{"id":5310,"date":"2022-03-08T03:16:39","date_gmt":"2022-03-08T03:16:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/?post_type=destinations&#038;p=5310"},"modified":"2023-12-31T03:10:42","modified_gmt":"2023-12-31T03:10:42","slug":"durres","status":"publish","type":"destinations","link":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/destinations\/durres\/","title":{"rendered":"Durr\u00ebs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div id=\"rtoc-mokuji-wrapper\" class=\"rtoc-mokuji-content frame1 preset2 animation-fade rtoc_open default\" data-id=\"5310\" data-theme=\"Breakdance Zero Theme\">\n\t\t\t<div id=\"rtoc-mokuji-title\" class=\" rtoc_left\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"rtoc_open_close rtoc_open\"><\/button>\n\t\t\t<span>Preview<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div><ul class=\"rtoc-mokuji mokuji_none level-1\"><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-1\">Why Visit<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-2\">Things to See &amp; Do<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-3\">Local Attractions<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-4\">Local Experiences<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-5\">Local Cuisine<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-6\">Getting There &amp; Away<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-7\">Accommodation<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-8\">Travel Information<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-9\">Planning Your Visit<\/a><\/li><li class=\"rtoc-item\"><a href=\"#rtoc-10\">Your Turn to Visit<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><h2 id=\"rtoc-1\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Visit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Durres transcends time with over 2,700 years of continuous inhabitation. Greek colonists established the city in 627 BCE and named it Epidamnos. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its strategic location on the Adriatic brought Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman conquerors, each leaving their unique stamp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Walk in the footsteps of history at sites like the Roman Amphitheater. Built in the 2nd century CE, it could hold 15,000 spectators for gladiator battles and performances. Though partly ruined by an earthquake, its towering walls still impose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"574\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Durres-Amphitheater-1024x574.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"Durre\u0308s Amphitheater\" class=\"wp-image-19005\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Durres-Amphitheater-1024x574.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Durres-Amphitheater-300x168.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Durres-Amphitheater-768x431.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Durres-Amphitheater-1536x862.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Durres-Amphitheater.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Durres-Amphitheater.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Durres-Amphitheater.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Durre\u0308s Amphitheater<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond its ancient attractions, Durres nurtures creativity. Albania&#8217;s most significant 20th-century poets, writers, and artists flocked here for inspiration. Galleries now fill the streets, along with live music venues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Durres honors its past while embracing the future. Ancient sites intermix with modern cafes and markets, coexisting seamlessly. The past nourishes the present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sandy-beach-in-Durres-Adriatic-Sea-1024x683.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"Durres Beach, Adriatic Sea\" class=\"wp-image-13658\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sandy-beach-in-Durres-Adriatic-Sea-1024x683.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sandy-beach-in-Durres-Adriatic-Sea-300x200.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sandy-beach-in-Durres-Adriatic-Sea-768x512.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sandy-beach-in-Durres-Adriatic-Sea-1536x1024.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sandy-beach-in-Durres-Adriatic-Sea.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sandy-beach-in-Durres-Adriatic-Sea.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/sandy-beach-in-Durres-Adriatic-Sea.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Golden sands, azure waters, and Adriatic views make Durres beach in Albania a scenic seaside escape for sun, sand, and sea.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-2\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Things to See &amp; Do<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Durr\u00ebs offers diverse attractions to explore, from archaeological treasures to sandy beaches. Discover the city&#8217;s rich history, art, natural beauty, and culinary delights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thinking about my childhood summers in Durr\u00ebs brings back happy memories of building sandcastles, swimming in the sea, and enjoying late-night dances in the main square. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Though many years have passed, revisiting Durres&#8217; attractions brings these memories rushing back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"729\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1024x729.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"Venetian Tower Durres Albania\" class=\"wp-image-11551\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1024x729.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-300x214.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-768x547.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1536x1094.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2048x1459.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Venetian Tower Durres, Albania<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-3\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Local Attractions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Enter the <a href=\"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/attractions\/durres-amphitheatre\/\" data-type=\"attractions\" data-id=\"19002\">Durres Amphitheatre<\/a>, an ancient marvel built in 100AD under Hadrian, and envision yourself among 20,000 cheering spectators. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--1024x681.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"Amphi Theatre in Albania\" class=\"wp-image-9420\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--1024x681.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--300x200.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--768x511.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--1536x1022.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--2048x1363.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Amphitheatre-Durres-Albania--scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The Ancient Durr\u00ebs Amphitheatre<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Admire the chapel&#8217;s saint mosaics, illustrating the Roman transition to Christianity. Just steps away lies Durres Castle, also called the Venetian Tower, dating to the 400s during Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I&#8217;s reign. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over centuries, the castle has stood witness to historic events while being reinforced and expanded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you&#8217;ve had your fill of history, relax on Durres Beach. This lively 10km waterfront comes alive in summer with activities and snacks from vendors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Golem-Durres-Albania-1024x682.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15775\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Golem-Durres-Albania-1024x682.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Golem-Durres-Albania-300x200.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Golem-Durres-Albania-768x512.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Golem-Durres-Albania-1536x1023.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Golem-Durres-Albania.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Golem-Durres-Albania.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Golem-Durres-Albania.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Sandy beach in the summer season in Golem, Durres, Albania<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking out over the sand, you can see the 1937 Royal Villa of Durres in the distance. Now derelict, it was built for King Zog I and hosted famous guests like Nikita Khrushchev as a monument to Albania&#8217;s 1928-1939 monarchy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Explore Albania&#8217;s largest archaeological museum for more artifacts spanning <a href=\"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/prehistory-albania\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"11561\">Ancient Illyrians<\/a> to the <a href=\"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/albania-under-ottoman-rule\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"11577\">Ottoman Empire<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"769\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1-1024x769.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"Durres\" class=\"wp-image-15970\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1-1024x769.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1-300x225.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1-768x577.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1-1536x1154.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-1.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Durres City, Albania<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As you wander the modest 600-800s Byzantine Forum colonnades, imagine the everyday life of past inhabitants who once shopped and socialized here\u2014Discover Durres&#8217; Muslim heritage through the Great Mosque and the 1503 Fatih Mosque.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--1024x680.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"Great Mosque Durres Albania\" class=\"wp-image-11548\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--1024x680.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--300x199.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--768x510.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--1536x1020.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--2048x1360.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Great-Mosque-of-Durres-or-Grand-Mosque-of-Durres-Fatih-Mosque--scaled.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Great Mosque (or Grand Mosque of Durr\u00ebs, Fatih Mosque) in Durr\u00ebs<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When you need a peaceful day by the sea, escape south to tranquil Spille Beach. Or join a historical and cultural tour for insights from knowledgeable local guides. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kayaking and boat tours offer new vantage points to appreciate Durres from the water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Ethnographic Museum, Venetian Tower, and Fatih Mosque provide deep dives into the city&#8217;s past. At Roman sites like the Amphitheatre, Royal Villa, Forum, and Baths, glimpses of ancient life come alive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From ancient architecture to waterfront relaxation, Durres offers varied attractions spanning history, culture, and natural beauty for visitors of all interests. The past is interwoven into the present in this coastal gem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2-1024x576.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"Durres, Albania\" class=\"wp-image-15979\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2-1024x576.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2-300x169.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2-768x432.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2-1536x864.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Durres-2.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>City center (old town) and the harbour of Durres, Albania.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-4\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Local Experiences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond sightseeing, experience Durres as a local. Shop in the city&#8217;s lively markets and sample fresh seafood along the boardwalk. Attend cultural festivals showcasing music, dance, and art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Try your hand at Albanian cooking during an immersive cooking class. Learn traditional recipes and savor the tastes of qofte, byrek, and stuffed peppers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Byrek-1024x682.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"Byrek with meat - national dish, popular in the Balkans\" class=\"wp-image-18979\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Byrek-1024x682.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Byrek-300x200.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Byrek-768x511.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Byrek-1536x1022.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Byrek.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Byrek.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Byrek.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Byrek with meat &#8211; national dish, popular in the Balkans<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-5\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Local Cuisine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Durres&#8217; location on the sea shapes its culinary scene. Savor freshly caught seafood like grilled octopus, fried sardines, and mussels cooked in herbs and white wine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sample qofte at a local tavern or try byrek, savory phyllo pies with cheese, spinach, or ground meat. Local markets overflow with sun-ripened fruits and vegetables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-6\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting There &amp; Away<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Reach Durres easily by air, land, or sea. Tirana International Airport sits 37km away and offers regular shuttle services. Albania&#8217;s main highway connects Durres to Tirana and other cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ferries cross from Durres&#8217; busy port to Italy, Montenegro, and Croatia. Buses and furgons (minibuses) offer public transport around town and neighboring villages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Port-Durres-1024x682.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-14904\" srcset=\"https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Port-Durres-1024x682.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Port-Durres-300x200.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Port-Durres-768x512.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Port-Durres-1536x1023.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Port-Durres.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Port-Durres.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=384&amp;ssl=1 384w, https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Port-Durres.jpeg?strip=all&amp;lossy=1&amp;w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-7\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Accommodation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Durres offers diverse lodging, from hotels to rental apartments. Upscale options like the Royal Park Boutique Hotel provide scenic sea views, while budget hotels like the Kristal Hotel offer clean, affordable rooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Smaller guesthouses and vacation rentals provide a homier stay. Campgrounds and hostels cater to backpackers and road-trippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-8\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel Information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Spring and autumn provide ideal weather, with fewer crowds and costs. The <a href=\"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/travel-guide\/currency-lek\/\" data-type=\"travel-guide\" data-id=\"13912\">Albanian Lek<\/a> is the official currency, though euros are widely accepted. English is spoken at most hotels and businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pack sun protection, walking shoes, and clothing you can layer for changing coastal weather. Obtain proper travel insurance and vaccinations before visiting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-9\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Planning Your Visit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Allow 2-3 days to explore Durres&#8217; top sites and soak up local culture. Nearby day trips expand your experience. Visit ancient <a href=\"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/destinations\/apollonia\/\" data-type=\"destinations\" data-id=\"2719\">Apollonia<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/destinations\/berat\/\" data-type=\"destinations\" data-id=\"5983\">Berat<\/a>, known as the &#8216;city of a thousand windows&#8217; for its Ottoman architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Budget about $50-100 per day, excluding airfare. Do your research online, then consult local guides to maximize your time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"rtoc-10\"  class=\"wp-block-heading\">Your Turn to Visit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Step off the beaten path in Durres, where seaside tranquility meets ancient grandeur. Lose yourself in its winding lanes, savor fresh seafood, and watch the sunset over the Adriatic. Create your journey through this coastal treasure at the crossroads of antiquity and modern life. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From its historical significance to its modern appeal, Durres offers a unique blend of experiences.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":9258,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"tpgb_global_settings":"","_breakdance_hide_in_design_set":false,"_breakdance_tags":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[16],"tags":[],"acf":[],"tpgb_featured_images":{"full":["https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Duress-Cityscape-Adriatic-Sea-Albania-scaled.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1",1920,709,false],"tp-image-grid":["https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Duress-Cityscape-Adriatic-Sea-Albania-scaled.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&resize=700%2C700&ssl=1",700,700,true],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Duress-Cityscape-Adriatic-Sea-Albania-150x150.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Duress-Cityscape-Adriatic-Sea-Albania-300x111.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1",300,111,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Duress-Cityscape-Adriatic-Sea-Albania-768x283.jpeg",768,283,true],"large":["https:\/\/eia476h758b.exactdn.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Duress-Cityscape-Adriatic-Sea-Albania-1024x378.jpeg?strip=all&lossy=1&ssl=1",1024,378,true],"default":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/the-plus-addons-for-block-editor\/assets\/images\/tpgb-placeholder.jpg"},"tpgb_post_meta_info":{"get_date":"March 8, 2022","category_list":{"category":[{"term_id":16,"name":"Central Albania","slug":"central-albania","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":16,"taxonomy":"category","description":"<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap\">Discover central Albania's blend of ancient sites like Apollonia and Berat, vibrant cities like Tirana and Durr\u00ebs, traditional culture, and natural beauty surrounded by mountainous landscapes.<\/p>","parent":0,"count":3,"filter":"raw"}],"post_tag":false},"author_name":"Enri","author_url":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/author\/enrialbaniavisit-com\/","author_email":"enri@albaniavisit.com","author_website":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com","author_description":"Although I was born in Albania, I've spent my adult life traveling there as a tourist. Being a native who visits frequently, I can give you an insider's view of Europe's best-kept secret.","author_facebook":"","author_twitter":"","author_instagram":"","author_role":["administrator"],"author_firstname":"Enri","author_lastname":"Zhulati","user_login":"enri@albaniavisit.com","author_avatar":"<img alt='' src='https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/959800dc9dfb17676f37baf35163fff4?s=200&#038;d=mm&#038;r=g' srcset='https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/959800dc9dfb17676f37baf35163fff4?s=400&#038;d=mm&#038;r=g 2x' class='avatar avatar-200 photo' height='200' width='200' decoding='async'\/>","author_avatar_url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/959800dc9dfb17676f37baf35163fff4?s=96&d=mm&r=g","comment_count":0,"post_likes":0,"post_views":0},"tpgb_post_category":{"category":"<a href=\"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/central-albania\/\" alt=\"Central Albania\" class=\"category-central-albania\">Central Albania<\/a> "},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/destinations\/5310"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/destinations"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/destinations"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"version-history":[{"count":23,"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/destinations\/5310\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19740,"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/destinations\/5310\/revisions\/19740"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9258"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5310"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5310"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/albaniavisit.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5310"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}