3 Best Ways to Travel from Tirana Airport to Saranda (2025 Guide)
Written by Rita Serra | Published June 11, 2025
Getting from Tirana Airport to Saranda isn’t exactly straightforward, especially if it’s your first visit. If you’re flying into Tirana Airport (TIA) and headed to the Albanian Riviera, you’re in for a treat. I’ve taken the trip myself and broken down every option, so you can choose what works best for your budget and travel style.
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Distance & Travel Overview Options
Tirana Airport (TIA) to Saranda is approximately 275 km (170 miles). Travel time depends on the method of transport, but expect it to take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. Here’s a quick breakdown of your options:
- Bus: Budget-friendly but less convenient, longer, and not always as comfortable
- Rental Car: Ideal if you enjoy long drives and having the option to stop anywhere you want.
- Private Transfer: Fast, comfortable, mid-range expensive. You will also need the number of a private driver for this.
Local Buses to Saranda
Tirana Airport to Tirana South
Bus Terminal
No direct bus from the airport. You must first arrive at the Tirana South Bus Terminal (approximately 30-40 minutes from TIA by taxi or local bus).
- Taxi to Tirana South Bus Terminal from TIA: Search for Green Taxi, it will be €12 and drop you off directly at the bus terminal.
- Local Bus from TIA to Tirana South Bus Terminal: If you’re taking a local bus, it drops you off within a 7-minute walk from the station, so if you have a ton of luggage, it might not be the best option.
- Cost: €4/400 Lek
- Duration: 30-40
- Schedule: Buses run every hour, just a 5-minute walk from the Airport
Tirana South Bus Terminal to Saranda
- Cost: €17 / 1700 Lek
- Duration: 5+ hours
- Schedule: Varies by season and operator (search Gjirafa.com or Rome2Rio for sample times)
Pros:
- Cheapest way to travel
- Authentic Albanian experience
- Get to meet locals and other travelers
Cons:
- Long travel time
- May require transfers
- Timetables change depending on season
Renting a Car at Tirana Airport
Want to explore the coast on your own terms? Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and stop at scenic spots along the way. It’s a great option if you’re planning to explore beyond Saranda and don’t mind navigating mountain roads, but heads up, Albanian roads (and drivers) aren’t for the faint of heart.
- Cost: €25–€50/day, plus fuel and insurance (Possibly more during busy season)
- Roads: Generally in decent shape, but expect sharp turns and winding roads through the mountains, and other drivers taking over your side of the road when turning, so be careful.
- Scenic route: Drive through the Llogara Pass or along the coast, just not at night. It can be intimidating, especially if you’re not used to driving these kinds of roads and in a foreign country.
- Inland Route: Best for History & Mountain Views
- Rental tip: Book in advance through DiscoverCars or a local provider
Best for: Adventurers, road trippers, people planning to explore the Albanian Riviera
Driving Tips:
- For the scenic route, drive along SH4 or SH8 through the Llogara Pass, one of the
most scenic roads in Europe - For mountain views, drive via Gjirokastër (SH4 + SH78)
- Roads are mostly paved but narrow in some places
- Fill up fuel in Elbasan or Librazhd, gas stations can be sparse afterward.
- Rent a car with good horsepower (small engines struggle on climbs).
- Be mindful of local driving culture (aggressive and fast!)
Saranda Parking
If you plan to spend most of your time in Saranda, keep in mind that parking can be extremely limited and driving around town may feel chaotic, especially during peak season. My advice? Once you find a parking spot, hang on to it! Unless you’re planning a longer drive outside the city, like to Ksamil or the Blue Eye, it’s best to explore Saranda on foot. The city is very walkable, and you’ll get to enjoy the seaside views, cafés, and local charm without the stress of navigating traffic.
Recommended Stops:
Inland Route (Tirana →Përmet →Gjirokastër → Sarandë)
- Përmet: Benjë Thermal Baths (natural hot springs, 15km from town), Langarica Canyon (hike or swim in summer).
- Gjirokastër: Gjirokastër Castle (huge fortress with Cold War bunkers), Skenduli House, Ura e Kadiut(Ottoman-era bridge)
Coastal Route (Tirana → Vlorë → Riviera → Sarandë)
- Llogora Pass: Jaw-dropping views
- Vlora: Good overnight stop if breaking up your journey
- Himara: Chill beach vibes
- Borsh: Borsh Beach & Waterfall (one of Albania’s longest beaches), Borsh Castle (ruins with sea views)
- Lukovë: Qeparo Village (charming old town with sea vistas)
Which Route Has Better Stops?
- Inland Route: Best for history, hot springs, and mountain scenery.
- Coastal Route: Best for beaches, seafood, and epic coastal views.
Pro Tip: If you have 3+ days, consider a loop, take the inland route to Sarandë, and return via the
coast (or vice versa).
Private Transfer from Tirana Airport to Saranda
Private transfers are the most convenient option. Your driver will meet you at the airport and take you door-to-door. Also, traveling with 3+ people? A transfer may actually cost the same per person as a shuttle or multiple bus tickets, and save you 2+ hours.
- Travel time: ~3.5 to 4 hours
- Cost: €190–€220
- Booking platforms: Hotel-arranged transport is an option, or consider trying Facebook Expat Groups to find a private driver.
- Best for: Families, small groups, anyone arriving late at night, or with lots of luggage
Pros:
- Hassle-free
- No transfer stops
- Comfortable and air-conditioned
Cons:
- More expensive than a bus or a rental car.
Before heading to Sarandë, be sure to check out our comprehensive blog post on how Albania is your next dream travel destination. It covers everything from must-see cities, how to plan your trip, to hidden beaches and cultural must-knows, perfect for first-time visitors!
Whether you’re planning a scenic road trip or hoping to save money with a bus ride, getting from Tirana to Saranda is part of the adventure. Bookmark this guide and don’t forget to check transport options ahead of time, especially during summer or holidays.
FAQ’s: Tirana to Saranda Transport
Can I take a train from Tirana to Saranda?
No. Albania has no functional passenger rail service between these cities.
Is Uber available in Albania?
No. There’s no Uber or Bolt in Albania. Use taxis or local apps like Speed Taxi.
What’s the fastest way to get from Tirana Airport to Saranda?
Private car or taxi, but also the most expensive.
Can I fly from Tirana to Saranda?
Not at this time. There is no domestic air service between the two.
Is there a ferry option?
Only if you fly into Corfu, Greece, and take a ferry to Saranda. From Tirana, all travel is overland.
What should I know before traveling to Albania?
For all the must-know tips before your Albania trip, check out our detailed guide [here].
