Rental car desks at Tirana International Airport (TIA) are Car rental desks are in the arrivals hall of the terminal, near the exit. The rental car park is in the parking area directly in front of the terminal, a 2-minute walk.. Major companies include Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise, Albania Rent a Car. The fastest transfer to Tirana is by Rinas Express Bus (25 minutes).
Car rental desks are in the arrivals hall of the terminal, near the exit. The rental car park is in the parking area directly in front of the terminal, a 2-minute walk.
Book your rental car at TIA at least 2-3 weeks ahead for the best prices, especially during summer.
Compare prices from all companies at TIA to find the best deal:
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| Transport | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rinas Express Bus | 25 minutes | ALL 400 (EUR 4) | Direct bus to Skanderbeg Square in Tirana center; runs every hour |
| Taxi | 20 minutes | ALL 2,500-3,000 (EUR 25-30) | Fixed-rate taxis from the official rank; agree on price before departure |
| Private Transfer | 20 minutes | EUR 20-30 | Pre-booked services popular with international visitors |
| Hotel Shuttle | 20-30 minutes | Free-EUR 15 | Some Tirana hotels offer airport transfers on request |
Tirana International Airport Nene Tereza is Albania's only international airport, located in Rinas, about 17 km northwest of the capital Tirana. As Albania grows rapidly as a tourist destination, the airport has expanded to handle over 3 million passengers per year, with new routes from across Europe.
A rental car is one of the best ways to explore Albania, a country that has remained relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. The Albanian Riviera — a string of stunning beaches and traditional villages along the Ionian coast — is the main draw, while the UNESCO-listed Ottoman towns of Berat and Gjirokaster, the ancient ruins at Butrint, and the dramatic Albanian Alps in the north offer extraordinary diversity.
Driving in Albania requires patience and alertness. The main highways (A1 to Kosovo, A2 south) are modern, but once you leave them, road quality drops and driving standards can be challenging. Despite this, the rewards of road-tripping through Albania — dramatic mountain passes, crystal-clear rivers, and some of the Mediterranean's most unspoiled coastline — are well worth the effort.
Main highways are safe and modern. Secondary roads require caution due to potholes, wandering livestock, and erratic local driving. Avoid driving at night on rural roads.
Sarande is about 280 km south (4-5 hours). The new A2 highway shortens the first section, but the Llogara Pass section is a winding mountain road with spectacular views.
Many companies allow travel to Montenegro and North Macedonia. Confirm at booking and expect a cross-border fee of EUR 20-30.
Albania accepts EU licences. For non-EU visitors, an IDP is officially required alongside your national licence.
The Valbona and Theth valleys are stunning but require a capable vehicle and confidence on rough roads. The road to Theth has been improved but remains adventurous. Some sections may require 4WD, especially in wet conditions.
Country-by-country driving requirements, packing list, and emergency contacts — all in one PDF.
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