Car rental: tips and documents
Albania's airports and picking up your rental car
Picking up the car at Rinas, distances to the cities, night arrivals and trips starting from neighbouring airports.
Most visitors arrive at Tirana International Airport "Mother Teresa" in Rinas. Car rental at Tirana Airport is the quickest way to start the trip: within minutes you are on the motorway to Tirana, Durrës or the south.
How airport pick-up works
Rental companies usually offer two options: a meet-and-greet in the arrivals hall, where an employee waits with your name and walks you to the car, or pick-up at an office or car park near the airport. Either way the car check is the same as anywhere else.
- Give your flight numberSo the company knows if the plane is late and waits for you.
- Confirm the timeAsk whether there is a fee for night or early-morning arrivals.
- Check the carEven when tired after the flight, photograph the car and check the handover form. Read our complete rental guide.
- Refuel before returningThere are fuel stations on the road to the airport; do not leave it to the last minute.
Kukës airport
Kukës airport in the north-east has fewer, often seasonal flights. It suits the Alps and Kosovo, but the choice of rental cars there is more limited: book in advance.
Arriving from neighbouring countries
- Corfu: the ferry reaches Sarandë quickly. Greek rental cars are usually not allowed on the ferry, so pick up your car in Sarandë.
- Ohrid, Podgorica or Prishtina: cross the border by other transport and pick up the car in Albania, or use a rental from that country only if the company allows entry into Albania.
For trips across the border read the guide to driving abroad, and for distances from the airport use the distance table.
Distances between cities
Kilometres and drive time between the main cities.
All distances →Airport or city pick-up?
Airport pick-up is more comfortable, but some companies add a fee for delivery there, especially out of hours. If you spend the first days only in Tirana, it may be cheaper to take a taxi or bus to the city and pick up the car on the day you start the road trip.
- Compare the full price: rental + airport fee + city parking.
- For an airport return, allow 30–45 minutes extra for traffic and the car check.
- Keep photos of the return, especially when you leave the car without staff present.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Tirana Airport from the centre?
About 17 km, roughly 25 minutes by car without traffic.
Can I pick up the car at night at the airport?
Many companies offer it, often with an out-of-hours fee. Ask when booking and give your flight number.
Is there parking at the airport?
Yes, there is paid parking. To return the car, follow the company's instructions.
Can I rent a car in Corfu and drive to Albania?
Usually not, because rental cars are not allowed on the ferry. Pick up the car in Sarandë.
