Kraj Durrës
One of the region’s attractions is the city of Durrës itself with ancient ruins, bustling beaches, wild nature and excellent food. During the season, the main beach pulses with life – bars, restaurants, music, ice cream, simply a real summer atmosphere.
Not far from the center, there is a patriotic liqueur shop where you can taste regional alcoholic products. If you want a quieter atmosphere and water not clouded with sand, head to General’s Beach, which technically falls under the Tirana region, but is easily accessible from Durrës.
A visit to the castle and old bazaar in Krujë is almost a must. The same goes for the Kepi peninsula and Rodonit, which offers a glimpse into history as well as views of the open sea. Those looking for luxury should not miss modern Lalëzit Bay with resorts, pools and beaches, whose orientation offers a sunset view every evening. A sense of greater solitude with excellent service can be experienced in the Pa Emer camp.
Město Durrës
Durrës is a renowned coastal resort and Albania’s most visited beach destination. Its popularity is undoubtedly due to its proximity to the airport. The most attractive recreational areas near the city are the beaches south of Durrës. They begin with the city beaches, continuing through Shkembi i Kavajë, Golem (Mali i Robit) and ending at Qerret. To the north, the closest area is Currila.
The city is Albania’s second-largest city. It is also the country’s largest port and the oldest Albanian settlement, with 2,500 years of history. Durrës was founded by Greek colonists from Corinth and Corfu in the 7th century BC. Thanks to its strategic location on the Adriatic Sea, the city was a significant commercial and cultural centre during the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman eras.
více o Durrës
Beyond being a hugely popular seaside resort with long sandy beaches along the Adriatic, Durrës is also home to a substantial Czech community, with many apartments owned by Czechs for vacation or rental purposes. The city and coastline boast plenty of restaurants serving traditional Albanian and international cuisine, along with numerous cafes and pizzerias. Popular spots include the market with fresh produce and a large clothing and consumer goods market.
The city’s name originates from Dyrrhachion, which apparently derives from an expression for surf. The name was later adapted to the Slavic version Drač and the Italian Durazzo.
Throughout its long history, the city changed hands among occupiers many times, and numerous historical monuments were destroyed. However, the city’s future holds promise. A project nicknamed “Little Dubai” aims to transform the current port area into a hypermodern urban quarter, with completion targeted for 2040.
Durrës is home to one of the largest ancient amphitheaters on the Balkans, capable of holding up to 15,000 spectators. Built between the late 1st and early 2nd century under Roman Emperor Trajan, it ranks among the most significant monuments of its era, comparable to structures in the Italian cities of Pompeii and Capua. The Amphitheater hosted various public spectacles, including gladiatorial combats and other entertainment popular throughout the Roman Empire. Elliptical in shape, the amphitheater spans a maximum diameter of 136 meters with a height of approximately 20 meters.
The Durrës amphitheater was discovered by researchers in 1966 during an international expedition. Intensive excavations ran from 1967–1970, requiring the relocation of 55 families and demolition of 33 buildings to allow full access. Around 5 million dollars were invested in maintenance in 2008. Today, visitors can explore the catacombs where gladiators once walked. However, the amphitheater still awaits major restoration work and its full revival.
The Byzantines left behind impressive city walls in Durrës, which were substantially reinforced by the Venetians. The Ottomans contributed the mosque Fatih, named after Mehmed II the Conqueror (Fatih). It was the first Islamic house of worship built in the city during Ottoman rule. Once closed by communist authorities, the mosque was designated a cultural monument in 1973. Following the collapse of communism in 1991, an extensive restoration program for cultural and religious monuments was launched, and the mosque was meticulously restored.
Also restored was the Grand Mosque, which was constructed in 1931 under King Ahmed Zogu on the site of an earlier Ottoman-era mosque. Ottoman heritage also includes Turkish baths. You can also visit the Byzantine Forum and the Venetian tower
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Tourists visiting the beaches south of Durrës are sometimes disappointed by the crowds and murky water caused by waves and sand stirring. It’s wise to anticipate local conditions beforehand. However, these conditions make the area ideal for visitors seeking entertainment, good dining, and relaxed swimming and sunbathing—thanks to the long ten-kilometer sandy beach and countless restaurants, resorts, and apartments. Families with children particularly appreciate the gentle water entry and endless sandy playground for their kids.
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Záliv Gjiri i Lalëzit
Více o zálivu
The bay’s beaches are fringed with pine groves that provide welcome shade on hot summer days. The northern section offers numerous resorts and restaurants serving fresh seafood, Italian cuisine, and traditional Albanian specialties.
Whether seeking a family holiday or a day trip, Gjiri i Lalëzit enchants with its relaxed atmosphere and warm hospitality. Recently, apartment complexes and small resort villas have been developed here, attracting Czech small investors.
Resort enthusiasts will certainly not be disappointed
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Just like most beaches in northern Albania, this beach is sandy. For families with children and relaxing recreational activities, Gjiri i Lalëzit is an ideal place. The advantages are low buildings and plenty of greenery, which provides plenty of shade even in hot summers. You can find the southern parking lot HERE and the northern one HERE.
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Mys Kepi i Rodonit
Více o Kepi i Rodonit
Venetian documents prove that during the 16th century, Rodon had a complete sea pier. The ancient Franciscan monastery with the Church of St. Anthony (Kisha e Shën Ndojit) is definitely worth visiting. It was apparently built in the 14th–15th century and belongs to Romanesque-Gothic architecture. It was renovated in 2024-25.
The peninsula is known for its pristine nature, pine forests and calm bays. Sunbathing enthusiasts will appreciate the beaches on the western side of the peninsula. There is no shortage of restaurants or bars either.
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The access road is improving, but there are still sections that are not completely top-notch. However, you can get here by driving slowly in any vehicle. Parking in front of the monastery is spacious and everyone will find a spot even during peak season. For a fee, it is also possible to spend the night here in a campervan.
The reason for disappointment with the natural experience is often the fact that the surroundings of the fortress are flooded with waste washed up by the sea. The administration of the city of Durrës tries to periodically remove the waste, but the tide is relentless and the coast always brings something new and ugly :(.
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Likérka Skënderbeu
Více o likérce
Visitors to Durrës can purchase distillery products in local shops throughout Albania. However, enjoying a tasting at the distillery itself and buying products directly there is undoubtedly far cooler. Skënderbeu cognac is a popular souvenir that many tourists take home as a flavourful memento of Albania.
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The distillery and winery is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 to 16:00. If you want to visit in larger groups, it is advisable to book a visit with tasting at +355682091886.
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Město Krujë
One of Albania’s most renowned hotels is Hotel Panorama in Krujë. It’s an absolute classic, especially for its views over the castle and old bazaar.
Více o Krujë
The city’s name is derived from the Albanian word “kroi, krua” from Proto-Albanian “krana” – beautiful. The settlement was first mentioned under the name Kroai in Byzantine documents from the early 7th century. During the Ottoman period, the city was called Ak Hisar or Akçahisar, which in Ottoman Turkish means “white fortress”.
Krujë is best known for its association with the national hero Skanderbeg. Skanderbeg united several Albanian forces and bravely resisted the Ottoman Turks for many years. The more numerous and much better-equipped Ottoman soldiers attempted to conquer the city several times, but without success.
Skanderbeg often employed brilliant military strategies. One of them was to avoid fighting inside the fortress walls but outside them instead. He left only a small part of his army in the city, comprising approximately 2,000 soldiers, while he himself hid in nearby forests. When the moment was right, he attacked the Ottomans in difficult terrain, catching them by surprise. This type of warfare was costly for the Ottomans, leaving many casualties on the battlefield.
The Ottomans took control of the city only ten years after Skanderbeg’s death, following the fourth siege in 1478. Their rule over Albania lasted more than 400 years. Local uprisings against the Ottoman Empire in 1906 were among the factors leading to Albania’s subsequent Declaration of Independence in 1912. Every year on November 28, Albania celebrates Independence Day.
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In Krujë, set aside at least half a day and let yourself be carried away by the slow pace of traders and the breath of history that emanates from the ancient walls. Inside the castle, visit the museum of national hero Skanderbeg and the mentioned Ethnographic Museum is also definitely worth a visit.
A visit to Krujë will leave you with a mix of experiences that inextricably illustrates authentic Albania, marked by Ottoman past, Albanian pride and defiance.
You will find parking below the castle HERE. You can also park higher above the parking lot along the road leading to the Panorama hotel.
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Restaurace Kodra e Kuajve
Hotel and restaurant Kodra e Kuajve is located on a hill south below the city of Durrës in the area of Shkallnur. Thanks to its elevated location, it is a great place to end the day with dinner and a sunset view.
The restaurant with hotel was opened at the beginning of 2012 and from the start attracts visitors who want to enjoy a relaxing environment, nature and delicious food. The building has facilities for hosting wedding ceremonies, birthdays or conferences. There are also above-standard equipped apartments.
The restaurant offers traditional Albanian dishes as well as seafood dishes. Steak lovers will also find something for themselves. The products come from farms located near the resort. An essential part of the restaurant is the wine cellar.
Více o restauraci
Inside the building there is a horse stable. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding in the area around the resort. Children can also take a ride on a pony on an indoor track under the supervision of an expert. Horses Hill also offers longer horseback rides in the surrounding hills.
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Given the frequent occupancy of the restaurant – especially during the summer months – we recommend writing about a reservation in English in advance on WhatsApp +355696090080.
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Kemp Pa Emer
If you want to escape the bustling beaches of Durrës and reach the end of the world in just half an hour, head to Pa Emër camping. This is a family-run campsite located on the coast south of Durrës, surrounded by lush greenery. Don’t expect resort-style hotels with swimming pools here.
What awaits you is absolute tranquility and peace. The most attractive part of the campsite is an artificial island, accessible via a wooden boardwalk built on wooden stilts. On the island you’ll find a restaurant and bar offering an impressive selection of seafood cuisine. For cooling off on hot days, there’s a varied selection of cold beverages available. Entry to the island is charged at €5 per person, which includes access to sun loungers and umbrellas.
Více o kempu
The camp offers plenty of parking spaces for motorhomes and caravans. All spaces have a beautiful sea view and are shaded by trees or bamboo canopies. Dogs are welcome. The camp provides free fast Wi-Fi. Two sanitary facilities with toilets and showers are available for guests.
At the camp you have the opportunity to empty your camping toilet, which is not entirely common in Albania. For electricity connection, a blue camping electrical plug “CEE” or European “Schuko” plug is used. There is also a small shop with basic groceries at the camp.
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Given the frequent occupancy, we recommend that caravanners send a request for a reservation spot in English via WhatsApp +355664151502 in advance. Since 2024, cruises on a larger excursion boat Delfino Bianco and trips on a ten-seater motorboat are available. Bookings via WhatsApp at +420733142942.
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Agrorestaurace Pema i Jetës
When you hear Durrës (Drac), most travelers think of endless sandy beaches, hotels, and perhaps an ancient amphitheater. But venture into the hills above the village of Shkallnur and you’ll find yourself in a completely different world. Welcome to Pema e Jetës (Tree of Life), an agrofarm that showcases agritourism in the Durrës region.
The central building with its impressive dome looks like a lighthouse in the landscape. The interior is airy, full of wood and light, but the best part awaits on the terrace, where views open onto vineyards and olive groves. Pema e Jetës is more than just food. For children (and adults), there’s a small zoo where you can meet deer, goats, sheep, cows, horses, geese, and rabbits.
Více o farmě
Animals here live in a pristine environment and are accustomed to people, giving the farm an unmistakable atmosphere of rural tranquility. Walking among the stables, vineyards and orchards helps you understand the effort behind every ingredient on your plate.
But the real draw awaits right on your plate itself. The kitchen operates on a strict “field to table” (Farm-to-Table) principle. If you want to taste everything, one visit certainly won’t be enough. Expect traditional vegetable salads, a showcase of cheeses and cured meats, plus an array of regional Albanian dishes like Fërgesë—roasted peppers with cheese—or roasted chicken with rice or wide noodles (Pule me oriz – me jufka).
The farm also produces its own wine and raki, so don’t all drive separate cars :). Pema e Jetës represents Albania, a country proud of its traditions yet unafraid of modern trends and sustainability. Pema e Jetës Farm is the ideal escape for anyone wanting to experience Albanian hospitality in its purest form, far from noisy beach bars. You’ll find it just 2 km from the main road between Tirana and Durrës, making it a perfect stop regardless of where you’re heading.
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Your children will also enjoy visiting the farm. They will definitely be happy with the animals, of which there are plenty on the farm. In the spring months they will be delighted with small lambs and kids. Accessibility is very easy by car using Google maps.
Given the frequent occupancy of the restaurant – especially in the summer months – we recommend writing about a reservation in English in advance on WhatsApp +3550692095398.
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What to see in Albania?
Albania offers many beautiful and interesting places waiting for your discovery – stunning beaches on the southern coast, majestic mountains in the north, river canyons, lakes, preserved historic towns or remnants of previous civilizations.
Check out our tips of interesting places in individual regions of Albania. Whether you are drawn to adventure in wild nature, history or the charm of traditional Albanian villages, you will find plenty of places here that we think are worth seeing! We will gradually add new places as we visit them. Just click on the map to select the area that interests you.
How to enjoy your vacation and avoid unnecessary spending
Live smart
Whether you're planning a trip to Albania or anywhere in the world, you can use the reliable Booking.com for accommodation reservations. You'll find a huge selection of cozy private apartments, houses and hotels. The price range is wide and you'll certainly find something for yourself.
Fly at reasonable prices
Do you need a flight ticket? Check out the well-known Kiwi or also the lesser-known but very popular Kayak among seasoned travelers. It's our favorite. It quickly compares offers from all airlines and shows you the most cost-effective flight combinations. You can also set price alerts, so as soon as a ticket reaches a price that suits you, you'll get a notification.
Internet v mobilu
In the second half of 2026, Albania is promised free European roaming. Until then, you can get data with the YESIM app, for example. You'll get mobile internet on favorable terms.
Think about backup plans
Good travel insurance is the foundation of any trip. A trip to Albania is no exception. Insurance covers you in case of illness, injuries and loss of belongings. We ourselves have ended up in a hospital abroad a couple of times. Having good insurance will save you a lot of stress and, most importantly, money.
