Tirana to Kotor by Bus: Times, Price and Border Crossing (2026)
Updated 2026-10-30 · 5 min read · Prices and schedules change — check locally.
How to take the bus from Tirana to Kotor
- Book a seat online a day or two ahead in summer.
- Check the departure point on your ticket and take a taxi there 30 minutes early.
- Keep your passport (or EU ID card) handy for the border.
- Carry some euros: Montenegro uses the euro.
- Get off at Kotor bus station, a 10-minute walk from the Old Town.
How long is the bus from Tirana to Kotor?
About 6 hours on average for roughly 207 km. The fastest direct bus takes about 4h50; some take nearly 8 hours with stops or a change.
Border queues add time in July and August.
What times do buses leave?
In season there are up to five a day, mostly between 08:00 and 15:00. Examples from booking sites:
Times change by season and fewer buses run in winter. Check the date you need before planning anything around it.
| Departure | Operator | Time | Fare from |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00 | Old Town Travel | About 6 h | €32 |
| 10:15 | Jadran Ekspres | About 7h45 | €27 |
| 12:30 | With one change | Varies | €37 |
Where does the bus leave from in Tirana?
Most international buses to Montenegro leave from Tirana's East Terminal (Terminali Lindor); some operators use their own stop.
The pick-up point is printed on your ticket. Taxis know the terminals by name; allow extra time in morning traffic.
Where can I buy tickets?
Online on sites like GetByBus or Gjirafa Travel, or from the operator's office or the driver if there are seats.
In July and August book a day or two ahead.
What happens at the border?
Everyone stays on the bus or gets off briefly while Albanian and Montenegrin officers check passports. It usually takes 15–45 minutes, longer in summer.
Neither Albania nor Montenegro is in Schengen, so there are no EES fingerprints on this crossing.
Is there a cheaper or more flexible way?
Yes: take a bus from Tirana to Shkodër (about 2 h, about 40 a day), then a furgon from Shkodër to Ulcinj or Podgorica (1h30–2h30, 800–1,500 ALL), and on to Kotor.
It takes longer but gives you a night in Shkodër.