Durres is a surprisingly good spot for wine lovers. While most travelers focus on its beaches and ancient ruins, the city also offers some excellent wine-tasting options. What makes Durres stand out is its combination of local, traditional wineries and engaging experiences that blend history, scenery, and genuine Albanian flavors. Personally, I’m fond of the Albanian Wine Tasting at Durres City because it’s a quick, intimate introduction to the country’s unique wines—think Kallmet and Shesh i Zi—paired with local cheeses and cured meats. It’s a perfect way to get a taste of Albanian culture without leaving the city.
For those craving a full-day adventure, the Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour combines stunning coastal scenery, historical sites, and a visit to Duka Winery, offering a rich experience that goes beyond just wine. Whether you prefer a short, cozy tasting or an extensive journey that includes beaches and castles, Durres’s wine tours deliver authentic flavor and memorable moments.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of tours: from quick wine tastings in cozy bars to full-day excursions that include visits to historic landmarks and scenic coastlines. Highlights range from local wine tastings at boutique wineries like Abaia Winery and Duka Winery, to special sunset vineyard tours, and even combined castle, beach, and wine experiences. Many tours are tailored for different interests and schedules, so whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or just want a sip of local life, there’s something for you. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Albanian Wine Tasting at Durres City
At number 1, this Albanian Wine Tasting at Durres City is a top-rated experience with a perfect 5/5 rating from seven reviews. For just $41 per person, you get 2 to 2.5 hours of sampling premium local wines in a cozy, welcoming wine bar. The host introduces you to Albanian varieties like Kallmet and Shesh i Zi, with insights into winemaking traditions that date back centuries. The pairing of cheeses and cured meats complements the wines beautifully, creating a tasting that feels intimate and authentic. Guests praise the warm atmosphere and knowledgeable hosts. It’s an ideal choice if you want a relaxed overview of Albanian wines without a long day.
Bottom Line: An excellent introduction to Albanian wine, perfect for a quick cultural fix with high reviews and great value.
2. From Tirana/Durres/Golem: Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour, which lasts around 7.5 hours. It combines sightseeing—like the Skanderbeg castle and Cape of Rodon—with a visit to Duka Winery for a tasting session. The tour is highly rated (4.7/5 from 15 reviews) and offers a mix of scenic coast, history, and wine. The trip includes a walk along the cliffs, swimming at a public beach, and time to enjoy the spectacular views. Guests say the winery experience is quite different from typical tours, with food and wine paired together, making it much more memorable.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a full-day adventure combining coastal beauty, history, and wine, with high praise for the local pairing experience.
3. Durres & Wine Tasting Tour
At number 3, the Durres & Wine Tasting Tour lasts about 10 hours and covers Durres’s main attractions along with wine. The tour includes visits to the Amphitheatre, a guided city tour, and a stop at Abaia Winery for a two-hour tasting session. Guests highlight the charm of Durres’s blend of ancient ruins and lively streets, enhanced by the wine experience. Many reviews mention how the guide makes the history come alive, and the vineyard’s setup is surprisingly magnificent. For around $70, this offers a comprehensive taste of Durres’s past and its wine scene, suited for history buffs who want to combine culture with local wine.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those interested in Durres’s archaeological sites paired with quality wine tasting.
4. Experience Albanian Wine, daily tours from Durres
Number 4 is the Experience Albanian Wine, which promises a full day immersed in traditional winemaking. For around a day’s worth of time, you visit Abaia Winery for a guided tour and tastings of local wines like Rosé Tempranillo and Reserva Superiore. The setting in the countryside makes it a peaceful escape, and the reviews are glowing, calling it a “very classy excursion.” This tour is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, all-in-one experience with hands-on insights into Albanian wine culture.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a full-day, relaxed, and informative experience suitable for wine enthusiasts wanting a deep dive.
5. From Durres Golem: Cape of Rodon Castle & Wine Tasting Tour
Number 5 takes you to the Cape of Rodon Castle & Wine Tasting. Priced at $105, this 7-hour trip offers a scenic day with coastal views, visits to Skanderbeg Castle, and a chance to swim at the beach. The tour combines coastal walks, historical exploration, and concludes with a wine tasting at a local vineyard. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed pace with plenty of sightseeing and a taste of local wines in a beautiful setting.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded day for those who want scenic coastal views, castles, and wine in one trip.
6. Durrës: Sunset Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting
Number 6 offers the Sunset Vineyard Tour, rated 5/5 from one review. For about 5 hours, you explore scenic vineyards during golden hour, learn from passionate winemakers, and enjoy a curated selection of local wines. The highlight is the tranquil sunset setting, perfect for a romantic or peaceful evening. The guide’s knowledge and the intimate setting make it stand out.
Bottom Line: Great for wine lovers seeking a relaxed and scenic experience at sunset, especially if you appreciate the countryside and stunning views.
$93 per person
7. From Durrës/Golem: Vineyards, Wine Food Tasting & Boat Tour
Number 7 combines vineyards, local wines, and a boat cruise in a 5-hour tour rated 4.6/5 from five reviews. You’ll visit Albanian vineyards, taste local wines and brandies, then enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lakes. This is perfect for those who want a little bit of everything—wine, nature, and a relaxing cruise with plenty of tasting opportunities. It’s especially appealing if you’re into waterside scenery.
Bottom Line: A diverse, fun option blending wine tasting with lakeside views and a boat cruise, suitable for active groups.
8. Durrës: Traditional Albanian Cooking Class with Lunch & Wine
At number 8, this Cooking Class with Lunch & Wine lasts just 2 hours but offers a hands-on introduction to Albanian cuisine and wine. You’ll learn to make byrek, tavë kosi, and salads in a friendly kitchen setting close to the sea. The experience emphasizes authentic flavors and includes a homemade meal paired with local wine or raki. Visitors appreciate the personal, family-style atmosphere and taking home recipes.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a cultural, culinary experience combined with wine in a relaxed setting.
9. Durres: Where History Meets Wine
Number 9 offers a 5-hour tour that combines Durres’s archaeological sites with wine tasting. The itinerary covers Roman ruins, Byzantine architecture, and tastings at Arapaj Vineyard. This tour appeals to history enthusiasts who want to pair ancient sites with local wines, making it an educational and flavorful day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers eager to connect Durres’s past with its wine culture.
10. From Durres: Wine Tasting in Duka Winery
Number 10 is the Duka Winery experience, a 5-hour visit to a scenic hillside vineyard. Tasting includes Rosé Tempranillo and Reserva Superiore, with a guided tour that explains sustainable practices. The location overlooking a tranquil lake makes this a scenic retreat. Reviewers praise the wines and the peaceful setting.
Bottom Line: A scenic, peaceful winery visit suited for those who appreciate high-quality wines and picturesque landscapes.
$136 per person
11. From Tirana: Cape of Rodon Castle, Beach & Wine Tasting
Number 11 combines coastal views, castles, and wine on an 8-hour trip starting from Tirana. It’s like a mini-road trip with visits to Cape of Rodon, swimming, and finally a wine tasting at a local vineyard. It’s perfect if you want to escape the city and enjoy a full day of history, nature, and wine.
Bottom Line: A complete day trip for those who want a mix of beach, history, and wine.
12. From Tirana: Durrës and Cassar Cantina Wine Tasting Day Tour
Number 12 is an 8-hour tour exploring Durres’s archaeological sites and enjoying a curated wine tasting at Cassar Cantina. It features visits to the Amphitheatre and Venetian Tower, plus local wine paired with cheeses. Reviewers highlight the detailed storytelling and the quality wines.
Bottom Line: Great for history buffs who want to pair ancient ruins with authentic Albanian wines.
13. Golem/Durres: Berat & Wine Tasting Tour
Number 13 offers a day trip to Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” with visits to Berat Castle and local wineries. It’s a chance to see stunning architecture and taste regional wines. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a mix of culture and wine in a scenic setting.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those combining cultural exploration with wine tasting in a historic town.
$58 per person
14. Wine Tasting in Durrës – Discover Albania’s Taste
Number 14 is a quick, one-hour experience at Vinum Wine Bar, perfect for a casual introduction. You’ll sample premium Albanian wines with traditional antipasti, learning stories behind the grapes. It’s ideal for a laid-back, atmospheric taste of Albania.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a brief, relaxed tasting in the heart of Durres.
15. Wine tasting tour, Optional wine yard tour and kayak rides
Finally, number 15 offers a flexible 3-hour self-guided wine experience, with optional kayak or boat rides. You explore a local vineyard, learn about Albanian winemaking, and relax by the water. Reviewers mention how exciting and enjoyable the combination is.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous travelers who want a blend of wine, nature, and optional water fun.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Durres
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a taste of local wines, the Albanian Wine Tasting at Durres City offers a quick, high-rated introduction. For a full day of sightseeing and tasting, the Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour is ideal, especially if you love scenic drives and coastal views. If your focus is on learning about Albanian wine traditions and enjoying peaceful countryside, consider the Experience Albanian Wine or Duka Winery. Budget travelers might prefer the quick wine tasting at Vinum Wine Bar, while adventurous types could try the self-guided tour with kayak rides.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure spots at popular wineries or guided tours. Also, check if your interests align more with historical sights, coastal scenery, or culinary experiences—each tour offers a different flavor of Durres.
Final Thoughts
Durres offers a surprising variety of wine experiences that suit different styles and schedules. If you want a quick taste, the cozy Albanian Wine Tasting in Durres is unbeatable. For those eager to combine history, scenery, and wine, options like the Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting or full-day city explorations are perfect. Food and wine lovers can enjoy hands-on cooking classes, while adventure seekers might prefer boat and vineyard combos like the Vineyards, Wine Food Tasting & Boat Tour.
With such a range, it pays to plan ahead—book early, decide what kind of experience suits your travel style, and get ready to enjoy Albania’s fascinating wines.