Driving from Durres to Vlora
Vlora is the largest city in southern Albania and the natural launchpad for the Albanian Riviera. The new bypass that opened in 2025 has dramatically reduced through-traffic in the city centre.
Why book a car in Durres for Vlora
- Every operator is a verified Albanian business — not a foreign reseller.
- Pick up in Durres and drop off in Vlora (confirm with the operator).
- Local 24/7 support in English, Italian and Albanian — no overseas hotline.
Arriving in Vlora
Vlora is the largest city in southern Albania and the natural launchpad for the Albanian Riviera. The new bypass that opened in 2025 has dramatically reduced through-traffic in the city centre.
Toward the Riviera: Llogara Pass
The road south to Dhermi and Himara crosses Llogara at 1,027 m — paved, scenic, and full of switchbacks. Plan 1 hour 15 minutes from Vlora to Dhermi at a calm pace.
The 2025 bypass
Since 2025, the new SH8 bypass routes through traffic outside the city. Use the “Vlorë Qendër” exit for downtown or stay on for “Orikum/Llogara” to skip the city entirely.
Ferry pickup from Brindisi
Ferries from Brindisi (Italy) dock at Vlora port. Our operators meet you at the terminal — share the ferry confirmation when booking.
Other trips from Durres
To Tirana Airport (TIA / Rinas)
Tirana International Airport “Mother Teresa” (TIA) is the country’s main air gateway. Picking up here saves time — 25 minutes puts you in central Tirana or on the highway to Durrës.
To Tirana
Tirana is Albania’s arrival hub: 800,000 residents, busy traffic, and a road network that’s being rebuilt fast. Pick a small car for the city and an SUV only if you’re heading into the mountains.
To Kruja
Kruja is the city of Skanderbeg — a castle 600 m above the sea and an Ottoman bazaar with authentic crafts. It works perfectly as a day trip from Tirana.
To Berat
Berat is the UNESCO “City of a Thousand Windows”. The Mangalem quarter is car-free — leave the vehicle by the Osumi river and walk up to the castle. The cobblestones don’t forgive sudden braking.
To Shkodra
Shkodra is Albania’s northernmost major city and the best base for exploring the Alps (Theth, Valbona). The city itself is flat — bicycles dominate — making it relaxed driving for tourists.
To Pogradec
Pogradec sits on the Albanian shore of Lake Ohrid — one of Europe’s oldest lakes. The lake itself and Tushëmisht (a Byzantine monastery) are the headline attractions. The North Macedonia border is just 5 minutes away.
Questions about Durres → Vlora
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