Things To Do
in Durrës

Fresh-caught sea bass, gilt-head bream, calamari and shrimp are commonly grilled and served with lemon and olive oil; best found at restaurants along the Lungomare and the port fish market.

Must-Try!

A savory filled pastry (cheese, spinach, meat or pumpkin) sold at bakeries and market stalls — inexpensive and widely available as a snack or light meal.

A baked dish of peppers, tomatoes and cottage cheese or ricotta-like dairy, typical of central Albania and commonly served in family-run restaurants.

A national comfort dish of lamb baked in yogurt and eggs — hearty and often on menus in traditional restaurants.

A lively place to buy fresh produce, cheeses and seafood; the fish market by the port is the spot to see fishermen’s daily catch and to order fresh fish for a nearby restaurant to grill.

Small bakeries and takeaway stalls near the beach sell warm byrek, pastries and simple sandwiches — ideal for a quick, inexpensive bite.

Handshakes are common for initial meetings; close friends and family may exchange a kiss on the cheek. Use polite phrases like 'Ju lutem' (please) and 'Faleminderit' (thank you).

Dress modestly when visiting mosques or churches; remove hats and behave respectfully during services.

Haggling is expected at craft stalls and some markets but less so in fixed-price shops; remain friendly and polite while negotiating.

Show deference to older people — address them politely and offer seats when appropriate.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory: 5–10% at sit-down restaurants is common in tourist areas; rounding up taxi fares and leaving small change for café servers is normal.

Albanian lek (ALL) is the national currency and cash is widely used. Credit/debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and larger shops, but small vendors and markets may be cash-only. ATMs are available but carry some cash, especially outside the city center.

High season: warm to hot temperatures, busy beaches, extended opening hours for restaurants and bars, crowded streets and ferry lines — book accommodation early.

Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, fewer tourists, good time for sightseeing and coastal walks with mild weather.

Warm early in the season with quieter beaches and good light for photography; some seaside businesses begin to close late in the season.

Cool and wet with off-season hours for many tourist services; the city is quieter and prices are lower — still worth visiting for archaeology and local life but swimming is unlikely.

Coastal trails with cliffs, secluded bays and ruins of the Rodon Castle and St. Anthony’s Church; accessible by car from Durrës and suitable for half-day hikes.

Rugged trails around Krujë Castle (about 40 km inland) offer combined cultural hikes with historic vistas and a traditional bazaar.

A mountain area reachable from Tirana with hiking trails and a cable car; offers panoramic views of the plain and Adriatic on clear days.

Smaller coastal walks and headlands near Durrës are ideal for short hikes and birdwatching, particularly in spring and autumn.

The nearest major airport, about 30–40 km inland. Regular bus shuttles, private transfers and taxis connect the airport to Durrës (30–50 minutes depending on traffic).

An alternative international airport (longer transfer) for some regional flights; reachable by road with a multi-hour drive or bus connections.

The vast majority of residents; the city reflects typical Albanian coastal urban life.

A large influx of domestic and regional tourists (and summer international visitors) during June–September, changing the city’s daily rhythms.

Workers connected to the port and ferry operations form a longstanding mercantile population that gives the city its working-port character.

Many students and young families live in and around Durrës; nightlife and beach culture attract younger visitors in summer.

Vegetarian options exist (byrek with cheese or spinach, salads, grilled vegetables, fërgesë made without meat) but may be limited; restaurants are generally accommodating if you explain your needs.

Vegan choices can be sparse outside big cities — rely on markets, salads, grilled vegetables and bread; bring snacks and check ingredients in dairy-heavy traditional dishes.

Gluten-free options require care — many staples are bread- or pastry-based. Ask about preparation and avoid byrek and similar items unless the restaurant can confirm ingredients.

Albania is religiously mixed; many restaurants serve pork but fresh seafood and lamb are common. Request no pork or specific preparations if needed; most kitchens will understand.