Whether you’re visiting for dental treatment, a beach vacation, or to explore UNESCO cities, knowing how to navigate Albania is essential. Transport in Albania is evolving quickly, offering more options and better infrastructure for locals and tourists alike.
This detailed guide will explain all available transport options, from public buses to private transfers, helping you plan your stay with confidence.
1. Public Buses: Affordable and Widely Available
Public buses and furgons (minibuses) are the most common forms of local transport in Albania. They connect major cities like Tirana, Durrës, Vlorë, and Shkodër at affordable prices.
Pros:
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Very cheap (typically €2–€5 for intercity routes)
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Frequent departures on main routes
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Authentic local experience
Cons:
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Lack of fixed timetables
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Not always air-conditioned
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Can get crowded during peak hours
Tip: Ask locals or your hotel for the latest departure times, as most furgons operate based on demand.
2. Taxis and Rideshares: Convenient but Varying in Price
Taxis are readily available in cities and airports. Some use meters, while others operate on fixed or negotiated prices.
Approximate Costs:
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Tirana Airport to City Center: €20–€25
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Tirana to Durrës: €30–€40
Rideshare Apps in Albania:
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UpStop
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Speed Taxi Albania
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Taxi.al
These apps are improving in popularity, especially in Tirana and major tourist zones.
3. Renting a Car in Albania
If you want flexibility, especially for rural or coastal travel, renting a car is ideal. Roads have improved significantly in recent years, and signage is increasingly available in English.
Requirements:
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Valid driver’s license (EU or International)
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Must be over 21 (some agencies require 23+)
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Credit card for deposit
Cost:
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€25–€45/day for a standard car
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€60+/day for SUVs or luxury vehicles
Driving Tips:
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Be cautious in the mountains — roads can be narrow
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Gas stations are frequent and usually accept credit cards
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Local drivers can be aggressive, especially in cities
4. Private Transfers: Ideal for Medical Tourism and VIP Travel
For dental or cosmetic treatment clients, private transport is often included. Agencies like Albanian Health Agency offer door-to-door transfer between:
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Tirana International Airport (TIA)
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Your hotel or dental clinic
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Coastal or tourist destinations
These services are safe, comfortable, and tailored for international patients needing punctuality and privacy.
5. Domestic Flights and Ferries: Limited but Expanding
Albania is a small country, so domestic flights are not widely used. However, Vlorë Airport is expected to expand options for internal travel in the future.
Ferries are more relevant if you’re arriving from Italy or Greece:
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Durrës to Bari or Ancona
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Saranda to Corfu (Greece)
These routes are used by tourists, diaspora, and locals alike.
6. Train Travel in Albania: Scenic but Slow
Albania has a small train network, but it’s mostly used for nostalgia or scenic trips, not efficiency.
Popular Route: Durrës to Elbasan
Speed: Very slow, not ideal for fast travel
Cost: Extremely cheap (€1–€3)
7. Transportation for Tourists: What to Expect
In Tirana:
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Walkable downtown
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Local buses every 10–15 minutes
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Taxis widely available
In Durrës:
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Beach promenades ideal for walking or biking
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Car recommended for exploring nearby archaeological sites or vineyards
In Riviera:
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Rent a car or hire a driver for Ksamil, Himara, Dhërmi
8. Expert Insights: What the Industry Says
According to Travel and Tourism Council Albania (2024):
“The government has invested heavily in infrastructure, including roads, ports, and new airports, improving the travel experience for foreign visitors.”
Transportation is a vital part of medical tourism success. Albanian Health Agency adds:
“We ensure patients arriving for dental care in Durrës or Tirana have guaranteed, clean, and secure transportation, from arrival to aftercare visits.”
Why Albania Is Easier to Explore Than Ever
Understanding transport in Albania is key to enjoying a smooth and stress-free stay. Whether you’re visiting for medical treatment, vacation, or both, options abound—from low-cost buses to private executive transfers.
With the right planning, getting around Albania is not only easy but also enjoyable. Its roads lead to ancient ruins, seaside towns, and world-class clinics—all within a few hours’ drive.
Plan Your Travel with Confidence
For travelers coming for dental, hair, or cosmetic treatments, contact Albanian Health Agency for full assistance with transport, treatment planning, and accommodation.
👉 Visit albanianhealthagency.com to begin your journey.
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