So, you’ve finally made the jump and moved to Vlorë. First off: great choice. The sunsets are worth the move alone. But, if you’re like most of us when we first landed, you’re probably currently standing on a street corner in a mild state of confusion wondering where on earth the bus station went.
One of the most common “Welcome to Albania” moments is realizing that things here operate on a mix of “who you know” and “where the driver feels like stopping today.” Don’t worry—I’ve gathered the best advice to save you the headache.
Getting In: The Tirana Airport to Vlorë Pipeline
If you aren’t ready to brave Albanian traffic behind the wheel just yet, the Hermes Airport Shuttle is your best friend. It’s a reliable minivan service that runs almost around the clock for about 1,500 lek (roughly $15 USD).
Pro Tip: If you’re taking the 1:30 AM bus (a favorite for those early morning 6 AM flights), buy your ticket at their office a day or two in advance. They’ll even pick you up at your apartment if you arrange it early enough.
Plan Your Arrival: For a stress-free start, I always recommend booking a private transfer. Check out Welcome Pickups for a driver who will meet you right at the gate, or use Kiwitaxi if you’re traveling with a larger group and need a van.
The Mystery of the “New” Bus Station
If you ask a local where the bus station is, they might point you toward the old spot near the mosque. Ignore them. The “new” inter-regional station—where you catch the vans to Tirana, Sarandë, or Berat—has moved further out on Transbalkan Road, right past the Kastrati gas station.
There isn’t a “terminal” in the Western sense; it’s more like a collection of buses lined up in a lot. Just look for the sign in the window that says “Tiranë” and hop on. You usually pay the 700 lek fare when you arrive at your destination.
Taxis: Meters are Your Best Friend
Vlorë is generally safe, but “scenic route” pricing for expats is a real thing. I’ve heard of people being charged 800 lek for a ride that should have been 400.
To keep it honest:
- Insist on the meter. If they say it’s broken, find another cab.
- Use the Patoko app. It’s essentially Albania’s version of Uber and takes the guesswork out of the fare.
- Follow the route on your phone. If they see you watching the map, they’re less likely to take the “long way.”
Need a Car? If you’re planning on exploring the Llogara Pass or heading up to the “Accursed Mountains,” you’ll want your own wheels. I recommend DiscoverCars or Localrent.com to compare local prices. Just a heads up: US citizens often have to attend a local driving school to get an Albanian license after their first year of residency, so plan accordingly!*
Staying Connected on the Go
The last thing you want is to be stuck at the bus station without a map. While the city WiFi is decent in cafes, having data the second you land is a lifesaver.
Stay Online: I personally use Airalo or Yesim for an eSIM so I have data the second the plane touches the tarmac..
Moving here is an adventure, and the transportation “system” is just the first boss you have to beat. Take it slow, keep some cash (lek) on you, and remember: if the bus is full, it’s leaving—even if it’s 10 minutes early!
ARTICLE UPDATED 7/23/26: Information can change frequently, so be sure to double check when you arrive
