How to Get From Tirana Airport to the City Centre and Beyond (2025)
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Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA), also known simply as Tirana Airport or Rinas Airport, is the main gateway to Albania. Located around 17 kilometers northwest of Tirana, this compact yet modern airport has undergone major upgrades in recent years, welcoming millions of visitors exploring Albania's coastline, mountain villages, and historic towns. Whether you're arriving for the first time or flying home after an Albanian adventure, this guide will help you navigate everything you need to know about Tirana Airport — from arrivals and transportation to facilities and insider tips.
Table of Contents
Arriving at Tirana International Airport
Tirana International Airport is relatively small and easy to navigate, which makes arrivals straightforward. Once you land, you'll pass through immigration — usually quite fast for EU and UK travelers — and proceed to baggage claim. Signs are in both Albanian and English, and the layout is simple enough that you'll rarely lose your way.
After collecting your luggage, you'll enter the arrivals hall, where you'll find ATMs, currency exchange desks, SIM card vendors, car rental offices, and transport counters. It's best to avoid exchanging large sums of money at the airport, as the rates tend to be less favorable than in Tirana itself. If you need immediate cash, ATMs are available near the exit — they dispense Albanian lek (ALL).
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and there are several cafés if you need a coffee before hitting the road. Travelers have noted that security and passport control are efficient, though queues can form during peak summer months (June–August).
Money Exchange & Currency Tips for Albania
One of the first things travelers notice upon arriving in Albania is that the Albanian lek (ALL) is a restricted currency, meaning it can't be legally purchased or exchanged outside the country — and you'll need to spend or exchange it before leaving.
There are several ways to get lek once you land at Tirana International Airport:
- ATMs (Recommended): The easiest and most cost-effective option is to withdraw cash directly from ATMs in the arrivals hall or outside the terminal. Machines from major banks such as Credins Bank, Raiffeisen Bank, and BKT are reliable and dispense lek. Always choose to be charged in lek (not euros) when prompted to avoid poor conversion rates from dynamic currency conversion (DCC).
- Currency Exchange Desks: There are a few exchange offices inside the airport terminal, but their rates tend to be less favorable than those in Tirana city center. These are best used for small sums — just enough for your taxi, bus fare, or a quick snack.
- Using Euros: In tourist areas, euros are often accepted for larger transactions like hotels, car rentals, or private transfers, though change will usually be given in lek. Smaller shops, cafés, and local buses generally prefer cash in lek only.
It's also worth noting that Albanian lek cannot be converted back into euros once you leave the country, so aim to spend what you withdraw before departing. If you have extra, use it at the airport cafés or duty-free stores, or tip drivers and hotel staff — Albanians deeply appreciate small gestures of gratitude.
For frequent travelers, consider using a Wise or Revolut card, which allows you to withdraw lek at interbank rates and avoid heavy ATM or exchange fees.
How to Get From Tirana Airport to the City Centre
The airport is connected to Tirana by a few easy transport options — including buses, taxis, and private transfers. The journey to the city takes 25 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Airport Bus (Luna Travel)
The Luna Travel Shuttle Bus is the cheapest and most convenient public transport option. It runs every hour on the hour between the airport and Tirana's main bus terminal at Skanderbeg Square (behind the National Museum).
- Price: 400 lek (€4) per person, one way
- Duration: Around 30–40 minutes
- Operating hours: From 6:00 AM to midnight (airport → city) and from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM (city → airport)
- Tickets: Purchased directly on the bus in cash (euros often accepted)
The bus is clean, air-conditioned, and reliable — perfect for solo travelers or anyone on a budget.
Taxi
Official Tirana Airport Taxi Service is available right outside the arrivals terminal. These bright-yellow taxis are operated by the licensed company “Auto Holiday Albania.”
- Price: Around 2,000–2,500 lek (€18–22) to the city center
- Duration: 20–25 minutes depending on traffic
- Payment: Cash or card (confirm before departure)
Taxis are metered, though drivers sometimes prefer to quote a flat fare. For peace of mind, agree on the price beforehand or pre-book a transfer through a reliable provider like Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer. Avoid unmarked taxis soliciting rides inside the terminal.
Private Transfer or Hotel Pickup
For those arriving late or traveling with luggage, booking a private airport transfer in advance is often the most comfortable option. These drivers meet you in the arrivals hall with a name sign and drop you directly at your hotel or apartment. Prices range between €25–30, which can be economical if traveling in a group or family. Many hotels in Tirana also offer their own transfer service for a similar rate — check when booking.
Car Rental
If you're planning a road trip around Albania, renting a car at the airport is the most flexible choice. Car rental desks (including Sixt, Hertz, Europcar, and Enterprise) are located in the arrivals area.
Expect to pay between €25–50 per day for a small car, with prices rising in summer. Albania's roads have improved drastically in recent years, though some rural routes can still be challenging — especially in the north or mountain regions. A 4WD is useful if you plan to drive to Theth, Valbona, or other off-road destinations. [CAR]
Departing From Tirana International Airport
Departures are smooth and well organized. The check-in area is located on the ground floor, and security and passport control are typically quick, though it's still recommended to arrive two hours before your flight. The airport serves major carriers like Wizz Air, Ryanair, Lufthansa, ITA Airways, and Air Albania, connecting to destinations across Europe.
After security, you'll find duty-free shops, souvenir stands, cafés, and a few restaurants offering light meals. Seating can be limited during busy hours, but lounges are available for extra comfort.
Hotels Near Tirana International Airport
If you arrive late at night or have an early morning departure, staying close to Tirana International Airport is a smart and stress-free choice. The airport is around 17 kilometers from Tirana city centre, but after a long flight, the convenience of nearby accommodation can make all the difference. Several good hotels are within walking distance or a very short drive from the terminal, offering everything from budget rooms to four-star comfort.
The most convenient option is Best Western Premier Ark Hotel, which sits directly across from the terminal entrance. It's perfect for travelers landing late or flying out early, with modern rooms, soundproof windows, and 24-hour reception. The hotel also has a small spa, a fitness area, and a restaurant serving both Albanian and international cuisine, so you can unwind without leaving the airport grounds.
A few steps further along the airport road is Hotel Jurgen, a simple and reliable choice with clean rooms, friendly staff, and a hearty breakfast included. It's only a two-minute walk from arrivals, which makes it particularly popular with travelers on late-night flights. If you prefer somewhere with a little more space and a relaxed atmosphere, Hotel Vila Aeroport offers comfortable rooms, a large terrace, and even an outdoor pool — ideal if you're staying longer or traveling with family.
For those looking for business-style accommodation, Best Western Ark Business Hotel provides modern amenities, meeting rooms, and reliable Wi-Fi just a few minutes away. All of these hotels can arrange quick transfers to the terminal, and some even offer free shuttle services on request.
If you prefer to stay in Tirana itself, several city hotels such as Maritim Hotel Plaza Tirana and Hotel Colosseo Tirana provide easy access to the airport via taxi or private transfer, taking around 25–30 minutes. These are ideal if you plan to explore the city before or after your flight.
Facilities & Services at Tirana Airport
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- Cafés & restaurants: Gloria Coffee, Mulliri i Vjetër, and Segafredo
- ATMs & Currency exchange: Near Arrivals and Departures
- SIM cards: Vodafone, One, and Albtelecom stands sell tourist SIMs with data plans
- Car rentals: Sixt, Hertz, Europcar, Enterprise, and local firms
- Lounges: Business Lounge (after security) – €25–30 entry for non-members
- Lost & Found / Information Desk: Open 24 hours near the main hall
While small, the airport is clean and functional. Most services close around midnight when flights stop operating.
Travel Tips for Tirana Airport
- Avoid airport taxis at night unless prebooked — some unlicensed drivers overcharge.
- Withdraw lek rather than exchanging large amounts at the airport.
- Bring cash — some cafés and smaller transport services don't accept cards.
- Keep small change (100–200 lek) for bus tickets or tipping porters.
- Expect occasional delays during high season (June–August) when low-cost carriers are busiest.
From Tirana Airport to Other Destinations
If Tirana isn't your final stop, buses and transfers connect directly from the city center to:
Some private transfers also operate directly from the airport to these cities, which can save time if you're not staying overnight in Tirana.
Final Thoughts
Tirana International Airport may be small compared to other European capitals, but it's friendly, efficient, and refreshingly easy to navigate. Whether you're landing for a quick city break or beginning an Albanian road trip, getting to and from the airport is simple and affordable. With its mix of practical facilities, improving infrastructure, and Albanian warmth, Tirana Airport is the perfect introduction to the country's charm — where your adventure begins just minutes after landing.
