Tirana International Airport (TIA) → Durrës transfer
From Tirana Airport to Durrës is 31 km, a drive of about 36–45 minutes, and a private car usually costs around €30–40, a minivan around €45–60.
- From
- Tirana International Airport (TIA)
- To
- Durrës
- Distance
- 31 km
- Typical drive
- 36–45 min
Durrës is Albania's main port and one of its oldest cities, with a long sandy shoreline stretching south-east of the centre. It is often quicker to reach from TIA than Tirana itself, because most of the trip is on the motorway rather than in city traffic. Your driver takes you to your hotel, apartment or the ferry terminal.
The route to the coast
After leaving Rinas, the driver joins the Tirana–Durrës motorway, the busiest road in the country, and heads west across the flat coastal plain. Traffic moves well for most of the day, though summer weekends bring heavy beach traffic towards the coast in the morning and back to Tirana in the evening.
At the edge of Durrës the road splits towards the city centre and the port or along the coast to the beach hotels.
Old town or beach strip
- Centre and old town
- Close to the Roman amphitheatre, the Venetian tower and the seafront promenade. Good for travellers who want restaurants and history within walking distance.
- Beach hotels south-east of the centre
- A long row of hotels and apartments lines the sand towards Golem. Popular with families and diaspora visitors in July and August.
- Port area
- Ferries link Durrës with Italian ports such as Bari and Ancona. If you are going straight to a sailing, tell the provider your departure time.
Families and summer arrivals
Durrës is a classic summer destination for families, so many bookings include pushchairs, beach umbrellas and several large cases. A minivan is the comfortable choice for a family of four or more with that kind of luggage. Child seats can be requested when booking.
In peak season, beach hotels can be busy at check-in time. Giving the exact hotel name and address helps the driver go directly to the right building on a long, similar-looking seafront.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go from Tirana Airport straight to the Durrës ferry port?
Yes. Mention your ferry departure time when booking so the provider can plan the pickup with enough margin for the check-in at the port.
How long is the drive from TIA to the Durrës beach hotels?
Typically 36–45 minutes for the 31 km. Hotels further along the beach towards Golem can take a little longer.
Is Durrës a good base without a car?
The centre and seafront are walkable, and buses connect Durrës with Tirana. Many visitors only need transfers to and from the airport.
How much is a minivan from Tirana Airport to Durrës?
Usually around €45–60 for up to about seven passengers. The exact price is shown before you book and does not change for traffic.
More transfers from Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza
Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza: arrival and transfer guide