Car Rental Tips in Albania. A Traveler’s Guide
Renting a car in Albania is the perfect way to explore its stunning coastline, mountain passes, and resort towns like Durres, Saranda, or Vlora at your own pace. In 2025, Albania’s car rental market has grown, but there are key nuances to know to save money, avoid issues, and maximize enjoyment. Based on the latest data (Rome2Rio, Tripadvisor, Albania Tour Guide, 2025), here’s a detailed guide on renting a car, covering routes, costs, insurance, and traveler hacks.
1. Choosing a Rental Company
- Where to Rent: Major international companies (Sixt, Europcar, Hertz) and local providers (Albania Car Rentals, Rent Point Albania) operate at Tirana International Airport (TIA). Local firms are often cheaper but check reviews.
- Tip: Book via aggregators like Rentalcars.com or DiscoverCars for price comparisons (from €20/day for economy cars). Watch for hidden fees (e.g., airport surcharge ~€10).
- Note: Check Google or Tripadvisor reviews. Some smaller firms may omit full terms (e.g., mileage limits).
2. Required Documents
- Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) + national driver’s license. Minimum age is 21, sometimes 23 for premium cars. Minimum driving experience: 1 year.
- Tip: Confirm IDP requirements with the rental company. Albanian police rarely check, but insurance may be void without one.
- Note: Bring a credit card for the deposit (€100-500). Some firms accept debit cards with extra verification.
3. Car Type
- Recommendations: Economy cars (Fiat Panda, VW Polo, ~€20-30/day) are ideal for coastal routes (Durres, Vlora). For the Riviera (Himara, Dhermi, Ksamil), choose SUVs (~€40/day) for winding roads.
- Tip: Manual cars are 20-30% cheaper than automatics. Ensure AC for summer travel.
- Note: For families, opt for cars with large trunks (e.g., Skoda Octavia). Child seats cost €5-10/day extra.
4. Costs and Hidden Fees
- Base Price: Economy cars €20-35/day, mid-range €35-50, SUVs €50-80. Prices rise 20-30% in July-August.
- Additional Costs:
- Fuel: €1.5-1.8/liter (gas/diesel). Full tank for Tirana-Saranda ~€30-35.
- Insurance: Basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is included but with a deductible (€200-500). Full coverage (SCDW) costs €10-20/day.
- Second driver fee: €5-10/day.
- Parking in Durres/Saranda: €1-2/hour.
- Tip: Choose “full-to-full” fuel policy (return with a full tank) to avoid surcharges.
- Note: Check mileage limits (usually 100-150 km/day). Extra km costs €0.1-0.2.
5. Insurance
- Key Info: Basic CDW covers damage but with a deductible. Super CDW or Theft Protection minimizes risks.
- Tip: Ensure insurance covers tires, glass, or undercarriage damage—common on Albania’s gravel roads.
- Note: For cross-border travel (Montenegro, Greece), get international insurance (+€20-50).
6. Road Conditions and Routes
- Road Quality: Main highways (SH1, SH4, SH8) are paved, but southern Riviera routes (Himara) have winding roads. Secondary roads may be narrow or gravel.
- Popular Routes:
- Tirana-Durres (35 km, 30-45 min, SH4): Easy highway, but Durres center has traffic.
- Tirana-Vlora (130 km, 2 hrs, SH4): Scenic with a stop at Llogara Pass.
- Tirana-Saranda (250 km, 3.5-4 hrs, SH81): Winding but stunning Riviera views.
- Tip: Use Google Maps or Waze. Rental car GPS may be outdated.
- Note: Local drivers may overtake aggressively. Stick to speed limits (40-90 km/h) to avoid fines (€20+).
7. Parking and Rules
- Parking: Paid in Durres, Saranda, Vlora (€1-2/hour). Hotels/apartments often offer free parking.
- Rules: Seatbelts are mandatory (fines €15). Children under 12 need car seats. Traffic rules are standard, but rural road signs are sparse.
- Tip: Park in official lots in city centers to avoid towing (€50+).
- Note: Summer traffic jams are common in Saranda and Ksamil.
8. Handy Hacks
- Book Early: Reserve 2-3 months ahead for 20-30% savings, especially June-August.
- Inspect the Car: Photograph scratches/dents before driving. Ensure a spare tire and jack are included.
- Fuel: Use major stations (Kastrati, Alpet). Smaller ones may sell lower-quality fuel.
- Save Money: For short trips (e.g., Tirana-Durres), taxis (€13-45) may be cheaper than renting.
- Alternatives: For southern routes (Saranda, Ksamil), take a bus (€10-28) and rent a scooter locally (€15/day).
9. Traveler Tips
- Best For: Exploring the Riviera, stopping at Llogara Pass, or visiting secluded Himara beaches.
- Caution: Avoid night driving in the south due to poor lighting. Winding roads are slippery in rain.
- Cultural Note: Locals may park chaotically—don’t follow suit! 😄
- Emergencies: Save the rental company’s number and local police (129). Roadside assistance: +355 4 222 2222.
10. Connect with LUX-ALBANIA HOME
Planning a trip and need accommodation in Durres, Saranda, or other resorts? LUX-ALBANIA HOME offers apartments and villas with parking, plus route and car rental advice. Contact us:
- Email: office@luxalbaniahome.com (we check it, but not lightning-fast!)
- Phone, Telegram, Viber, WhatsApp: +355 69 517-31-01 (always a message away).
Renting a car in Albania in 2025 means freedom and adventure! Follow these tips for an unforgettable Adriatic journey. Need help with routes or bookings? Reach out—we’re working round the clock for you! 😄
