Albania is one of Europe’s last undiscovered driving destinations — and it is changing fast. The A1 motorway now runs from Kosovo to the coast, new tunnels cut through the Llogara Pass, and the Albanian Riviera rivals anything in Croatia or Greece for half the price. Hiring a car here is the only way to see the country properly — buses are slow, trains are non-existent outside Tirana, and the best beaches, mountain passes and archaeological sites are all off the main roads.
We compare local Albanian operators and international chains at Tirana Airport, Saranda and Durres. Compact cars start around €19/day in low season and €30–€45/day in July and August. SUVs are worth considering for the mountain roads and the rougher tracks to the Riviera beaches.
Why Hire a Car in Albania
Albania is a compact country — you can drive from the Macedonian border to the Greek coast in a single day — but the terrain is dramatic. The coastal road from Vlorë to Saranda is one of Europe’s most beautiful drives. The Llogara Pass rises to 1,000 metres above the Ionian Sea. The Accursed Mountains in the north have hiking trails, traditional villages and some of the last truly wild landscapes in Europe.
- The Albanian Riviera: Dhermi, Himara and Jale have beaches that rival the Greek islands, with clearer water and a fraction of the crowds. The road is narrow and winding but the views are spectacular.
- Berat and Gjirokastër: Both UNESCO towns with Ottoman architecture, hilltop castles and cobbled streets. Berat is 2 hours from Tirana; Gjirokastër is 3.5 hours south.
- Theth and Valbona: The Accursed Mountains national park has hiking trails, waterfalls and guesthouses accessible only by rough mountain roads. A 4×4 is recommended.
Driving in Albania
Albania drives on the right. Speed limits are 110 km/h on motorways, 80 km/h on main roads and 40 km/h in towns. The A1 motorway from Tirana to Kosovo is excellent but most other roads are narrower and less well maintained. Mountain roads are steep and have unlit tunnels — take them slowly, especially at night.
Headlights must be on 24/7 — this is enforced. The blood alcohol limit is zero. Police checkpoints are common on main roads; carry your licence, rental agreement and passport. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not always requested.
Border Crossings
Albania borders Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Greece. The Green Card (international motor insurance) is required for all crossings — confirm your rental includes it. The Montenegro border at Hani i Hotit and the Greek border at Kakavia are the main crossings. Kosovo is straightforward; North Macedonia requires the Green Card.
Where to Go in Albania
Tirana — The capital, with the Skanderbeg Square, the Pyramid, the Bunk’Art museums and a surprisingly good food scene. Parking is chaotic but possible.
Saranda — The southern gateway to the Riviera, with the Greek island of Corfu visible across the channel. The drive from Vlorë to Saranda is the highlight.
Berat — The “city of a thousand windows” — Ottoman houses climbing a hillside to a medieval castle. It is one of the most beautiful towns in the Balkans.
Dhermi — The best beach on the Riviera, with turquoise water, a beach club scene and the Llogara Pass viewpoint above it.
Booking Tips for Albania
- Book 2–3 weeks ahead for summer. Albanian car hire sells out in July.
- Check the excess. Albanian operators often set it at €500–€1,000.
- If you are doing the Riviera or the mountains, book an SUV. The roads are rough.
- GPS is useful but not essential — mobile data works well and Google Maps is accurate.
- Fuel is cheaper than in Greece or Italy but fill up before remote areas — petrol stations are sparse in the mountains.
- If you are driving to Greece, confirm the Green Card covers you. Some operators require advance notice.
Related Destinations
Explore neighbouring countries: Montenegro, Greece, Croatia, Kosovo and North Macedonia.