From Tirana: Durres ancient city, Sun & Sea Views tour

4.3 Reviews
|
Tirana , Albania
2

From Tirana: Durres ancient city, Sun & Sea Views tour

8 Hours
35,00
English

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Overview

Ready for an easy escape from Tirana? Spend a full day exploring Durres, where old stories meet the beautiful Adriatic Sea. This immersive tour mixes Albania’s royal past, grand Roman ruins, and a lively beach vibe. You’ll peek into King Zog’s old Royal Villa, see the huge Roman Amphitheater, enjoy amazing views from the Venetian Tower, and then relax by the sea on the picturesque Vollga Promenade.

Your adventure begins with a simple one-hour drive from Tirana. As you leave the city bustle behind, you’ll head towards the calm, pretty Adriatic coast. The journey itself offers nice views of Albania’s different landscapes, building anticipation for the cool historical places you’re about to see.

Exploring Royal History and Ancient Wonders

Upon arrival in Durres, your first stop is the impressive Royal Villa of King Zog. This grand home, built in the 1930s, sits high on a hill, looking out over the sea. Though it’s empty now, its grandeur remains, offering a poignant glimpse into a bygone era. You’ll have about 45 minutes to walk around, learn about King Zog’s time as king, and capture some amazing photos of the sea and land below.

Next, you’ll go down into the city center to find the strong Venetian Tower. This tower was once part of Durres’s old walls. Now, it’s a restored viewing spot, giving you incredible 360-degree views of the city and the long coastline. It’s a perfect place for pictures and to understand why Durres has always been so important.

Following this, you’ll travel back to Roman times with a visit to the giant Durres Amphitheater. This huge building from the 2nd century AD could hold over 15,000 people! Even though parts of it are still buried, it provides a fascinating look at ancient shows and the remarkable building skills of the Roman Empire.

Relaxing by the Adriatic Sea

To finish your historical adventure, you’ll get three hours of free time on the lovely Vollga Promenade. This is your chance to really enjoy the relaxed coastal atmosphere. You can try fresh seafood at one of the many nice restaurants by the water, sip coffee with a sea breeze, or even go for a refreshing swim at the public beach nearby. Ultimately, this long break means you can make the most of Durres’s beautiful seaside charm in your own way.

As the day wraps up, you’ll embark on your comfortable return journey to Tirana. You’ll carry with you lasting memories of Albania’s interesting coast and its rich historical tapestry.

Ready to explore? Book your Durres coastal and historical journey today and discover Albania’s Adriatic gems!

Schedule Details

From Tirana: Durres ancient city, Sun & Sea Views daily tour

9:00 AM – Departure from Tirana

Begin your day with a drive from Tirana to the coastal city of Durres. The journey takes about one hour, offering scenic views along the way as you leave behind the bustling capital and head toward the Adriatic coast.  

10:00 AM –10:45 AM - Visit the Royal Villa of King Zog

Your first stop is the Royal Villa of King Zog, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Built in the 1930s, this once-grand residence was a symbol of Albania’s monarchy. Although now abandoned, it remains an iconic piece of history. Take about 45 minutes to explore the site, learn about King Zog’s reign and admire the panoramic views from the hillside.  

 

10:50 AM –11:20 AM- Walk to the Venetian Tower of Durres

Descend into the heart of the city to visit the Venetian Tower, part of Durres ancient fortifications. The restored tower now serves as a viewing platform, offering spectacular 360° views of the city and coastline. It’s a perfect spot for photos and to understand the strategic importance of Durres throughout history.  

 

11:25 AM – 12:00 PM- Discover the Durres Amphitheater

Next, step back into the Roman era with a visit to the Durres Amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans. This impressive structure dates back to the 2nd century AD and once held over 15,000 spectators. Although partly uncovered, it provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient entertainment and architecture.

 

12:05 PM – 3:05 PM - Walk Along the Vollga Promenade- FREE TIME/LUNCH 

From the amphitheater, continue your exploration with a leisurely walk along the Vollga Promenade. Enjoy 3 hours of free time to relax, dine and take in the coastal beauty. Try fresh seafood in one of the many waterfront restaurants, sip a coffee with a sea view or even enjoy a swim at the nearby public beach.  

 

3:05 PM– Departure Back to Tirana

After a fulfilling day exploring the culture, history and beauty of Durres, it’s time to head back to Tirana.  

 

4:05 PM– Arrival in Tirana

Return to Tirana with lasting memories of Albania’s fascinating coastal heritage.  

F.A.Q

Is this tour suitable for children and elderly guests?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and involves light walking. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What type of vehicle is used?

Travel is by modern, air-conditioned van designed for comfort on long drives.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, as the transportation vehicle is not equipped for wheelchair access.

Can I book this tour privately?

Yes, private tours can be arranged upon request. Let us know in advance if you'd prefer a more personalized experience.

Are there any stops along the way from Tirana to Durres?

No, there are no planned stops on the way, as the drive from Tirana to Durres is short, approximately one hour. The journey is direct, so you’ll arrive quickly and have more time to explore the destination.

Reviews

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4.3
3 reviews
Excellent
33%
Great
67%
Average
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Poor
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Bad
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Fascinating and relaxing day
Olivia Trenmoor, June 2025

Loved every part of this tour! The amphitheater was a real highlight and lunch by the sea was perfect. Great guide and well-paced itinerary.

Nice escape from the city
Elena Rosvick, June 2025

Enjoyed the history part more than I thought.  Durres was very relaxing. 

Perfect balance of history and leisure
Lila Renford, May 2025

I loved how this tour mixed culture with relaxation. The views from the Venetian Tower were stunning and the promenade was lovely. Great guide too!

What's Included

  • Amphitheatre entrance fee
  • Guide
  • Liability insurance
  • Royal villa entrance fee
  • Transport

What's Excluded

  • Meals
  • Personal Expenses

Why Book With Us?

  • Expert Local Guides
  • Comfort and Convenience
  • Seamless and Stress-Free
  • Memorable Adventure
  • Eco-Friendly Travel