How to Travel by Bus in Albania: A Complete Guide
If you are looking for a unique and affordable destination, Albania is a great choice. But how do you get around this small but diverse country? Can you get around by public transport in Albania? The answer is not so simple: sometimes you can and sometimes you can’t
Bus travel is the most popular and cheapest way to explore Albania. You can reach almost any city or town by bus, and enjoy the scenic views along the way. Bus travel is very economical, as you can find tickets for as low as 1 euro. Plus, you will get to experience the local culture and meet other travelers on the bus.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about bus travel in Albania, including:
- How to find and book bus tickets
- What to expect from the bus stations and terminals
- How to stay safe and comfortable on the bus
- What to see and do in the main destinations
How to Find and Book Bus Tickets
There are two main types of public transport in Albania: furgons and coaches. Furgons are minivans or minibuses that operate on short and medium distances, usually within a region or between neighboring cities. Coaches are larger and more comfortable buses that run on longer routes, usually between the major cities or across the country.
Furgons are more frequent and flexible than coaches, as they depart whenever they are full and stop wherever you want. However, they are also less reliable and comfortable, as they can be crowded, noisy, and bumpy. Coaches are more comfortable and reliable than furgons, as they have fixed schedules and designated stops. However, they are also less frequent and flexible, as they require advance booking and may not cover some remote areas.
To find and book bus tickets, you have a few options:
- Ask the locals! They know where the buses depart and how much they cost.
- Phone: If you find some numbers online, you can call the bus company or the bus station to inquire about the availability and price of the bus tickets. You can also reserve your seat by phone, and pay for your ticket at the bus station or on the bus. You will need to provide your name and phone number when making the reservation, and confirm it a day before your departure.
- In person: You can visit the bus station or the bus terminal to buy your bus tickets in person. You can also ask the locals or the hotel staff for recommendations on the best bus company or the best bus route for your destination. You can pay for your ticket in cash or by card, depending on the bus company.
How to Choose the Best Bus Travel Route for Your Itinerary
Albania has a good bus network that connects most of the cities and towns in the country. However, some routes may be more convenient and scenic than others, depending on your itinerary and preferences. Here are some tips on how to choose the best bus route for your trip:
- Plan ahead: Before you book your bus tickets, make sure you have a clear idea of where you want to go and how long you want to stay in each place. Check the weather and the road conditions before you travel, as some routes may be affected by rain, snow. As we said before, it is best to ask the locals about the location of bus terminal in different cities.
- Be flexible: While it is good to have a plan, it is also important to be flexible and adaptable when traveling by bus in Albania. You may encounter some delays, cancellations, or changes in the bus schedules, especially during the peak season or the holidays. You may also find some hidden gems or unexpected surprises along the way, such as a beautiful village, a local festival, or a friendly stranger. Be open to new experiences and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
- Be adventurous: If you are feeling adventurous and want to explore some off-the-beaten-path places in Albania, you can try taking some alternative or less popular bus routes. For example, you can take the bus from Tirana to Kruja, a historic town that was the capital of the medieval Albanian kingdom. Or you can take the bus from Shkodra to Theth, a remote village in the Albanian Alps that offers stunning views and hiking opportunities. Or you can take the bus from Berat to Permet, a charming town that is famous for its thermal springs and natural beauty.
What to Expect from the Bus Stations and Terminals
Bus stations and terminals are the places where you can find, board, and exit the buses in Albania. They are usually located near the city center or the main attractions, and are easily accessible by public transport, taxi, or walking. However, they can also vary in size, quality, and facilities, depending on the location and the bus company. Here are some things to expect from the bus stations and terminals in Albania:
- Facilities: Big bus stations and terminals have basic facilities such as toilets, waiting areas, luggage storage, and information desks. However, some may charge a small fee for using the toilets or the luggage storage, and some may not have any facilities at all. You may also find some shops, cafes, or restaurants nearby, where you can buy some snacks, drinks, or souvenirs.
- Safety: Bus stations and terminals are generally safe and secure. However, you should still be careful and vigilant, as you may encounter some scammers, or touts. You should keep your valuables close to you, and avoid accepting any offers or deals from strangers. Check the bus number and destination before boarding, and request a receipt or ticket after payment.
- Etiquette: Bus stations and terminals are also places where you can interact with the locals and the other travelers, and learn more about the Albanian culture and hospitality. Usually Albanians do things, such as:
- Greet the bus driver and the ticket seller with a smile and a “mirëdita” (good day).
- Offer your seat to the elderly, the pregnant, or the disabled.
- Do not smoke, eat, or drink on the bus, unless it is allowed or offered by the bus driver or the bus company.
- Do not play loud music or talk loudly on the phone, as it may disturb the other passengers or the bus driver.
- Thank the bus driver and the ticket seller with a “faleminderit” (thank you) when you exit the bus.
How to Stay Safe and Comfortable on the Bus
Bus travel in Albania is safe and comfortable, with well-maintained buses and professional drivers. However, you may still encounter some challenges or inconveniences, such as traffic jams, bumpy roads, or crowded buses. Here are some tips on how to stay safe and comfortable on the bus:
- Pack light: Pack light for limited space, keep valuables and documents with you, and label luggage with your contact details to avoid loss or mix-ups.
- Dress appropriately: You should dress appropriately and comfortably for your bus trip, as you may experience different weather conditions or temperatures along the way. You should also wear layers, as you may need to adjust your clothing depending on the bus’s air conditioning or heating system. You should also wear comfortable shoes, as you may need to walk or stand for a while at the bus stations or terminals.
- Bring some entertainment: You should bring some entertainment for your bus trip, as you may get bored
