Furgons are the backbone of public transport in Albania. If you want to travel cheaply between cities, villages, and coastal towns, you’ll almost certainly use them. Unlike the rigid bus systems in Western Europe, the Albanian furgon system is informal, flexible, and—once you understand it—incredibly efficient.
This guide explains exactly how furgon buses work, where to find the main terminals in Tirana, what they cost, and the “unwritten rules” every first-time traveler needs to know.
Quick answer: What is a furgon in Albania?
A furgon is a privately operated minibus that runs fixed routes between cities.
- No online booking: You cannot buy tickets in advance.
- Leaves when full: Most furgons don’t follow a strict clock; they depart when every seat is taken.
- Cash is King: You pay the driver directly in Albanian Lek (ALL).
- Budget Friendly: They are significantly cheaper than taxis and faster than large intercity buses.
Where to find furgon buses in Tirana (critical info)
Tirana does not have one central bus station. Instead, furgons depart from two main hubs based on where you are going.
1. North & South terminal (Terminali i Autobusëve të Jugut dhe Veriut)
Use this for destinations like Durrës, Shkodër, Vlorë, and Berat.
- Location: Southwest Tirana, near the “Casa Italia” area.
- How to get there: Take a city bus (marked ‘Instituti’ or ‘Kamëz’) from behind the National History Museum in Skanderbeg Square.
2. East Bus terminal (Terminali Lindor)
Use this for the Albanian Riviera and the East, including Sarandë, Gjirokastër, and Korçë.
- Location: Near the TEG (Tirana East Gate) shopping mall.
- Pro Tip: This is the most important station for travelers looking for the best beaches in Albania.
Furgon Prices & Logistics (2026 Estimates)
Prices are fixed and incredibly affordable. You don’t need to haggle; the price is the same for locals and tourists.
| Route | Estimated Price (ALL) | Approx. Euro |
| Tirana → Durrës | 400 ALL | €4.00 |
| Tirana → Berat | 600 ALL | €6.00 |
| Tirana → Sarandë | 1,700 ALL | €17.00 |
| Sarandë → Ksamil | 150 ALL | €1.50 |
The Payment Rule: You usually pay halfway through the trip or at the end. Make sure you have small bills. If you need cash before heading to the terminal, see this guide on avoiding ATM fees in Albania.
How a Furgon trip actually works (step-by-step)
- Find the Sign: Walk into the terminal and look at the windshields. Drivers place a sign with the destination name (e.g., “SHKODËR”) in the window.
- Board & Wait: There are no assigned seats. Just hop in and find a spot.
- The Departure: The driver will wait until the van is nearly full. In busy months, this takes 5 minutes; in low season, it might take 20.
- The Journey: Furgons will stop anywhere along the road if someone waves them down. If you want to get off before the final stop, just shout “Ndal!” (Stop).
Are Furgons safe?
Yes. Furgons are the daily transport for students, workers, and families. They are safe and reliable, though the driving style in the mountains can be… “enthusiastic.” If you are a solo traveler, they are a great way to meet locals and other backpackers.
Summary: Why use Furgons?
Mastering the furgon system is the key to keeping your Albania travel costs low. It gives you the freedom to explore “hidden gem” villages that traditional bus lines simply don’t reach.
Simple Rules for Success:
- Arrive at the terminal before 10:00 AM for the most frequent departures.
- Keep your large luggage in the back and your valuables on your lap.
- Always have a map (like Google Maps or Maps.me) open so you know when you’re getting close to your stop.
