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How To Travel Around Tirana

How To Travel Around Tirana

How To Travel Around Tirana

By bus

Tirana’s public transportation system is comprised of a variety of intercity bus routes. A single journey costs 30 leks (there are only single tickets available) and the conductor sells tickets on the bus. The ‘Unaze’ buses serve the ring road and make a circle around the city center. There are more routes servicing Tirana Airport and regional retail areas.

Bus Stations in Tirana provide a web and Android application that provides information about Tirana’s public transportation, including lines, directions, schedules, and charges. Additionally, an Android application is downloadable via GetJar.

By foot

The city center is compact enough to be explored on foot. Walking is enjoyable, but be aware that the sidewalk width, construction material, and quality are inconsistent. Frequently, sidewalks stop suddenly, have big holes, or are quite narrow. A lack of vigilance when walking may result in an ankle injury or a fall into a hole. Because street names are susceptible to change, few residents are familiar with them. It is recommended to navigate using landmarks rather than addresses or street names. The Lana River and “Dshmort e Kombit” street, which approximately divides the center portion of Tirana into four pieces, may be used to orient oneself. At this junction of the Lana River and Dshmort e Kombit, the “Pyramid” and “Taiwan Center” are easily identifiable.

By Car

If traveling with a rented vehicle, be aware that parking is a huge issue. Driving in Tirana is a unique experience for those ready to take the risk. Driving hard and taking advantage of chances will allow you to travel at a typical rate. Avoid driving in Tirana if you are timid or inactive, since you will certainly get annoyed.

The city still lacks directional road signage (for example how to get out of the city). If you encounter difficulties, just ask the locals (do not show them a map, since Albanians are not used to viewing maps and even police officers do not know how to use a street map). Bear in mind that the term “Car” sounds similar to the Albanian word for “Penis,” so do not be shocked if you get strange looks if you use it. “Auto” or the Albanian term “Makina” are appropriate substitutes.

Online booking is accessible for automobile rentals in Albania from multinational companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar. However, local providers, such as Noshi Rent-A-Car and Albarent, often offer lower prices.

By Bicycle

In 2011, the ecovolis bicycle sharing scheme was introduced. Multiple sites provide bicycle rentals in Rinia Park and along Deshmoret e Kombit Boulevard. A full day of horseback riding costs 100 lek (about $1 USD as of 2012). Because you must contact with a salesman, the system is not electronic. Bicycles must be returned to their original location. Ecovolis also provides 24/7 bike rentals for extended durations. Rruga Qemal Stafa is Tirana’s unofficial “bike street” with a multitude of small, affordable bike businesses specializing in the sale and repair of all other types of bicycle equipment and maintenance. Recently, mixed bus and bicycle lanes have been installed on a number of major thoroughfares. However, street riding may be quite hazardous due to tight roads and parked automobiles (but car drivers have become more careful during the last years). Skanderbeg Square, Deshmoret e Kombit Boulevard, and the walkways along the Lana River and Kavaja Street are nonetheless reserved for cyclists. Since 2013, it is no longer possible to hire a bicycle on weekends.

By taxi

A journey across town should cost 400 lek during the day and 600 lek at night, or around four to five euros. Before entering, negotiate a cost. merrTAXI provides certified taxi reservation service: 0800 55 55 (toll free within Albania).

Speed Taxi is a reputable taxi service that use taximeters, so you can be certain that they will not overcharge you. The number for Speed Taxi is +355 4 2222555.

Official taxis include a pricing list inside the car. The flag-fall rate is 250 Lek (like with MerrTaxi) during the day and 300 Lek at night or on holidays.

The majority of informal or irregular taxis do not use taximeters. You may negotiate the fare before to boarding the cab, or you can request that the taximeter be used to save money.

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