem.

  The full experience lasts approximately five and a half hours, offering a variety of activities in a relatively short time. From quiet moments in nature to the excitement of off-road driving, the tour gives travelers a deeper look at Albania’s natural beauty. A brief stop at the beach adds a relaxing end to an active and engaging half-day excursion.

  
  
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• Countryside Wine & Food Tasting Tour in the Hills of Durres

  
  

  Escape the busy coastal areas and venture into the scenic hills above Durrës for a relaxed and enriching food and wine experience. This four-hour tour brings you to local vineyards with sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea, where you can stroll among the vines and learn about Albania’s winemaking heritage, which stretches back thousands of years. The peaceful setting offers a refreshing contrast to the more crowded tourist spots.

  A highlight of the tour is a visit to a traditional wine cellar, where the production process is explained in detail. Guided tastings follow, led by a knowledgeable sommelier who introduces you to unique Albanian grape varieties. The experience is rounded out with carefully selected food pairings, fresh olive oil from the region, and a sampling of rakia, the strong local brandy. The vineyard’s offerings are noted for their authenticity and freshness, often praised as some of the best in the area.

  What sets this tour apart is its personal and welcoming atmosphere. Guides often tailor the experience to the interests of the group, sharing insights into local history, including stories from the Communist period, as well as elements of daily Albanian life. With rolling hills and countryside views, the tour concludes with a quiet appreciation of the landscape—especially memorable at sunset. This makes it an ideal half-day activity that provides both cultural depth and culinary enjoyment.

  
  
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• Albanian Alps and Theth Village Adventure: Hiking to the Blue Eye

  
  

  This full-day excursion offers an immersive journey into the remote beauty of the Albanian Alps, centered around the village of Theth. The trip begins with a drive through mountain roads that reveal sweeping views of the rugged landscape, with several scenic stops along the way. Upon arrival in Theth, you’ll explore landmarks such as the historic Church of Theth and the 16th-century Reconciliation Tower before enjoying a traditional Northern Albanian lunch that prepares you for the hike ahead.

  The main highlight of the day is the trek to the Blue Eye of Theth, a natural spring that forms a strikingly vibrant blue pool surrounded by forest. The hike follows a riverside trail and takes about an hour each way. Though moderately challenging, the walk is manageable and rewarded with a stunning view of crystal-clear, icy water framed by dense greenery, creating an unforgettable natural scene.

  Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour also provides insights into the culture and customs preserved in this isolated region. The entire experience spans approximately 13 hours, including transport from Tirana or nearby cities. Guides are known for being attentive to group needs, offering gear such as rain jackets when necessary and adjusting plans to accommodate the weather. This trip appeals to travelers interested in nature, photography, and Albania’s unspoiled mountain life.
  

  
  
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• Alpine Adventure: Theth National Park and Blue Eye Day Trip

  
  

  A day trip to Theth National Park and the Blue Eye offers a remarkable journey through some of Albania's most breathtaking natural landscapes. The trip begins with a scenic drive across the Albanian Alps, with a stop at Qafë Thore summit, where expansive mountain views await. These dramatic peaks, locally known as the Accursed Mountains, create a powerful backdrop of rugged cliffs and deep valleys that stretch across the horizon.

  The route continues to the Nderlysaj Natural Baths, where visitors can either take a cold dip or relax beside the clear waters. From there, a 35-minute hike leads to the Blue Eye of Theth, a natural pool known for its vivid turquoise color and crystal-clear water. Although the water is extremely cold, many still choose to swim, drawn by the beauty and serenity of the site. The pool’s intense color and natural surroundings leave a lasting impression, and its untouched appearance adds to the experience.

  Before returning to the city, there is time to explore Theth village, which features a small historical church and the well-known blood feud tower that reflects an important part of the region’s cultural past. The full-day trip lasts around 12.5 hours but maintains a relaxed pace throughout. Guides typically share detailed insights into local customs and history, enhancing the overall experience. For travelers seeking a deep connection with Albania’s natural and cultural heritage, this trip is especially rewarding.

  
  
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• Visit the Royal Villa of Durres

  
  

  The Royal Villa of Durres, also known as King Zog's Villa, sits on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea and offers both historical interest and amazing views. Built in the 1920s as a summer residence for King Zog I, Albania's only king, this elegant building showcases Italian architectural influences popular during that period. After years of neglect, the villa has been restored and opened to visitors, giving a glimpse into Albania's brief monarchy.

  Walking through the rooms, you can see how the Albanian royal family lived in style, with beautiful wooden floors, high ceilings, and large windows designed to capture the sea breeze. The grounds around the villa are pleasant to stroll through, with pine trees providing shade. What really makes this place worth visiting though is the panoramic view from the terrace – you can see the entire curve of Durres Bay, the port, and on clear days, even the Italian coast across the Adriatic.

  The villa isn't always consistently open, so it's worth checking ahead of time. When it is open, the entrance fee is very reasonable. Even if you can't go inside, the grounds and exterior are worth seeing, and many locals come up here to enjoy the view and take photos. It's about a 15-minute drive from downtown Durres, and the road up can be a bit steep, but taxis are inexpensive if you don't have your transportation.

  
  

• Visit the Venetian Tower

  
  

  The Venetian Tower stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in Durres, located where the ancient city walls meet the more modern part of town. Built in the 15th century when Venice controlled much of the Adriatic coast, this round defensive tower has survived earthquakes, wars, and urban development to remain a symbol of the city. What's particularly cool about the tower is how it's been adapted over time – now there's actually a cozy bar/cafe built right into its ancient walls.

  Climbing to the top of the tower gives you a fantastic 360-degree view over Durres – you can see the harbor, the main boulevard, and get a better understanding of how the city is laid out. The stone spiral staircase inside is an experience itself, with walls that have witnessed centuries of history. The integration of old and new is fascinating, with modern lighting highlighting the ancient stonework.

  After checking out the tower, the area around it is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with parts of the old city walls extending in both directions. There are several cafes and restaurants nearby where you can sit and appreciate the historical atmosphere. The tower is particularly photogenic around sunset when the old stones take on a golden hue. It only takes about 30 minutes to visit properly, but it gives you a tangible connection to Durres' Venetian past and the strategic importance this port city held for centuries.

  
  

• Explore Durrës Amphitheatre

  
  

  The Roman Amphitheater in Durrës stands as one of Albania’s most remarkable archaeological landmarks. Constructed in the 2nd century AD, it once accommodated up to 20,000 spectators who gathered for gladiator combats and public spectacles. Remarkably, the structure was buried and forgotten for centuries, only rediscovered in the 1960s during a construction project. Today, parts of the site remain unexcavated, surrounded by the modern urban landscape that has grown around it.

  Exploring the amphitheater offers a powerful sense of stepping back in time. Visitors can walk through its stone corridors and sit where ancient Romans once watched the events unfold. Inside, the remains of a small Byzantine chapel add to the site’s layered history, with well-preserved mosaics offering insight into later use of the space. These artistic details enrich the experience and highlight the site's cultural evolution across centuries.

  Admission to the amphitheater is modestly priced, and local guides occasionally offer deeper context through engaging stories and historical facts. Due to the age of the site, surfaces can be uneven, so wearing sturdy footwear is advised to navigate the ruins safely while taking in the atmosphere of this ancient monument.
  

  
  

Where to stay in Durrës

Best hotels in Durrës:

• Diamond Hotel (budget hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  Diamond Hotel in Durrës is a fantastic choice for a beach getaway, just a short 3-minute walk from the sandy shores of Durres Beach. The hotel offers a modern and comfortable atmosphere, with some rooms featuring balconies to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. Free WiFi is available throughout, ensuring you stay connected during your stay.

  The hotel’s location is ideal, with a supermarket right across the street for any essentials you may need. Bars, restaurants, and shops are all within walking distance, adding to the convenience. After a day at the beach, guests can relax with a drink at the hotel bar or enjoy a meal at the Italian restaurant. The friendly staff are always available to offer helpful tips about the area.

  If you're looking for a comfortable stay near the beach in Durrës, Diamond Hotel is a solid option. With nice rooms, a prime location, and amenities like free parking and breakfast included, it’s an easy choice for a relaxing stay. Just remember that it can get busy during peak season, so booking ahead is recommended.

  
  

• Adriatik Hotel (luxury hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  The Adriatik Hotel in Durrës offers a prime beachfront location on the Adriatic Sea, complete with a private beach area and two inviting pools—one indoor and one outdoor—perfect for enjoying sunny days. The modern and comfortable rooms feature balconies with stunning sea views, making it easy to unwind.

  Food lovers will appreciate the extensive breakfast buffet with a mix of local and international dishes. For dinner, the hotel’s restaurant serves fresh seafood that’s sure to impress.

  Beyond relaxing by the beach or pool, guests can stay active in the gym, enjoy the spa, or try water sports for a bit of adventure. The friendly and attentive staff are always on hand to assist, ensuring a pleasant experience. It’s an excellent choice for a seaside getaway in Albania.

  
  

• Hotel Epidamn (medium range hotel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  Hotel Epidamn in Durrës is a charming boutique hotel offering a stylish and comfortable stay. Located in the city center, it's just a short walk from Currila Beach, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.

  The rooms are elegantly designed with modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free WiFi. Guests often praise the comfortable beds and quiet ambiance, providing a peaceful environment after a day of sightseeing. A standout feature is the hotel's hammam and spa center, perfect for unwinding and recharging.

  The on-site restaurant offers a delicious selection of Albanian and international dishes, while the à la carte breakfast is a favorite among visitors. With its combination of sleek design, excellent location, and attentive service, Hotel Epidamn is a great option for both leisure and business travelers in Durrës.

  
  

Best hostels in Durrës:

• Hostel Durres (boutique hostel)

  
  
  
  
  
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  Hostel Durres is a great spot located right in the center of Durrës, just a short walk from the beach. Its location is perfect, with easy access to the main sights and restaurants in the area. The staff are friendly and always happy to offer tips on things to do and see.

  The hostel has a relaxed and social atmosphere, with a shared lounge and garden area where you can meet fellow travelers. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, and there’s free WiFi available throughout. A standout feature is the vegetarian breakfast served every morning, providing a great start to your day of exploring.

  If you're looking for an affordable, welcoming place to stay in Durrës, Hostel Durres is a solid choice. With its friendly vibe, convenient location, and good value, it’s ideal for backpackers or anyone wanting to experience the local scene.