Renting a Car in Albania in 2025: All you need to know
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Renting a car in Albania is one of the best decisions you can make for your trip. It gives you complete freedom to explore the country’s dramatic landscapes, from the soaring peaks of the northern Alps to the sun-drenched beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Albania is one of Europe’s undiscovered gems, with a beautiful mix of Ottoman villages, dramatic coastlines, and rugged mountains. In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about renting a car in Albania, from practical tips to our own personal experiences. Albania has captured our hearts over three unforgettable visits — it’s even where we first met!
Albania offers a raw and authentic travel experience. Renting a car allows you to easily reach picturesque towns like Gjirokastër and Berat, hike in remote villages, or follow the dramatic coastline south from Durrës to Sarandë. Public transport is improving but remains patchy, and tours can feel rushed. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to set your pace and find those magical, unplanned moments that make a trip truly special.
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How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Albania?
Renting a car is relatively affordable compared to other parts of Europe. Prices start at around $12 per day in the low season, but costs rise in July and August when tourism peaks. Most travelers pick up their vehicle at Tirana International Airport, although you can also find rental options in Durrës, Sarandë, and Lezhë. Renting directly at the airport is convenient if you plan to start your road trip immediately. However, if you are staying a few days in Tirana, it’s better to wait, as traffic is chaotic and parking can be difficult.
Here’s a simple look at rental costs depending on car size and season:
| Car Type | Peak Season (August) | Low Season (November) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy (Citroen C3 or similar) | €355 / $384 per week | €174 / $188 per week |
| 4×4 SUV (Dacia Duster or similar) | €930 / $1,000 per week | €330 / $357 per week |
If you plan to venture into rural or mountainous areas, hiring a 4×4 is strongly recommended. However, for city-to-city or coastal trips, an economy-sized car works perfectly.
What Is It Like to Drive in Albania?
Driving in Albania offers spectacular rewards but also comes with challenges. Local driving styles can feel aggressive if you are used to stricter road rules elsewhere. Always keep your headlights on during the day, drive on the right-hand side, and download offline maps in advance. Main highways connecting cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Vlorë are generally in good condition, but rural and mountain roads can be potholed or unpaved.
When it comes to car rental companies, major international brands like Europcar and Avis operate alongside reliable local companies. We personally prefer booking through Discover Cars for their transparent pricing and full coverage options. Always check third-party reviews on Google or Trustpilot before booking. We had a great experience with OTO Q Car Rental booked via Discover Cars.
Do You Need a 4×4 to Drive in Albania?
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For most trips along the coast or between major cities, a regular economy car is sufficient. Most main roads connecting Tirana, Vlorë, and Sarandë are well paved and maintained, so a 4×4 is not necessary for a standard itinerary.
However, if you plan to explore mountainous regions near Bajram Curri, Rrëshen, or tackle rugged inland routes, a 4×4 is a wise decision. Roads in these areas can be steep, unpaved, and difficult after rain.
Is It Worth Renting a Car in Albania?
Renting a car in Albania is absolutely worth it. It allows you to visit both famous places like Ksamil’s beaches and the ruins of Butrint, and lesser-visited towns like Lezhë, Burrel, or Pogradec. Public transport can be unreliable and doesn’t cover all the best spots. Having your own car means you can stop at beaches, small villages, or scenic lookouts whenever you feel like it — one of the great joys of traveling here.
Requirements for Renting a Car in Albania
To rent and drive a car in Albania, you’ll need:
- A full, valid driver’s license from your home country
- An International Driving Permit (strongly recommended)
- A passport or national ID card
- A credit card in the main driver’s name for deposit
- Proof of insurance (or opt for full coverage through your rental company)
- Minimum age of 21 years old (some companies charge extra for drivers under 25)
It’s mandatory to carry your driver’s license, IDP, rental agreement, and insurance documents at all times while driving. Police checks are common, especially on highways and near borders.
If you plan to cross into neighboring countries like Montenegro or North Macedonia, inform your rental company in advance. Most agencies require additional insurance and a cross-border authorization letter, and you may face extra fees.
Road rules are strictly enforced: speed limits are usually 40 km/h in towns, 80 km/h in rural areas, and up to 110 km/h on highways. Seatbelts are mandatory, using a mobile phone while driving is forbidden, and Albania has an almost zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving (maximum blood alcohol level 0.01 mg/ml).
Rental Car Insurance in Albania
When renting a car in Albania, it’s required by law to have third-party liability insurance (CDW). With most companies, this coverage is automatically included in your rental price. Although full insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended, as minor damages are common due to narrow roads, rough surfaces, and village traffic.
Full coverage usually costs between $10 and $20 per day depending on the car and company. It’s a good idea to add full insurance during your initial booking because bundled deals are usually cheaper. Before paying extra, check if your credit card policy already includes car rental insurance in Albania — it could save you a significant amount.
Most rental companies will place a security deposit hold on your credit card when you collect the car. This is not an actual charge unless damage occurs.
How to Get Around Albania Without a Car
If renting a car sounds daunting, Albania does offer public transport options. Buses and minibuses (furgons) operate between major cities, but schedules can be unreliable, and coverage to rural areas is limited. Taxis are widely available and often affordable for short distances. Companies like Merr Taxi and Speed Taxi offer reliable pre-booked journeys across the country.
However, for reaching hidden beaches, mountain parks, or rural towns like Librazhd, Tepelenë, or Korçë, renting a car remains the best choice.
Final Tips for Renting and Driving a Car in Albania
Before driving off, carefully inspect your rental car, take timestamped photos of any existing damage, and verify that it matches the company’s checklist. Always pay with a credit card to avoid a cash deposit withdrawal. Download offline maps such as Google Maps or Maps.me before setting off.
Fuel stations are common throughout Albania, especially in cities and along major roads. Not all stations accept cards, so carry some cash. An attendant usually fills the tank for you — just tell them whether you need diesel (naftë) or unleaded (benzinë).
Additional important tips to remember:
- Always drive with headlights on, even during the daytime
- Adhere to posted speed limits, even if local drivers speed
- Be cautious in cities like Tirana where traffic can be chaotic
- In winter, watch out for ice or sudden heavy rains
- In case of emergencies, dial 112
- Upon returning the car, ensure it’s clean and filled up to avoid extra charges
Driving in Albania demands attention, flexibility, and patience, but it also delivers one of Europe’s most rewarding road trip experiences. From dramatic mountain passes to coastal curves and ancient towns, renting a car unlocks Albania’s greatest treasures.
