Traveling from Tirana International Airport (TIA) to the city center is easy and convenient, with multiple transport options available to suit different budgets and preferences. If you are wondering how to get from Tirana airport to city center, this guide will cover all the options available. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes, and you can choose between shuttle buses, taxis, car rentals, and private transfers. Keep reading to discover how to get from Tirana airport to city center quickly, easily, and affordably.
| Option | Price | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | €20-25 | 20-25 min | Direct, available 24/7 |
| Shuttle Bus (Rinas Express) | €4 | 30-40 min | Every hour |
| Car Rental | Varies | 20-25 min | Good for exploring |
| Private Transfer | €25-30 | 20-25 min | Pre-booked service |
Best Ways to Get from Tirana Airport to Tirana City Center
1. Airport Shuttle Bus (Rinas Express)
Best for: Budget travelers and those looking for an affordable and reliable option.
LU-NA shpk offers a shuttle service that operates 24/7 between TIA and Tirana city center. The bus is stationed behind the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, near Skanderbeg Square.
- Departure Location: Outside the airport terminal.
- Service Hours:
- Tirana to Airport: 24/7
- Airport to Tirana: 24/7
- Frequency: Every hour, departing on the hour.
- Price: 400 Albanian Lek (ALL) per trip.
- Booking: Book your ticket here
- Tip: Carry local currency (ALL) as some buses may not accept cards.
View the bus station location in Tirana
2. Taxi Services
Best for: Comfort, convenience, and travelers with heavy luggage.
Taxis are available 24/7 outside the airport terminal and offer a direct and comfortable option to reach the city center within 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. If you are considering a taxi from Tirana Airport to City Center, various options are available at competitive prices.
Price: Typically 2,500 – 3,000 ALL (around €20-25), if you take Official Tirana Airport Taxi (yellow cabs with the airport logo). However, if you book via taxi apps or websites, you can find rates as low as €10-15.
Here are some of the most popular taxi companies in Tirana with competitive prices:
- Lux Taxi
- Tirana to Airport: 1,100 ALL (€11)
- Airport to Tirana: 1,300 ALL (€13)
- Book here or via Taxi Lux App
- Blue Taxi
- Tirana to Airport: 1,100 ALL (€11)
- Airport to Tirana: 1,300 ALL (€13)
- Book via WhatsApp
- Green Taxi
- Tirana to Airport: 1,200 ALL (€12)
- Airport to Tirana: 1,200 ALL (€12)
- Round trip (with 30-min wait): 1,800 ALL (€18)
- Book via WhatsApp
- City Taxi
- Tirana to Airport: 1,000 ALL (€10)
- Airport to Tirana: 1,200 ALL (€12)
- Book here
- Smart Taxi
- Tirana to Airport: 1,200 ALL (€12)
- Airport to Tirana: 1,200 ALL (€12)
- Round trip (with 30-min wait): 1,800 ALL (€18)
- Book via WhatsApp
Tip: Pre-book your taxi to avoid waiting times. Upon arrival, you may need to walk 5 minutes to the taxi area, as only authorized taxis can enter the terminal zone.
3. Car Rental
Best for: Travelers planning to explore beyond Tirana.
Renting a car from the airport allows you to explore Albania at your own pace. Various international and local rental agencies are available at the airport, offering different vehicles to suit your needs. This is another convenient way to travel from Tirana Airport to City Center.
- Price: Starting from €25 per day
- Requirements: Valid driver’s license, credit card for deposit, and passport.
- Duration: 20-30 minutes drive to the city center.
Check available car rental companies here
Tip: Book your rental in advance to secure better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
4. Private Transfer Services
Best for: Groups, families, and travelers looking for a hassle-free experience.
Private transfer services provide a stress-free way to get to your accommodation in Tirana. Many hotels also offer private airport transfers upon request.
Tip: Ideal for those traveling in groups who prefer door-to-door service.
5. Currency Exchange at the Airport
Currency exchange offices are available at the airport; however, their rates are usually higher compared to city exchange agencies.
Insider Tip: Bring some cash euros to pay for your transport and first-night stay. Once settled, find a currency exchange agency in the city for better rates. We suggest Iliria98
Whether you prefer an affordable bus ride, a convenient taxi, or a car rental for extended exploration, Tirana Airport offers various options to suit every traveler’s needs. Plan your transport in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free arrival in the city.
If you are interested in car rentals, check this link: Car Rentals in Tirana: Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
