After soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and exploring the rich historical tapestry of things to do in Durrës, including its ancient amphitheater and sun-kissed beaches, day trips from Durrës offer a splendid extension to your Albanian adventure. These excursions lead you to discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of surrounding areas, from the tranquil beaches of the Albanian Riviera to the historic city of Berat.
Venturing beyond Durrës opens up a treasure trove of things to do in Albania, where ancient castles, untouched natural landscapes, and the warm hospitality of local towns await. Each journey is an opportunity to delve deeper into the country’s rich history, savor traditional Albanian cuisine, and experience the diverse beauty that Albania offers.
Selecting where to stay in Durrës can greatly enhance your travel experience, providing a comfortable base that allows for easy exploration of the city’s attractions and convenient access to day trip destinations. A well-chosen accommodation ensures you have the perfect retreat after a day of adventure, combining the allure of Durrës with the exploratory joys of its surroundings.
Discover Best Day Trips from Durrës, Albania
1. Berat, Albania
Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” is famous for its unique Ottoman architecture and historic castle. The city offers a rich history and beautiful views of the Osum River.
Distance: Approximately 95 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ottoman architecture, Berat Castle, Osum River views
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Berat Castle: €5
- Onufri Museum: €2
Budget: Approximately €25-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Osum River, Berat Castle, Gorica Bridge
Travel Tip: Visit the Berat Castle and the Onufri Museum within its walls for a glimpse into Albania’s cultural heritage.
2. Krujë, Albania
Krujë is a historical town known for its castle, the Skanderbeg Museum, and the old bazaar. It offers a deep dive into Albanian history and culture, centered around the national hero, Skanderbeg.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Krujë Castle, Skanderbeg Museum, Old Bazaar
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Krujë Castle: €3
- Skanderbeg Museum: €5
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Krujë Castle, Old Bazaar, Mountain Views
Travel Tip: Spend time exploring the old bazaar for traditional Albanian crafts and souvenirs.
3. Tirana, Albania
Tirana, the capital of Albania, is vibrant with its colorful buildings, bustling cafes, and historical sites. Notable attractions include Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the Dajti Mountain.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 30-40 minutes by car or bus
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Skanderbeg Square, National History Museum, Dajti Mountain
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- National History Museum: €5
- BUNK’ART Museum: €5
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Skanderbeg Square, Dajti Mountain, Grand Park of Tirana
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the BUNK’ART museum for a unique insight into Albania’s communist era.
4. Apollonia, Albania
Apollonia, an ancient Greek city, is an archaeological treasure with ruins that include a theater, a library, and a monastery. The site provides a serene and educational experience.
Distance: Approximately 80 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient Greek ruins, Apollonia Monastery, Theater
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Apollonia Archaeological Park: €5
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Ancient Theater, Monument of Agonothetes, Apollonia Monastery
Travel Tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen as much of the archaeological site is exposed to the sun.
5. Shkodër, Albania
Shkodër, one of the oldest cities in Albania, is known for the Rozafa Castle and its rich history. The city also serves as a gateway to the Albanian Alps and Lake Skadar.
Distance: Approximately 115 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Rozafa Castle, Marubi National Museum of Photography, Lake Skadar
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Rozafa Castle: €3
- Marubi Museum: €4
Budget: Approximately €25-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rozafa Castle, Lake Skadar, Old Town
Travel Tip: Visit the Marubi National Museum of Photography to see a unique collection of Albanian historical photographs.
6. Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, Albania
Divjakë-Karavasta National Park offers a unique experience with its diverse ecosystems, including the Karavasta Lagoon, home to the Dalmatian pelican. It’s a perfect destination for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
Distance: Approximately 60 km
Travel Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Karavasta Lagoon, Dalmatian pelicans, diverse ecosystems
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (guided tours extra)
Budget: Approximately €15-€30 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Karavasta Lagoon, Birdwatching Spots, Pine Forests
Travel Tip: Take a guided bird-watching tour to make the most of your visit to the lagoon.
7. Vlorë, Albania
Vlorë is a coastal city with a blend of beautiful beaches and historical significance. The Independence Monument and Muradie Mosque are notable landmarks.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Independence Monument, Muradie Mosque, Beaches
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Independence Monument: Free
- Muradie Mosque: Free
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Vlorë Promenade, Llogara Pass, Himare Beach
Travel Tip: Enjoy some of the local seafood dishes, which are a specialty in Vlorë.
8. Gjirokastër, Albania
Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its well-preserved Ottoman-style architecture and stone houses. The Gjirokastër Castle and the Ethnographic Museum are key attractions.
Distance: Approximately 240 km
Travel Time: About 3.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Gjirokastër Castle, Ethnographic Museum, Ottoman architecture
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Gjirokastër Castle: €4
- Ethnographic Museum: €3
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Gjirokastër Old Town, Castle Views, Drino Valley
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the town’s streets are steep and cobbled.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Durrës, Albania
What are some recommended day trips from Durrës?
From Durrës, popular day trips include the historical city of Krujë, the vibrant capital Tirana, the ancient ruins of Apollonia, and the scenic beaches of Golem.
Is a visit to the Krujë Castle worth it?
Absolutely! Krujë Castle is a significant historical site offering stunning views and insights into Albanian history, including the Skanderbeg Museum located within its walls.
Can I explore Tirana in a day from Durrës?
Yes, Tirana, the capital of Albania, is easily accessible from Durrës. It’s perfect for a day trip, offering a mix of history, culture, and vibrant city life.
Are there guided tours to the ancient city of Apollonia?
Yes, guided tours to Apollonia, an ancient Greek city, are available. These tours typically include a visit to the archaeological park and the Apollonia Museum, showcasing well-preserved ruins and artifacts.
What nature trips can be done from Durrës?
Nature lovers can visit the Cape of Rodon for its breathtaking coastal views and historic Rodoni Castle, or the Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, known for its diverse birdlife and beautiful lagoons.
Is a trip to Berat from Durrës feasible for a day?
Yes, Berat, known as the ‘City of a Thousand Windows’, is reachable for a day trip. It’s renowned for its unique Ottoman architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Can I visit the thermal baths near Durrës?
Yes, the nearby thermal baths, such as those in Lalëz Bay, offer a relaxing experience. They are known for their therapeutic properties and scenic surroundings.
Are there culinary tours available from Durrës?
Culinary tours are available, highlighting the rich flavors of Albanian cuisine. These tours often include visits to local markets, traditional restaurants, and sometimes include cooking classes.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/durres-l2796?activity_type=dayTrip
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