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Getting Around Durres

Getting Around Durres

Durres Albania Travel Guide

Public Transportation

The city's public transport comprises a network of local buses. These buses serve the city center, the extensive main beach area (Plazhi), and surrounding residential neighborhoods.

They offer a cost-effective way to move between different parts of the city. No metro or tram.

Features

  • Local buses are the main system.
  • Serve city center, Plazhi, and neighborhoods.
  • Affordable cash fares.
  • Generally operate from SIX AM to 10 PM.

Routes & Hubs

Bus stops are marked. Destinations are on the front of the bus. Hubs include Sheshi Liria, Amphitheatre area, and Port area.

Fares & Payment

Fares paid in cash to a conductor upon boarding. Single journey: ~40-50 ALL (~0.35-0.45 EUR). No advance tickets.

Accessibility Note

Public buses in Durres are generally not wheelchair accessible. Older models and stop design pose challenges for mobility needs.

Navigating Tips

Practical Advice
  • Have small denominations of Albanian Lek ready.
  • Inquire with locals or conductor for route assistance.
  • Google Maps as general guide (not always real-time).
Frequent Routes
  • City Center to Beach (Plazhi).
  • City Center to Roman Amphitheatre.
  • City Center to Port.

Local Transportation Summary

Buses

Most common, cheapest.

Taxis

Convenient, readily available.

Walking

Best for city center.

Cycling

Great for promenade.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient and readily available option for getting around Durres, especially for direct trips or when you prefer not to use public transport.

Taxi Overview

  • Official taxis are yellow with 'TAXI' sign.
  • Flag down on the street or find at stands (port, main square, hotels).
  • Call a taxi company for pick-up.
  • Cash payment in ALL is most common. Some accept cards.

Fare & Safety Tips

  • Short rides: ~300-500 ALL. City center to Plazhi: ~600-1000 ALL.
  • Agree on fare with driver before starting, especially if no meter.
  • Utilize official, marked taxis. Avoid unmarked vehicles.
  • Bolt app is available, with upfront pricing and trip tracking.

Ride-Sharing & Car Rental Notes

  • Uber is not available in Durres or Albania.
  • Bolt provides safety with trip tracking and driver details.
  • Driving in Albania needs confidence and vigilance.
  • Car rental for exploring beyond the city.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals less common.
  • Bicycle rentals available from some hotels or shops.

Rental Vehicle Types

Cars

Large global companies at TIA and in Durres.

Motorcycles

Available from local shops, especially near the beach.

Bicycles

Some hotels offer rentals, also local shops by the beach.

Walking & Cycling

Many areas are pedestrian-friendly.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • City center is great for walking (Amphitheatre, Museum, Tower).
  • Main promenade (Lungomare) along the beach is highly pedestrian-friendly.
  • Easy walk between major attractions.
  • Enjoy sea views and people-watching.

Walking Tour Options

  • Self-guided tours with maps or travel apps are popular.
  • Local guides for historical insights can be hired.
  • A guided tour enriches understanding of Durres's past.
  • Focus on historical sites or coastal views.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Limited Lanes

Dedicated bicycle limited infrastructure. No extensive bike lane networks.

Cycling mostly for recreation along beach promenade.

Road Safety

Cycling on main roads needs caution due to traffic.

Awareness of surroundings and local driving habits is good.

Safety Tips

Generally safe for pedestrians and cyclists. Exercise caution on busy roads lacking sidewalks.

Avoid poorly lit areas at night. Stick to well-trafficked streets.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Options
  • No hop-on-hop-off buses.
  • Tours for groups day trips use private coaches/minibuses.
  • Dajti Ekspres cable car near Tirana is a popular day trip.
Water & Accessibility
  • Limited boat taxis/water transport for leisure trips.
  • Infrastructure for those with disabilities is limited.
  • Confirm accessibility directly with hotels/operators for mobility needs.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Exercise caution on busy roads lacking sidewalks.
  • Stick to well-trafficked and illuminated streets for safety.
  • Local driving habits may surprise.
  • Unmarked vehicles offering journeys are unsafe.
  • Be cautious of unsolicited help or offers.
  • Some secondary roads are unpaved.
  • If not a confident driver, rely on public transport/taxis.

Getting Around Ease

Durres city center and the main promenade are very walkable. Numerous sights are close.

Public buses offer an affordable option for longer distances.