Navigating Albanian Transportation
So, you’ve decided to travel around Albania—awesome choice! I spent one month in Vlorë and embarked on weekend journeys through the country’s vibrant cities. But if you’re thinking about hopping from place to place, here’s a little reality check on Albanian transportation.
Albania by Bus
First up, let’s talk about public transport. In Albania, the concept of public transportation is a bit of a wild card. In bigger cities, you’ll find city buses, but don’t expect a user-friendly map. Fares are about 40 lek. I tried to crack the code of the city buses, but the lack of information online made it more of a scavenger hunt. Your best bet? Look for the bus stops, ask around, and follow the crowd. It’s an adventure in itself!
Now, here’s where it gets interesting: intercity transport. There are buses—well, more like vans—that travel between cities. You’ll find a sign in the front windshield with the destination. If you want to avoid surprises, head to the bus stop a day in advance and check with the drivers for departure times. Drivers are your best resource- I would trust anything they say. If they drop you off on the side of the road next to a strip club and tell you to walk up the road, then you do just that (true story). If you’re going to a more rural city, I would ask locals and the drivers what the best way is for you to get there. In true Albanian fashion, schedules are more like suggestions and things will happen when they happen. Expect a bit of flexibility in your plans.
During my stay, I hopped on a 10+ buses. From Vlorë to Tirana, Saranda, Berat and Durrës, each ride was an adventure in its own right. Here’s what I learned from my Albanian bus shenanigans:
Air Conditioning? What’s That?
AC is a rare luxury on Albanian buses. Out of the nine buses I took, only two had it. The rest? You’ll be sweating it out, especially if you’re like me. Windows might be cracked open, but don’t expect a refreshing breeze—just a gentle sauna effect. Pack light and prepare to get cozy with the Albanian heat.
Claim Your Seat Early
To snag a spot on the bus, leave a backpack or some personal item on the seat (Albania is pretty safe but don’t leave anything too valuable just in case). The buses wait until they’re packed full before taking off, which means you could be standing if you don’t claim your seat early. You can chill at a nearby café and grab a cappuccino while you wait. Pro tip: a backpack works better than a water bottle or snack bag for seat reservations.
Expect A Full House
Sometimes, the bus will be so packed that the driver will add step stools in the aisle to maximize seating. On one memorable ride, a girl ended up sitting on grandma's lap for 3 hours. It’s all part of the experience, so make sure to reserve your seat early if you can.
Cash Only, Please
Buses only accept cash, so bring exact change or close to it. If possible, no big bills. Fares range from 400 to 800 lek, give or take a little. You’ll pay either during the ride (if there’s a helper) or when you get off the bus. Keep some smaller bills handy to make the process smoother.
Taxis and Tours: Alternative Options
Taxis are readily available in all cities and offer a quicker, more comfortable ride with AC. Just be prepared—drivers can be a bit wild, navigating the roads with a “go if you can” attitude. If you’re heading to less accessible places, booking a tour is a smart move. It might cost more, but it simplifies transportation, especially for destinations requiring multiple connections or uncertain local transport. I found this particularly useful for trips like the one to Komani Lake and Shala River from Tirana.
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, traveling in Albania requires a healthy dose of flexibility, patience, and a good sense of humor. Prepare to sweat, embrace the unpredictability, and keep an open mind. It’s all part of the adventure. Happy wandering, and may your Albanian bus rides be as memorable as mine!
