How to get to Belsh: car, bus, furgon, or transfer
Updated July 2026 · 6 min read
Belsh is about 90 minutes from Tirana and 35 from Elbasan. You can self-drive, take a furgon (shared minibus) via Elbasan, or book a fixed-price transfer door to door. Here is what each option really costs you in time and hassle.
By car
The simplest option. From Tirana you drive toward Elbasan and then onto the Dumrea plateau; the road is paved the whole way. Parking in Belsh is easy and free.
By furgon or bus
Furgons (shared minibuses) run from Tirana and Elbasan toward Belsh, but timetables are informal and the last legs between lakes are not served at all. Plan to be flexible, and confirm return times before you set out.
By transfer
A fixed-price transfer takes you door to door, waits while you swim, and can carry on to Berat or Ohrid afterwards. The price is agreed before you get in — no meter, no surprises.
Common questions
How far is Belsh from Tirana Airport?
About 90 minutes by road. A transfer meets you in the arrivals hall with your name on a sign and drives you straight to the plateau.
Is there a direct bus to Belsh?
Furgons connect Tirana and Elbasan toward Belsh, but they are infrequent and do not link the lakes to each other. For a day of lake-hopping a car or a transfer is far more practical.
Planning this trip?
Tell us your dates and where you’re coming from — we’ll sort the tour or the transfer.