Ferries to Albania – Schedules, Offers and Online Booking
Albania, known as the Land of the Eagles, is located on the Balkan Peninsula and is washed by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. It is increasingly popular with travelers in every season, thanks to its beaches, authentic landscapes, and historic towns. Traveling from Italy by ferry is a convenient and comfortable solution, especially from Ancona or Bari, the main ports for connections to Durres and other destinations along the Albanian coast. Traveling by sea is relaxing and allows you to bring your car, perfect for exploring the country freely.
🔍 Table of Contents
🌊 Ferry Connections with Albania
Traveling by ferry from Italy to Albania is easy and convenient, with regular routes connecting the main Italian ports to Albanian ports. These connections allow both vehicles and foot passengers, ensuring flexibility and comfort.
Active Routes
The Italy–Albania routes offer comfort, flexibility, and convenience for all types of travelers. The main connections arrive at Durres, easily reachable from the capital Tirana and other coastal destinations.
- Bari → Durres: daily departures all year, 7–9 hours; evening and daytime departures in summer. Ideal for travelers from Puglia or nearby areas.
- Ancona → Durres: mainly in high season, 8–11 hours; evening departures arriving next morning. Perfect for travelers from central and northern Italy seeking a scenic crossing.
Main Ferry Companies
Grandi Navi Veloci: Bari → Durres; modern ships, cabins and seats, restaurants, lounges, family and accessibility services.
Adria Ferries: Bari → Durres and Ancona → Durres; comfortable cabins, restaurants and bars, lounges and relaxation areas, accessibility services.
Onboard Services
- 🛌 Cabins and seats, including family options
- 🍽 Restaurants, bars, and self-service
- 💺 Lounges and relaxation areas
- 📶 Wi-Fi and entertainment
- 🐶 Pet-friendly cabins (limited availability)
- ♿ Accessibility services for passengers with reduced mobility
💸 Fares & Offers
Ferry fares to Albania vary depending on the season, type of accommodation, and presence of a vehicle. To help you save, various promotions are available:
- Seasonal promotions: offers active during specific periods or holidays.
- Early bookings: save by booking well in advance.
- Vehicle offers: discounts on cars, campers, and motorcycles for a more convenient trip.
🚢 Check-in & Boarding
Before departure, check the procedures of your chosen company:
- Boarding pass: collect at the ticket office before departure.
- Required documents: all passengers must present a valid ID or passport.
- Recommended arrival time: at least 30 minutes before departure for foot passengers; at least 45–60 minutes for vehicles. For long routes to Sardinia, Corsica, or Sicily: 1 hour for foot passengers, 2 hours for vehicles.
🌍 Travel Tips
Durres is the gateway to Albania: its seaside promenade, lined with cafes, ice cream shops, and the Old Port, is perfect for a stroll. Tirana, about 35 km away, is worth visiting for Skanderbeg Square, the National Historical Museum, and BunkArt2.
🌴 For those seeking sea and relaxation, the Albanian Riviera is a must-visit. Towns such as Dhermi, Jale, and Himara offer white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ideal settings for water sports, boat trips, or simply enjoying the sun. Spring is perfect for tranquility and mild temperatures, while summer lets you fully enjoy the beach climate.
🍴 The Albanian cuisine reflects Mediterranean tradition and is rich and genuine: specialties include byrek, fërgesë, and fresh fish served at port-side taverns. Local raki is often offered at the end of meals, and markets provide fresh fruit, cheese, and typical products to bring home a taste of Albania.
ℹ Practical information: the currency is Albanian Lek (ALL), drive on the right, caution advised on secondary roads, especially at night. Albanian is the main language; English and Italian are widely spoken in tourist areas.
❓ FAQ
- Do I need a passport? For EU citizens, a valid ID card for travel abroad is sufficient.
- Can I travel with pets? Yes, but rules vary depending on the company. Pets can usually travel in pet-friendly cabins (very limited number), on the ship's kennels, or on the open deck. They are not allowed in restaurants or passenger lounges. Check the dedicated pages of GNV and Adria Ferries for more information.
- Can I modify or cancel my ticket? Yes, according to the conditions of the company chosen at the time of booking.
- Can I travel while pregnant? Yes, it is possible to travel by ferry during pregnancy, but it is advisable to carry a medical certificate confirming your health and the stage of pregnancy, especially after the 28th week. Check the company’s page or contact us for more information.
FERRIES TO ALBANIA
Destinations 
