Travelling from Bari to Durres: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

The route between Bari, Italy and Durres, Albania represents one of the most important maritime connections across the Adriatic Sea. This popular crossing serves as a vital link between Western Europe and the Balkans, with multiple ferry services operating daily. Whether you're planning a holiday to Albania's emerging tourist destinations, visiting family, or travelling for business, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting from Bari to Durres. We'll focus primarily on the convenient ferry options that connect these two historic port cities while also touching on alternative travel methods. From schedules and operators to port information and destination highlights, this guide will help you plan your journey across the Adriatic with confidence.

How to get from Bari to Durres: Flights and Ferries

When travelling between Bari and Durres, you have several transportation options, though the ferry connection stands as the most direct and practical choice for most travellers.

By ferry, you'll cross approximately 155.7 nautical miles (288.4 km) of the Adriatic Sea. The average crossing takes around 9 hours and 40 minutes, making it an ideal overnight journey. There are typically 3 sailings daily, with a weekly total of 21 departures and approximately 95 monthly sailings, providing excellent flexibility for travellers.

The primary advantage of ferry travel on this route is the ability to bring your vehicle, avoiding rental costs in Albania. Additionally, overnight crossings allow you to save on accommodation while making efficient use of your travel time. Many travellers appreciate the unique experience of crossing the Adriatic, with opportunities to enjoy sea views, onboard dining, and a more relaxed travel pace compared to flying.

While direct flights between Bari and Durres aren't available (as Durres doesn't have its own airport), you would need to fly to Tirana, Albania's capital, and then arrange ground transportation to Durres. This option involves more logistical planning and typically doesn't save significant time when accounting for airport procedures and the journey from Tirana to Durres.

Taking the ferry from Bari to Durres

You can take a ferry from Bari to Durres. Ferries sail in around 9 hours and 40 minutes with about 3 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 8 hours and is provided by Adria Ferries. Departures start as early as 13:00, with the last departure from Bari to Durres at 23:59.

Adria Ferries is the primary operator offering the fastest service on this route. Their modern vessels are equipped with various amenities to ensure a comfortable crossing. The operator provides both daytime and overnight sailings, with the latter being particularly popular as they allow you to save on accommodation costs while making efficient use of travel time.

Onboard their ferries, you can expect to find comfortable seating areas, cabins for overnight journeys, restaurants serving Italian and international cuisine, bars for refreshments, duty-free shopping opportunities, and entertainment options. Most vessels also offer outdoor deck space where you can enjoy the Adriatic views during good weather.

If you're travelling with a vehicle, Adria Ferries accommodates cars, motorcycles, caravans, and even commercial vehicles. Vehicle transport is straightforward, but we recommend booking well in advance, especially during summer months when capacity can fill quickly.

Seasonal considerations are important when planning your journey. Summer (June-September) sees increased demand with tourists heading to Albania's beaches, resulting in higher prices and the need for advance booking. Spring and autumn offer more availability and potentially lower fares, while winter schedules may have fewer departures but typically the lowest prices of the year.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Bari)

Bari's port is conveniently located near the city centre, making it easily accessible for travellers. The ferry terminal is modern and well-organised, with clear signage to help you find your way.

To reach the port from Bari city centre, you have several options. It's approximately a 15-20 minute walk from the historic centre (Bari Vecchia), making it accessible on foot if you're staying nearby. Public buses connect the main train station to the port area, with services running regularly throughout the day. Taxis are readily available throughout Bari and provide a convenient door-to-port service if you're travelling with luggage.

If you're bringing a vehicle, follow signs to the porto or ferry terminal. The port has designated check-in areas for vehicle passengers, and it's recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure for processing.

The terminal facilities include ticket offices (though we recommend booking in advance), waiting areas, restrooms, small shops for last-minute purchases, and cafés where you can grab refreshments before boarding. There are also currency exchange services and ATMs available within the terminal building.

Arrival Port (Durres)

Durres port is Albania's largest seaport and serves as a major entry point to the country. Upon arrival, the disembarkation process is typically straightforward, with passengers directed through passport control before entering Albania.

The port is located very close to Durres city centre, approximately 1-2 km away, making it a short journey to most accommodations. For travellers continuing to other destinations in Albania, the main bus station is about 1 km from the port, offering connections to Tirana (Albania's capital, about 40 km away) and other major cities.

Transportation options from the port include local buses that connect to the city centre and main bus terminal. Taxis are available directly outside the terminal building, but we recommend agreeing on a fare before departing or ensuring the meter is used. If you've brought your own vehicle, the main coastal road (SH2) is easily accessible from the port, connecting to Albania's road network.

Port facilities are more basic than in Bari but include essential services such as currency exchange, restrooms, and small shops. There are several cafés and restaurants within walking distance of the port where you can enjoy your first Albanian meal.

Day Trip Possibilities

While technically possible, a day trip from Bari to Durres is challenging and not recommended for most travellers. The average crossing time of 9 hours 40 minutes each way makes it impractical to enjoy meaningful time in Durres before needing to return.

If you're determined to attempt a day visit, you would need to take the earliest departure from Bari (typically around 13:00) and return on a late-night sailing the following day. This would give you approximately 12-15 hours in Durres, accounting for embarkation and disembarkation times.

A more practical approach is to spend at least one night in Durres or nearby Tirana. This allows you to experience Albania without rushing and enjoy some of the country's highlights. Even a two-night stay gives you a full day to explore Durres and perhaps take a day trip to Tirana or the nearby beaches.

For those with limited time, we recommend considering a mini-break of 3-4 days, which allows for a more relaxed experience of Albania's coastal region. This timeframe gives you the opportunity to explore Durres thoroughly, visit Tirana, and perhaps venture to other nearby attractions such as Kruje Castle or the beaches south of Durres.

Things to Do in Durres

Durres offers a fascinating mix of ancient history, beach relaxation, and authentic Albanian culture. Here are the top attractions to consider during your visit:

Durres Amphitheatre

This impressive Roman amphitheatre dates back to the 2nd century AD and once held up to 20,000 spectators. As one of the largest ancient amphitheatres in the Balkans, it's a must-visit historical site. The amphitheatre is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00 in summer and 9:00 to 16:00 in winter.

Durres Archaeological Museum

Housing an extensive collection of artifacts spanning 2,500 years of history, this museum offers insight into the region's rich past. Displays include Illyrian, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 16:00.

Durres Beach (Plazhi i Durrësit)

The longest beach on Albania's Adriatic coast stretches for 10 km with golden sand and shallow waters, perfect for families. During summer, the beach is lined with restaurants and bars offering fresh seafood and local specialties.

Venetian Tower

Part of the former Byzantine city walls, this well-preserved tower offers panoramic views of the city and harbour. You can climb to the top for excellent photo opportunities. Open daily from 8:00 to 20:00.

King Zog's Villa

This elegant summer residence of Albania's former king is set in beautiful grounds overlooking the sea. While the interior is not always open to visitors, the architecture and setting make it worth visiting. The grounds are open daily from 9:00 to 18:00.

Durres Neighbourhoods

The city centre of Durres contains most historical attractions within walking distance of each other. The seafront promenade (Vollga) is perfect for evening strolls, lined with restaurants and offering sunset views over the Adriatic.

The beach area stretches south of the city centre, with numerous resorts, restaurants, and entertainment options. During summer, this area becomes the city's entertainment hub with beach bars and clubs staying open late.

For a more authentic experience, explore the old town neighbourhoods behind the main boulevard where you'll find traditional Albanian homes, small local restaurants serving homestyle cuisine, and markets where locals shop.

Weather in Durres

Durres enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This creates distinct seasonal experiences for visitors.

Summer (June to September) brings temperatures typically ranging from 25-35°C (77-95°F), with July and August being the hottest months. This period sees minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine, ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The sea temperature reaches a pleasant 23-26°C (73-79°F), perfect for swimming.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) offer milder temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F). These shoulder seasons provide comfortable conditions for sightseeing with fewer crowds. Occasional rainfall is possible, particularly in late autumn.

Winter (December to March) is characterised by temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). This period sees increased rainfall, with December and January typically being the wettest months. While not ideal for beach activities, winter offers a more authentic experience of local life.

The weather can occasionally affect ferry operations, particularly during winter when strong winds and rough seas might cause delays or cancellations. These disruptions are relatively rare but more common between November and February. Summer generally sees the most reliable sailing conditions, though ferries operate year-round on this route.

Cost of Visiting Durres

Albania remains one of Europe's more affordable destinations, offering excellent value for money compared to many Western European countries.

Budget travellers can manage on approximately £30-40 per day, covering a hostel bed or budget hotel room, meals at local eateries, public transportation, and entry to some attractions. Mid-range travellers should budget around £60-80 daily for comfortable accommodation, good restaurant meals, and more extensive sightseeing.

Typical costs in Durres include: a simple meal at a local restaurant for £3-5; a three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant for £10-15; local beer for £1-2; coffee at a café for £0.80-1.50; public bus fare within Durres for £0.30-0.50; and entry to most museums and historical sites for £2-5.

To save money, consider eating where locals do rather than at tourist-oriented establishments, visit the local markets for fresh produce and snacks, and take advantage of the free public beaches rather than paying for private beach club access.

Best Time to Visit Durres

The peak tourist season in Durres runs from mid-June through August, coinciding with the hottest weather and school holidays. During this period, you'll experience vibrant atmosphere and the fullest range of services, but also higher prices, crowded beaches, and the need for advance bookings.

The shoulder seasons of May-early June and September-October offer an excellent balance of pleasant weather, reduced crowds, and lower prices. The sea remains warm enough for swimming in September and early October, while May and June provide ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The off-peak winter season (November-April) sees the fewest visitors and lowest prices. While not suitable for beach activities, this period allows you to experience local culture more authentically and explore historical sites without crowds. Some seasonal businesses may be closed, particularly along the beach strip.

Notable events include Durres Summer Festival (July-August) featuring concerts and cultural performances; Independence Day celebrations (November 28) with parades and festivities; and the Durres International Film Festival (typically in September).

For beach lovers, July-September offers the best swimming conditions. History enthusiasts might prefer May-June or September-October when temperatures are milder for exploring archaeological sites. Those seeking the most authentic local experience should consider visiting during winter months or during traditional Albanian holidays.

Accommodation Options in Durres

Durres offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. The city centre provides convenient access to attractions, restaurants, and the ferry terminal, making it an ideal base for your Albanian adventure.

Where to Stay

Budget travellers will find several affordable guesthouses and hostels starting from around £20 per night. For mid-range options, consider the comfortable hotels along the beachfront promenade, typically ranging from £30-60 per night depending on the season.

Families might prefer the apartment rentals available throughout the city, offering more space and self-catering facilities. Many accommodations are within walking distance of Durres Beach, the amphitheatre, and other major attractions.

For those arriving with campervans, there are several campsites along the coast just outside the city centre, providing basic facilities at affordable rates, typically between £10-15 per night.

We recommend booking accommodation in advance during summer months (June-August) when Durres becomes particularly popular with tourists arriving on the ferry from Bari.

Getting Around Durres

Navigating Durres is relatively straightforward once you arrive by ferry from Bari.

Transport Options

The public bus system connects major points throughout Durres, with fares typically costing less than £1 per journey. Buses also run to Tirana and other nearby cities if you plan to explore further.

Taxis are readily available around the port and city centre, offering a convenient option for direct journeys. Always ensure the driver uses the metre or agree on a price beforehand. A typical ride within the city costs around £3-5.

Car rental offices can be found near the ferry terminal, with daily rates starting from approximately £25. Having your own vehicle provides flexibility for exploring the Albanian coastline and nearby attractions like Kruje Castle or Tirana.

The compact nature of Durres makes walking an excellent option for exploring the historical centre, while the flat terrain is ideal for cycling, with bike rentals available from several locations near the beachfront.

Ready to Set Sail Across the Adriatic?

The Bari to Durres ferry route offers a convenient and scenic gateway between Italy and Albania, spanning approximately 155.7 nautical miles across the beautiful Adriatic Sea. With three daily sailings and a total of 21 weekly connections, this well-served route provides flexibility for travellers planning their cross-Adriatic journey.

Operated by reliable carriers including Adria Ferries, who offer the shortest crossing time of just 8 hours, the journey combines comfort with efficiency. Whether you prefer daytime travel with departures from 13:00 or overnight crossings leaving as late as 23:59, there are options to suit every schedule.

The ferry experience itself becomes part of your adventure, allowing you to arrive in Albania refreshed and ready to explore Durres with its ancient amphitheatre, beautiful beaches, and gateway position to the rest of this fascinating country.

Start planning your Adriatic crossing today and discover why so many travellers choose the ferry for this iconic Mediterranean journey. Browse our latest schedules and book your Bari to Durres ferry tickets to secure the best fares and preferred sailing times.