Ferry from Bari to Durres

Bari Guide

The Italian city of Bari, located in the province of Bari, lies on the Adriatic Sea coast. The town is perhaps best known for its university and sea port. There are many visitor attractions in the city including the Basilica di San Nicola which was established in the 11th century to receive the remains of Saint Nicolas which are now located beneath the church's altar in the crypt. Also worth a visit is Bari Cathedral which was constructed between 1034 and 1178 and is dedicated to Saint Sabinus of Canosa.

Bari's port is one of the most important in the region and provides a hub for sea traffic between Italy and the Middle East and Balkan regions. The port has two harbours. The Old Port is located closest to the old city and is mainly used for small boats and fishing vessels. The modern new port offers passengers destinations including Durres, Igoumenitsa, Cephalonia, Corfu, Patras, Kotor and Dubrovnik. Crossings to Corfu take 8 hours and are only available during the summer months. Services to Igoumenitsa take 9 hours and 30 minutes and also operate during the summer. The New Port is modern and offers both short-term and long-term parking options.

Durres Guide

Located on the west coast of Albania is the town of Durres and lies on the Adriatic Sea coast. The town is situated around 35 km from Tirana, the Albanian capital, and 30 km from Tirana International Airport. Durres is also only around 300 km from the Italian ports of Bari and 200 km from Brindisi as it lies on the coast of one of the narrowest sections of the Adriatic Sea. The town can trace its origins back to 627 BC and is home to the Durres Ancient City Wall also called Durres Castle, and the largest amphitheatre in the Balkans which is located close to the town's harbour. At the time of writing the amphitheatre, which is a 1st century construction, is under consideration for being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other important, and popular, buildings and institutions in the town include its main library, the cultural centre with the Aleksander Moisiu Theatre, the Estrada Theatre and the Philharmonic Orchestra. There are also several museums such as the Durrës Archaeological Museum, Royal Villa of Durrës and the Museum of History (the house of Aleksandër Moisiu).

Which is better Bari or Durres?

Bari and Durres are both popular destinations in the Balkans, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Bari, located in southern Italy, is a bustling port city known for its historic sites, such as the Basilica di San Nicola and the Swabian Castle. It offers a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and restaurants, and is also famous for its delicious seafood. Bari is well-connected by ferry to other Italian cities and neighboring countries, making it a convenient hub for exploring the region. On the other hand, Durres, located in Albania, is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, such as Plepa and Golem. It boasts a rich history, with landmarks like the Durres Amphitheatre and the Archaeological Museum. Durres also offers a lively atmosphere, with beach clubs and a vibrant nightlife scene. Additionally, it is a gateway to explore other parts of Albania, such as the capital city of Tirana and the Albanian Riviera.

Ultimately, the choice between Bari and Durres depends on individual preferences. Bari offers a mix of Italian culture and history, while Durres provides an opportunity to experience Albanian hospitality and natural beauty. Both cities offer unique experiences, and visitors can choose based on their interests and the type of vacation they are seeking.

How many days in Durres is enough?

The number of days you should spend in Durres depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do. For a relaxing beach vacation, 3-4 days may be sufficient to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. If you want to explore the city's historical and cultural attractions, consider staying for 5-7 days. Durres is home to the ancient Roman amphitheater, the Archaeological Museum, and the Venetian Tower, among other sites worth visiting. Additionally, you can take day trips to nearby attractions like the Cape of Rodon or the city of Tirana. Ultimately, the ideal duration of your stay in Durres will vary based on your preferences and itinerary.