bigtravelbuzzDurrës County is one of the 12 counties in Albania, located in the central-western part of the country. Its administrative center is the city of Durrës, which is Albania’s second-largest city and a major port on the Adriatic Sea. Here are some highlights of Durrës County:
Durrës: The city of Durrës is a popular destination for tourists, with its ancient Roman amphitheater, historic castle, and lively beach promenade.
Berat: Although Berat is located in a neighboring county, it’s still within easy reach of Durrës County and well worth a visit. Known as the “city of a thousand windows,” Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a well-preserved medieval old town.
Divjaka-Karavasta National Park: This national park is located just south of Durrës and is home to a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, lakes, and sand dunes. Visitors can spot rare birds and other wildlife, as well as enjoy hiking and swimming.
Krujë: Another nearby city that’s worth a visit is Krujë, located about an hour’s drive from Durrës. Krujë is known for its historic castle, which was the seat of the Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Empire, as well as its traditional bazaar.
Durres Beach: Durres Beach is a long stretch of sandy beach located just outside the city of Durrës. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, as well as for enjoying the lively beach scene.
Zvernec Island: This small island is located just off the coast of Vlora, south of Durrës County. It’s home to a 13th-century Byzantine monastery, as well as a beautiful beach and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling.
These are just a few highlights of Durrës County and its surroundings. The region has much to offer, from ancient history to natural beauty, and is well worth exploring.
Places to Visit in Durrës County
Durrës County is a region in Albania that offers a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the top places to visit in Durrës County:
Durrës Amphitheatre: This ancient Roman amphitheatre is located in the heart of the city of Durrës and is one of the largest surviving amphitheatres in the Balkans. Dating back to the 2nd century AD, it was once used for gladiator fights and other public spectacles.
Durrës Castle: This historic castle is located on a hill overlooking the city of Durrës and the Adriatic Sea. Originally built by the Byzantines in the 5th century, it has been modified and expanded over the centuries and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Durres Beach: Durres Beach is a long stretch of sandy beach located just outside the city of Durrës. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, as well as for enjoying the lively beach scene.
Divjaka-Karavasta National Park: This national park is located just south of Durrës and is home to a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, lakes, and sand dunes. Visitors can spot rare birds and other wildlife, as well as enjoy hiking and swimming.
Krujë Castle: This historic castle is located in the city of Krujë, about an hour’s drive from Durrës. It was the seat of the Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century and is now a popular tourist attraction.
Bovilla Lake: This stunning lake is located about 30 km east of Durrës and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking trails and breathtaking views.
Zvernec Island: This small island is located just off the coast of Vlora, south of Durrës County. It’s home to a 13th-century Byzantine monastery, as well as a beautiful beach and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Durrës County. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just soaking up the sun on the beach, this region has something for everyone.
Best Time To Visit Durrës County
The best time to visit Durrës County in Albania is during the summer months from June to September. This is when the weather is the warmest and the beaches are at their best. Average temperatures during this time range from 25°C to 30°C, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
However, keep in mind that Durrës County can be quite crowded during the summer months, especially in July and August, when many European tourists flock to the region. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in May or October, when the weather is still mild but there are fewer tourists.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Durrës County is prone to heavy rain and storms during the winter months from November to March. While the weather may still be mild, with average temperatures around 10°C to 15°C, it can be wet and windy, which may not be ideal for outdoor activities.
Overall, the best time to visit Durrës County is during the summer months from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are at their best. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season months of May or October.
Things to Do in Durrës County
Durrës County in Albania is a beautiful region with a rich history and a variety of natural and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Durrës County:
Explore the historic city of Durrës: This ancient port city has a rich history that dates back to the 7th century BC. Visit the Durrës Archaeological Museum to learn about the city’s history, and explore landmarks such as the Durrës Amphitheatre and Durrës Castle.
Visit the Divjaka-Karavasta National Park: This protected area is home to a variety of wetland habitats and is an important nesting ground for rare bird species. Take a hike or rent a bike to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including forests, marshes, and sand dunes.
Relax on the beaches: Durrës County has a long coastline with beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular ones include Durres Beach, Gjiri i Lalzit, and Shen Kolli Beach. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or try some water sports.
Visit Krujë Castle: Located about an hour’s drive from Durrës, the Krujë Castle is a must-visit attraction in Albania. The castle was an important stronghold during the country’s resistance against the Ottoman Empire, and now houses the National Museum of Albanian History.
Take a boat trip to Zvernec Island: Located off the coast of Vlora, Zvernec Island is home to a 13th-century Byzantine monastery and a beautiful beach. Take a boat trip to the island and explore its historic landmarks and natural beauty.
Taste the local cuisine: Durrës County is known for its delicious seafood dishes, such as grilled octopus and fresh fish. Also, try the traditional Albanian dishes, such as Tave Kosi, Byrek, Flija, and Baklava.
Experience the local nightlife: Durrës has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially during the summer months when the beach clubs and bars come to life. Enjoy live music, dancing, and partying until the early hours of the morning.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Durrës County. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, this region has something for everyone.
How to get around in Durrës County
There are several options for getting around in Durrës County:
By Car: Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore the region at your own pace. There are several car rental companies in Durrës, and the main roads are generally in good condition.
By Bus: Durrës County has a well-developed bus network that connects the main towns and cities. There are also buses that connect Durrës to other parts of Albania. Bus tickets are affordable, and the buses are generally comfortable and reliable.
By Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around the city and its surroundings. Make sure to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi.
By Train: The Albanian Railway connects Durrës to other parts of the country, including the capital city of Tirana. However, the train service is not as frequent as the bus service, and the trains can be quite slow.
By Bicycle: If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly way to explore Durrës County, consider renting a bicycle. There are several bike rental companies in Durrës, and cycling is a great way to explore the region’s beautiful coastline and countryside.
Overall, getting around in Durrës County is relatively easy and affordable, and there are several transportation options to choose from.
Where to eat in Durrës County
Durrës County is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Albanian cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Durrës County:
Luga e Argjendtë (The Silver Spoon): This restaurant is located in the heart of Durrës and is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including grilled octopus and fresh fish.
Restaurant Amphora: This seafood restaurant is located on the beach and offers stunning views of the sea. The menu includes a variety of seafood dishes, as well as traditional Albanian cuisine.
Kuzum Baba Restaurant: This restaurant is located on top of a hill and offers panoramic views of Durrës and the Adriatic Sea. The menu includes a variety of Albanian dishes, including Tave Kosi and Byrek.
Restaurant Bora Bora: This beachside restaurant is located in Gjiri i Lalzit and offers a variety of seafood dishes and grilled meats. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal while watching the sunset.
Bar Restorant Giammy: This restaurant is located in the city center of Durrës and offers a variety of traditional Albanian dishes, including Flija and Baklava.
Byrek Landi: This small bakery in the city center of Durrës is known for its delicious byrek, a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
Bar Restorant Beer House: This restaurant is located on the beach and offers a variety of seafood dishes and grilled meats. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal while listening to live music.
These are just a few of the many great places to eat in Durrës County. Whether you’re looking for seafood, traditional Albanian cuisine, or a beachside dining experience, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds in this region.
Famous street stalls in Durrës County
Durrës County is known for its delicious street food, and there are several famous street stalls that you should definitely check out. Here are some of the best street stalls in Durrës County:
Qebaptore: This street stall serves traditional Albanian qebapa, grilled sausage-like meat served with bread, onions, and ajvar, a red pepper spread.
Lakrori: This street stall serves lakror, a savory pie filled with meat, spinach, or cheese. It’s a popular snack food in Albania.
Byrek Landi: This small bakery in the city center of Durrës is known for its delicious byrek, a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
Crepe House: This street stall serves sweet and savory crepes filled with a variety of ingredients, including Nutella, cheese, and ham.
Çokollata e Vogël (Little Chocolate): This street stall serves a variety of sweet treats, including baklava, halva, and chocolate-covered fruit.
Kokëforta: This street stall serves grilled chicken or lamb skewers, served with a side of French fries.
Kafe Tradicionale: This street stall serves traditional Albanian coffee, brewed in a copper pot and served with a piece of Turkish delight.
These are just a few of the many great street stalls in Durrës County. Make sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit, as they are a delicious and affordable way to sample the local cuisine.
Where to stay in Durrës County
Luxury accommodation
Durrës County offers a range of luxury accommodations to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best luxury hotels and resorts in Durrës County:
Adriatik Hotel: This 5-star hotel is located on the beach in Durrës and offers a range of luxurious amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and outdoor swimming pool.
Tropikal Resort: This 5-star resort is located on the beach in Golem and features spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. The resort also has a spa, outdoor swimming pool, and several restaurants.
Mak Albania Resort: This 5-star resort is located on the beach in Golem and features a range of luxurious amenities, including a spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and several restaurants.
Vila Verde Beach Hotel: This 4-star hotel is located on the beach in Shkëmbi i Kavajës and features spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. The hotel also has a spa, outdoor swimming pool, and restaurant.
Dollari Hotel: This 4-star hotel is located in the city center of Durrës and features modern rooms and suites with balconies overlooking the city. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace with a bar and restaurant.
These luxury accommodations offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Durrës County. From beachfront resorts to city center hotels, there is something for everyone looking for a luxurious experience in this region.
Where to stay in Durrës County
Budget accommodation
Durrës County has several budget accommodations options that are perfect for travelers looking to save money. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Durrës County:
Hostel Durres: This hostel is located in the heart of Durrës, just a short walk from the beach. The hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms at an affordable price, with shared bathroom facilities and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Nais Beach: This budget hotel is located in Golem, just a few steps from the beach. The hotel offers simple rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and a balcony, as well as free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk.
Hotel Klajdi: This budget hotel is located in the city center of Durrës, just a few blocks from the beach. The hotel offers simple rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi, as well as a restaurant and bar.
Hotel Kristal: This budget hotel is located in Shkëmbi i Kavajës, just a short walk from the beach. The hotel offers simple rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, as well as a restaurant and bar.
Hotel Bella Vista: This budget hotel is located in the village of Gjiri i Lalzit, just a short walk from the beach. The hotel offers simple rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi, as well as a restaurant and bar.
These budget accommodations offer a comfortable and affordable option for travelers visiting Durrës County. Whether you’re looking for a hostel or a budget hotel, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and budget.
Travel Tips Durrës County
Here are some travel tips for visiting Durrës County:
Visit in the offseason: Durrës County can get quite crowded during the peak tourist season, which runs from June to August. Consider visiting during the offseason, which runs from September to May, for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Stay near the beach: The beaches of Durrës County are the main attraction, so consider staying near the beach to make the most of your trip. There are plenty of hotels and resorts located along the coastline, offering easy access to the beach and all the water activities on offer.
Try the local cuisine: Durrës County is known for its delicious seafood, so make sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re there. Fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional Albanian dishes are all on offer at the many restaurants and cafes in the area.
Explore the historical sites: Durrës County has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and there are several historical sites to explore, including the Ancient City Walls, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Byzantine Forum.
Rent a car: While public transportation is available in Durrës County, it can be limited and infrequent. Renting a car is a great way to explore the region at your own pace and gives you the flexibility to visit off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Respect local customs: Albania is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites. Additionally, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, including taking off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a mosque.
Learn some basic Albanian: While many people in Durrës County speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak some basic Albanian phrases. Learning a few key phrases like “faleminderit” (thank you) and “mirëdita” (good day) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.