Compare cheap car hire at Tirana Airport with details on rental desk locations, driving routes, vehicle types and seasonal prices.
Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) is the main international airport in Albania and the country’s primary gateway for international visitors. The airport is located about 17km northwest of Tirana city centre and provides easy road access to coastal resorts, historic towns and mountain landscapes across Albania.
Renting a car at the airport allows travellers to explore destinations beyond the capital, including the Adriatic coast, national parks and historic cities throughout the country.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Tirana Airport has a direct connection with Ireland. Ryanair operates non-stop flights from Dublin Airport to Tirana several times per week, with a typical flight time of around 3 hours 30 minutes.
Location of the Car Hire Desks
The car hire desks at Tirana Airport are located inside the arrivals hall of the passenger terminal, close to the main exit.
After completing the rental agreement, travellers collect their vehicle from the airport car park directly outside the terminal building. Walking distance between the terminal and the vehicle pickup area is only a few minutes.
Airport facilities and passenger information are available on the official Tirana International Airport website.
Rental Companies at Tirana Airport
A mix of international and regional car hire providers operate at Tirana Airport.
- Hertz
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
- Avis
Several local Albanian car rental companies also operate from the airport and offer additional vehicle choices.
Typical Rental Prices at Tirana Airport
| Season | Economy Car | Family / Compact | SUV / Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | €20 – €35 per day | €35 – €60 per day | €60 – €110 per day |
| April – June | €25 – €50 per day | €50 – €85 per day | €85 – €140 per day |
| July – August | €40 – €90 per day | €90 – €150 per day | €150 – €220 per day |
| September – October | €28 – €55 per day | €55 – €95 per day | €95 – €160 per day |
| November – December | €22 – €40 per day | €40 – €70 per day | €70 – €120 per day |
Vehicles Commonly Rented in Albania
Compact Cars
Small hatchbacks are popular for city driving and short journeys between towns.
Family Cars
Larger compact vehicles are comfortable for longer road trips across the country.
SUVs
SUVs are often chosen by travellers exploring mountainous areas or rural regions.
Driving from Tirana Airport
The airport connects to Tirana via the SH2 motorway, one of the main roads linking the capital with northern and central Albania.
- Tirana city centre – about 25 minutes
- Durrës – around 35 minutes
- Shkodër – roughly 1 hour 45 minutes
- Vlora – about 2 hours 30 minutes
These routes allow travellers to reach both the Adriatic coast and inland regions within a short drive.
Driving in Albania
Road conditions in Albania have improved significantly in recent years, especially on main highways connecting major cities.
However, some rural roads can still be narrow or winding, so drivers should take extra care when travelling outside major urban areas.
Further visitor information can be found on the official Albania tourism website.
Places to Visit by Car from Tirana
With a rental car, travellers can easily explore several destinations across Albania.
- Durrës – coastal city with Roman ruins and beaches
- Shkodër – historic city near Lake Shkodra
- Berat – UNESCO-listed town known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”
- Vlora – gateway to the Albanian Riviera
Many visitors combine these locations into a road trip through the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Tirana Airport?
The rental desks are located inside the arrivals hall of the terminal building.
Which companies operate car hire at Tirana Airport?
Major suppliers include Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise and Avis.
How far is Tirana Airport from the city centre?
The airport is about 17km northwest of Tirana city centre.
Is driving in Albania easy for visitors?
Main highways are generally good, although rural roads may be narrower and require extra care.
Do Albanian motorways have tolls?
Most roads are toll-free, although some tunnels and newer infrastructure may charge fees.
Do I need a credit card to hire a car at Tirana Airport?
Most rental companies require a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, although manual vehicles remain more common.
Should I book Tirana Airport car hire in advance?
Booking ahead usually provides better prices and vehicle availability.
How long does it take to drive from Tirana Airport to Durrës?
The journey usually takes around 35 minutes depending on traffic.
Is parking easy in Tirana?
Parking is available in public car parks and on-street spaces but can be busy in the city centre.
