Landing at Rinas Airport marks the beginning of your Albanian adventure, and knowing what to expect makes all the difference. After navigating Rinas arrivals, most travelers head straight to Tirana’s vibrant Bllok district—just 25-30 minutes away, where the Tirana’s best restaurants await. This comprehensive guide covers everything from customs clearance to finding the best restaurant in Tirana for your first memorable meal.
Navigating Rinas Arrivals: Step-by-Step
Customs and Baggage Claim
Rinas Airport (officially Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza) handles arrivals efficiently. After disembarking, follow signs to passport control. EU citizens enjoy relatively quick processing, while other nationalities should expect 15-20 minutes during peak hours.
Quick Tips for Smooth Rinas Arrivals:
- Have your passport and any required visas ready
- EU citizens can use automated gates when available
- Baggage claim is clearly marked and operates efficiently
- Customs is straightforward for standard tourist items
Essential Services at Rinas Airport
Currency Exchange: Available in the arrivals hall, though rates are better in Tirana. Exchange enough for immediate transport (around 2,500-3,000 Lek).
SIM Cards: Multiple providers offer tourist packages at Rinas. Vodafone and ALBtelecom kiosks are in the arrivals area, with data packages starting at 500 Lek.
WiFi: Free airport WiFi is available, though connection can be spotty during busy periods.
Transport from Rinas to Tirana Bllok
Getting from Rinas arrivals to Tirana’s trendy Bllok neighborhood is straightforward, with several reliable options.
Taxi Services (Recommended for First-Time Visitors)
Official Airport Taxis are your safest bet. Look for clearly marked taxi stands outside arrivals.
- Cost: 2,000-2,500 Lek to Bllok (approximately €18-22)
- Journey Time: 25-30 minutes depending on traffic
- Booking: Available immediately outside Rinas arrivals hall
- Payment: Cash preferred, though some accept cards
Pro Tip: Negotiate or confirm the price before departing. Reputable drivers use meters, but many agree on flat rates to popular destinations like Bllok.
Airport Bus Service
The Airport Express shuttle connects Rinas to Tirana city center.
- Cost: 400 Lek (budget-friendly option)
- Frequency: Hourly departures
- Drop-off: Main bus station, requiring additional transport to Bllok
- Journey Time: 35-40 minutes plus connection time
Ride-Sharing Apps
Bolt operates in Tirana and can be booked from Rinas Airport arrivals, offering transparent pricing and convenient payment through the app.
Car Rental
International rental companies (Europcar, Sixt, Hertz) have desks near Rinas arrivals. Driving in Tirana requires confidence—parking in Bllok can be challenging for newcomers.
First Stop After Rinas Arrivals: Fuel Up in Bllok
After clearing Rinas arrivals and the 30-minute journey into Tirana, you’ll arrive hungry and ready to experience Albanian hospitality. Bllok is the perfect first destination—Tirana’s most dynamic neighborhood, packed with cafes, restaurants, and vibrant street life.
Why Bllok Is Your Ideal First Stop
Once a restricted area for communist party elite, Bllok has transformed into Tirana’s dining and entertainment hub. Tree-lined streets, outdoor terraces, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere make it the natural choice for post-flight recovery.
Most boutique hotels are within walking distance, meaning you can drop your bags and immediately explore. The neighborhood’s walkability is perfect after hours of travel.
Artigiano: The Perfect Post-Flight Meal
Located in the heart of Bllok, Artigiano stands out as the ideal spot for your first meal after Rinas arrivals. This Italian restaurant combines authentic cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere that eases you into Albanian dining culture.
Why Artigiano Works for Jet-Lagged Travelers:
Familiar Yet Authentic — After navigating Rinas Airport and adjusting to a new city, Artigiano offers the comfort of Italian classics executed with precision. The menu features recognizable dishes that don’t require translation or adventurous eating when you’re tired.
Central Bllok Location — Situated on one of Bllok’s main streets, Artigiano is easy to find and within walking distance of most accommodations. No need for additional transport after your journey from Rinas.
Quality Coffee — Albanian coffee culture is serious, and Artigiano delivers. Their espresso bar serves as the perfect jet-lag remedy—strong, properly extracted coffee that helps you reset your internal clock.
Comfortable Atmosphere — The restaurant strikes a balance between casual and refined. You can relax in travel clothes without feeling underdressed, while the ambiance remains sophisticated enough for a proper welcome-to-Tirana experience.
Generous Portions — After airport food and travel, Artigiano’s satisfying portions hit the spot. Their pizzas are substantial, pastas are properly sauced, and appetizers are designed for sharing.
Outdoor Seating — During warm months, claim a sidewalk table and watch Bllok’s street life unfold. It’s the perfect introduction to Tirana’s social culture while enjoying your first proper meal.
What to Eat at Artigiano After Rinas Arrivals
For Lunch (Most Rinas arrivals reach Bllok around lunch):
- Margherita Pizza — Simple, perfectly executed, with fresh mozzarella
- Carbonara — Creamy, authentic preparation
- Caesar Salad — Light option if flying has left you wanting something fresh
- Bruschetta — Perfect for sharing while deciding on mains
For Dinner:
- Seafood Risotto — Showcases quality ingredients
- Grilled Vegetables — Mediterranean flavors, lighter after travel
- Tiramisu — Essential for coffee lovers recovering from Rinas arrivals
Beverage Recommendations:
- Start with a proper espresso or cappuccino
- Local Albanian wine pairs beautifully with Italian cuisine
- Peroni or Tirana beer for something refreshing
Practical Information:
- Reservation: Recommended for dinner, walk-ins usually fine for lunch
- Hours: Open daily, typically 11:00-23:00
- Payment: Cash and cards accepted
- Service: English-speaking staff accustomed to international visitors
Exploring Bllok After Your First Meal
Once you’ve refueled at Artigiano or another Bllok restaurant, spend the afternoon acclimating:
Take a Walking Tour — Bllok’s compact size makes it perfect for jet-lagged exploration. Notable landmarks include the colorful apartment buildings, former dictator Enver Hoxha’s residence (now public space), and numerous street art installations.
Coffee Culture — Albanians take coffee seriously. After lunch at Artigiano, cafe-hopping is a legitimate afternoon activity. Claim a sidewalk table and people-watch.
Shopping — Boutiques, international brands, and local designers occupy Bllok’s storefronts. Window shopping costs nothing and helps you orient yourself.
Skanderbeg Square — A 15-minute walk from Bllok brings you to Tirana’s main square, worth visiting before dinner.
The beauty of choosing Bllok as your base is that everything you need for a perfect first day—from comfortable accommodation to excellent dining like Artigiano—is within walking distance. After the stress of Rinas arrivals and travel, this walkable neighborhood lets you decompress while experiencing Tirana’s most vibrant area. Once you’ve recovered from Rinas arrivals and enjoyed that essential first meal, Tirana offers much more to explore.
