Durrës County

Albania, Europe

Durrës County is a STATE in Albania, Europe.

Durrës County, anchored by Albania’s ancient port city of Durrës, is a sun-drenched Adriatic playground where millennia of history meet vibrant coastal energy. Wander through the remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater, stroll along the Venetian tower-lined waterfront promenade, and feel the pulse of one of the oldest cities in the Balkans. Miles of sandy public beaches like Plepa and Golem invite lazy days under Mediterranean sun, while beach bars and seafood tavernas hum with life until late. Escape the city to the serene hills of the Cape of Rodon, where a ruined castle stands sentinel over turquoise coves, or explore the Byzantine mosaics hidden in plain sight. The local buzz is authentic, the burek is flaky, and the sunset views over the Adriatic are unforgettable. From budget backpackers to families seeking sun and sea, Durrës County blends a rich past with an easygoing present, making every visit feel like a discovery.

Best time to visit Durrës County

The best months are May, June and September for pleasant beach weather (mid-20s °C) without the peak crowds and high prices of July–August. July and August bring intense heat (often 30–35°C) and packed beaches, but also a lively festival atmosphere. April and October are ideal for sightseeing with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Winters are cool and damp but offer a quiet, authentic experience.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Partly cloudy
Temperature
12°
Feels like
10°
Humidity
59%
Wind
8 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Mild 14-22°C, some rain

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Mid

Still warm for sightseeing; many beach services wind down.

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

TIA

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza

International

30 km away

Getting around

"Urban and intercity buses (often unmarked minibuses called furgons) connect Durrës with beaches and surrounding towns at very low cost. Within the city, walking is best for the center and promenade. Official taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive, but insist on the meter or agree a fare beforehand. Renting a car is popular for exploring the Cape of Rodon and rural areas, though driving can be chaotic. Bicycle hire is emerging along the waterfront."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport and kiosks from $5

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport; avoid unlicensed taxis and check change from large notes.

Night safety

6/10

Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport; avoid unlicensed taxis and check change from large notes.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Durrës is generally safe, but exercise usual precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs on crowded beaches and public buses. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items. Be cautious when using ATMs or exchanging currency; use reputable banks or hotels. Nighttime is safe in well-lit tourist areas, but avoid isolated beaches and unlit streets after dark. Road safety varies, and pedestrian care is needed due to erratic driving. Political protests are rare but should be avoided."

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Durrës are adequate for minor ailments, but for serious conditions visitors may need transfer to Tirana. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly recommended. Tap water is generally safe in the city but bottled water is advised for sensitive stomachs. Pharmacies are well-stocked; look for the green cross. Ensure routine vaccines are up to date; hepatitis A and B are recommended. High UV levels in summer require sun protection, and mosquito repellent is useful near wetlands."

Culture

Local customs

"Albania is a secular but culturally Muslim country. Respect religious sites by dressing modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and removing shoes where indicated. Handshakes are common greetings; close friends may kiss cheeks. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated (round up or 5–10% for good service). Avoid discussing sensitive political topics like Kosovo or ethnic relations unless initiated by locals. Prolonged eye contact is a sign of sincerity. Hospitality is deeply ingrained – you may be invited for coffee or raki; accept graciously."
Albanian (official)GreekItalianEnglishAlbanian

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$25-50 | budget hotels range $25-50/night

Local transport

$0.40 | local bus ride ~$0.40

Cost notes

Durrës is one of the most affordable coastal destinations in Europe, with excellent value for food, accommodation and transport.

Timezone

Europe/Tirane
Local time 03:38

More facts

Population

310,000

ISO code

AL-42

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Durres County, Akcehisar, Akçehisar, Croia, Cruja, Krna, Kroia, Kroja, Kroya, Kroïa, Krue, Krueja, Kruja, Kruje, Krujë, Kruya, kiruya, kru'a, kruya, krwh, krwja, krwے, kuruya, Круя, كروجا, کروه, کروے, क्रुया, ক্রুয়া, ਕ੍ਰੁਆ, ክሩያ, クルヤ, AL012, Qarku i Durrësit, Prefectura de Durrazo, مقاطعة دوريس, Дурэс, Драч (област), Durrës (rannvro), Comtat de Durrës, Durrës (kraj), Qark Durrës, Νομός Δυρραχίου, Provinco Durrës, Condado de Durrës, Durrësi maakond, Durrës konderria, شهرستان دورس, Durrësin maakunta, Préfecture de Durrës, Contae Durrës, डुर्रेस प्रांत, Drački okrug, Դուրրասի գավառ, Prefettura di Durazzo, ドゥラス州, Durrës (kizunga), 두러스 주, Duresio apskritis, Duresi apgabals, Durrës (prefectuur), Durrës (region), ਡੂਰੇਸ ਕਾਉਂਟੀ, Obwód Durrës, Durrës (prefeitura), Regiunea Durrës, Дуррес (область), Drač (kraj), Durrës prefektur, Kondado ng Durrës, Dıraç ili, صوبہ دراج, Durrës (hạt), 杜勒斯州, Prefettura de Durazz, Durrës Coonty, Durrës (condado), AL-02

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