Durres is a city that wears its history openly, with Roman amphitheaters, Byzantine architecture, and lively streets that echo centuries of stories. Unlike many coastal spots, Durres offers a deep dive into Albania’s layered past, making it a prime destination for history lovers. We especially enjoy tours that connect you to the city’s ancient ruins and cultural heritage, like the Durres: Where History Meets Wine experience, which blends heritage with local flavors in a way that truly stands out. Plus, exploring the UNESCO Heritage Sites in a multi-day trip offers a broader perspective on Albania’s historical landscape—an excellent choice if you want a comprehensive journey.
While Durres is known for its coastal charm, its historical treasures are what really make it special. From the ancient ruins of the Roman amphitheater to the winding streets filled with ghost stories, there’s a tour here for every kind of history enthusiast. Keep reading to find the perfect match, whether you’re after a deep cultural experience or a spooky night walk.
1. UNESCO Heritage Sites in Albania on 3 day tour
At number one on our list, the UNESCO Heritage Sites in Albania on 3 day tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Albania’s most important archaeological and historic sites. This three-day journey covers Butrint National Park, Berat, Gjirokaster, Apollonia Archaeological Park, and Durres’s ancient ruins. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured, multi-day exploration of southern Albania’s cultural highlights. The tour includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with each location offering a different flavor of history—from the well-preserved ruins of Butrint, with its Greek, Roman, and Byzantine layers, to Berat’s Ottoman architecture.
Guided by experts who share stories about each site’s significance, you’ll get a real sense of Albania’s diverse past. The tour’s reviews praise its organization and quality hotels, making it a hassle-free experience. The highlight for many is the chance to walk through ancient ruins and imagine what life was like centuries ago. For history lovers wanting a multi-day immersion, this tour offers excellent value, with a seamless itinerary that hits the key sights while providing comfortable accommodations.
Bottom line: If your goal is to see a wide range of UNESCO sites with knowledgeable guides, this three-day trip is hard to beat.
2. Durrës: Haunted History Ghost Tour with Paranormal Gear
Number two on our list is a completely different experience—Durrës: Haunted History Ghost Tour with Paranormal Gear. This two-hour night walk takes you through the darker side of Durres’s past, exploring haunted streets and historical sites like the Roman Amphitheatre. It’s a small-group experience, limited to 15 people, which allows for a more intimate and personal storytelling session.
What makes this tour stand out is its use of paranormal equipment like EMF readers and spirit boxes, adding an interactive twist. Your guide shares chilling ghost stories rooted in the city’s history, making it perfect for those intrigued by the supernatural or who want a different way to connect with Durres’s past. The tour’s reviews are mixed, with some finding the ghost stories atmospheric and engaging, while others may wish for more historic detail.
This experience is best suited for travelers looking for something fun and spooky, especially if you enjoy a mix of history and local legends. It’s an affordable option for a quick evening activity that offers a different perspective on the city.
Bottom line: Ideal for night owls and history geeks with a taste for ghost stories, this tour provides a memorable, if spooky, way to experience Durres.
$33 per person
3. Durres: Where History Meets Wine
Number three is Durres: Where History Meets Wine, a five-hour tour that combines heritage exploration with wine tasting. Starting with a walking tour of Durres, you’ll see Roman ruins, Byzantine architecture, and local landmarks. Then the tour transitions to the Arapaj Vineyard, where you’ll sample wines produced from the region’s grapes.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on local wine and culinary traditions, paired with stories about Durres’s historical backdrop. The tour includes two pickup options—Golem and Durres Port—and ends with drop-offs at either location, making it convenient. The wine tastings last about two and a half hours, giving ample time to savor and learn about the local varieties.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to enjoy Durres’s culinary heritage alongside ancient sites. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a blend of cultural sightseeing and wine appreciation without a full-day commitment. The tour is particularly suited for those interested in regional food and drink, or for couples seeking a romantic, educational outing.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine lovers and history fans who also enjoy a casual, tasting-focused experience, this tour offers a flavorful glimpse of Durres.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your Durres adventure, consider your interests and schedule. If you want a broad view of Albania’s UNESCO sites and cultural history, the three-day tour is your best bet. For a fun, spooky night walk that mixes ghost stories with history, the haunted ghost tour offers a quirky alternative. If your focus is on experiencing Durres’s local flavors along with its ancient landmarks, then the wine and heritage tour is a great pick—especially if you enjoy wine tasting in beautiful settings.
Practical considerations include your budget, time availability, and fitness level. The UNESCO tour requires a significant time commitment but rewards with in-depth exploration. The ghost tour is short and perfect for an evening activity, while the wine experience fits well into a half-day schedule. For booking, plan ahead, especially for multi-day tours, to ensure availability.
Final thoughts
Durres offers a variety of ways to explore its historic roots. The UNESCO Heritage Sites trip is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, multi-day culture. If you prefer something lively and a little spooky, the Haunted Ghost Tour makes history fun and memorable. And for a more relaxed, sensory experience, the History Meets Wine tour pairs ancient sights with local wine.
No matter which you choose, booking early and checking availability will ensure you get the experience best suited to your interests. Durres’s historical sites and stories are waiting—learn about the city’s past and discover why it remains a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.