Durres is more than just Albania’s bustling port city; it’s a gateway to some truly memorable experiences. With its proximity to stunning natural sights and historical sites, Durres offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests. We especially love the Day Tour to Theth and Blue Eye for its breathtaking mountain views and crystal-clear springs, and the Kruja Castle & Old Bazaar for a taste of history and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping activities like ATV rides or more relaxed explorations of UNESCO-listed towns, Durres has a lot to offer. And with the convenience of hotel pickups and small group sizes, these tours promise authentic experiences without the tourist trap.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the 15 best tours in Durres, covering everything from scenic landscapes and historical towns to adventurous off-road excursions. Each offers a unique perspective of Albania’s diverse beauty and culture. So, whether you’re seeking an exhilarating day in the mountains or a leisurely cultural stroll, there’s something here to inspire your trip.
1. From Tirana/Durres/Shkoder: Day Tour to Theth and Blue Eye
See the stunning Albanian Alps on this full-day adventure from Durres, Tirana, or Shkoder. This tour is perfect if you’re craving mountain panoramas, cold-water swims, and traditional villages. Your guide will share insights into local customs and history as you visit the Blue Eye spring, known for its startlingly clear, sapphire waters, and hike through Theth’s rugged landscape. Notable highlights include the panoramic Qafe Thore vista, Nderlysaj Natural Baths for a quick dip, and the charming village of Theth with its historic church.
With a comprehensive itinerary, including stops at the Blue Eye and Nderlysaj Baths plus a visit to Theth itself, this tour balances breathtaking scenery and cultural insight. Rated 4.9/5 by nearly 470 travelers, it’s a top choice for nature lovers who want a full day of adventure. The small group size and flexible pickup options make it a practical choice for independent travelers.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a deep dive into Albania’s mountainous heart—bring your camera and hiking shoes.
2. From Tirana/Durres/Golem: Berat Town & Belshi Lake Day Tour
For a taste of history and natural beauty, this day trip to Berat—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is hard to beat. Starting from Durres or Golem, you’ll explore Berat’s Ottoman architecture, including the Gorica Bridge and the Berat Castle, where panoramic views stretch over the city. The Onufri Iconographic Museum offers a glimpse into traditional Albanian religious art, while Lake Belshi provides a serene contrast with its peaceful waters and mountain backdrop.
Rated 4.6/5 by nearly 390 reviews, this tour is appreciated for its affordability and rich cultural stories. It’s perfect if you’d like a manageable day of sightseeing that combines history with a scenic lake stop. The itinerary’s flexible drop-off points make customizing your trip straightforward.
Bottom line: Best suited for history enthusiasts and those wanting a relaxed scenic escape without long drives, this tour showcases the best of Berat and Lake Belshi.
3. Durres: Kallmi Guided ATV Quad Bike Tour with Helmet
If you’re craving a dose of adrenaline, the Quad Bike Tour in Kallmi provides a fun off-road experience. Starting right from Durres, you’ll hop onto your new 2023 quad and explore the unspoiled landscapes of Kallmi. Your guide will lead you through virgin terrain, with stops to enjoy panoramic views and take photos. This tour offers an energetic way to see the natural side of Albania, away from crowded tourist spots.
Rated 4.8/5 based on over 210 reviews, it’s praised for its friendly guides and well-maintained bikes. The perfect choice if you’re looking for active fun on a budget, with plenty of opportunities for social media-worthy snapshots. Safety is a priority, with clear instructions and expert staff on hand.
Bottom line: Best for adventure seekers and those who want a quick, exhilarating ride through authentic Albanian landscapes.
4. From Durres/Golem: Kruja Castle & Old Bazaar Day Tour
History and culture combine on this comprehensive day tour to Kruja, a town famous for its medieval castle and bustling bazaar. Starting from Durres or Golem, you’ll explore Kruja Castle, home to the Skanderbeg Museum, and walk through the lively Old Bazaar, where artisans sell handcrafted souvenirs. The Ethnographic Museum offers a glimpse into traditional Albanian life, while views from Kruja Castle provide a scenic backdrop for photos.
Rated 4.8/5 by 163 reviews, this tour is highly valued for its rich storytelling and local craft shopping. It’s perfect for travelers interested in history, as well as those who want to experience authentic Albanian markets.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for cultural travelers who want an immersive day with historical insights and lively market scenes.
5. Tirane,Durres-Cape Of Rodon: ATV Quad Bike Tour with Helmet
For a mix of history, nature, and adventure, this 2.5-hour ATV tour along the Cape of Rodon is a standout. You’ll ride scenic coastal trails, visit Skanderbeg’s Castle, and stop at a seaside church and a Cold War-era bunker. The tour features high-performance, new 2025 ATVs that provide comfort and safety, making it accessible even for beginners.
Rated 5/5 by 67 reviews, the highlight is exploring Albania’s military history firsthand at the bunker, and the panoramic sea views are unforgettable. This tour is well-suited for those who want a quick, intense thrill combined with cultural sites.
Bottom line: Perfect for short but action-packed adventures with a historical twist and beautiful coastal scenery.
6. Bovilla Lake Serenity: Day Tour from Durres/Golem
Escape the city with this peaceful day trip to Bovilla Lake and Gamti Mountain. Rated 4.9/5 by 66 reviews, it offers a perfect balance of scenic drives and gentle hikes. You’ll enjoy a guided trek up Gamti Mountain, capturing stunning views along the way. The lake’s calm waters provide ideal spots for photos, relaxing, or even a swim if conditions permit.
The tour is praised for its helpful guide and well-organized logistics. It’s best suited for nature lovers who prefer a more relaxed day with some light physical activity.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a tranquil escape into nature with plenty of photo opportunities and gentle hikes.
7. From Tirana/Durres/Golem: Saranda, Ksamil, Blue Eye Day Tour
If you’re eager to see southern Albania’s most picturesque sites, this 12-hour tour covers Saranda, Ksamil, and the Blue Eye spring. You’ll explore the lively coastal town of Saranda, with a visit to Lekursi Castle for views of Corfu, followed by relaxing on the sandy beaches of Ksamil. The highlight remains the Blue Eye, with its strikingly clear waters.
Rated 4.4/5 by 225 reviews, it’s a long day but packed with variety—mountains, beaches, and waterfalls. The included hotel pickup simplifies logistics, making it suitable for those on a tight schedule.
Bottom line: Best for sun seekers and those wanting a comprehensive glimpse of Albania’s Riviera with natural and cultural highlights.
8. Tirana/Durres/Shkodra: Shala River and Koman Lake Boat Trip
This scenic boat trip takes you through Lake Koman and along the Shala River, dubbed “Thailand of Albania” for its lush scenery. It’s rated 4.5/5 by 162 reviews, and offers a relaxing way to see Albania’s wild side. The cruise includes stops at Komani Lake and scenic vistas of the river winding through the mountains.
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a peaceful day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection. It’s a long day, but the views make up for the travel time.
Bottom line: Suitable for those who appreciate scenic boat rides and natural beauty, and who don’t mind a full-day excursion.
9. From Durres/Golem: Kruja Castle, Old Bazaar & Sari Salltik
Combine history and panoramic views on this 7-hour tour to Kruja. You’ll visit the castle, the Skanderbeg Museum, and stroll through the lively Old Bazaar. A highlight is the Sari Salltik viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas over the surrounding mountains.
Rated 4.4/5 with positive reviews praising the knowledgeable guide and scenic stops, this tour offers an excellent mix of culture and scenic beauty. It’s a good choice for travelers with limited time wanting a well-rounded experience.
Bottom line: For those interested in Albanian history and scenic viewpoints, this tour hits all the marks.
10. Day Tour to Bovilla Lake From Durres,Golem
Another excellent option for Bovilla Lake, this 6-hour guided tour features scenic drives, hikes, and panoramic views. Reviewers note its relaxed pace and friendly guide, making it perfect for casual travelers seeking natural beauty without strenuous activity.
Rated 4.8/5, this tour is best suited for those who want to combine easy hikes with tranquil lake scenes, especially if you prefer a shorter day trip.
Bottom line: Ideal for a peaceful, scenic escape with manageable physical activity.
11. 90min Boat Tour in Durres
Explore Durres’ coastline on this 90-minute Blue Waters Boat Tour. It’s a lively trip with options for swimming, snorkeling, and even exploring a sunken WWI shipwreck. The tour allows ample time for fun in the sun, dancing, and relaxing on the boat.
Rated 4.9/5 by 37 reviews, it’s great for families or groups looking for a quick, energetic sea adventure close to the city. The max capacity of 9 persons keeps it intimate.
Bottom line: Best suited for sea lovers wanting a lively, short cruise with opportunities for swimming and socializing.
12. 90min ATV Guided Tour in Kallm with Secret Bunker Visit
For those craving a short, action-packed ride, this ATV tour combines scenic coastal trails with a visit to a hidden military bunker. This tour has received perfect reviews, praised for its knowledgeable guide, Tegi, and the mix of fun and history.
Rated 5/5, it’s perfect for beginners or seasoned riders who want a quick off-road thrill combined with a glimpse into Albania’s Cold War past. Expect panoramic sea views, local landmarks, and a peaceful ride back to base.
Bottom line: A great choice for history buffs and adventure lovers pressed for time.
13. Dajti Cable Car & Tirana city tour from Durres/Golem
Combine city sights with mountain vistas on this 7-hour tour. Ride the Dajti Ekspres cable car for sweeping views of Tirana, then explore Dajti National Park’s trails and landscapes. The tour includes a guided walk through the city’s main landmarks, a perfect blend of urban and natural scenery.
Rated 4.8/5 by 40 reviews, it’s an accessible option for those wanting a relaxed day with both cultural and outdoor experiences.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers interested in seeing Tirana’s highlights with a scenic mountain ride.
14. From Tirana/Durres/Golem Theth, Blue Eye, Day Tour
This full-day tour dives deep into Albania’s rugged Alps and includes visits to Theth, the Blue Eye, and waterfalls like Grunas. Rated 5/5 by 20 reviews, it’s a more extensive exploration of the mountains with opportunities for ziplining and waterfalls.
Best suited for adventurers who want a full immersion into Albanian Alps beauty, it combines active sightseeing with scenic natural stops.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers craving a full mountain experience.
15. From Tirana/Golem/Durres: Blue Eye, Ksamil, Saranda Day Tour
A comprehensive day trip to Blue Eye, Ksamil, and Saranda, this tour offers a mix of natural wonders and seaside relaxation. You’ll visit the famous Blue Eye spring, the lively Saranda harbor, and enjoy the sandy beaches of Ksamil.
Rated 4.9/5, it’s a full day of refreshing scenery and cultural exploration, ideal for those with limited time but wanting to see multiple highlights.
Bottom line: Best for beach lovers and natural scenery enthusiasts who want a packed day of sightseeing.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Durres
When selecting your perfect tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For adventure, the Quad Bike Tours—such as the Kallmi Guided ATV—offer adrenaline and scenic exploration. If history is your thing, Kruja Castle provides cultural depth in a manageable half-day. For natural beauty, Bovilla Lake and Theth are superb options.
Think about your physical fitness—if you prefer relaxed sightseeing, tours with less walking or hiking, like the boat trips or lake tours, are ideal. For adrenaline junkies, ATV adventures or the 90-minute boat cruise deliver excitement.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the Blue Eye or Kruja Castle, which tend to fill up quickly in peak season. Always check availability and ask about pickup options to make your day as smooth as possible.
Final thoughts
From scenic lakes and mountain villages to historical castles and lively coastal towns, Durres offers a wide range of tours suited for every traveler. If you’re an adventure lover, the Quad Bike Tours and ATV trips along Cape Rodon provide adrenaline-packed ways to see Albania’s unspoiled landscapes. Meanwhile, history buffs will appreciate trips to Kruja or Berat, where stories of Albania’s past come alive.
For those seeking tranquility and natural beauty, the Bovilla Lake and Theth tours deliver peaceful escapes with plenty of photo opportunities. Whatever your style, booking early and matching your interests to the right tour will ensure you make the most of your time in Durres and beyond. Happy travels!
