Durrës: An Unexplored Gem of the Balkans That Will Captivate You

Durrës – or as the locals call it, Durrës, is the second largest city in Albania. It lies on the Adriatic Sea and is the oldest Albanian port. Imagine that this city has a history spanning over 3,000 years.

The city has approximately 200,000 inhabitants, making it the second most populous city in Albania. It’s like taking Košice, shrinking it a bit, and throwing it by the sea. Sounds pretty nice, right?

A good dose of sunshine, history, and plenty of surprises. If Albania hasn’t tempted you as a vacation destination so far, this article will definitely change your mind. It will also convince you to visit Durrës at least once in your lifetime.

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How to Get to Durrës from Slovakia?

If you are planning to visit Durrës, you have several options for getting there from Slovakia. 

The closest airport to Durrës is the Mother Teresa International Airport in Tirana, located about 30 kilometers away. Although there are no direct flights from Slovakia, you can fly with a layover in Vienna, Budapest, or Prague. 

For road adventure lovers, there is the option to go by car. This journey takes approximately 15-18 hours, depending on the number of stops for coffee or taking pictures of beautiful views. 

If you prefer a more comfortable journey, you can use bus lines heading to Albania. Although it’s a longer trip, at least you’ll have plenty of time to read your favorite book. 

Upon arriving in Tirana, you can easily get to Durrës by bus or taxi.

Weather: When to Go to Durrës?

Now we come to an important question – when should you actually go to Durrës?  It depends on whether you want to return from your vacation nicely tanned or even burned, or enjoy pleasant temperatures.

• Summer (June – August): Temperatures hover around 30 °C, the sea is warm, and the sun shines like there’s no tomorrow. Ideal for sunbathers and beach lovers. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.
• Spring and Autumn (April – May, September – October): Temperatures are more pleasant, around 20-25 °C. Perfect for those who want to combine beach time with city exploration.
• Winter (November – March): Temperatures drop to 10-15 °C. The sea is cold, but at least you won’t have trouble finding a free sunbed on the beach.

The ideal time to visit Durrës is May or September. These are the months when the weather is pleasant. Additionally, the city is not crowded with tourists, and you will also find lower prices.

Albanian Cuisine: What Will You Be Served in Durrës?

Now we come to the favorite part – food.

Albanian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors. Simply put – you can expect Italian and Greek cuisine with a touch of Balkan spices.

What you definitely must try:

1. Burek: A savory pastry filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. It’s like pizza, just in the shape of a snail.

2. Tavë kosi: Lamb baked in yogurt. It may sound strange, but the combination of flavors will surely win you over.

3. Fërgese: A tomato sauce with peppers and cheese. An ideal choice for vegetarians.

4. Qofte: Albanian meatballs. They are like Swedish meatballs, just better.

5. Raki: Traditional Albanian alcohol. Be careful, it’s stronger than it seems!

And, of course, don’t forget about fresh seafood. In Durrës, they have so much that you could start a private aquarium.

What to See in Durrës?

Durrës is not just about beaches and food (although that would be enough for a great vacation). The city has a rich history and many interesting places to explore:

1. The Amphitheater of Durrës: It is the second largest amphitheater in the Balkans.

2. The Venetian Tower: A beautiful tower with a rich history, considered one of the best-preserved structures of the original city fortifications. It lies in the heart of the city, and nearby is the port that you should also check out.

3. The Archaeological Museum, the largest in all of Albania. It offers a breathtaking view not only of the city’s history but also of the entire region. This museum houses a rich collection of artifacts from various periods.

4. Currila Beach: A beautiful sandy beach that is the perfect place for relaxation and sunbathing.

5. Vollga Promenade: A long promenade full of restaurants and bars that will provide you with a well-deserved break.

Accommodation in Durrës

Durrës offers a wide range of accommodation options that will suit every taste and budget. From luxury hotels to cozy apartments, every visitor will find something for themselves. 

For those who dream of a vacation like in the movies, there are luxurious establishments like Adriatik Hotel or Premium Beach Resort. If you are looking for a good price-quality ratio, we recommend trying mid-range hotels like Hotel Arvi or Aragosta Hotel. 

For budget travelers, there are affordable, yet still comfortable options like Aparthotel Espana or Hotel Nais Beach. Those who want to experience Durrës like the locals can use Airbnb and rent an entire apartment often for the price of a hotel room. 

Don’t forget that if you desire a beautiful sea view, it’s good to choose accommodation near the beach – you’ll feel like you’re in a vacation commercial. No matter what accommodation you choose, Durrës will guarantee you an unforgettable stay.

Who Will Enjoy Their Vacation in Durrës the Most?

Durrës is truly like a Swiss Army knife among vacation destinations – it has something for everyone. Beach lovers will enjoy the long sandy beaches that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. 

History enthusiasts will appreciate the 3,000-year history of the city, making it a paradise for ancient history lovers. Gourmets can enjoy Albanian cuisine and fresh seafood that will satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. For those who love nightlife, Durrës offers a lively atmosphere, especially during the summer season.

Families with children will appreciate the safe and shallow beaches that are ideal for the youngest visitors. And for adventurers, the surroundings of Durrës offer plenty of opportunities for excursions and exploration. 

No matter what type of vacationer you are, Durrës has unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

What to See Around Durrës?

If you happen to get bored in Durrës, here are a few tips for trips in the area:

1. Tirana: The capital of Albania is just an hour’s drive away. You can see colorful buildings, visit museums, and experience city life.

2. Divjaka-Karavasta National Park: A perfect place for nature lovers. You can see pelicans and other rare birds here.

3. Berat: Known as the city of a thousand windows. A UNESCO site that looks like it’s from a fairy tale.

4. Kruja: The birthplace of the national hero Skanderbeg. You can visit the castle and the traditional bazaar.

5. Apollonia: Ancient Greek and Roman ruins. Perfect for those who want to travel back in time.

Conclusion

Durrës is like a surprising gift – you may not have heard much about it before, but when you open it, you find it full of amazing things. From beautiful beaches to rich history to delicious cuisine, Durrës has something to offer every visitor.

Whether you are a history lover, a gourmet, a beach bum, or a night owl, you will find your niche in Durrës. And the best part is that you can have it all for a price that won’t force you to sell a kidney.

Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a taste for adventure. Durrës awaits you with open arms and hopefully a cold drink in hand.