Tirana International Airport (TIA) is the main entry point for tourists visiting Albania. Renting a car directly at the airport is the fastest, easiest, and most convenient way to begin your journey. This complete 2025 guide covers prices, pick-up locations, insurance, required documents, deposit rules, and the most important tips to avoid common tourist mistakes.
Browse our full fleet: https://gctcaralbania.com/car-listing/
Fast pick-up at Tirana Airport
24/7 customer support
Call Us: +355 69 841 0025
Why Renting a Car at Tirana Airport Is a Smart Choice
Most visitors arriving in Albania start their trip in Tirana. Renting a car directly at TIA gives you maximum flexibility and ensures you start your trip right away without waiting for buses or taxis.
Benefits of renting at Tirana Airport:
- Immediate pick-up after landing
- No need for taxis or transfers
- More available car options than city locations
- Better opening hours, including late-night flights
- Direct road access to Tirana, Durres, Shkoder, Vlora, and Kosovo
If you want a smooth and stress-free start to your Albanian trip, the airport is the best place to rent your car.
Where to Find the Rental Desks at TIA
One advantage of Tirana Airport is that it is very compact and easy to navigate.
✔ Inside the Terminal – Rental Desks Area
After passport control and baggage claim, you’ll find the rental counters immediately in the arrivals hall.
Here you will:
- Sign your rental agreement
- Review insurance options
- Receive keys and parking location details
✔ Outside the Terminal – Car Pick-Up Area
The rental cars are usually parked in:
- Main parking lot by the terminal
- Short-term parking area
- Marked “CAR RENTAL” zones
It takes 1–3 minutes walking from the terminal exit to reach your vehicle.
Car Rental Prices at Tirana Airport (2025)
Prices at the airport vary depending on:
- Season
- Car category
- Automatic vs manual
- Insurance type
- How early you book
Below are the average 2025 prices:
Low Season (October–April):
- Compact cars: €20–35/day
- Sedans: €25–45/day
- SUVs: €40–70/day
High Season (May–September):
- Compact cars: €35–60/day
- Sedans: €40–70/day
- SUVs: €60–120/day
Why airport rentals may cost slightly more:
- Airport tax
- 24/7 staff availability
- Higher demand during peak months
Pro Tip: Booking online in advance ALWAYS gives lower pricing and guarantees availability.
Documents Required for Renting a Car at TIA
Make sure you have these documents ready when renting at Tirana Airport:
Valid Driver’s License
From your home country.
Drivers from:
- USA
- UK
- Canada
- Australia
do not always need an International Driving Permit (IDP), but it is recommended for safety and clarity.
Passport (or National ID for EU citizens)
Debit or Credit Card
Used for:
- Security deposit
- Additional insurance options
Age Requirements
Most companies require drivers to be:
- 21+ years old
- Some SUVs or premium vehicles → 23–25+ years old
Understanding Deposits & Insurance Options
Many tourists are confused by car rental insurance. Here’s the simple breakdown:
Basic Insurance (CDW)
CDW = Collision Damage Waiver
This is the minimum insurance included in most rentals.
- Covers major damage
- Does NOT cover full cost
- You still have an excess (deductible) between €300–€1,000
Full Coverage / Super CDW
Highly recommended for Albania’s mixed road conditions.
With full coverage, you get:
- Zero or very low excess
- No stress about scratches or parking dents
- Peace of mind during mountain drives
For most tourists, this is the best option.
Deposit Amounts at Tirana Airport
Depending on the car, the deposit usually is:
- €100–€200 for compact cars
The deposit is refunded after the car is returned with no damage.
Airport Pickup vs City Pickup — Which Is Better?
Both options have advantages, but one is best for most travelers.
Airport Pickup Advantages
- Zero waiting time
- Perfect if you’re starting your trip immediately
- More car categories available
- Easy drop-off before your flight
- Saves money on taxis to Tirana
City Pickup Advantages
- Sometimes slightly cheaper
- Good option if you stay in Tirana for several days before traveling
For most tourists, airport pickup is the best choice.
https://gctcaralbania.com/car-listing/
Late-Night and Early-Morning Pick-Ups (Very Important)
Tirana Airport receives flights at all hours — even 02:00 or 03:00 AM.
Good news:
Most rental companies offer:
- 24/7 pick-up and drop-off
- Staff available during all flight arrivals
- Flexible after-hours arrangements
Always confirm your arrival time with the company when booking.
Driving Out of Tirana Airport – What to Expect
Driving out of TIA is extremely simple.
The roads are:
- Well-marked
- Recently renovated
- Easy for tourists
TIA connects directly to the main highways heading to:
- Tirana (20 minutes)
- Durres (30–40 minutes)
- Shkoder (1.5 hours)
- Vlora (2 hours)
- Kosovo (2.5 hours)
Use Google Maps or Waze for accurate directions.
Common Mistakes Tourists Make at Tirana Airport
Avoid these and your rental experience will be perfect:
Booking last minute during summer
Cars sell out quickly between June–September.
Choosing the wrong insurance
Full coverage is safest for Albania.
Not checking the car before leaving
Always take pictures of:
- Exterior
- Fuel level
- Mileage
Driving immediately after a long flight without rest
Take 5–10 minutes to rest and adjust.
Ignoring road signs
Some signs may differ from your home country drive slowly at first.
Is It Worth Renting a Car at Tirana Airport?
Yes 100% worth it.
You gain:
- Full trip flexibility
- Lower cost compared to taxis
- Access to all major attractions
- Fast departure from the airport
- Easy, stress-free drop-off
For most visitors, renting a car at TIA is the best way to begin their Albanian adventure.
Book now:
https://gctcaralbania.com/car-listing/
Conclusion
Tirana Airport rental is convenient, simple, and tourist-friendly. Whether you’re planning to explore the Albanian Riviera, the mountains of the north, or UNESCO cities like Berat, a rental car gives you complete freedom.
Book Your Rental Car at Tirana Airport Now
Start your trip smoothly by reserving your car in advance.
Browse our full fleet: https://gctcaralbania.com/car-listing/
Fast pick-up at Tirana Airport
24/7 customer support
+355 69 841 0025