Rent a Car in Albania: Tips, Costs, & Driving Guide

Planning a trip to Albania? Chances are you’ve seen pictures of the stunning Albanian Riviera, the snow-capped peaks of the Accursed Mountains, or UNESCO towns with cobbled streets and Ottoman houses. But here’s the thing: many of Albania’s best places aren’t easily connected by train (there isn’t one) or even regular bus routes. 

That’s why most travelers eventually ask the question: Should I rent a car in Albania?

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about car rental in Albania: from requirements and costs to what type of car to rent, where to go, and what to watch out for once you’re behind the wheel.

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• Why Rent a Car in Albania
• Do You Really Need a Car in Albania?
• Requirements for Car Rental in Albania
• What Type of Car to Rent in Albania
• How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Albania?
• Driving in Albania: What to Expect
• Albania Car Rental Insurance: What You Should Know
• Tips for Renting a Car in Albania
• Best Road Trips in Albania
  • The Albanian Riviera
  • Theth & Valbona Loop
  • Berat & Gjirokastër
  • Lake Ohrid & Korçë
• Where to Stay on Your Albania Road Trip
• My Favorite Travel Websites
• FAQs About Renting a Car in Albania
  • Is it safe to drive in Albania?
  • Are automatic cars available in Albania?
  • Can I cross into neighboring countries with a rental car?
  • How much does Albania car hire cost?
  • Do I need an International Driving Permit in Albania?
• Final Thoughts About Renting a Car in Albania

Why Rent a Car in Albania

Albania is small– about the size of Maryland in the U.S.–but it’s incredibly diverse. Within a few hours of driving, you can go from white-sand beaches to alpine valleys or from lively cities to tiny villages where life hasn’t changed much in decades.

Public transportation does exist, but it’s extremely limited:

• Buses & furgons (minibuses): They connect major towns but rarely stick to strict schedules. Often, they don’t depart until they’re full which means you might do a lot of sitting around waiting instead of exploring.
• Trains: Supposedly Albania used to have trains but I didn’t see a single train or train track when I was there. It’s all cars and buses.
• Taxis: Affordable for short rides, but not practical for a multi-day trip.

If you only want to stay in Tirana or at a beach town like Sarandë, you can manage without a car. But if your dream is to road trip along the Ionian coast, hike in Theth, or explore Berat and Gjirokastër at your own pace, Albania car hire is by far the easiest and most rewarding option.

Think of it like this: in one week with a car, you could see beaches, mountains, historic towns, and even detour to neighboring countries. Without a car, you’d spend half your time waiting around for buses and miss out on all those hidden beaches and mountain paths.

Do you want to see it all? Renting a car can make that happen.

🏖️⛰️ Planning your trip to Albania?  Check out my 2 Weeks in Albania and see the best beaches, mountains, and villages in this gorgeous place.

🚗 Looking to rent a car? Just click HERE for the best deals in your area.   

Do You Really Need a Car in Albania?

This depends on your itinerary. Let’s break it down:

• Not necessary if… You’re basing yourself in one city (like Tirana, Shkodër, or Sarandë) and doing day trips with guided tours or taxis.
• Highly recommended if… You want to explore the Albanian Riviera beyond Sarandë (go to Dhermi!), reach remote areas like Theth or Valbona, or simply maximize your time.
• Essential if… You’re planning a road trip across the country. Albania’s best experiences are often found in places that buses just don’t go.

In short: for the “big highlights” (Tirana, Sarandë, Berat), you can get by without one. For adventure and freedom, a rental car is absolutely worth it.

Renting a car in Albania can completely change the way you experience the country. You’ll be able to set your own pace, pull over for every viewpoint, and explore corners most tourists never reach.

But if a car is not in the cards for you, check out some of the great guided tours that can help you see this gorgeous country.

Requirements for Car Rental in Albania

Renting a car in Albania is pretty straightforward, but there are a few requirements to keep in mind:

Driver’s License

Your valid license from home works for short visits. An International Driving Permit (IDP) isn’t always required, but it’s smart to carry one- especially if you’ll also drive in Greece, Montenegro, or North Macedonia.

Age Restrictions to Rent a Car in Albania

You’ll generally be OK if you’re aged 25-75.  If not, check with the car rental agency to figure out your options. You might be able to pay an extra deposit or there might be a price increase to be a driver.

Credit Card

Most companies require a credit card for the security deposit. Some smaller local companies may accept debit cards or cash. Be sure to make sure to ask how much the deposit is if you are using one of these so you can be sure to have enough.

Car Rental Insurance

Check carefully what’s covered. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection are common add-ons to the regular insurance. Just be sure you include them when you rent the car.

And I’m not saying that you’ll have an accident, but I AM saying that the drivers are absolutely FEARLESS and the roads are sometimes extremely narrow (but I loved it).

😎 Hey! Always double-check if you’re allowed to drive into a neighboring country- some companies allow it, others don’t.

What Type of Car to Rent in Albania

The type of car you should rent depends on your plans:

• City & Riviera Trips: A small sedan or compact car is perfect for Tirana, Berat, and the coast. Parking is easier, fuel consumption is lower, and rental prices are cheaper.
• Mountains & Remote Areas: If you plan to drive to Theth, Valbona, or other mountain villages, opt for an SUV rental in Albania with good clearance. Some of these roads have gotten better but some are still rough.  They’re working on it though!
• Summer Travel: Air conditioning is a must. You don’t want to be climbing Llogara Pass in August without it.
• Automatic Cars: Automatic car rentals in Albania exist, but they’re limited. They cost more and sell out quickly, so book early if you need one. And with all the mountains here, I’d suggest it unless you’re a pro.

I reserved a regular sedan thinking that would be fine. But at the pickup place they gave me an SUV since I was going to Theth (and didn’t charge me extra❤️).  It wasn’t absolutely necessary, but I am really glad I had it since there were some places that weren’t completely paved. Not to mention the monstrous potholes everywhere.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Albania?

Renting a car in Albania is affordable compared to Western Europe. Prices vary depending on season, car type, and where you book:

• Low Season (Oct–Apr): €25–40/day for a compact car.
• High Season (May–Sept): €40–70/day, sometimes more for SUVs or automatics.
• Extras: GPS units (€5–10/day), child seats (€5/day), cross-border fees, and insurance upgrades.

Fuel costs are similar to elsewhere in Europe, usually €1.70–1.90 per liter. Albania uses diesel a lot, so you’ll notice many rentals are diesel-powered.

😎 Hey! Book online in advance for better rates, especially in summer or if you need an automatic.

Driving in Albania: What to Expect

Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: is it safe to drive in Albania? 

The country has a reputation for its roads and drivers.  I was extremely nervous about driving in Albania- especially in the mountains- but it ended up not being nearly as bad as I thought.

✅ Wondering what to bring with you?  Check out my Road Trip Checklist! You can find it in the ⭐️Travel Resource Library⭐️ and it has everything you need to stay comfy and safe when you hit the road.  

Yes, the drivers are crazy and don’t follow the speed limit (at all), park in random spots (parking vertical in a parallel spot is apparently fine), and some roads are sooooo narrow.  But it’s worth it to be able to explore all of Albania instead of just the tourist stops.

Roads in Albania

Highways between big cities (like Tirana–Durres or Tirana–Vlora) are modern and well-maintained. Rural roads, however, can be bumpy, narrow, and full of potholes. Mountain routes are often winding, steep, and sometimes unpaved.

I was most worried about the curvy mountain roads but it was the tiny old-town roads I ended up having the most trouble with because I was worried about sideswiping people.

In Shköder, I had to make what was probably a 12 point turn down a tiny road to get to my guesthouse. They parked it for me once I get there. Thank goodness because my nerves were completely frazzled by then! 😬

Traffic in Albania

In Tirana, driving can feel chaotic with scooters weaving through, cars double-parked, and roundabouts that defy logic. Once outside the capital, things calm down (sort of).

I went in the off season and didn’t encounter much traffic aside from Tirana and Krujë during rush hour (or it could have been due to a bike race happening).

Crazy Albanian Drivers

Albanians have no fear behind the wheel. Passing on blind corners is common, and rules are mostly treated as suggestions.

If the highway speed limit says 80km/h, there will be people going 50, 80, and also flying past you at 120 or more. Just check carefully before changing lanes.

But don’t let the other drivers scare you off from driving here. They’re also pretty considerate. If you’re behind a slow driver on a mountain road, they’ll pull over to let you pass. You should do the same!

Animals & Pedestrians in the Road

Don’t be surprised to encounter goats, cows, horses, or even donkeys in the middle of the road in rural areas. Pedestrians also cross wherever they like. Just keep alert and you’ll be fine.

Driving here can feel like chaos, road rules may be more “suggestions,” and conditions vary dramatically between highways and mountain passes. Don’t worry, though. With the right attitude, driving in Albania is not only doable, it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your trip.

😎 Hey! Be sure to download offline maps for where you’ll be traveling since the signal can get spotty some places.

By the end of my trip, I really enjoyed driving in this crazy place- even when I freaked out and almost drove off the side of a mountain because a truck full of sheep came barreling around a hairpin turn.  I’m still in one piece after all.  Just go slow and you’ll be fine (but just know- you’ll be the ONLY one going slow- haha).

Albania Car Rental Insurance: What You Should Know

Most rental companies include basic insurance, but here’s what to check:

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Limits what you pay if there’s an accident.
• TP (Theft Protection): Covers vehicle theft.
• Cross-border Coverage: Required if you plan to drive into Montenegro, Greece, or North Macedonia.
• Zero-Excess Insurance: Costs extra but gives peace of mind if you’re nervous about scratches or bumps.

Always read the fine print- especially with local agencies where coverage may vary- to make sure you’re covered.

Speaking of insurance, it’s always a good idea to also get travel insurance.  There are policies for a single trip, yearly coverage, medical only, trip cancellation…  I have a yearly medical plan and it doesn’t cost much more than a single trip and gives me peace of mind.  Especially when I’m traveling solo.

🤞 If you’re looking for trip insurance, Insure My Trip works with many different companies to find you the perfect plan.

Tips for Renting a Car in Albania

Renting a car in Albania works basically the same as anywhere with just a few quirks.  Here are some tips to help make sure you know what to expect:

• Book Early: Especially if you want an automatic in summer.
• Take Photos: Document the car’s condition at pickup and drop-off to be sure you don’t get charged extra for damage that wasn’t yours.
• Check Insurance: Understand what’s covered and what’s not and buy extra coverage if needed.
• Fuel Policy: Some companies use “full-to-empty,” which means you’ll pay for a tank upfront. Try to return it as empty as possible. Just check to be sure. Mine expected me to fill it up before I brought it back. Oops.

• Navigation: Google Maps works pretty well in Albania, but be sure to download offline maps because cell signal could be spotty- especially in the mountains.
• Avoid Night Driving: Poor lighting, animals on the road, and occasional (not occasional) potholes make it tricky.
• Parking: Paid lots are safer in cities. In small towns, you’ll usually find street parking.  Just be sure, as always, not to leave valuables in sight.

Best Road Trips in Albania

The beauty of renting a car in Albania is that you can explore at your own pace. Here are some classic road trip routes:

The Albanian Riviera

• Route: Tirana → Vlora → Dhermi→ Sarandë → Ksamil → Butrint
• Highlights: White-sand beaches, Llogara Pass views, castles in Himarë, UNESCO site Butrint.

Theth & Valbona Loop

• Route: Shkodër → Theth → Valbona → Ferry across Komani Lake → back to Shkodër
• Highlights: Some of the Balkans’ best hiking, jaw-dropping mountain passes, traditional guesthouses.

Berat & Gjirokastër

• Route: Tirana → Berat → Gjirokastër → Blue Eye → Sarandë
• Highlights: Two UNESCO towns, the Ottoman architecture of Berat, stone houses of Gjirokastër, and the Blue Eye spring.

Lake Ohrid & Korçë

• Route: Tirana → Elbasan → Pogradec → Korçë
• Highlights: Lakeside villages, wine tasting, Korçë’s old bazaar, and cultural museums.

Where to Stay on Your Albania Road Trip

One of the joys of road tripping Albania is mixing up your stays in different parts of the country. Beaches one day, mountains the next.

There are some absolute gorgeous guesthouses in the historic villages that are run by wonderful and welcoming hosts. Here are just a few places to stay:

• Tirana: Chic boutique hotels near Blloku.
• Gjirokastër: Family-run guesthouses like Old Bazaar 1790 in the historic area.
• Sarandë & Ksamil: Beachfront hotels with Ionian views. Aster is near Beach 7.
• Shkodër: B&Bs perfect for before or after Theth hikes. Atelier Boutique Hotel is really nice.
• Himarë & Dhermi: Coastal hotels with balconies overlooking the sea like Iconic.
• Theth: Cozy mountain cabins like Shpella Guesthouse (the OG) made for relaxing by the fire.

👉 You can also check my Albania Hotels Map  to compare options near your route.

My Favorite Travel Websites

FAQs About Renting a Car in Albania

Final Thoughts About Renting a Car in Albania

Albania is one of Europe’s last great road trip destinations. It’s affordable, uncrowded, and overflowing with natural beauty. Renting a car here can seem intimidating at first, but in reality, it’s the key to unlocking experiences you’d never have from a bus window.

From winding mountain passes to secret coves, medieval towns to modern beach resorts, Albania is best explored on four wheels. With a little patience, some careful planning, and a spirit of adventure, your Albanian road trip will be one of those “remember it forever” journeys.

So—pack your bags, grab the keys, and get ready to hit the road. Albania is waiting! Happy travels… 🇦🇱 🚙