Tirana International Airport Nene Tereza is about 20 km northwest of the city center. The drive takes 25-35 minutes via the Tirana-Durres highway, and a new express bus service connects the airport to the Skanderbeg Square area.

About Tirana City Center

Tirana's city center revolves around Skanderbeg Square, a vast pedestrian plaza anchored by the Et'hem Bey Mosque (1823) and the Clock Tower, with the equestrian statue of national hero Skanderbeg at its center. The square was dramatically renovated in 2017, removing traffic and creating one of Europe's most impressive urban spaces, framed by the National History Museum and government buildings.

Tirana has transformed remarkably since the fall of communism in 1991. The once-grey city now pulsates with color—former dictator Enver Hoxha's apartment buildings were painted in vivid murals, and the Blloku neighborhood (once reserved exclusively for Communist Party elites) is now the city's trendiest dining and nightlife district. Ottoman-era bazaar streets, Italian Fascist-era boulevards, brutalist Communist architecture, and sleek modern developments coexist in a uniquely eclectic urban landscape.

Nearby Landmarks

Skanderbeg Square Et'hem Bey Mosque National History Museum Blloku neighborhood

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Exit arrivals and find the Rinas Express bus at the airport entrance. 2. Board the bus toward the city center (runs every hour). 3. Ride approximately 25-30 minutes to the National Museum stop on Skanderbeg Square. 4. Walk to your hotel or take a short taxi.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The Rinas Express bus runs until approximately 7 PM. After that, taxis operate 24/7 and cost about 2,500-3,000 ALL ($25-30) to the center. Ride-hailing apps like Freenow and local taxi apps are available.

Luggage Tips

Taxis have ample trunk space. The airport bus has luggage storage underneath. Skanderbeg Square and the Blloku neighborhood have smooth, flat sidewalks suitable for rolling luggage.

Accessibility

The airport is modern with accessible facilities. The Rinas Express bus has steps and is not wheelchair accessible. Taxis can accommodate folding wheelchairs. Skanderbeg Square is flat and accessible, but some older streets in the bazaar area are uneven.