AlbaniaLocal

Getting from Tirana airport to the coast

Albania has one main airport and a long drive to the beaches. Here is how to do it without losing a day.

[Intro paragraph — replace me.] Tirana International Airport (TIA) is in the north of the country; the Riviera is in the far south. There is no train and no direct airport bus to the coast, so you are choosing between a private transfer, a hire car, or a bus from the city. For two or more people arriving in the evening, a fixed-price private car is usually the least painful option.

Typical journeys from the airport

[Replace times with your own experience.] Times are for a private car in normal traffic; add an hour in August.

Your three options

  • Private transfer. Fixed price agreed in advance, driver waits at arrivals with your name, drops you at your hotel door. Best for evening arrivals, families and groups. Book through the partner tool below.
  • Hire car. Freedom to stop at the Blue Eye and Gjirokastër on the way down. Roads have improved a lot, but expect mountain passes and casual local driving. Pick up at the airport; most rental desks are in the terminal.
  • Bus. Cheapest by far. Shuttle to Tirana's south bus terminal, then a coach to Sarandë (roughly 5–6 hours) or Vlorë (about 3 hours). Schedules are informal — ask at the station and confirm the departure point the day before.

Arriving from Corfu instead

Many people reach Sarandë by ferry from Corfu (Greece) in 30–70 minutes rather than driving down from Tirana. If you are only doing the south, flying to Corfu and taking the boat is often quicker. The ferry port is in the centre of Sarandë, a short walk from most hotels.

Book a fixed-price transfer

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