By Air

Tirana International Airport, named “Mother Teresa” (TIA), is located about 17 km northwest of Tirana. It is the only international airport in the country and offers direct flights to many European destinations, including Italy. The airport is well connected to the city center by a shuttle service that departs every hour from the arrivals area, with main stops at Skanderbeg Square and the bus station (the cost is about €2). Alternatively, taxis are easily available, and the cost of a ride to the city center is around €20. The airport operates 24 hours a day and offers a wide range of services, including free Wi-Fi, lounges, restaurants, and duty-free shops. Further information is available at www.tirana-airport.com.

 

Airlines operating to Tirana include Alitalia, Wizz Air, Air Albania, Ryanair, and other international carriers. Common Italian destinations include Rome, Milan, Bologna, Bari, and Venice.

 

By Car

The Italian driving license is recognized by Albanian authorities. If you are traveling with your vehicle, check that your insurance also covers Albania; otherwise, you will need to purchase temporary insurance at the border, with a cost of around €50 for 15 days. Roads in Albania are generally in good condition, but it is advisable to avoid night travel, as some roads are poorly lit or signposted. The speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas and 90 km/h on main roads.

 

Borders and Customs

Albania shares borders with Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece. The main customs points are:

• Montenegro: Hani i Hotit, Murriqan, Vermosh.

• North Macedonia: Qafe Thane, Tushemisht, Bllata, Gorica.

• Kosovo: Morina, Qafe Prushi.

• Greece: Kapshtica, Kakavija, Qafe Boti, Tre Urat.

 

The busiest crossings are at the borders with Greece (Kakavija, Kapshtica) and Kosovo (Morina), with longer opening hours. Muriqan, at the border with Montenegro, is particularly crowded during holidays, especially when Albanians living in Italy return to Albania.

 

By Sea

Albania is easily accessible by sea with direct ferries from major Italian ports. The port of Durres offers daily connections with Bari, Brindisi, Ancona, and Trieste, while Vlora is connected to Brindisi and Otranto. Connections to southern Albania, such as Saranda, also depart from the island of Corfu.

 

Recreational Boats

Recreational boats must obtain prior authorization to enter Albanian territorial waters, at least 48 hours in advance. It is mandatory to notify the Albanian Coast Guard upon arrival via VHF radio channel 12 or 16. The main ports are Durres, Vlora, Saranda, and St. John. Docking fees are minimal, but a fixed fee for maritime agency services (around €34) is required. It is advised to check the insurance coverage with your company.