Traveling across Albania with your furry companion? Whether you’re planning a weekend in the Albanian Alps or a beach holiday in the Riviera, knowing how to get around with your pet is essential for a smooth adventure. Here’s a full guide to pet-friendly transportation options in Albania, with real examples and helpful tips.
🚌 Public Transportation in Albania with Pets
1. Furgons (Minibuses)
Furgons are the most common way locals travel between cities. They’re fast, informal, and depart when full rather than on a fixed schedule.
🐾 Pet Policy: There is no official policy, and it depends on the driver. Small pets in carriers are generally allowed, but large dogs may not be accepted—especially on busy routes.
✅ Tip:
- Call ahead or ask the driver directly.
- Be respectful: bring a muzzle for larger dogs and make sure your pet is clean and calm.
🚐 Example: If you’re traveling from Tirana to Shkodër, you’ll find frequent furgons departing from the Regional Bus Terminal. Many drivers will allow a small dog or cat in a carrier.
2. City Buses
Public city buses (especially in Tirana) are less pet-friendly due to space and hygiene concerns.
🐾 Pet Policy:
- Small pets in secure carriers may be tolerated.
- Larger pets are usually not allowed unless they’re service animals.
📍 Alternative: Use taxis or ride-sharing apps like UpSi or Speed Taxi instead.
🚖 Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Many taxi drivers are pet-tolerant, especially if the animal is well-behaved or in a carrier.
🐾 Tip: Always call ahead and ask if pets are allowed. A simple phrase in Albanian can help:
🗣️ “A mund të marr me vete një qen/mace të vogël në makinë?”
(Can I bring a small dog/cat with me in the car?)
📱 Useful Contacts:
- Speed Taxi Tirana: +355 67 40 40 400 (some drivers accept small pets)
- UpSi app: Some drivers indicate pet-friendliness in the app.
🚗 Renting a Car
Renting a car is the most flexible and pet-friendly way to travel around Albania.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Car Rental Companies:
- Avis Albania – Allows pets with prior notice.
- Eurocar Albania – Accepts pets as long as the car is returned clean and undamaged.
- Green Motion Albania – Offers eco-friendly cars and allows pets in carriers or with seat covers.
✅ Tip:
- Bring a pet seat belt or a travel crate.
- Line the back seat with a blanket or seat cover to avoid extra cleaning fees.
🚂 Trains in Albania (Rare, but worth knowing)
Albania’s rail system is extremely limited and not a viable option for most travel. There are some lines like Durrës–Elbasan, but they’re slow and infrequent.
🐾 Pet Policy: No formal regulations, but small pets in carriers may be tolerated if the train is running.
✈️ Domestic Flights & Ferries
✈️ Domestic Flights
There are no domestic flights within Albania at the moment, but nearby flights (e.g., Tirana to Corfu via ferry or Tirana to Italy) are an option.
⛴️ Ferries
If you’re heading to Corfu from Saranda, or to Italy from Durrës or Vlora:
- Ionian Seaways (Saranda–Corfu): Allows pets in crates or on-leash on deck.
- Adria Ferries (Durrës–Bari): Offers pet-friendly cabins and onboard kennels.
✅ Documents Needed:
- EU Pet Passport (or veterinary certificate If coming from the US)
- Up-to-date vaccinations (especially rabies)
- ISO-compatible microchip, typically a 15-digit chip
Final Tips for Traveling with Pets in Albania
- Always carry water, a leash, waste bags, and basic medical supplies.
- Prepare a vet contact list for every region you visit.
- Be aware of summer heat—avoid mid-day travel.
- Use Google Maps reviews to find pet-friendly stops on your route.
📍Resources for Pet Owners
- Albanian Veterinary Association: http://shshv.org
- Vet Emergency Tirana: +355 69 337 7777
- Facebook Group: “Pet Owners in Albania” – helpful for advice and local tips