Tours to Durrës — a resort in Albania

Durrës is Albania's second-largest city and the country's main seaport, located on the Adriatic coast. It is only 35-40 km from Tirana International Airport, meaning a transfer of about 40 minutes — the shortest route from plane to sea among all Albanian resorts. Since there are currently no direct flights from Ukraine, you can get here in two ways: via flights through Warsaw, Chisinau, or Bucharest, or by a bus tour directly from Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities — the second option is usually noticeably cheaper.

The swimming season lasts from June to September, with the warmest water in August (26-27°C). The main reason why Ukrainians increasingly choose a vacation in Durrës is value for money: for the same price as in Greece or Turkey, you can get a hotel one category higher here. Albania is a visa-free country, so no separate documents are required.

Center, Golem, or Mali i Robit — where to stay

The resort area extends 12-15 km south of the city, and almost everything depends on which part of it you choose.

Durrës Center — this is the city itself: the promenade, port, cafes, market, and the amphitheater within a few minutes' walk. It is crowded and noisy here, but you don't need transport to see or buy anything. An option for those who find lying on the beach boring.

Golem and Qerret — the main hotel area 7-10 km from the center. This is where large resort complexes with swimming pools and all-inclusive systems are located, and most package tours are sold here. The beaches are wide and well-maintained, with infrastructure designed for families.

Mali i Robit and Spille — further south, 15-25 km away. Here, pine forests come almost to the water's edge, there are fewer people, and evenings are quiet. The downside is that traveling anywhere without a car or transfer is more difficult.

Beaches and the sea

The beach strip of Durrës is a continuous sandy line over 10 km long, one of the longest on the Adriatic. The sand is fine, grayish-gold, and the entry into the water is very gentle: shallow waters stretch for 30-50 meters, so children can safely play far from the shore. This is why Durrës is traditionally recommended for families with young children.

It is worth being honest about another detail: due to the shallow water and sandy seabed, the water here is less transparent than on the Ionian coast — in Ksamil or Saranda. If crystal-clear turquoise like in photos is essential for you, it is better to consider the south of the country. However, if your priorities are warm shallow sea, a short transfer, and price, Durrës wins.

Best hotels in Durrës

• Grand Blue Fafa Resort 5* (Golem) — the most popular resort complex among Ukrainians: a large green area, several pools, all-inclusive.
• Fafa Premium Resort 5* (Golem) — a quieter "neighbor" of the former, focused on family relaxation.
• Adriatik Hotel BW Premier Collection 5* (Durrës) — a legendary 1957 hotel that once hosted state dignitaries; features a private beach and proximity to the city.
• Vala Mare Resort 4* (Qerret) — optimal price-performance ratio, beachfront location.
• Mel Holiday Resort 4* (Mali i Robit) — pine trees, peace, and a wide beach for those tired of crowds.

Excursions from Durrës

The 2nd-century Roman amphitheater right in the city center is the largest in the Balkans, once accommodating up to 15,000 spectators. Nearby are the Venetian Tower, remnants of Byzantine walls, and an archaeological museum with a collection of artifacts from ancient Dyrrhachium.

An hour's drive away lies Krujë — the fortress of the national hero Skanderbeg and an old bazaar where handmade rugs and copper cookware are still sold. Tirana, just 40 minutes away, offers the Bunk'Art bunker museum, a cable car up Mount Dajti, and the colorful Blloku district. Nature lovers should travel to the Karavasta Lagoon, home to rare Dalmatian pelicans.

Don't delay your trip — contact TurPoisk travel agency, and we will select tours to Durrës tailored to your budget, preferred resort zone, and convenient departure dates.