Durres Ferries

The port of Durres plays a key role in the ferry network of Albania, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by 4 ferry companies, Durres serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Durres, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include - connecting Durres with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Ventouris Ferries, Adria Ferries, Travelmar run regular services from Durres, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Durres offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Durres is easily accessible through multiple transportation options. The city is just 35 kilometers (about 30 minutes by car) from Tirana International Airport, with regular shuttle buses connecting the two. From Tirana's city center, buses depart every 30 minutes for the 40-minute journey to Durres. The main highway network connects Durres to other major Albanian cities, with Fier about 1 hour south and Shkodra 1.5 hours north. Ample parking is available near the ferry terminal, though it's advisable to arrive early during summer months when spaces fill quickly. The ferry terminal itself is centrally located, with taxis readily available for connections to hotels and attractions.

Perched on the sun-drenched Albanian coast, Durres blends ancient history with seaside charm to create a uniquely Mediterranean experience. As Albania's main port city, it serves as a vital maritime link between the Balkans and Italy across the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Visitors stepping off the ferry will be greeted by golden beaches stretching alongside Roman ruins, creating an intriguing contrast between relaxation and exploration.

Durres enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The prime visiting season runs from May through September, when temperatures hover between 25-30°C (77-86°F) and the Adriatic waters are perfect for swimming. June brings the vibrant Durres Summer Festival with outdoor concerts and cultural events, while August sees the height of beach season with lively waterfront activity. For those preferring fewer crowds and more moderate prices, May and September offer pleasant weather with temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and less congested ferry services. Winter visits (November-March) bring cooler, rainier conditions but offer a more authentic glimpse of local life and significantly reduced tourist numbers.

Durres serves as Albania's primary maritime hub, connecting travelers to several enticing destinations across the Adriatic. Regular ferries depart for Bari, Italy, with a journey time of approximately 9 hours, offering access to Puglia's distinctive architecture and cuisine. The slightly longer 10-hour route to Brindisi opens the door to Italy's heel, with its historic port and gateway to the Salento peninsula. Seasonal services also connect to Ancona in about 15 hours, positioning visitors to explore central Italy's rich cultural landscape. The Durres-Italy ferry routes are particularly scenic, especially during sunset departures when the Albanian coastline recedes into a golden silhouette against the Adriatic horizon.

Durres offers a compelling mix of historical sites and beachside relaxation just steps from the ferry terminal. The imposing 2nd-century Roman Amphitheater, once seating 20,000 spectators, stands as Albania's most impressive ancient monument. Along the sprawling beachfront promenade, visitors can sample traditional Albanian dishes like tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) and seafood fresh from the Adriatic at waterfront restaurants. The Byzantine city walls and Venetian Tower provide fascinating glimpses into the city's strategic maritime importance throughout the centuries. For a local experience, wander through the vibrant Vollga area near the port, where cafes serve strong Albanian coffee alongside fresh baklava while fishermen auction their daily catch.

Durres holds the distinction of being Albania's oldest city, founded as Epidamnos in 627 BCE by Greek colonists, making it over 2,600 years old. The city's amphitheater remained hidden for centuries until accidentally discovered in the 1960s when a local resident was digging a cellar for his house. Durres port handles about 80% of Albania's maritime trade, with its distinctive lighthouse serving as a navigational beacon since 1913. The beaches of Durres contain tiny natural iron particles that local folklore claims have healing properties, leading some visitors to bury themselves in the sand as a traditional remedy.