Getting to Tirana Airport by Car

Reaching Tirana International Airport by car couldn't be simpler. Located just 17 kilometers northwest of downtown Tirana, the airport sits along Albania's primary highway corridor. Modern roads connect you directly from Tirana, Durrës, and points beyond. Whether you're dropping off passengers for their flight or heading out for your own trip, clear signage guides you every step.

Airport Location and GPS Coordinates

The airport occupies land in Rinas village, officially part of Krujë municipality in Durrës County. Don't let that confuse you—it serves Tirana and functions as the capital's main aviation gateway. You can learn more on our About TIA page. Mother Teresa's name graces the facility, honoring Albania's most famous humanitarian.

Modern GPS systems recognize "Tirana International Airport" without issue. Punch those coordinates into your navigation if you prefer numeric precision. Albanian rental cars typically include GPS units, though Google Maps works perfectly well on your phone. Data coverage stays strong along the entire route.

Main Highway Access Routes

Albania's highway network underwent massive improvements over the past fifteen years, much of it managed by the Albanian Road Authority (ARrSh). What used to take an hour now happens in twenty minutes. Two primary routes handle most airport traffic—the choice depends on where you're starting.

SH2 Highway - Primary Route

This dual-carriageway represents Albania's busiest road. It connects Durrës port city with Tirana, running straight past the airport turnoff. Most travelers use this route whether they realize it or not. The highway carries four lanes total, two in each direction, with a center barrier separating traffic.

Quality exceeds what you might expect if you've heard older stories about Albanian roads. Smooth asphalt, proper lane markings, and decent lighting make driving straightforward. Speed limits hover around 90-110 km/h depending on the section. Police enforce these limits seriously, especially near populated areas.

SH60 Airport Access Road

This dedicated spur branches from SH2 directly to the terminal. You'll spot massive overhead signs well before the exit. The access road measures roughly three kilometers from highway to terminal doors. Recently rebuilt and expanded, it handles increased traffic smoothly even during peak hours.

Driving from Tirana City Center

Starting downtown? You've got options, though one route dominates for good reason. Most drivers follow SH2 northwest straight toward Durrës. The journey takes 20-25 minutes without traffic, maybe 35 during morning rush. Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

Alternative routes exist through side streets, but they save zero time while adding complexity. Stick with SH2 unless you absolutely know the backroads. Even locals prefer the highway for airport runs.

Driving from Durrës

Coming from the coast? Same highway, opposite direction. Durrës sits 26 kilometers from the airport, making for an easy thirty-minute drive. The route mirrors the Tirana approach but in reverse:

Durrës residents often use the airport despite having a small port facility nearby. International connections require Tirana's terminal, so this drive becomes routine for coastal dwellers.

Routes from Other Major Cities

From Shkodër (North)

Northern Albania connects via SH1 highway down to Tirana, then follows the standard SH2 route to the airport. Total distance runs about 100 kilometers, requiring 90 minutes typically. The journey's broken into distinct segments.

First, follow SH1 south from Shkodër toward the capital. This highway climbs through mountainous terrain before descending to Tirana's northern outskirts. Once you reach Tirana's ring road area, merge onto SH2 heading northwest toward Durrës. From there, it's the familiar airport exit sequence described earlier.

From Vlorë (South)

Southern coastal travelers face the longest journey. Vlorë sits roughly 150 kilometers from the airport, translating to 2-2.5 hours behind the wheel. The route utilizes SH4 highway northward before connecting to SH2.

Start on SH4 heading north along the coast through Fier. Continue until you reach the junction with SH2 near Rrogozhinë. Turn right onto SH2 heading toward Tirana/Durrës. Stay on this highway past Tirana, watching for airport signs. Take the SH52/SH60 exit as usual.

From Elbasan (East)

Eastern Albania connects through SH3 highway, roughly 50 kilometers requiring about 45 minutes. This road links Elbasan to Tirana before you transition to the airport route.

Follow SH3 west toward Tirana. As you approach the capital, you'll connect with the ring road system. Navigate northwest to join SH2 heading toward Durrës. Airport exits follow the standard pattern from there.

The A1 Motorway Connection

Albania's first true motorway opened recently, connecting Tirana to Kosovo. The A1 runs northeast from the capital, offering limited airport utility unless you're arriving from that direction. However, it does provide an alternative route worth knowing about.

The A1 includes a toll system—Albania's only one currently operating. Cars pay 490 Albanian Lek (approximately €4.20) for the full journey. If you're coming from Kosovo or northeastern Albania, you can use the A1 to reach Tirana's outskirts, then transition to SH2 for the airport approach.

Most airport travelers won't touch the A1 unless they're on specific routes. It's mentioned here for completeness, particularly for international visitors checking visa requirements when crossing from neighboring countries.

Traffic Patterns and Timing

Albanian traffic follows predictable patterns that impact your airport journey. Understanding these rhythms helps you plan arrival times intelligently. Missing a flight because you underestimated rush hour ranks among traveling's most avoidable frustrations.

Peak Traffic Hours

Tirana's roads clog heaviest during standard commuting windows. Morning rush runs from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM as workers flood into the capital. Evening rush reverses the flow from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM. These periods can double your drive time from the city center.

The airport route suffers less congestion than central Tirana streets, but SH2 still slows during peak hours. Add fifteen minutes to your normal drive time if traveling during rush periods. Better to arrive stupidly early than miss your boarding call.

Best Times to Drive

Midday travel between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM flows smoothly. Late evening after 8:00 PM also works well. Weekend traffic lightens considerably compared to weekdays. Sunday mornings offer the clearest roads if you're catching an early flight.

Summer months bring heavier tourist traffic, especially July and August. The airport sees massive passenger increases during this season. Plan extra time if you're flying out during peak summer weeks.

Parking at the Airport

Once you arrive, parking options spread across multiple zones. The airport operates several lots accommodating different stay durations and budgets. Short-term spaces sit closest to the terminal while long-term economy parking occupies areas further out.

Covered parking protects vehicles from weather for premium rates. Open-air lots cost less but expose cars to sun and occasional rain. All parking areas feature security patrols and CCTV coverage. Payment accepts Albanian Lek, Euros, and major credit cards.

For complete pricing details, availability, and booking options, check our dedicated airport parking page. Pre-booking saves money and guarantees spaces during busy periods.

Drop-off and Pick-up Zones

Brief stops for passenger drop-off happen at designated zones directly outside the terminal building. The departures level features a covered drop-off area where you can pull up, unload bags, and send travelers inside. This zone permits maximum 10-minute stops—don't linger or you'll face fines.

Arriving passenger pick-up works similarly on the ground floor. Cars can wait briefly in marked zones outside baggage claim exits. If your passenger's delayed, circle back rather than parking in the pick-up lane. Airport police monitor these areas actively and aren't shy about issuing tickets.

Need to wait longer? Use the short-term parking lot instead. First 30 minutes typically cost minimal amounts, and you can meet your passenger comfortably without harassment from traffic wardens.

Road Conditions and Driving Tips

Albanian driving culture shocks some foreign visitors. Local habits include aggressive lane changes, creative interpretations of speed limits, and casual attitudes toward following distances. Don't let this intimidate you—millions drive these roads safely every year by staying alert.

What to Expect

Legal Requirements

Albanian law mandates certain equipment and behaviors. Seatbelts must be worn by all occupants at all times. The blood alcohol limit sits at 0.01%, effectively zero tolerance—don't drink and drive period. Headlights remain compulsory year-round outside city limits, even during daylight.

Foreign licenses work fine for short visits, typically up to one year. International Driving Permits add extra legitimacy if you're concerned. Insurance becomes mandatory—rental cars include coverage automatically. Private vehicles need proper documentation including registration and insurance certificates.

Emergency Numbers

Save these contacts before hitting the road. Mobile coverage remains strong along the airport route, but knowing numbers beforehand prevents fumbling during stressful moments.

Car Rental Options

Dozens of rental companies operate at Tirana Airport, from international chains to local operators. Most maintain desks in the arrivals hall for convenient pick-up after landing. Major brands include Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, Avis, and Budget alongside Albanian companies offering competitive rates.

Booking ahead online typically beats walk-up prices substantially. Compare rates across multiple sites since pricing fluctuates wildly based on demand. Summer months command premium rates while winter offers bargains. Automatic transmissions cost more than manual—most Albanian rental fleets favor manual gearboxes.

Expect vehicles newer than you'd find in some countries. The rental market here skews toward recent models in decent condition. Full coverage insurance makes sense given local driving habits. Our car rental guide covers providers, pricing, and booking strategies in greater depth.

Alternative Transportation Options

Driving yourself isn't the only way to reach the airport. Several alternatives exist depending on your circumstances, budget, and preference for convenience versus cost.

Taxis wait outside hotels and can be hailed throughout Tirana. Official airport taxis charge fixed rates around €20-25 for the journey. Ride-sharing apps like Merr Taxi and Speed Taxi operate in Albania, offering price transparency through fare calculators. These alternatives often undercut traditional cabs.

Public buses run hourly between downtown Tirana and the airport for just 400 Lek (€3-4). The service connects Skanderbeg Square to the terminal in 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. It's slow but incredibly cheap. For complete details on buses, taxis, and other transport modes, visit our bus information and taxi guide pages.

Accessibility Considerations

Disabled parking spaces occupy prime positions near terminal entrances. These spots require proper permits—enforcement happens regularly. If you're dropping off passengers with mobility limitations, you can pull right up to accessible entrance points where staff provide wheelchair assistance.

The airport maintains elevators and ramps throughout. Getting from car to check-in counter involves no stairs if you choose accessible routes. Terminal staff speak English and can guide you toward appropriate facilities.

Fuel Stations Near the Airport

Several petrol stations operate along SH2 both before and after the airport exit. If you're returning a rental car with the "full tank" requirement, you'll find stations within five minutes of the terminal. Prices align closely whether you fill up in Tirana or near the airport—no significant premium exists at highway stations here.

Major chains include Kastrati, Europetrol, and Tamoil. All accept cash and cards. Diesel and unleaded gasoline remain widely available. Premium fuels cost incrementally more. Attendants pump fuel for you at some stations while others require self-service.

Future Road Improvements

Albanian infrastructure continues evolving rapidly. Plans exist to expand SH2 further and potentially add additional airport access routes. The government prioritizes transportation links as tourism and trade grow.

Construction impacts current routes occasionally. Major work typically happens overnight to minimize disruption, but temporary delays occur. Budget a few extra minutes if you see roadwork warnings. Long-term, these improvements will make airport access even smoother than today's already-decent situation.