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How to get from Ohrid to Tirana
Driving takes about 2 h 45 via Struga and the Qafë Thanë border crossing. Buses take about 3–3 h 30 and run a few times a day. There is no train.
Best option: Bus. Direct buses are cheap and avoid the cross-border car rental hassle.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| bus Direct buses Ohrid–Tirana via Struga and Qafë Thanë | about 3–3 h 30 | a few a day; check current timetables | about €10–20 | Ask at the Ohrid bus station or local agencies for times. |
| car Via Struga, Qafë Thanë border, Elbasan and the Tirana–Elbasan road | about 2 h 45 plus border | fuel | Rental car insurance must cover Albania. | |
| taxi Private transfer from Ohrid | about 2 h 45 | on request | about €80–120 | Agree the price beforehand. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Carry passports; this is a border between two non-EU countries.
- Albanian lek and Macedonian denar are different; carry a little of each.
- The Tirana–Elbasan road is now fast; the old mountain road is slower.
- Check the bus timetable a day ahead.
Common questions
Is there a direct bus?
Yes, there are a few direct buses a day between Ohrid and Tirana, taking about 3 to 3 hours 30 minutes with the border. Ask at the Ohrid bus station or local agencies for current times, as they change seasonally.
How long is the drive?
About 2 hours 45 minutes, plus time at the Qafë Thanë border crossing, which can be quick or take up to an hour. The route goes via Struga, Elbasan and the Tirana–Elbasan road. Rental cars must have insurance valid in Albania.
Can I do Tirana as a day trip?
It is possible, with about 3 hours each way, but leaves only a few hours. Tirana's centre, the Bunk'Art museums and the Dajti cable car need more time. A night in Tirana is better; central hotels are affordable and most sights are walkable.
What documents do I need?
A valid passport for most nationalities; EU citizens can usually travel with an ID card. Check visa requirements for Albania and North Macedonia for your nationality. If driving, carry your licence, registration papers and insurance valid in both countries. Border queues are longer in summer.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.