International Folk Dance and Music Festival Durrës Fest
A summer folklore and dance festival featuring folk dance groups, choirs and brass bands from various countries. Colourful traditional costumes and dances fill the streets of Durrës.
PlizioGo
Durrës
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
City
ℹ️Practical info — Durrës
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Visit the Roman Amphitheatre early in the morning or late afternoon to escape the midday heat and crowds.
- Join the locals for the "xhiro" (evening stroll) along the Vollga promenade just before sunset.
- When taking a taxi, agree on the fare before starting your journey, or ensure the meter is turned on.
- Try to pay in local currency (Lek) rather than Euros for smaller purchases to get a better exchange rate.
🍽 Food
🍽
Byrek
A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. Find the best ones in small local bakeries (byrektore) early in the morning.
🍽
Fresh Seafood
Enjoy locally caught fish and calamari at the seafood restaurants lined up along the coast towards Golem.
🍽
Tavë Kosi
A traditional dish of baked lamb and rice with a yogurt sauce, served in traditional Albanian tavernas in the city center.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Rruga Tregtare
The main commercial street of Durrës, first-rate for browsing clothing boutiques and small souvenir shops.
🛍
Local Green Market
Visit the central market areas for fresh local produce, olives, figs, and artisan Albanian cheeses.
🧘
Sphinx Viewpoint
A modern architectural structure at the end of the Vollga promenade, offering a peaceful spot to watch the sea and sunset.
🧘
Durrës Archaeological Museum Area
The quiet gardens and walkways around the museum provide a calm break from the bustling city streets.
🧘
Pine Forest of Golem
Head slightly south to find relaxing shaded areas among the pines, just a few steps from the beach.
Water temperature…
Durrës is one of Albania's oldest and most economically significant cities, situated on a strategic point along the Adriatic coast. Founded in 627 BC by Greek colonists from Corinth and Corcyra as Epidamnos, it later became a major Roman stronghold known as Dyrrhachium. The city served as the western terminus of the Via Egnatia, a vital military and commercial road connecting Rome to Constantinople. Its most prominent ancient landmark is the 2nd-century Roman Amphitheatre, one of the largest in the Balkans, which once held up to 20,000 spectators. Throughout the Middle Ages, Durrës was a prize contested by Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans, leaving behind a legacy of fortification walls and a Venetian tower. Today, the city is Albania's primary seaport and a thriving tourist destination, featuring an extensive beachfront, a large archaeological museum, and a blend of ancient ruins with contemporary urban development.
- Location: Albania
- Top sights: Durrës Castle · Tophane Well · Mozaiku tek Pallati i Sportit
- Nearby: Rinia (8 km)
- Population: ~195.920
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 10 | 12 | 15 | 19 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 23 | 19 | 15 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 118 | 106 | 97 | 77 | 66 | 47 | 27 | 28 | 88 | 110 | 138 | 136 |
Geography
Facts
- Durrës was founded in 627 BC by Greek colonists as the city of Epidamnos.
- The Roman Amphitheatre was constructed during the 2nd century AD.
- The city was the starting point of the Via Egnatia road to Constantinople.
- The ancient amphitheatre could accommodate approximately 20,000 people.
- Durrës briefly served as the capital of Albania from 1914 to 1920.
- The Port of Durrës handles over 90% of Albania's international maritime trade.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→18:203.1 km walk7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
Start your day traveling back in time at the Roman amphitheater, the largest in the Balkans. Stroll through the ruins of the ancient forum before exploring the remnants of the Byzantine walls. In the afternoon, take in a panoramic view from the Venetian Tower and dive deep into history at the Archaeological Museum. Later, relax on the Sfinksi Promenade, watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea. End your day with a delicious seafood dinner at a seaside restaurant, enjoying the sea breeze.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Amphitheatre of Durrës
Buy the combination ticket which is also valid for the Archaeological Museum.
🚶 8'0.23 km
🏛️
10:42 · 84'
Roman Forum and Thermal Baths
Imagine the bustling Roman market atmosphere among the ruins.
🚶 10'0.36 km
📍
12:16 · 47'
Byzantine City Walls
Some of the best-preserved sections are located near the amphitheater.
🚶 21'0.91 km
🚶 9'0.28 km
📍
14:20 · 47'
Durrës Archaeological Museum
Focus on the Hellenistic and Roman artifacts; they are exceptional.
🚶 23'1 km
🚶 9'0.31 km
🍽️
16:26 · 84'
Seaside Dinner
Try fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the promenade.
09:00→18:203.1 km walk7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
A rainy day in Durrës starts in the sheltered sections of the Amphitheatre. At noon, the Venetian Tower provides a cozy refuge from the showers. Spend the afternoon inside the Archaeological Museum, admiring ancient artifacts while staying dry. The evening concludes with a seaside dinner, watching the rain dance over the Adriatic waves.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Amphitheatre of Durrës
Buy the combination ticket which is also valid for the Archaeological Museum.
🚶 8'0.23 km
🏛️
10:42 · 84'
Roman Forum and Thermal Baths
Imagine the bustling Roman market atmosphere among the ruins.
🚶 10'0.36 km
📍
12:16 · 47'
Byzantine City Walls
Some of the best-preserved sections are located near the amphitheater.
🚶 21'0.91 km
🚶 9'0.28 km
📍
14:20 · 47'
Durrës Archaeological Museum
Focus on the Hellenistic and Roman artifacts; they are exceptional.
🚶 23'1 km
🚶 9'0.31 km
🍽️
16:26 · 84'
Seaside Dinner
Try fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the promenade.
09:00→18:203.1 km walk7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
On a crisp winter day, Durrës shows its quieter side. The amphitheatre looks almost mystical in the low winter sun. Warm up inside the Venetian fortress at noon before braving the cool sea breeze. With early sunsets, the museum is perfect for the afternoon, followed by a hearty dinner near the illuminated harbor.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Amphitheatre of Durrës
Buy the combination ticket which is also valid for the Archaeological Museum.
🚶 8'0.23 km
🏛️
10:42 · 84'
Roman Forum and Thermal Baths
Imagine the bustling Roman market atmosphere among the ruins.
🚶 10'0.36 km
📍
12:16 · 47'
Byzantine City Walls
Some of the best-preserved sections are located near the amphitheater.
🚶 21'0.91 km
🚶 9'0.28 km
📍
14:20 · 47'
Durrës Archaeological Museum
Focus on the Hellenistic and Roman artifacts; they are exceptional.
🚶 23'1 km
🚶 9'0.31 km
🍽️
16:26 · 84'
Seaside Dinner
Try fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the promenade.
09:00→16:265.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 31–41 €Entries 24€ · Transport 12€
Start your bike tour at the impressive amphitheater. Continue to the Venetian Tower for a quick panoramic view before delving into ancient history at the Archaeological Museum. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch by the port. In the afternoon, cycle along the coast to the Sfinksi Promenade for a long, relaxing break on the beach. End your adventure with a challenging ride up to the Royal Villa, rewarded with a stunning view of the city and the sea.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Amphitheatre of Durrës
Lock your bike nearby and explore this impressive arena on foot.
🚲 8'0.86 km
🚲 5'0.28 km
🚲 4'0.17 km
🚲 14'1.78 km
📍
14:03 · 47'
Sfinksi Promenade & Beach
Lock up your bike and enjoy a refreshing break by the sea.
🚲 19'2.61 km
📍
15:09 · 47'
Royal Villa of Durrës
A challenging bike ride up the hill, but the view from the top is worth the effort.
09:00→16:265.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 31–41 €Entries 24€ · Transport 12€
Cycling in the rain requires focus in Durrës. From the amphitheatre, ride through slippery alleys to the Venetian Tower. Extend your lunch break indoors before heading to the museum. The promenade is empty but windy, so the tour ends early with a warm meal in the harbor area.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Amphitheatre of Durrës
Lock your bike nearby and explore this impressive arena on foot.
🚲 8'0.86 km
🚲 5'0.28 km
🚲 4'0.17 km
🚲 14'1.78 km
📍
14:03 · 47'
Sfinksi Promenade & Beach
Lock up your bike and enjoy a refreshing break by the sea.
🚲 19'2.61 km
📍
15:09 · 47'
Royal Villa of Durrës
A challenging bike ride up the hill, but the view from the top is worth the effort.
09:00→16:265.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 31–41 €Entries 24€ · Transport 12€
Winter cycling in Durrës offers crisp air and empty paths. After the amphitheatre, head quickly to the port to stay warm through movement. A cozy restaurant beckons for lunch before the afternoon museum visit. The tour ends at sunset by the Villa, overlooking the quiet winter city.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Amphitheatre of Durrës
Lock your bike nearby and explore this impressive arena on foot.
🚲 8'0.86 km
🚲 5'0.28 km
🚲 4'0.17 km
🚲 14'1.78 km
📍
14:03 · 47'
Sfinksi Promenade & Beach
Lock up your bike and enjoy a refreshing break by the sea.
🚲 19'2.61 km
📍
15:09 · 47'
Royal Villa of Durrës
A challenging bike ride up the hill, but the view from the top is worth the effort.
09:00→17:0912.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 22–30 €Entries 24€ · Transport 2€
Start your day by parking near the amphitheater, your first cluster. Explore the ancient arena and the nearby Roman forum on foot. Then, drive to the hilltop cluster to see the Royal Villa and enjoy the view from the Venetian Tower. In the afternoon, escape the city bustle and drive to the quieter Golem beach. Relax on the sand, swim in the sea, and witness an unforgettable sunset. End your perfect day with a delicious seafood dinner at one of Golem's beachfront restaurants.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Parking near the Amphitheatre
This is your first cluster. Park here and explore the area on foot.
🚗 4'0.29 km
🏛️
10:38 · 84'
Roman Forum and Thermal Baths
A short walk from the amphitheater. Feel the ancient atmosphere.
🚗 5'0.55 km
📍
12:07 · 47'
Royal Villa of Durrës
Drive to this hilltop cluster. Enjoy the view and the breeze.
🚗 5'0.57 km
📍
12:59 · 47'
Durrës Castle & Venetian Tower
Explore the castle walls and climb the tower for a better view.
🚗 38'10.53 km
📍
14:24 · 47'
Golem Beach for Sunset
A longer trip out of the city for a quieter beach and a first-rate sunset.
🚗 4'0.15 km
09:00→17:0912.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 22–30 €Entries 24€ · Transport 2€
Exploring Durrës by car remains comfortable even in heavy rain. Park close to the amphitheatre and baths to minimize time spent outdoors. At noon, visit the Villa and Castle, using the car as a dry retreat. Spend the afternoon in Golem, watching the storm from the window of a cozy beach cafe.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Parking near the Amphitheatre
This is your first cluster. Park here and explore the area on foot.
🚗 4'0.29 km
🏛️
10:38 · 84'
Roman Forum and Thermal Baths
A short walk from the amphitheater. Feel the ancient atmosphere.
🚗 5'0.55 km
📍
12:07 · 47'
Royal Villa of Durrës
Drive to this hilltop cluster. Enjoy the view and the breeze.
🚗 5'0.57 km
📍
12:59 · 47'
Durrës Castle & Venetian Tower
Explore the castle walls and climb the tower for a better view.
🚗 38'10.53 km
📍
14:24 · 47'
Golem Beach for Sunset
A longer trip out of the city for a quieter beach and a first-rate sunset.
🚗 4'0.15 km
09:00→17:0912.1 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 22–30 €Entries 24€ · Transport 2€
Winter in Durrës means less traffic and easy parking. After the morning visit to the amphitheatre, head to the Villa, which looks especially grand in winter light. Enjoy the castle views at noon before driving to Golem. The beach there is nearly empty in winter, perfect for a short walk before dinner.
← swipe for more places →
🏛️
09:10 · 84'
Parking near the Amphitheatre
This is your first cluster. Park here and explore the area on foot.
🚗 4'0.29 km
🏛️
10:38 · 84'
Roman Forum and Thermal Baths
A short walk from the amphitheater. Feel the ancient atmosphere.
🚗 5'0.55 km
📍
12:07 · 47'
Royal Villa of Durrës
Drive to this hilltop cluster. Enjoy the view and the breeze.
🚗 5'0.57 km
📍
12:59 · 47'
Durrës Castle & Venetian Tower
Explore the castle walls and climb the tower for a better view.
🚗 38'10.53 km
📍
14:24 · 47'
Golem Beach for Sunset
A longer trip out of the city for a quieter beach and a first-rate sunset.
🚗 4'0.15 km
Sights in the town Durrës (11)
Sandy beach📍 landmark
Not far from the city of Durres, this relaxing sandy beach is located on the coast of Albania. The quieter surroundings make it a wonderful retreat from the urban hustle and bustle. Walks in the soft sand and cozy hours of sunbathing are the main focus here. For a peaceful afternoon by the sea, this is the convenient choice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important historical site in Durrës?
The 2nd-century Roman amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans.
Can you go swimming in Durrës?
Yes, Durrës has long sandy beaches that are very popular, especially with families.
How far is Durrës from Tirana?
About 35 km, the trip takes around 45 minutes by car or bus.
Are there good seafood restaurants?
Yes, along the Volluma promenade, you will find excellent seafood specialties.
When is the best time to visit?
May to September for a beach holiday; spring and autumn for sightseeing.
Durrës: where is it located?
Durrës is located in Albania.
Durrës: what is there to see?
Highlights include Durrës Castle, Tophane Well, Mozaiku tek Pallati i Sportit.
Durrës: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Durrës: why is it worth visiting?
Durrës is one of Albania's oldest and most economically significant cities, situated on a strategic point along the Adriatic coast.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Albania →
Nearby cities
Arapaj
Arapaj is a historical village near Durrës, famous for the remains of one of the largest early Christian basilicas in the Balkans.
Rinia
Rinia is an emerging coastal community in Albania, attracting an increasing number of travelers with its beautiful beaches and Mediterran…
Katund i Ri
Katund i Ri is a rapidly growing settlement in the Durrës hinterland.
Shijak
Shijak is located between Tirana and Durrës on the Erzen River.
Sukth
Sukth is a small town near Durrës on the Erzen River.
Golem
A popular seaside resort south of Durrës, known for its extensive sandy beaches, pine forests, and a wide variety of modern resorts.
Qerret
Qerret is a popular coastal village in Albania with fine sandy beaches and warm waters.
Maminas
Maminas is a town located between Tirana and Durrës.
Manëz
Manëz is a town near Durrës known for its mining history and strategic location in the hills of Central Albania.
Karpen
Karpen is a charming coastal village in Albania, known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere by the Adriatic Sea.
Kavajë
Kavajë is a historical city located near the Adriatic coast.
Vorë
Vorë is a major transport hub between Tirana and Durrës.
Bërxullë
Bërxullë is a strategically located community near Tirana Airport.
Domen
A quiet coastal area near Kavajë, home to the spectacular General's Beach with crystal clear waters.
Kashar
Kashar is a suburb of Tirana and a significant industrial and logistical center along the highway to Durrës.
History & landmarks
Preza Castle
A medieval fortress overlooking the Tirana plain.
Ishmi Castle
A small fortress near the coast built by the Ottomans to suppress peasant revolts.
Rodoni Castle
Built by Skanderbeg at Cape Rodon to secure access to the sea.
Bashtovë Castle
The only fortress in Albania built on flat terrain, near the mouth of the Shkumbin.
Nature
More places
Kruja Castle
Symbol of resistance
Durrës Railway Hub
The Durrës railway station is the central hub of the Albanian rail network.
Tudas Archaeological Site
Remains of an ancient settlement and fortification near Durrës, providing insight into life on the Illyrian coast.
Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza
Tirana International Airport is Albania's primary gateway to the world.
Jabal Shada
A mountain massif famous for its unusual rock formations and ancient cave dwellings.
Tirana Botanical Garden
This garden in southern Tirana serves the conservation and research of Albanian flora.
Skanderbeg Museum
Located within Krujë Castle, this museum is dedicated to the life and deeds of the Albanian National Hero, Skanderbeg.
House of Leaves
A museum in Tirana dedicated to the history of state surveillance.