Fringed by a 10-kilometre-long beach, Durres is set on the Adriatic Sea and home to a fantastic archaeology museum, ancient Roman amphitheatre and historical ruins. You can relax on the beach, enjoy fresh seafood and soak up the Mediterranean vibes on the seafront promenade.

Things to do

The mighty Amphitheatre of Durres showcases the town's Roman roots. It was built in the early-2nd century AD and could host up to 20,000 spectators in its heyday. Visit the amphitheatre and peer into the Byzantine chapel, admire beautiful mosaics and chat to English-speaking guides.

The recently restored Durres Archaeological Museum is brimming with historical artefacts, including ancient Greek busts, Roman funeral slabs and stone sarcophagi. Many of the relics were excavated from Dyrrhachium, a nearby archaeology site. Don't miss the Beauty of Durres, a colourful mosaic dating back to the 4th century BC.

Stretching for over 10 kilometres, Durres Beach is one of Albania's most popular stretches of sand. In summer it's dotted with sun lounges, beach umbrellas and water sports equipment. Bask on the sand or relax at one of the alfresco cafes and restaurants along the seafront promenade.

Kruje Castle is perched on a rocky outcrop and commands sweeping countryside views. It's named after Skanderbeg, a national Albanian hero who helped defeat the Ottoman Empire in the 1400s. You can also explore the historic village of Kruje, where cobbled streets are lined with artisan stalls selling hand-carved ornaments, woven textiles and local raki.

Getting around

Much of Durres is easy to get around on foot, especially around the seafront. The town is serviced by local buses and taxis, with the drive to Tirana taking around 30 minutes. Renting a car is an ideal option for travelling further afield.