Arriving at Tirana Airport: What to Do When You Land

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, often just called Rinas, is Albania's main airport and the arrival point for most visitors. It sits about 17 km northwest of the city centre. The terminal is compact and easy to get through, and a little preparation makes the first hour of your trip much smoother.

Getting Cash

Albania's currency is the lek. Euros are accepted in many hotels and some restaurants on the coast, but you will need lek for small shops, cafés, buses and anywhere outside the main tourist areas. There are bank ATMs in the arrivals area. Expect a withdrawal fee charged by the local bank on top of anything your own bank charges, so taking out a larger amount once usually works out better than several small withdrawals. Cards are widely accepted in Tirana, less so in villages.

Getting a SIM Card

The two main mobile networks, One and Vodafone, both sell tourist SIM cards with generous data bundles at the airport. Bring your passport, as it is needed to register the SIM. If your phone supports eSIM, buying one online before you travel saves the queue. Albania is not in the EU, so EU roaming allowances do not apply: check with your provider before relying on your home plan.

Getting into the City

Airport bus

A shuttle bus runs between the airport and the city centre, stopping beside Skanderbeg Square. It leaves roughly once an hour and the journey takes 30–45 minutes, longer at rush hour. It is the cheapest option, a few euros per person, and works well if you are travelling light, arriving in daytime and staying centrally.

Official airport taxi

Official taxis wait outside the terminal and charge a set fare to central Tirana. The airport currently lists it at about 2,200 lek. Use the branded airport taxis rather than drivers who approach you inside the terminal.

Pre-booked private transfer

A private transfer costs more than the taxi for a short ride into Tirana (from €29 per car with us), but your driver meets you at arrivals with your name on a sign, the price is fixed when you book, and you pay on arrival. It makes the most sense when you land late at night, travel with children or lots of luggage, or are going further than Tirana.

Heading Straight to the Coast?

Many visitors skip Tirana and go straight to the Riviera or Berat. There is no direct bus from the airport to the south: buses leave from Tirana's city bus terminals, so you would first need to get into town. A direct transfer is usually the simplest choice for these longer journeys:

• Durrës: about 40 minutes, from €39
• Berat: about 2 hours, from €109
• Vlorë: 2–2.5 hours, from €139
• Sarandë: 4.5–5 hours, from €199

All prices are per car, not per person. Our guide to getting from Tirana Airport to Sarandë compares every option for the longest route in detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Tirana Airport from the city centre?

About 17 km. The drive takes 20 to 30 minutes, longer at rush hour.

How much is a taxi from Tirana Airport to the centre?

Official airport taxis charge a set fare, listed by the airport at about 2,200 lek. A pre-booked private transfer starts from €29 per car and includes meet and greet at arrivals.

Is there a bus from Tirana Airport?

Yes. A shuttle bus runs roughly hourly to the city centre near Skanderbeg Square and costs a few euros. There is no direct bus from the airport to the coast.

Can I pay in euros in Albania?

Sometimes, in hotels and tourist areas, but the currency is the lek and you will need it for most everyday purchases. There are ATMs in the arrivals hall.