Frequently asked questions

Question 1

Which airport serves Tirana?

Accepted Answer

Tirana is served by Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, IATA code TIA, ICAO code LATI, also known as Rinas Airport. It is the largest airport in Albania and one of the fastest-growing in Europe, surpassing 10 million passengers for the first time in 2024. The airport is located around 17 km northwest of Tirana city centre, in the municipality of Krujë, Durrës County. The complex has a single modern terminal, opened in 2007 and expanded in 2009, with a capacity of 11 million passengers per year (planned expansion to 15 million), 29 check-in desks, 7 boarding gates, Aelia duty-free shops, restaurants, cafés, a business lounge, free Wi-Fi, ATMs, and currency exchange. It is the main hub for Wizz Air with over 40 destinations, and Ryanair is opening a permanent base in April 2026 with 10 new routes. Full-service carriers include Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, and Austrian Airlines. Book your ticket and land in the heart of Albania.

Question 2

How do you get from Tirana airport to the city centre?

Accepted Answer

The airport is 17 km from Tirana city centre, and the journey takes around 20 to 30 minutes. The Rinas Express bus is the cheapest option, costing 400 LEK (around €4), running 24/7 with hourly departures; the journey takes 30 to 45 minutes and the bus stops at the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet. Official yellow Auto Holiday Albania taxis are available directly outside the terminal 24/7 at a fixed fare of around €22 to €25 to the centre with a journey of around 20 to 25 minutes; the price is displayed upfront with no negotiation needed. Avoid unofficial taxis that approach passengers at arrivals: they may overcharge. Cheaper alternatives are local apps Merr Taxi (around €18) and Speed Taxi App (around €9.80). Uber does not operate in Albania. Car rental is available at the airport with Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local operators. An electrified railway line to the airport is planned from 2027. Book your ticket and plan your transfer in advance.

Question 3

Is Tirana safe to visit?

Accepted Answer

Tirana and Albania in general are safe destinations for tourists. Albania recorded one of the lowest crime rates in Europe in 2023 according to Eurostat, with significantly fewer violent crimes than most EU countries. The US State Department gives Albania a Level 2 advisory mainly due to violence linked to organised crime networks that rarely target tourists, not due to street crime against visitors. Tirana is considered by many to be the safest capital in the Balkans. Albanians are renowned for their hospitality and are frequently described as following the cultural code of "Besa", which involves protecting and respecting guests. The main risks for tourists are pickpocketing on public transport and in crowded markets, overcharging by unofficial taxis at the airport, and poor road safety (aggressive driving, poorly lit and potholed rural roads). Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Medical infrastructure outside Tirana is limited, so travel insurance is essential. Book your ticket and discover the most hospitable country in the Balkans.

Flights from cities from Moldova to Tirana