3 Day Itinerary for Durrës

Visit Albania, a popular destination in the Balkan country, and consider Durrës as a must-see destination. Durrës is a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a treasure trove of archaeological wonders such as the Roman Amphitheatre and the Venetian Tower.

The city is also known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy shores, making it a popular summer destination for locals and tourists alike. The lively Bazaar Durrës offers a vibrant hub for local culture, with narrow streets selling traditional crafts, produce, and street food.

To enjoy the best time in Durrës, visit during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor tours and activities. Accommodations are best along the coast, near the city centre, with a variety of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses to choose from.

Overall, you should visit Durrës to discover why it has become a famous tourist destination. With this 3 day Durrës travel guide, you’ll just be able to pack your bags, and you’re good to go. So, keep reading!  

Overview of 3 Days in Durrës Itinerary

Here’s a glance at what you’ll see and do in three days in Durrës:

Day 1 in Durrës

• Explore the Durrës Archaeological Museum
• Check out the Durrës Castle & Venetian Tower
• Get lunch at Gusto di Mare & Sushi Time 
• Visit the Residence of King Zog I 
• Walk along the Byzantine Forum
• Walk down the Promenade 
• Wine and Dine at Kodra e Kuajve

Day 2 in Durrës

• Get some breakfast at Byrek corner
• Stroll through Durrës City centre
• Stop by the Albanian College
• Sneak a peek at the Faith Mosque
• Lunch at the Portiku Wine Bar & Bistro
• Explore the Amphitheatre of Durrës
• Relax at the Durrës Beach
• Venture the Durrës Bazaar for Dinner

Day 3 in Durrës

• Grab your morning coffee
• Go on an excursion to the Cape of Rodon
• Drive to Golem 
• Enjoy water sports at the beach 
• Be back at Durrës for Dinner

Day 1 in Durrës

Explore the Durrës Archaeological Museum

For your first day in Durrës, you’ll be exploring some of the most famous landmarks in the city and first on the list is the Durrës Archaeological Museum. This museum is the largest and most-visited one in Albania, housing an impressive collection of artefacts that span various periods of Durrës’ history. 

Whether or not you are a history buff, the Durrës Archaeological Museum is a must-visit. You can explore exhibits showcasing ancient pottery, sculptures, jewellery, and archaeological discoveries from the Roman and Byzantine eras. 

With its location at the seaside promenade, not only do you get a fascinating insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage, but you also have the chance to have a glimpse of how Durrës looks from the other side of the town. 

Check out the Durrës Castle & Venetian Tower

Next on your list are the Durrës Castle and Venetian Tower. These two landmarks play an essential role in Duress’s historical heritage. During WWI, it acted as a geographical border between Muslim Ottomans and Christian Europe and a frontline in the psychological battle between these factions. 

Situated on an area overlooking the city and the Adriatic Sea, Durrës Castle dates back to the Byzantine era, while the Venetians constructed the tower in the 15th century. 

Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins, climb the tower for panoramic views, and imagine the historical significance of this fortification. This has been a great tourist photo spot because of the combination of ancient architecture and stunning vistas in the background. 

Get lunch at Gusto di Mare & Sushi Time 

After exploring two iconic landmarks in the city, you’ll probably need to fuel your energy with good food.  Gusto di Mare & Sushi Time is one of the most famous restaurants in the city, offering a delightful dining experience with a menu featuring a variety of Asian and Albanian dishes. 

They are known for serving fresh seafood, traditional Albanian cuisine, and international favourites. The restaurant’s cosy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place to relax and refuel after a morning of exploring.

Visit the Residence of King Zog I 

The Residence of King Zog I, also known as the Royal Villa of Durrës (house of Zogu), is also a must-visit during your 3 days in Durrës. 

This grand palace was built on the city’s highest hill and was used as the former Summer house for the Royal Family led by King Zog I, the last monarch of Albania.

It has now become a famous tourist spot in the city, not only because of its historical representation but also because of its architectural style that represents neoclassicism.

Visitors can tour the palace’s rooms, furnished with elegant period furniture and decor. It provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Albanian royal family. The beautiful gardens surround the palace, adding to the charm of the visit.

Admire the Byzantine Forum

The Byzantine Forum was once the centre of the ancient city and has become a famous landmark for tourists and locals who want to see how the old Durrës looked. 

It was constructed in the 5th century, with fortifications, a market complex and a dome. It is impossible to enter the Forum itself, but you can admire it from outside its walls and still see the beautiful hand-carved columns from the Forum’s original structure. 

Walk down the Promenade 

The day should not go by without having you see the vibrant and lively part of the city – the Promenade. Durrës’ waterfront promenade is a dynamic place to stroll, especially when the sun is about to fall. 

Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, it offers a picturesque view of the sea and the city’s coastline. You can enjoy the fresh sea breeze, watch local fishermen in action, and soak in the town’s lively atmosphere. 

The promenade is trendy in the evening when locals and tourists come together to enjoy the sunset and socialise. If you’re travelling alone, this is also the best area to meet locals and fellow travellers. 

Wine and Dine at Kodra e Kuajve

Although this restaurant is not near your last stop, Kodra e Kuajve, translated as “Hill of Horses,” is a renowned restaurant in Durrës that offers a unique dining experience. 

It is perched on a hill overlooking the city, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Durrës and the sea, making it worth the visit. 

But besides the stunning vistas, Kodra e Kuajve also offers a diverse menu featuring delicious seafood, traditional Albanian dishes, and international cuisine. So, if you’re looking for an excellent spot to cap off you’re the first night in Durrës, Kodra e Kuajve is highly recommended! 

Day 2 in Durrës 

Get some breakfast at Byrek corner

After going around different historical landmarks on your first day, you should take things slow on your second day. To do that, start your morning with a hearty meal from Durrës’ famous local spot, the Byrek Corner. 

The Byrek Corner is a local favourite for a delicious breakfast where you can find one of the best traditional Albanian pastries in town. Byrek is a traditionally Albanian pastry with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, and meat, a must-try in the city. 

At Byrek Corner, you can find a wide selection of freshly baked bread, allowing you to indulge in this mouthwatering breakfast delight. You can also pair it with a cup of solid Albanian coffee for an authentic start to your day.

Stroll through Durrës City centre

Since you needed more time to stroll around the city centre yesterday, make your second day morning all about exploring and soaking in the local atmosphere at the Durrës City Centre. 

As you explore the vibrant streets, get to admire a mix of architectural styles, from Ottoman-era buildings to modern structures. Explore the lively shops, cafes, and boutiques along the way, and grab a souvenir to remember your visit. 

The City centre is also home to several parks where you can sit and relax, enjoying the beauty of the surroundings.  Don’t forget to head to Bulevardi Dyrrah, where you can see the old Byzantine Market, the forum and Roman baths, the Town Hall, and the impressive Xhamia E Madhe Mosque.

Plus, it is nearby many iconic city spots, including your next stop in this itinerary. 

Stop by the Albanian College

The Albanian College is an impressive building located in Durrës City centre. While visiting a school during your vacation may seem unusual, the Albanian College is worth visiting. It serves as an educational institution and a symbol of cultural heritage to the locals of the city and the whole of Albania. 

As you visit the college, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful architecture of this historic landmark. You may even have the chance to attend a cultural event or exhibition at the college, providing a deeper insight into Albanian culture and education.

Sneak a peek at the Faith Mosque

Just a few minutes from the college is the Faith Mosque, an important religious site in Durrës. It is the oldest Islamic temple and was added to the official list of Albanian culture’s most important monuments. 

Built in 1502, it features stunning Ottoman architecture with intricate details and elegant design. Even if you’re not visiting for religious purposes, it’s worth stopping by to appreciate the mosque’s beauty from the outside. Also, remember to dress modestly and respect the site’s spiritual significance.

Lunch at the Portiku Wine Bar & Bistro

Portiku Wine Bar & Bistro is a delightful establishment in the city’s heart, offering authentic Albanian and International cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients and a creative twist. 

This is a great lunch place, especially since the atmosphere at Portiku is inviting and relaxed, with a stylish interior that combines modern design elements with rustic touches. 

But, the highlight of Portiku is undoubtedly its impressive selection of wines, which you can still enjoy even in the middle of the day. The wine bar boasts an extensive collection of local and international wines curated to satisfy the preferences of wine enthusiasts. 

Explore the Amphitheatre of Durrës

A visit to Durrës would only be complete with exploring the famous Amphitheatre. After tasting the local wines at Portico, you’ll learn more about the city again as you visit this impressive Roman ruin. 

The Amphitheatre of Durrës is one of the largest in the Balkans, showcasing the city’s rich history. It was built way back 2nd Century AD and has become an iconic part of the city. 

You’ll only need to pay at least €2 to enter, and you can already wander through its ancient walls, imagine the grandeur of the gladiatorial games, and appreciate the architectural marvels of the past. 

Relax at the Durrës Beach

You’ve probably wanted to head onto the beach ever since you got to Durrës, and now that you’ve seen most of the famous attractions and landmarks in the city, you can freely enjoy your time at Durrës Beach. 

Since Durrës is renowned for its beautiful beaches, relaxing by the sea is a must-do activity. Head to the central beach area, where you can lounge on the soft sand, swim in the clear waters, or simply bask in the sun. 

There are also beach bars, beachfront cafes and bars where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks while enjoying the coastal scenery.

Venture the Durrës Bazaar for Dinner

After relaxing at Durrës Beach for the whole afternoon, head to the Durrës Bazaar for another night’s experience. 

The bazaar is a bustling market where you can find many goods, including fresh produce, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. This is also the best place to sample traditional Albanian street food from the food stalls, such as qofte (meatballs) or flia (layered pancake dish). 

You can also fully immerse yourself in the local culture and flavours here, so this is the best place to savour authentic local cuisine and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Durrës.

Day 3 in Durrës

Grab your morning coffee

Now that you’ve reached the last day of your trip to Durrës, having a cup of coffee in the morning is the best way to go. Since you’ve already experienced eating breakfast like a local, trying the vibrant coffee culture of Durrës is also great. 

In the city, numerous cosy cafes serve freshly brewed coffee alongside sweet and savoury pastries. So, savour your morning brew while taking in the sights and sounds of the city waking up, and make sure to get that energy fueled up for another day of adventure. 

Go on an excursion to the Cape of Rodon

As mentioned earlier, since you’ve already seen almost all Durrës has to offer, it would be great to embark on an exciting excursion to nearby destinations for your third day. 

For this itinerary, we suggest you head to the Cape of Rodon, a picturesque natural reserve. The Cape of Rodon is only an hour and 20 minutes away from Durrës, so while travelling, you can enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, taking in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. 

Once you arrive, some things you can do at the Cape of Rodon visit the Castle of Skanderbeg, go on beautiful hiking trails, go on a picnic by the sea or just unwind and soak up the sun and immerse yourself in nature. 

Drive to Golem 

After visiting the Cape of Rodon, drive to Golem, a popular beach resort near Durrës. Golem boasts beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun. 

While there are many other beach towns you can check out, Golem is one of the many famous and must-visit if you are in Albania. 

While you haven’t had your lunch yet, you can grab a quick bite from the many restaurants in the area or maybe get some to go and enjoy a picnic by the beach.

You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas, take refreshing dips in the sea, or simply unwind on the soft sand. 

Enjoy water sports at the beach 

While simply relaxing and sunbathing under the sun at Golem may be fun already, you also have the option to enjoy a few water sports activities there. 

If you are seeking a more adventurous experience, you can try your hand at activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, or paddleboarding. All you can try at Golem Beach,  as they have complete facilities that provide equipment rentals and instructions for beginners.

Be back at Durrës for Dinner

As the evening approaches, return to Durrës for a delightful dinner experience. Enjoy the drive on your way back, and make a few stops at great photo locations to capture the moment (if you are renting a car). 

Back at Durrës, choose a restaurant that captures your interest and indulges in a satisfying meal, savouring the local delicacies or exploring international culinary delights. After all, the city offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Albanian cuisine to international flavours. 

Then cap off your vacation at Durrës with a stroll along the promenade or relax at a cafe, reflecting on the beautiful experiences you’ve had during your three-day adventure in Albania. 

Tours in Durrës

Local Wine Tasting Tour

One must-try when in Duress is to go on a wine-tasting tour. Duress is known to produce excellent wine locally and even has one of the country’s finest wineries. If you want to experience this, you can always book a tour and include this on your itinerary.

During the tour, a guide will take you to a local vineyard where you will learn more about the wine process making and how they make great-tasting wines.

This specific tour also includes wine tasting so that you will enjoy various Albanian wines made from native grape varieties. 

Sightseeing Tour 

Since you are visiting Durrës for only three days, joining a sightseeing tour is highly recommended to make your vacation a little hassle. 

If you want to save time planning your itinerary (although we’ve made it easier for you already), you can join this 2-hour sightseeing tour in the city. 

Although this will cover only some landmarks in the city, this tour focuses on touring you around the archaeological wonders of the city. You’ll visit iconic spots with a small group tour and a local guide, including the Durrës Amphitheatre and the Durrës Archeological Museum. 

3-Day Itinerary for Durrës Wrap-up

There you have it, a complete and detailed 3 days itinerary for Durrës! Now that we’ve shared with you the things you can do, places to visit and even what food to try in the city of Durrës, you can now fully decide when to visit. All you need to do is pack your things and enjoy this fantastic Balkan city! See you at Durrës!

Recommended tours in Durrës

• Durres local Wine Tasting & Wine Tour
• Durres – Sightseeing tour
• Durres – Tirana Airport | Private Transfer
• Wine Tasting & Vineyards tour from Durres
• ATV Adventure in Durres
• Food Tour Durrës: the appetizing side of Albania!
• Tirana and Durrës Full Day Tour from Durrës
• Berat Sightseeing Day Tour from Durres
• Durrës: Archeological Museum and Roman Amphitheater
• 3 Hours Hop-On Hop-Off in Durres

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