09/04/2022
Navigating between Albania’s vibrant capital, Tirana, and the historic coastal city of Durres is a common query for many visitors. Whether you're heading to the beach or exploring the bustling city, understanding your transport options is key to a smooth journey. This comprehensive guide, tailored for our UK readers, breaks down everything you need to know about travelling between these two significant Albanian hubs, covering taxis, buses, car rentals, and even the future of train travel.
The journey between Durres and Tirana, or vice versa, is relatively short, making it easily accessible by various means. However, prices and convenience can vary significantly, so it's essential to be well-informed before you set off. We'll delve into the specifics, from estimated taxi fares and bus schedules to the current status of the much-anticipated railway.
Understanding Taxi Fares Between Durres and Tirana
For those prioritising speed and convenience, a taxi is often the preferred choice. The cost of a taxi from Durres to Tirana typically ranges between 40-50 euros. It's important to remember that these are average prices, and individual taxi drivers are independent operators who set their own rates. Always confirm the fare with your driver before beginning your journey to avoid any surprises.
It’s also worth noting the distinction in pricing when travelling to or from Tirana's Nene Tereza International Airport (TIA). The official Tirana Airport Taxi Service, which operates with fixed rates, charges approximately 30-35 euros for a taxi directly from Tirana Airport to Durres. This difference in price is due to the airport's geographical location, which is somewhat closer to Durres than Tirana city centre itself. Therefore, a journey from Tirana city centre to Durres will generally be slightly more expensive, falling within that 40-50 euro bracket.
When hailing a taxi in Albania, especially for intercity travel, it's common practice to negotiate or at least confirm the price upfront. While some taxis may have meters, they are not always used for longer distances, making a pre-agreed fare essential for clarity. Look for official, licensed taxis, usually identifiable by their yellow colour and taxi signs.
| Route | Estimated Taxi Price (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tirana City Centre to Durres | 40-50 | Negotiate fare beforehand |
| Durres to Tirana City Centre | 40-50 | Confirm price with driver |
| Tirana Airport to Durres | 30-35 | Official Airport Taxi Service rate |
| Durres to Tirana Airport | 6 | Specific bus route also available (see below) |
For budget-conscious travellers, the local bus service offers a highly affordable and reliable way to get between Durres and Tirana. Buses are the only operational public transport option for this route at present, given the railway's construction.
Bus Departures from Durres
Buses from Durres to Tirana depart from the Durres Bus Terminal, conveniently located near the Port of Durres. It's crucial to distinguish this from the Plepa Bus Station, which serves routes to southern Albania. The Durres Bus Terminal is easily found and is the primary hub for services to Tirana.
Buses operate frequently throughout the day, ensuring you won't have long to wait. Services run from early morning until late evening, typically between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Departures are scheduled every 30 minutes, making it a very flexible option for spontaneous travel.
A bus ticket from Durres to Tirana costs between 180-250 Leke (approximately 1.80-2.50 euros) per person. It is vital to know that you must pay for your ticket in cash directly to the bus driver upon boarding. There is no option to book tickets online in advance, as bus operators do not have websites or online booking systems. Therefore, always ensure you have a small amount of Albanian Lek (ALL) or small euro notes with you.
The journey duration by bus from Durres to Tirana is usually around 40 minutes. However, this can extend to approximately 1 hour, especially during peak hours or heavy traffic on the SH2 highway, which connects the two cities.
Arriving at Tirana Bus Terminal
Upon arrival, the bus from Durres will drop you off at the Tirana Bus Terminal North and South Albania. This terminal is situated outside the city centre, in the Kamez neighbourhood, near the Casa Italia Mega Outlet. From here, you'll need to take a local city bus or a short taxi ride to reach the heart of Tirana.
To catch a city bus to the centre, exit the terminal and cross the street to the petrol station opposite. There's a bus stop there, usually indicated by a sign for 'Terminal Hotel'. Look for a bus heading towards 'Qender', which means 'city centre' in Albanian. These buses will take you to Skanderbeg Square, the central point of Tirana.
Bus to Tirana Airport from Durres
For those needing to reach Tirana Airport directly from Durres, there's a dedicated bus service. This bus also departs from the Durres Bus Terminal. A ticket for this route costs 600 Leke (approximately 6 euros) per person. These buses are operated by Adis Travel and run at specific times throughout the day, typically at 8:00, 9:30, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, and 19:00, every day of the week.
Car Rental: Freedom and Flexibility
Renting a car offers the ultimate flexibility for exploring Albania at your own pace. You can pick up a rental car at Tirana Airport or within Durres city centre. The cost for a basic rental car typically starts from 20-25 euros per day. However, this price can fluctuate significantly, particularly during the peak tourist season.
During July and August, which are the busiest months for tourism, car rental rates can be considerably higher. It's not uncommon for prices to jump, and basic economy cars may be fully booked, leaving only more expensive options available. Therefore, it is highly recommended to contact several car rental companies at Tirana Airport or in Durres well in advance of your travel dates to secure the best deal. Many tourists have reported paying 50-70 euros per day during peak times, underscoring the importance of early booking and research.
Some example starting prices from various car rental companies at Tirana Airport include:
- Albania Airport Rent a Car: 20 euros/day (manual Skoda Fabia 2018)
- Avis Rent a Car Tirana Airport: 20 euros/day (manual Opel Corsa)
- Pepa Rent a Car Tirana Airport: 20 euros/day (economy car)
- RCA Rent a Car in Albania Tirana Airport: 15 euros/day (small manual car like Mitsubishi Spacestar)
- Green Motion Rent Car Tirana Airport: 15 euros/day (economy category)
- Viaggia Rent Tirana Airport: 18 euros/day (manual Fiat Panda 2023)
- ARA Auto Rental Tirana Airport: 17 euros/day (small manual car)
- G Rentals Tirana Airport: 20 euros/day (Dacia Stepway)
- Sixt Car Rental Tirana Airport: 15 euros/day (Mitsubishi Space Star)
The drive from Durres to Tirana takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, particularly on the main SH2 highway. This highway directly connects Durres, Tirana Airport, and Tirana.
Important Driving Warning for Foreigners
While renting a car offers freedom, it's crucial to address the driving experience in Albania. Albanian drivers often have a chaotic and sometimes aggressive style. Road rules can be interpreted loosely, and defensive driving is essential. If you have any doubts about your ability to navigate such conditions, it is strongly advised to opt for a taxi or bus. Your safety should always be the top priority.
Train Travel: Under Construction
As of early 2025, the new railway line connecting Durres, Tirana Airport, and Tirana is still under construction and not yet operational. While you can observe the railway works alongside the main highway, there is currently no set opening date. This means that at present, it is not possible to travel from Durres to Tirana by train. The local bus remains the only public transport option available for this route.
Distance and Travel Time Explained
The distance between Durres and Tirana is approximately 38 kilometres by car, primarily via the SH2 highway. As mentioned, the travel time typically ranges from 45 to 60 minutes. However, this can vary due to several factors:
- Traffic Conditions: The SH2 highway can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, holiday seasons, and the summer months, which can significantly extend journey times.
- Exact Location in Durres: Durres is a long city stretching along the coastline. The city centre and the Port of Durres are closest to Tirana via the highway. However, areas like Durres Beach and Golem Beach are further south, adding a bit more time to your journey. Traffic along the coastal roads in these areas can also be very heavy during summer, as many Tirana residents and tourists head to the beaches.
Is Durres Worth Visiting?
The decision of whether to visit Durres largely depends on your travel itinerary and priorities. Durres Beach is highly convenient due to its proximity to Tirana city and Tirana Airport. If you're based in Tirana with limited time and wish for a quick day trip to the coast, Durres is an excellent choice.
However, it's important to note that Albania's most beautiful and pristine beaches are generally found along the Albanian Riviera, in the south of the country. This coastline stretches from Vlore down to Saranda and Ksamil. These southern beaches are much further from Tirana, requiring a longer journey (e.g., 2.5-3 hours to Vlore, 5+ hours to Saranda via inland routes, or 8-10 hours via the scenic coastal road). If your itinerary includes exploring the Albanian Riviera, you might find Durres's beaches less appealing in comparison and could consider skipping it.
In summary, if you have only a day or two in Tirana and seek a nearby coastal escape, Durres, Golem, or the Bay of Lalzi offer convenient options. If you're embarking on a more extensive tour of Albania's coastline, your focus might naturally shift to the stunning southern riviera.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get from Tirana to Durres by bus?
Buses from Tirana to Durres depart from the Tirana Bus Terminal North and South Albania, located outside the city centre. Services run frequently between 6:00 AM and 9:15 PM. A bus ticket costs 180-250 Leke (1.80-2.50 euros) per person, payable in cash directly to the driver.
How much is a taxi from Tirana to Durres?
A taxi from Tirana city centre to Durres will typically cost between 40-50 euros. While the official Tirana Airport taxi service charges 30-35 euros for a taxi from Tirana Airport to Durres, the city centre is further away, leading to a slightly higher fare. Always agree on the price with the driver before commencing your journey.
How do I get from Tirana Airport to Durres by bus?
There is a direct bus service from Tirana Airport to Durres. Buses depart from the airport at specific times: 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:30, 17:00, 19:00, and 21:00. A bus ticket costs 600 Leke (6 euros) per person, payable in cash. These services are operated by Adis Travel.
Can I pay for my bus ticket with a credit card?
No, bus tickets in Albania, including those for the Durres to Tirana route, must be paid for in cash directly to the bus driver upon boarding. It is advisable to carry some Albanian Lek (ALL) or small euro notes for this purpose.
Are there night buses between Durres and Tirana?
Based on the provided timetable, the last bus from Durres to Tirana departs at 10:00 PM (22:00). There are no indicated night buses beyond this time. If you need to travel late, a taxi would be your only option.
By understanding these transport options, you're well-equipped to plan your travel between Tirana and Durres efficiently and confidently, ensuring a pleasant journey in Albania.
If you want to read more articles similar to Tirana & Durres: Your UK Guide to Taxi Travel, you can visit the Transport category.