Travelling from Durres to Bari: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

The route between Durres, Albania's main port city, and Bari on Italy's picturesque Adriatic coast is one of the most important connections between the Balkans and Western Europe. This popular crossing serves as a vital link for travellers, offering a scenic alternative to flying. With approximately 21 weekly sailings and a variety of departure times, the ferry journey presents an excellent opportunity to experience the beautiful Adriatic Sea while transporting yourself and potentially your vehicle between these two historic ports. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the ferry options in detail, provide essential information about both ports, and share valuable insights to help you plan your journey from Durres to Bari effectively.

How to get from Durres to Bari: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Durres to Bari, you have two main transportation options: flying or taking a ferry across the Adriatic Sea.

Flying between these destinations typically requires connecting flights through other European hubs, as direct flights are limited. This option might save some time but often comes with higher costs and the hassle of airport transfers on both ends.

The ferry route, spanning approximately 155.7 nautical miles (288.4 km or 179.2 miles), offers a more direct connection between Albania and Italy. With about 3 daily sailings and 21 weekly departures, ferries provide reliable service year-round. The average crossing time is 9 hours and 41 minutes, making it possible to travel overnight and arrive refreshed the next morning.

For travellers who value scenery and experience, the ferry journey offers spectacular views of the Adriatic coastline that you simply can't get from the air. Additionally, taking a ferry allows you to bring your vehicle, avoiding rental costs at your destination and providing greater flexibility for your onward journey in Italy.

Taking the ferry from Durres to Bari

You can take a ferry from Durres to Bari. Ferries sail in around 9 hours and 41 minutes with about 3 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 7 hours and is provided by Adria Ferries. Departures start as early as 11:00, with the last departure from Durres to Bari at 23:59.

Ferry Operators

Adria Ferries is the primary operator offering the fastest service on this route with a journey time of approximately 7 hours. Their modern vessels provide comfortable passage across the Adriatic, with various sailing times to suit different travel preferences.

With 94 monthly sailings across all operators, you'll have plenty of options to choose from when planning your journey. The high frequency of crossings makes this route particularly convenient for travellers with flexible schedules.

Onboard Amenities and Services

Ferries operating between Durres and Bari typically offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. Most vessels feature:

• Comfortable seating areas and lounges
• Cabins for overnight journeys (recommended for the longer crossings)
• Restaurants and cafés serving meals and refreshments
• Duty-free shopping opportunities
• Outdoor deck areas for enjoying the sea views
• Entertainment options on larger vessels

Adria Ferries vessels are equipped with modern facilities to make your crossing as pleasant as possible, whether you're travelling during the day or overnight.

Seasonal Considerations

The Durres to Bari ferry route operates year-round, providing a consistent connection between Albania and Italy regardless of season. However, there are some seasonal factors to consider:

• Summer months (June-September) typically see higher passenger volumes, so booking in advance is recommended
• Winter crossings (November-March) may occasionally face delays due to weather conditions in the Adriatic
• Shoulder seasons (April-May and October) often offer the best balance of good weather and lower passenger numbers

With 21 weekly sailings throughout the year, you'll find suitable crossing times regardless of when you plan to travel.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Durres)

Durres Port is Albania's largest and busiest seaport, located just 33 km west of the capital, Tirana. The port is well-integrated with the city, making it easily accessible for travellers.

Getting to Durres Port:

• From Tirana: Regular buses run between Tirana and Durres (approximately 40 minutes), with services to the port area
• By taxi: Readily available from anywhere in Durres or Tirana
• By car: The port has parking facilities if you're leaving your vehicle behind

Terminal facilities:

• Check-in counters for ferry operators
• Waiting areas with seating
• Basic refreshment options
• Toilet facilities
• Tourist information points

We recommend arriving at the port at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and boarding procedures, especially if you're travelling with a vehicle.

Arrival Port (Bari)

Bari Port is one of the most important in the Adriatic and serves as a key gateway to southern Italy. The port is conveniently located near Bari's historic centre, making it easy to begin your Italian adventure immediately upon arrival.

Navigating Bari Port:

• The ferry terminal is modern and well-organised, with clear signage in multiple languages
• Immigration and customs checks are efficiently handled for non-EU citizens
• The disembarkation process is usually smooth, with separate lanes for foot passengers and vehicles

Getting from Bari Port to the city:

• Walking: The historic centre (Bari Vecchia) is approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from the port
• Public transport: City buses connect the port with the train station and other parts of Bari
• Taxis: Available directly outside the terminal building
• Car rental: Several agencies have offices near the port for those arriving as foot passengers

Nearby amenities:

• Cafés and restaurants within walking distance
• ATMs and currency exchange services
• Tourist information office
• Shops and pharmacies in the surrounding area

Day Trip Possibilities

Given the ferry duration of approximately 7-10 hours each way, a traditional day trip from Durres to Bari is challenging but not impossible with careful planning.

The earliest departure from Durres at 11:00 would get you to Bari in the evening (around 18:00 with the fastest service), leaving limited time for exploration before needing to return. Similarly, if you departed Bari early, you could spend several hours in Durres before returning on an evening ferry.

A more practical approach would be to spend at least one night at your destination. For example:

Overnight trip option:

1. Depart Durres on an evening ferry (departures available until 23:59)
2. Arrive in Bari the following morning
3. Spend the full day exploring Bari and surrounding areas
4. Stay overnight in Bari
5. Take a morning or afternoon ferry back to Durres the next day

This approach gives you a full day in your destination while minimising accommodation costs. Many travellers find that the overnight ferry option works well, as you can book a cabin and use the crossing time for rest, effectively saving on a night's accommodation.

If you're determined to attempt a day trip, we recommend choosing the fastest crossing with Adria Ferries (7 hours) and checking seasonal schedules for the most convenient options.

Things to Do in Bari

Bari offers a wonderful blend of historic charm and modern Italian city life. Here are the top attractions to consider during your visit:

Top 5 Attractions

Basilica di San Nicola - This magnificent 11th-century church houses the relics of St. Nicholas (the original Santa Claus) and represents one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Puglia. Open daily from 7:00-20:30, the basilica is a must-visit for its historical and religious significance.

Bari Vecchia (Old Town) - The maze-like medieval quarter offers narrow winding streets, charming squares, and the opportunity to see local women making orecchiette pasta by hand in the street. Best explored on foot, this area comes alive especially in the evenings when locals gather for passeggiata (evening stroll).

Castello Svevo - This Norman-Swabian castle dates back to the 12th century and now hosts cultural exhibitions throughout the year. Open Tuesday-Sunday 8:30-19:30, the castle provides fascinating insights into Bari's strategic importance throughout history.

Lungomare Nazario Sauro - Bari's stunning seafront promenade stretches for kilometres along the Adriatic coast. Perfect for a morning jog or evening stroll, the area offers beautiful views and plenty of cafés to enjoy an espresso while watching the fishing boats.

Teatro Petruzzelli - Italy's fourth-largest theatre and a cultural landmark in Bari. If you can't catch a performance, guided tours are available most mornings, offering a glimpse into this opulent 19th-century venue that has been beautifully restored following a fire in 1991.

Neighbourhood Guide

Bari Vecchia (Old Town) - The historic heart of Bari, filled with ancient churches, traditional food, and authentic local life. This is where you'll find the Basilica di San Nicola and Cathedral of San Sabino.

Murat Quarter - The modern commercial centre of Bari, featuring elegant shopping streets like Via Sparano, upscale restaurants, and the impressive Piazza del Ferrarese where old and new Bari meet.

Madonnella - A residential area with a local feel, home to excellent seafood restaurants and the picturesque Porto Vecchio (old port) where you can watch fishermen selling their daily catch.

San Pasquale - Home to the University of Bari, this neighbourhood has a youthful energy with affordable dining options, casual bars, and cultural venues popular with students.

Libertà - A developing area north of the centre with the beautiful Parco 2 Giugno, perfect for escaping the urban environment and enjoying some green space.

Weather in Bari

Bari enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, slightly wetter winters. This pleasant weather is one of the reasons the Puglia region has become increasingly popular with visitors.

Summer (June-August): Peak season brings temperatures averaging 25-30°C, with July and August often exceeding 35°C. Rainfall is minimal, and you can expect 10-12 hours of sunshine daily. The Adriatic Sea reaches perfect swimming temperatures of around 25°C, making beach visits delightful.

Autumn (September-November): A wonderful time to visit with temperatures gradually cooling from 25°C in September to around 15°C by November. October can bring increased rainfall, but there are still plenty of sunny days to enjoy the city with fewer crowds.

Winter (December-February): Mild by northern European standards, with daytime temperatures typically between 8-13°C. Frost is rare, though nights can feel chilly. This is the wettest season, but rainfall is still moderate compared to many European destinations.

Spring (March-May): The region comes alive with wildflowers as temperatures rise from around 14°C in March to a pleasant 22°C by May. Spring showers become increasingly rare as summer approaches.

Impact on ferry operations: While the Durres-Bari route operates year-round, winter crossings may occasionally face delays during periods of strong winds or storms in the Adriatic. The most reliable sailing conditions typically occur from April through October. If travelling in winter, we recommend checking weather forecasts and having some flexibility in your schedule.

Cost of Visiting Bari

Bari offers good value compared to northern Italian cities like Venice or Milan, making it an attractive destination for travellers on various budgets.

Accommodation:

• Budget: Hostels and basic B&Bs from £25-40 per night
• Mid-range: 3-star hotels and apartments from £50-80 per night
• Luxury: 4-5 star hotels from £100-200+ per night

Food and Drink:

• Street food (panzerotti, focaccia): £2-5
• Casual restaurant meal: £15-25 per person
• Fine dining experience: £40-60+ per person
• Local beer: £3-5
• Coffee at a café: £1-2

Transportation:

• Single bus ticket: £1
• Day pass for public transport: £2.50
• Taxi from port to city centre: £10-15
• Car rental: from £30 per day

Sample daily budgets:

• Budget traveller: £50-70 per day (hostel, street food and casual meals, public transport)
• Mid-range traveller: £100-150 per day (3-star hotel, restaurants, some taxis, paid attractions)
• Luxury traveller: £200+ per day (4-5 star accommodation, fine dining, private tours)

Money-saving tips: Consider visiting during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for lower accommodation rates while still enjoying good weather. Many museums offer free or reduced entry on certain days of the month, and the aperitivo culture means you can enjoy complimentary snacks with the purchase of a drink at many bars in the early evening.

Best Time to Visit Bari

Each season offers a different perspective on Bari and the surrounding Puglia region, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests.

Peak Season (June-August): The summer months bring hot weather, perfect for beach visits and swimming in the Adriatic. This is when Bari is most lively, with outdoor dining, evening events, and a buzzing atmosphere. However, this coincides with higher prices, larger crowds at major attractions, and temperatures that can be uncomfortably hot for extensive sightseeing.

Shoulder Season (April-May and September-October): Many consider these months the ideal time to visit Bari. The weather is pleasantly warm but not stifling, tourist sites are less crowded, and accommodation prices are more reasonable. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn offers harvest festivals and seasonal culinary delights.

Off-Peak (November-March): Winter visits provide a more authentic experience of local life in Bari. While some coastal establishments may close for the season, the city itself remains active with cultural events, Christmas markets in December, and the feast day of San Nicola on December 6th. Prices are at their lowest, and you'll have major attractions practically to yourself.

Notable Events:

• Feast of San Nicola (May and December) - The city's patron saint is celebrated with processions, events, and festivities
• Bari International Film Festival (March) - Attracting cinema enthusiasts from across Europe
• Festival della Valle d'Itria (July-August) - A prestigious opera festival held in nearby Martina Franca
• Grape Harvest Festivals (September) - Celebrating the region's wine production in surrounding towns

For the optimal balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowds, we recommend visiting in May, June, September, or early October. These periods allow you to enjoy outdoor dining and possibly even beach time, while exploring the city comfortably without the intense summer heat.

Accommodation Options in Bari

Finding the right place to stay in Bari is essential for making the most of your Italian adventure. The city offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

For budget-conscious travellers, the areas around Bari Vecchia (Old Town) offer charming guesthouses and B&Bs starting from around £40-60 per night. Solo adventurers might enjoy the social atmosphere of hostels in the university district, with dorm beds available from £15-25.

Couples seeking a romantic getaway should consider the boutique hotels along the seafront promenade, offering beautiful Mediterranean views from approximately £70-120 per night. Many of these establishments are housed in historic buildings with character and charm.

Families travelling together will find spacious vacation rentals and family-friendly hotels in the Murat quarter, the modern city centre, with prices ranging from £80-150 depending on size and amenities. Many offer kitchenettes and multiple bedrooms for added convenience.

For those arriving by ferry from Durres, consider booking accommodation near the port area for easy access upon arrival, especially if reaching Bari in the evening after the 9-10 hour crossing.

Getting Around Bari

Navigating Bari is relatively straightforward once you understand the available transportation options.

The city has an efficient public transport network operated by AMTAB, with buses connecting major attractions, the port, and surrounding areas. Single tickets cost around €1.00 and are valid for 75 minutes. For convenience, consider purchasing a day pass for approximately €2.50.

Taxis are readily available at the ferry terminal and throughout the city, providing a convenient but pricier option. A typical ride from the port to the city centre costs around £10-15.

Renting a car gives you freedom to explore the stunning Puglia region beyond Bari. Several rental agencies operate near the port, with prices starting from about £40 per day. Just be prepared for the typical Italian driving style and limited parking in the historic centre.

Bari is also quite walkable, especially the historic centre with its narrow, winding streets. Many visitors find that exploring on foot is the best way to discover hidden gems and soak in the authentic atmosphere of this coastal Italian city.

Your Perfect Adriatic Adventure Awaits

Travelling from Durres to Bari by ferry offers an unforgettable journey across the sparkling Adriatic Sea. With multiple daily sailings operated by Adria Ferries and other carriers, you have the flexibility to choose departure times that suit your schedule—whether you prefer a daytime journey or an overnight crossing.

The shortest crossing takes just 7 hours, giving you more time to explore Bari's historic streets, sample authentic Puglian cuisine, and perhaps venture further into the heel of Italy's boot. With 21 weekly sailings and competitive fares, this route represents one of the most convenient and enjoyable ways to travel between Albania and Italy.

From the moment you set sail from Durres to your arrival in beautiful Bari, every nautical mile of this 155.7-mile journey offers the potential for relaxation and discovery. Book your ferry crossing today and begin your Mediterranean adventure across the Adriatic—where two fascinating cultures await on either shore.