Tirana Airport to Struga bus

Traveling from Tirana International Airport (TIA) to the picturesque lakeside town of Struga is a popular route for travelers looking to explore the beauty of North Macedonia immediately upon landing in Albania. The distance between the two locations is approximately 134 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 4 hours and 45 minutes. With a daily departure scheduled at 08:00, the bus offers a reliable and cost-effective connection. At a fixed price of 19.00 EUR, this route provides excellent value for money, ensuring you reach your destination comfortably without the stress of navigating mountain roads yourself.

When planning your trip to Struga, the bus stands out as the most balanced option. While a private taxi can cost upwards of 120 EUR and car rentals involve complex cross-border insurance paperwork, the bus offers a seamless experience for a fraction of the price. Choosing the bus is not only better for your budget but also for the environment, significantly reducing the carbon footprint per passenger. For modern travelers, Gjirafa Travel simplifies the process by providing digital tickets that can be added to your Apple Wallet, eliminating the need for paper and ensuring your seat is guaranteed before you even land at Rinas.

This cross-border route is serviced by reputable licensed transport providers, ensuring safety and professional service. Currently, Luna Travel and AMR Travel are the authorized operators managing this line. Both carriers utilize comfortable buses equipped for mid-range travel, allowing you to relax as you cross from the Albanian landscape into the Ohrid region. By booking through a centralized platform, you avoid the uncertainty of local terminals and benefit from a transparent pricing structure where the ticket price remains consistent at 19 EUR, regardless of the operator chosen.

Leaving from Tirana Airport, the bus heads east toward the Elbasan region before climbing the scenic winding roads toward the Qafë Thanë border crossing. This route offers stunning views of the Albanian countryside and the Shkumbin River valley. As you descend toward Lake Ohrid, the panorama opens up to reveal one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe. Travelers are advised to have their passports or valid IDs ready for the border check. To ensure you stay connected for maps and local info upon entering North Macedonia, consider securing an eSIM before departure, as roaming charges can be high when switching networks at the border.

Upon arrival at Stacioni Strugë, you are just a short walk or a quick taxi ride away from the vibrant town center where the Black Drin river flows out of Lake Ohrid. Struga is famous for its "Poetry Nights" and charming riverside cafes. If you are continuing your journey toward Ohrid or Skopje, the bus station serves as a local hub. For the smoothest experience, we recommend booking your return ticket in advance on Gjirafa Travel. Remember that the local currency in North Macedonia is the Denar (MKD), though many places in tourist areas may accept cards or Euros; however, having some local currency or a working digital payment method is always wise.