Durres - Albania

I went to visit the beach in Durres, a coastal city located just 35 km from Tirana. It is so close that it is definitely a great day trip from the capital.

To get there, I took a bus that leaves from the north and south terminals of Tirana. Although there are already plans to build a modern bus station, today it is just a large parking lot. Nothing that will get in the way of the trip, but it is good to be prepared to improvise.

Durres is a city that mixes its grand past with the constant attempt at modernity. This combination is evident as soon as you arrive. The bus stops in a central square and, on the way to the beach, I passed modern shopping centers. There were a variety of restaurants and many new stores that contrast with the old architecture.

A few blocks later, I passed the Venetian Tower, one of the most charming symbols of the city. It is a circular stone tower. The tower was built in the 15th century by the Venetians. It was part of the fortifications built to protect Durrës against invasions. Despite its modest size, the structure impresses with both the robustness of its stone and the historic charm it still holds today.

Continuing the tour, I headed straight to the central beach promenade, a very busy area, full of life and full of seaside restaurants. The walk to the Sphinx of Durrës (also called Cape of Durrës Square) is very pleasant.

This structure, made up of a concrete staircase, marks the end of the promenade and is one of the best places in the city to sit, relax and watch the people come and go. In addition, the view of both the city and the sea is simply sensational.

Historic Center

After some time enjoying the beach atmosphere, I started walking back towards the historic center. On the way, I passed by the Durrës Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque. Located right in the heart of the city, this mosque is one of the main religious and historic sites in the region.

Italian architects built the Great Mosque in 1938, marking the beginning of its turbulent history. In the 1960s, the communist regime transformed the building into a youth center. They used the main space for cultural performances and turned the upper floor into a restaurant. During that time, they destroyed or seriously damaged much of the original interior.

An earthquake in 1979 caused even more damage to the structure. However, after the fall of communism, efforts in 1993 restored the mosque and reopened it as a center of religious worship. It once again played a prominent role in the spiritual life of the city.

Continuing a little further, I came to the impressive amphitheater of Durres. For those who love ancient history, this is a real treat! Built in the 2nd century AD, during the reign of Emperor Trajan, this is the largest and most important Roman amphitheater in Albania. With a capacity for around 20,000 people, the site hosted gladiator fights and other typical events of the time. The most curious thing is that the amphitheater was only rediscovered in 1966, and since then, it has become one of the most incredible ways to experience Durrës’ ancient history up close.

Although Durres is well-known for its beaches, this time I didn’t have enough time to explore them all. However, it is worth including some of them in your itinerary, especially if you are looking for places to relax by the sea.

Other unmissable beaches:

Spille Beach:

Known for its soft white sand, this beach is perfect for those looking for a quieter retreat, away from the crowded central beaches. In addition, there are several bars and restaurants on the shore, which makes the trip even more pleasant.

Lalzi Bay Beach:

Lalzi Bay is one of the most popular in the region. There, you will find a great tourist infrastructure, with many bars, restaurants and, for those who like, water activities for all levels of adventurers.

Kallmi Beach:

A little further north of Durres, Kallmi is a small and isolated beach, ideal for those who want to escape the intense hustle and bustle and enjoy moments of peace and tranquility surrounded by nature.

Conclusion:

Durres is the kind of city that surprises. At the same time, it displays deep traces of its ancient past. It also shows a youthful energy and a clear desire to modernize. Whether it is to enjoy a beach, delve into ancient history or simply enjoy a good meal by the sea, visiting Durrës is, without a doubt, an experience worth including in your itinerary for Albania.