Krujë Castle & Ancient Durrës – Private Full-Day Tour from Tirana

Durrës & Krujë: Where Albania's Ancient and Medieval Worlds Collide

Founded in 627 BC as Epidamnos by Greek colonists from Corinth and Corcyra alongside the Illyrian Taulantii tribe, Durrës is one of the oldest cities in the entire Mediterranean world — nearly 2,700 years old. Renamed Dyrrachium by the Romans, who seized it in 229 BC, it became the western gateway of the legendary Via Egnatia — the great Roman road linking the Adriatic to Constantinople. Within these ancient streets, Julius Caesar and Pompey clashed in 48 BC; Byzantine emperors were born here; and layer upon layer of amphitheatre, Roman baths, and Venetian walls still surface beneath the modern city today.

Just 32 kilometres north of Tirana, perched high on the cliffs of Mount Krujë, stands Krujë Castle — the fortress where Albania's greatest national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, made his legendary stand against the Ottoman Empire. From 1443 to his death in 1468, Skanderbeg — a former Ottoman commander who defected and returned to rally his people — repelled three massive Ottoman sieges (1450, 1466, 1467) with garrisons of barely 2,000–3,000 men against armies of tens of thousands. He became so feared across Europe that Pope Calixtus III called him "the athlete of Christ."

Two cities. 2,700 years of history. One unforgettable day. [Book your private Durrës & Krujë tour from Tirana →] and walk the streets where empires rose and fell. [Check availability now →]

Itinerary

Transfer to Krujë, about 40 minutes.

Krujë, a historic Albanian town, boasts medieval charm with its iconic castle and Skanderbeg museum. Renowned for resisting the Ottoman Empire, it's a symbol of national pride. The town cherishes traditional craftsmanship, particularly handwoven carpets and filigree jewelry. Krujë's people are famed for their warm hospitality, deeply rooted in Besa, the Albanian code of honor, reflecting trust and respect.

Visit of Krujë Artisan bazaar, Krujë Castle, museum of History and Ethnographic museum.

Suggested lunch in Krujë, in a traditional restaurant. 

Transfer to Durrës, about 50 minutes.

Visit of Durres Beach. Founded in 627 BC, Durres, Albania's ancient coastal city, has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. Its Roman and Byzantine ruins whisper secrets of a glorious past. Durres remains a bustling hub, where history meets modernity by the Adriatic Sea.

Visit of Durres's Roman Amphitheater. 

Discovered accidentally in 1966 during excavations for urban development. Durres Roman Amphitheater, built in the 2nd century AD, once echoed with the roars of 20,000 spectators witnessing gladiator battles and theatrical performances. Hidden beneath modern Durres, it whispers tales of grandeur and ancient drama. As most of it is not yet excavated, the amphitheater still holds mysteries waiting to be unearthed.

Free time to enjoy coffee or a drink or a snack in one of many bar, restaurant choices located on Durrës beach.

Return to Tirana