Durres isn’t just Albania’s second-largest city with a long history of Roman ruins and seaside charm; it’s also an emerging hub for wine lovers eager to explore native Albanian varieties. Unlike more commercial wine regions, Durres offers authentic, locally rooted experiences like tasting Kallmet and Shesh i Zi wines in intimate settings or visiting vineyard estates with sweeping views. We particularly like the Albanian Wine Tasting at Durres City for its cozy atmosphere and expertly paired local foods. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of Albania’s wine culture in a relaxed environment. If you prefer outdoor adventures combined with wine, the Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour offers stunning coastal scenery and historical sites alongside a memorable wine experience.
Durres’s wine tours are diverse, ranging from short tastings in plush wine bars to full-day explorations of vineyards and historic sites. Many tours include local wines like Kallmet, Shesh i Zi, and other Albanian varieties, often paired with traditional foods. Outdoor lovers will appreciate trips that combine coastal walks, castle visits, and swimming, while culture seekers might enjoy combining wine tasting with tours of the ancient amphitheater or castle ruins. Below, we’ve gathered the top options to help you choose.
1. Albanian Wine Tasting at Durres City
At number 1, the Albanian Wine Tasting at Durres City offers a 2 to 2.5-hour session in a welcoming wine bar. You’ll sample local wines such as Kallmet and Shesh i Zi, while learning about Albanian winemaking traditions and vineyard terroirs. The cozy environment makes it a relaxed way to get introduced to Albania’s wine culture. The pairing of local cheeses and cured meats adds to the flavor experience, giving you a taste of regional cuisine alongside your wines. With a perfect 5-star rating from seven reviews, this tasting is especially suited for those wanting an intimate, educational experience without a long day involved. It’s great for a quick cultural dive or a romantic evening out.
Bottom line: A charming, affordable way to discover Albanian wine in a relaxed setting, ideal for beginners or those short on time.
2. From Tirana/Durres/Golem: Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour
Next up is the Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour, a full-day adventure that combines coastal scenery, historical sites, and a visit to Duka Winery. Starting from various locations like Tirana, Golem, or Durres, this tour offers a walk to Skanderbeg Castle, a visit to the St. Anthony Church, and time for swimming at a local beach. The highlight is the wine tasting session at the winery, giving you a chance to enjoy local Albanian wines while soaking in spectacular seaside views. The reviews mention how the tour exceeds expectations with its mix of nature, culture, and wine, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Bottom line: A comprehensive day trip perfect for those wanting coastal vistas, history, and wine in one go.
3. Durres & Wine Tasting Tour
The Durres & Wine Tasting Tour is a 10-hour journey that combines walking tours of Durres’s historic sites with a visit to Abaia Winery. You’ll explore the amphitheater and enjoy a guided city walk, then relax with a wine tasting session in a picturesque setting by the coast. This tour is highly rated (4.9/5 from eight reviews) for its deep dive into Durres’s layers of history, paired with a generous tasting of local wines and food. The presence of a knowledgeable guide means you’ll gain insights into both ancient Roman ruins and Albanian wine-making.
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers who want a full-day experience blending culture and wine.
4. Experience Albanian Wine, daily tours from Durres
At number 4, the Experience Albanian Wine offers a flexible, full-day visit to Abaia Winery. With a 5-star rating from two reviews, it’s a premium option for those seeking a comprehensive immersion into Albanian wine. The tour includes a guided 40-minute tour of the winery and a two-hour tasting session in the countryside, making it an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts wanting more detailed insights and high-quality wines. The relaxed, scenic setting and expert-led tastings make this a memorable, intimate experience.
Bottom line: For a full-day, expert-led exploration of Albanian wine culture, this tour delivers good value and a relaxed vibe.
5. From Durres Golem: Cape of Rodon Castle & Wine Tasting Tour
Ranked fifth, the Cape of Rodon Castle & Wine Tasting Tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine coastal scenery with history and wine in a half-day trip. Starting from Golem or Durres, this tour includes a visit to Skanderbeg Castle, the Cape of Rodon, and a wine tasting at a local vineyard. The 7-hour itinerary includes walking, swimming, and sightseeing, with a chance to enjoy Albaniam’s native grape varieties in a scenic rural setting. Reviewers mention how well-rounded and enjoyable the experience is, especially with the combination of seaside and wine.
Bottom line: A good choice for those seeking a mix of beach, castle, and wine in a manageable day.
6. Durrës: Sunset Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting
Number 6 is the Sunset Vineyard Tour, offering a 5-hour experience in the enchanting evening light. Starting from Hotel Continental, you’ll explore scenic vineyards, learn about traditional wine-making, and enjoy a curated selection of local wines during a relaxed sunset. The small group setting emphasizes personal interaction and the chance to absorb Albania’s countryside ambiance. With a perfect rating, it’s ideal for romantics or those wanting a peaceful, scenic end to their day.
Bottom line: A beautiful, intimate way to experience Albanian wine and landscape during golden hour.
7. From Durrës: Albanian Wine Tasting with Vineyard & Boat Tour
Number 7 is a 5-hour tour combining wine tasting, vineyard visits, and a boat cruise on the lakes. It’s perfect for those who want a multi-sensory experience that includes water scenery along with regional wines. The tour covers local Albanian wine varieties, and includes tasting brandy and visiting vineyards producing native grapes. Reviewers highlight the fun and knowledgeable guides, making it suitable for adventurous travelers who like a bit of everything.
Bottom line: A dynamic, multi-activity tour for those craving variety and scenic water views.
8. Cape of Rodon Adventure: Wine Tasting, Church & Boat Ride
Number 8 offers a full-day Cape of Rodon Adventure, combining beach, church, boat ride, and wine tasting. It features a private boat trip and visits to St. Anthony Church and Cape cliffs, with a tasting session at a local winery. This is ideal for travelers who want an active, varied day with a mix of stunning natural and historic sights. Although reviews are currently unavailable, its inclusion highlights its appeal for outdoor, cultural, and culinary experiences.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers looking for an active day with multiple highlights plus a wine tasting.
9. Durrës: Traditional Albanian Cooking Class with Lunch & Wine
Number 9 focuses on culture through Albanian cuisine. In a cozy family-style kitchen, you’ll learn to make byrek, tave kosi, and salads, then enjoy your homemade meal with a glass of local wine. This 2-hour class is perfect for foodies and those interested in cooking as a way to connect with local traditions. The experience offers recipes by email afterward, so you can recreate authentic Albanian dishes at home.
Bottom line: A hands-on, flavorful experience combining cooking, wine, and local culture.
10. Durres: Where History Meets Wine
Number 10 offers a 5-hour tour blending heritage sites and wine tasting. You’ll explore Roman ruins and Byzantine architecture, then visit Arapaj Vineyard for tastings. This tour appeals to history enthusiasts who want to understand Durres’s past while sampling local wines. It includes visits from two pickup points, making it flexible.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting to combine Durres’s ancient sites with a quality wine experience.
11. From Durres: Farmland, Vineyard & Wine Tasting Tour
Number 11 is a 6-hour countryside tour focusing on farmland, underground cellar tunnels, and premium wines. You’ll visit native grape varieties, learn about raki, and see a historic bunker cellar. It’s perfect for those interested in the rural side of Albania’s wine scene and local traditions. Reviewers note the scenic vineyard walks and engaging guides make this a memorable experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want an authentic rural experience with cultural insights.
12. From Tirana: Cape of Rodon Castle, Beach & Wine Tasting Tour
Number 12 combines coastal scenery and wine at the Cape of Rodon Castle, Beach & Wine Tasting Tour. Starting from Tirana, this 7-hour trip includes castle visits, beach time, and a wine tasting at a vineyard. It’s perfect for those who want to explore both Albanian coast and history, with the convenience of pickup and drop-off from Tirana.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for a full day of seaside, castle, and wine exploration.
13. From Tirana: Durrës and Cassar Cantina Wine Tasting Day Tour
Number 13 is an 8-hour day exploring Durres’s landmarks like the amphitheater and Venetian Tower, combined with a wine tasting at Cassar Cantina. It’s well-suited for history lovers who want an in-depth tour with the added bonus of wine and cheese pairings. The tour provides a comprehensive look at Durres’s past and present.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a thorough exploration of Durres combined with local wine pairing.
14. Golem/Durres: Berat & Wine Tasting Tour
Number 14 offers a full-day trip to Berat, the “City of a Thousand Windows,” combining castle visits and a wine tasting at a local winery. Perfect for history and architecture lovers, this tour also allows some time to explore Berat’s UNESCO-listed old town.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a scenic, cultural day with wine in a UNESCO site.
15. Wine Tasting in Durres – Discover Albania’s Taste
Finally, the Wine Tasting in Durres is a quick 1-hour experience at Vinum Wine Bar. It’s perfect for those wanting a quick, atmospheric taste of Albanian wines paired with antipasti, in the heart of Durres’s old town. It’s a casual introduction, ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or as an after-dinner activity.
Bottom line: An easy, relaxed way to sample Albania’s wines without a full-day commitment.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Durres
When selecting your perfect wine experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you love history and want a full-day outing, the Durres & Wine Tasting Tour or the Golem/Durres: Berat & Wine Tasting Tour are excellent picks. For a shorter, more intimate experience, the Albanian Wine Tasting at Durres City offers a cozy introduction. Outdoor lovers should consider the Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour, which combines coastal scenery with wine.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak months (spring and fall), to secure your spot. Check whether you prefer guided full-day adventures, short tastings, or specialized experiences like cooking classes or sunset vineyard visits. Think about what excites you most — historic ruins, seaside views, or rural vineyards — and pick the tour that matches those interests for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
Durres offers a surprisingly diverse range of wine tours that combine history, scenery, and authentic flavors. For those wanting a quick taste, the cozy Wine Tasting at Durres City is perfect. If you prefer a full-day adventure with coastal vistas and castles, the Cape of Rodon & Wine Tasting Tour suits well. For wine lovers who want to immerse themselves deeper into Albanian wine culture, the Experience Albanian Wine delivers a premium experience.
Whatever your interests or schedule, Durres’s wine tours promise genuine, flavorful experiences that bring a taste of Albania’s local traditions and landscapes right to your glass. Be sure to book early, especially during high season, to secure your spot on the tour that suits your style best.