Getting Around Albania from Tirana Airport to Durrës and the Albanian Riviera

Planning a trip to Albania? Here’s how to navigate Tirana, what to know about taking taxis in the capital, and the best ways to get from Tirana International Airport to coastal towns like Durrës and Vlorë.

Getting Around Albania from Tirana to the Coast

Albania may be Europe’s best-kept travel secret — for now. With turquoise Adriatic beaches, rugged mountain ranges, and an increasingly vibrant capital, the country has quietly become a favorite among adventurous travelers, digital nomads, and summer seekers.

But while Albania’s natural beauty is getting the global spotlight, its transportation system remains a bit of an enigma, especially for first-time visitors. How do you find a reliable taxi in Tirana? How do you get from the airport to the coast without losing your mind — or your luggage?

Here’s what you need to know about taking taxis in Albania, navigating Tirana’s transport maze, and traveling to Durrës or Vlorëstraight from the airport.

Taxi Travel in Tirana: What to Expect

Tirana, Albania’s bustling and often chaotic capital, is surprisingly compact. Most of the city center is walkable, but when time or distance call for a ride, taxis become essential.

What You Should Know:

• Taxis are widely available, especially in the city center and around key areas like Skanderbeg Square, Blloku, and major hotels.
• Fares are relatively affordable, but don’t expect standardized rates across all drivers.
• Cash is still king, though some newer services offer card payments or app-based bookings.
• English isn’t guaranteed, especially with older drivers, so it’s helpful to have your destination written down or shown on a map.

Taxi Recommendations in Tirana

While you’ll find dozens of taxis on the streets, not all are created equal. For a smooth experience, especially if you’re arriving from abroad or heading on a longer journey, it’s best to choose services known for reliability, transparent pricing, and clean vehicles.

Recommended Options:

• Bee Taxi Tirana
  One of the most trusted taxi services in the capital, Bee Taxi offers app-based booking, English-speaking drivers, and a fleet that includes electric vehicles. It’s ideal for airport pickups, in-city rides, or longer transfers to places like Durrës or Vlorë.
• UPs Taxi Tirana
  A long-standing local option, UPs offers prompt service and can often be booked by phone. It’s a solid backup if apps aren’t working.
• Speed Taxi Tirana
  Another reputable choice with a clear pricing model and quick response times. Better for local rides than long-distance transfers.

Pro Tip: Avoid unofficial or unmetered taxis, especially near the airport or major tourist attractions. They may overcharge or negotiate fares on the spot.

Tirana International Airport (TIA): Your Albanian Landing Pad

Rinas, as it’s locally known, is Albania’s only international airport — and the primary gateway for most visitors. It’s located about 17 kilometers from the city center, and roughly 30–35 km from Durrës, or 160 km from Vlorë.

Once you land, your travel options depend largely on how far you’re going and how much time (or patience) you have.

How to Get from Tirana Airport to Durrës

1. Taxi (Best for Convenience)

A taxi from Tirana Airport to Durrës takes about 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.

• Expected cost: €35–€45 (or 3,500–4,500 ALL)
• Recommended providers: Bee Taxi Tirana (can be pre-booked), or airport-licensed taxis outside the terminal.

This is the best option if you’re traveling with luggage, arriving late, or heading directly to a hotel or Airbnb.

2. Private Transfer Services

Available via travel agencies or hotel concierge desks. They typically cost a bit more (€50–€60) but include meet-and-greet service, larger vehicles, and Wi-Fi on board.

3. Bus (Budget Option)

There’s a direct airport shuttle (LU-NA shpk) between Tirana Airport and Durrës, running several times a day.

• Travel time: ~1 hour
• Cost: Around €5
• Downside: Limited luggage space, and you’ll still need to get from the bus station in Durrës to your accommodation.

How to Get from Tirana Airport to Vlorë

Vlorë is farther — about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive, depending on traffic and weather. The views along the way are spectacular, especially once you hit the coastal road.

1. Taxi or Private Transfer

The easiest (and most comfortable) way to get from Tirana Airport to Vlorë is by taxi or private transfer.

• Expected cost: €80–€100
• Recommended for: Families, groups, or those arriving with late-night flights.

You can pre-arrange this with services like Bee Taxi Tirana or through your hotel.

2. Bus

There is no direct bus from the airport to Vlorë. You’d need to take a shuttle into Tirana, then catch a long-distance bus to Vlorë.

• Total travel time: 4–5 hours
• Cost: Around €10–€15 in total
• Not ideal if: You have luggage, are jetlagged, or don’t speak Albanian.

Final Tips for Taxi Travel in Albania

• Always ask the price before the ride if there’s no meter.
• Google Maps or Waze are commonly used for navigation — don’t hesitate to follow the route along.
• Tipping is appreciated but not expected. Rounding up the fare is usually enough.
• Rideshare apps are limited, so download local taxi apps or get a SIM card on arrival to call or message drivers directly.

Albania’s Roads Are Calling

Whether you’re racing toward the beaches of Durrës or winding your way down the coast to Vlorë, how you get there shapes your story. In Albania, a country that still values conversation, spontaneity, and human connection, the journey can be just as rewarding as the destination.

Choose your ride wisely — and enjoy the ride.