Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Albania on a day tour of historic Kruja and Durres. Explore ancient ruins, medieval architecture, and learn fascinating stories about this captivating country.
Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Albania on a day tour of historic Kruja and Durres. Explore ancient ruins, medieval architecture, and learn fascinating stories about this captivating country.
- Ethnographic Museum of Kruja - This museum showcases nearly all original items from the late 19th century. Constructed in 1764 by Ismail Pashë Toptani, this Ottoman house is one of Albania’s most distinctive museums. It features 15 rooms that depict the work and family life in Kruja. The white, three-story building has a central tower and is…
- Ethnographic Museum of Kruja - This museum showcases nearly all original items from the late 19th century. Constructed in 1764 by Ismail Pashë Toptani, this Ottoman house is one of Albania’s most distinctive museums. It features 15 rooms that depict the work and family life in Kruja. The white, three-story building has a central tower and is adorned with wood-carved windows of various sizes, allowing a refreshing breeze to flow through and creating a delightful open atmosphere. Outside, remnants of ancient springs encircle the castle, from which the city’s name is derived (“kroje” means “springs” in Albanian), highlighting its historical role as an agricultural hub before commerce and artisanal activities flourished.
- Muzeu Kombëtar Gjergj Kastrioti - The remnants of Kruja Castle are located at the base of Kruja’s mountain. Within the castle lies the National Museum of “Gjergj Kastriot Skënderbeu,” commonly known as the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s most revered hero. Skanderbeg’s efforts to reunite Albanian families after six centuries made him a significant national icon. His return to Kruja from Turkey in his youth forever linked his name to the city. As the country’s leader during a prosperous era, he formed an army that successfully resisted Ottoman advances for 25 years until his passing in 1468.
- Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjeter) - Explore Kruja’s renowned Bazaar, filled with traditional crafts and souvenirs. Kruja was a center of Albanian resistance against the Ottomans under the leadership of National Hero Scanderbeg, who prevented Ottoman forces from entering Western Europe for 25 years, earning the title “Athleta Christi” from the pope of that era.
- Durres Amphitheatre - The Durrës Amphitheater is one of the ancient world’s most magnificent and ranks among the ten most beautiful Roman amphitheaters. Celebrated by Antiquity enthusiasts, it is a Balkan gem gradually emerging from obscurity. Discovered in 1966 by Vangjel Toçi, an archaeologist and Durrës resident, the amphitheater was found after a fig tree fell a few meters underground. His curiosity led to excavations, revealing the long-sought amphitheater.
- Durres Archaeological Museum - This optional visit is recommended by the tour representative. The museum, located just off the seafront, is ultra-modern, well-lit, and labeled, showcasing a stunning collection of historical artifacts. Highlights include exquisite sculptures and statues, delicate gold jewelry, amphoras retrieved from the seafloor still encrusted with barnacles, and beautifully painted vases and pots that appear freshly painted.

- All entrance fees included for specified attractions
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Personal guide/driver fluent in your chosen language
- All entrance fees included for specified attractions
- Air-conditioned transportation
- Personal guide/driver fluent in your chosen language
- Lunch
- Tips/gratuities to guide/driver
- Everything that is not mentioned in the section “Included”
- Lunch
- Tips/gratuities to guide/driver
- Everything that is not mentioned in the section “Included”
This journey intertwines the historical richness and cultural legacy of two prominent cities in Albania’s past. One is Durres, a city of great significance during ancient times, and the other is Kruja, the medieval capital. Hence, this tour lets you embrace both and delve into Albania’s history from the Ancient to the Medieval era. Our guide will…
This journey intertwines the historical richness and cultural legacy of two prominent cities in Albania’s past. One is Durres, a city of great significance during ancient times, and the other is Kruja, the medieval capital. Hence, this tour lets you embrace both and delve into Albania’s history from the Ancient to the Medieval era. Our guide will introduce you to all the fascinating sights and numerous intriguing facts about Albania.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.