How to get to Kukes

Picturesque Kukës, located in the north of Albania at the confluence of the Black and White Drin rivers, attracts travellers with its mountain landscapes and strategic importance. When planning a trip to Kukës, tourists can choose the most convenient route: the city boasts an international airport and is situated at the intersection of major highways connecting the country with its neighbours. Whether you choose a quick flight or a road trip through the Balkans, the journey here will reveal magnificent views of the Albanian Alps.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by Kukës Zayed International Airport (KFZ), which receives flights from European cities and is located in close proximity to the centre. It is a modern terminal providing convenient logistics for travellers wishing to arrive directly in the north of the country.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into the airports of neighbouring capitals. The closest hubs to the location are the airports in Prishtina (PRN) and Skopje (SKP), located less than 100 km away. Another popular option remains flying into Albania's main airport in Tirana (TIA), from where it is easy to continue the journey by ground transport.

There is no direct railway connection to the city, as Kukës does not have its own train station. The railway network in this mountainous part of the country is not developed, so the train cannot be considered a method to reach the final destination directly.

If you prefer travelling by rail, the nearest major hubs are in the neighbouring capitals: Skopje and Prishtina, as well as in Tirana. After reaching these cities by train, tourists will need to transfer to a bus or rent a car to cover the remaining part of the journey through the mountain passes.

Bus travel is a popular and budget-friendly way to get to the city. Regular services from the capital, Tirana, allow you to cover the distance of 140 km in approximately 3.5 hours, enjoying the views along the way. This is the most sought-after route for those already within the country.

There are also international bus routes from neighbouring cities, which are significantly faster than they might appear on the map thanks to modern highways. The trip from Prishtina usually takes about 2–3 hours, while the journey from Skopje takes roughly 3–4 hours, including border control procedures. It is recommended to check current schedules at bus stations before departure.

Travelling by car is one of the most efficient and scenic ways to reach Kukës. Thanks to a modern highway, the drive from Prishtina (about 115 km) will take just under 1.5 hours. The journey from Tirana along a high-quality road will last approximately 2 hours (144 km), revealing breathtaking panoramas of the mountains.

For tourists departing from Skopje, the journey by car will also be comfortable: the distance of about 190 km can be covered in roughly 2.5 hours. Taxi services also operate in the region, offering transfers between these cities, which can be a convenient alternative to renting a car.

Kukës is a hospitable city with a unique mountain atmosphere, but for the most comfortable trip, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. A little preparation will help you avoid minor inconveniences and focus on your holiday.

1. Seasonal clothing. Since the city is located in a mountainous area, the weather here is changeable. Even in summer, it is worth bringing a windbreaker or sweater for cool evenings, and in winter, warm and windproof clothing is essential.
2. Transport. Public transport within the city is not widely developed. To explore the natural attractions in the surrounding areas, it is most convenient to rent a car or arrange a day trip with a local taxi driver.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Albanian Lek. Major establishments may accept cards, but cash is preferred in small cafes and shops. It is better to exchange money in advance or withdraw it from an ATM in the centre.
4. Communication. The main language is Albanian. Young people often speak English, but to communicate with the older generation, it would be useful to learn a couple of phrases in the local language or have an offline translator at hand.
5. Driving in the mountains. If you are travelling by car, be attentive on serpentines off the main highways. Roads can be narrow, and local drivers can be quite impulsive.
6. Local etiquette. Albanians are famous for their hospitality. It is customary to greet people when entering small shops. If you are offered coffee or tea, refusing without a valid reason may be perceived as impolite.
7. Water. For drinking, it is recommended to buy bottled water in supermarkets to eliminate the risk of digestion issues due to the unfamiliar composition of tap water.

By following these simple recommendations, you can safely immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Northern Albania, enjoying the beauty of nature and the sincere cordiality of the locals.