How to get from Tirana airport into the city (and beyond)

Tirana International Airport — officially named after Mother Teresa, and still called Rinas by locals after the nearby village — sits about 17 km northwest of the city. It's compact and easy to navigate, and the trip into central Tirana takes roughly half an hour outside rush hour. Here's how to make it, and how to push on to the coast and the mountains.

Into the city

Airport bus. The dedicated airport shuttle (often signed as the Rinas Express) links the terminal with central Tirana near the National History Museum, a short walk from Skanderbeg Square. It runs through the day at regular intervals, and it's by far the cheapest option — pay the driver in cash. Journey time is around 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.

Taxi. Licensed taxis wait outside arrivals. Fares to the centre are broadly standardised, but agree the price before you get in rather than assuming a meter. This is the fastest door-to-door choice, especially with luggage or after a late flight.

Pre-booked transfer. A private transfer arranged in advance costs more than a taxi but removes all uncertainty — a named driver meets you in arrivals. Worth it for groups, families, or onward trips to the coast.

Straight on to the coast or mountains

Many visitors skip Tirana entirely and head onward the same day:

• Durrës and the Adriatic beaches — under an hour by car or taxi.
• The Riviera (Vlorë, Himarë, Sarandë) — a long half-day drive south; easiest by rental car or private transfer.
• Shkodër and the Alps — around an hour and a half north; from Shkodër, onward furgons (minibuses) and 4x4s run to Theth and the Koman ferry in season.

Renting a car

The airport has the widest choice of rental desks in the country, which makes it the natural place to pick up a car if you plan to explore the Riviera or the north under your own steam. Book ahead in summer, when demand is high. Whatever you choose, there's no train from the airport — road is the only way in.