Tirana to Ohrid by Bus: Times, Price, Border and Day Trip Tips
Updated 2026-10-30 · 5 min read · Prices and schedules change — check locally.
Tirana → Pogradec (Lake Ohrid) bus times →How long is the bus from Tirana to Ohrid?
About 3 hours, plus any wait at the border.
Several buses run a day; FlixBus and local operators sell tickets online.
Where does it leave from?
Mostly from Tirana's East Terminal; some operators use other stops in the centre.
Check the pick-up point on your ticket. Buses don't leave from the airport.
What about the border?
Buses cross at Qafë Thanë, open 24 hours and usually under 30 minutes.
North Macedonia isn't in the EU; bring your passport. EU citizens can use an ID card.
Can I just visit Lake Ohrid from Albania?
Yes: Pogradec is on the Albanian shore, about 2.5 hours from Tirana by bus.
| Option | Time from Tirana | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bus to Ohrid (North Macedonia) | About 3 h | €15–17, border crossing |
| Bus to Pogradec (Albania) | About 2.5 h | About 12 a day, about 655 ALL |
| Car | About 2.5–3 h | Rental car needs green card for North Macedonia |
Is a day trip possible?
It's long (about 6 hours on the road), so one night in Ohrid or Pogradec is better.