Turkish Airlines offers two direct flights on a daily basis from Istanbul to Tirana. All operated from Istanbul Airport (IST), these flights land at Tirana International Airport (TIA). The number of flights remains the same all year round; however there may be differences on the hours of departure, depending on the season. Flights in this route take nearly one and a half to two hours.
The most populous metropolis in Türkiye, Istanbul is a brilliant destination where the historical heritage of thousands of years embraces the generosity of the wonderful nature. As a city connecting Europe with Asia, Istanbul welcomes is guests with a riveting synthesis in cultural aspects too, as an advantage of its geographical location. Offering an utterly different story in each district, Istanbul guarantees a dreamlike holiday for all its visitors by the numerous palaces captivating by their architectural details, hundreds of museums and art galleries exhibiting rich collections, huge performance halls, pretty bridges, and the coastal strip of kilometers long, together with delightful islands.
As Türkiye’s gate to the world, Istanbul has two airports hosting a large number of flights each day: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW). Turkish Airlines flights from Istanbul to Tirana take off from Istanbul Airport (IST).
Istanbul Airport (IST) is located on the European side, between Tayakadın, a neighborhood on the Black Sea coast, and Akpınar villages. Istanbul Airport is 35 km from the city center.
There are plenty of transport options from the city center to Istanbul Airport. You can reach the airport with Havaist buses from many central, easy-to-reach spots, such as Taksim, Beşiktaş, Yenikapı, Bahçeşehir and Kozyatağı. You can also reach the airport from the city center with IETT buses. For more information on public transport schedules check our transport information page.
The capital of Albania, Tirana owns a perfectly verdant nature at the foothills of Mount Dajti. Ranking among the top enjoyable European cities, Tirana wraps itself up in an utterly different charm at all seasons throughout a year.
Evoking admiration by its historical heritage and pleasant natural gems, Tirana hosts many attractions, amongst which there is the National Museum of History, as the first stop of cultural tours. Serving since 1981, the museum draws interest by its rich collection. Et'hem Bey Mosque, as one of the most significant works remaining from the Ottoman period and the Clock Tower right next to it are the noteworthy icons in this lovely city. In addition, Skanderberg Square and Mount Dajti are the ideal places for those wishing to enjoy their time and be in touch with the nature during their stay at Tirana.
Managing the city’s air traffic on its own, Tirana International Airport (TIA) is 17 kilometers to the city center. Passengers holding a flight ticket to Tirana with Turkish Airlines land at this airport.
It is possible to use the buses named Rinas Express setting off from the parking lot in the airport for reaching the city center from Tirana International Airport (TIA). Serving from 06.00 to 18.00 each day once in every hour, these buses reach Skanderberg Square in the center within nearly thirty minutes.
You may also take the cabs operating 7/24 on the way out the terminal building, or rent a car from the car rental offices to ensure a smooth transport during your stay.