Durrës
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At a glance
- Country
- Albania
- Region
- Durrës County
- Population
- 175,000
- Best time to go
- May to September
- Main airport
- None — nearest is Tirana International Nënë Tereza (TIA)
- Coordinates
- 41.32°N, 19.46°E
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Overview
Durrës is one of the oldest cities in Albania, founded by Greek colonists as Epidamnos and later the Roman port of Dyrrachium. Today it is the country's main port and its busiest seaside resort.
The old centre has Roman ruins built into everyday streets, while a long sandy beach stretches south of town lined with hotels. It is close enough to Tirana for a day trip, but makes a relaxed base in summer.
Things to see
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Photo: Pudelek, CC BY-SA 4.0 Durrës Amphitheatre
A large Roman amphitheatre partly buried under houses, with an early Christian chapel and mosaics inside.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Marcin Konsek, CC BY-SA 3.0 Durrës Archaeological Museum
The country's largest archaeological collection, with statues, tombstones and finds from the ancient city.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Marcin Konsek, CC BY-SA 3.0 Venetian Tower
A round medieval tower on the old city walls near the port, now home to a bar.
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Photo: Andis Rado, CC BY-SA 4.0 Royal Villa of Durrës
King Zog's former summer residence on the hill above the town, with fine views over the bay.
Things to do
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Photo: Redon Skikuli, CC BY-SA 4.0 Walk the seafront promenade
The evening stroll along the waterfront, ice cream in hand, is a big part of local life.
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Photo: Pudelek (Marcin Szala), CC BY-SA 3.0 Beach days
Sandy beaches run south from the city for miles, with sunbeds and seafood restaurants along the way.
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Photo: Leeturtle, CC BY-SA 3.0 Day trip to Tirana
The capital's museums and cafés are under an hour away by road.
Where to stay
Old town
Best for history and walking to the museum, amphitheatre and port.
Hotels in Old townDurrës beach
The strip of hotels south of the centre suits a summer beach holiday.
Hotels in Durrës beachGolem
Further south and quieter, with a long sandy beach and resort hotels.
Hotels in Golem
Getting around
The centre is walkable, and local buses and taxis run along the beach strip.
Tirana airport is about 30 to 40 minutes away by taxi.
When to go
June to September is beach season, with July and August hot and crowded. May and September are warmer than you might expect and much quieter.
Plan your trip to Durrës
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.