How transport works in Albania
Albania has no metro and a very limited rail network, so most travel happens by road. The good news: distances are short, scenery is spectacular, and getting around is cheap. Tirana, the capital, is your main hub for buses heading north to Shkodra, south to Saranda, and east to Pogradec and Lake Ohrid.
Buses and furgons (minibuses)
The backbone of intercity travel is the furgon, a shared minibus that leaves when full rather than on a fixed timetable. Larger coaches also run popular routes.
- Tirana to Saranda: around 5 to 6 hours, roughly 1,500 to 2,000 lek (about 15 to 20 euros)
- Tirana to Shkodra: about 2 hours, around 400 lek
- Tirana to Berat: about 2.5 hours, around 500 lek
Tirana spread its departures across several terminals. The South and North Bus Terminal near the train station area handles most regional routes, while international buses use the terminal off Dritan Hoxha Street. Always confirm the departure point with your guesthouse, as locations shift.
Trains
Albanian railways (HSH) are minimal and slow. A scenic line runs between Tirana area and Durres and onward toward Elbasan, but services are infrequent and aimed at enthusiasts rather than commuters. For practical travel, choose buses.
Car rental and driving
Renting a car gives real freedom, especially for the Albanian Riviera and mountain roads to Theth and Valbona. Expect 25 to 45 euros per day. Roads are improving but mountain routes are narrow and winding, and local driving can be assertive. A 4x4 helps for unpaved sections near Theth.
Taxis and ride apps
In Tirana, use the Bolt app for transparent, metered-style pricing instead of negotiating with street taxis. A typical cross-city ride costs 300 to 600 lek. Uber is not available. Outside the capital, agree the fare before departing.
Ferries and coastal travel
The Saranda to Corfu ferry (Greece) runs daily in season, taking about 30 to 70 minutes. A coastal ferry also links Vlora and Saranda in summer, a relaxing alternative to the winding coast road.
Practical tips
- Carry cash in lek; many furgons and rural taxis do not take cards
- Start long journeys early, as furgons thin out by afternoon
- Download offline maps before heading into the mountains
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