Planning a trip to Albania and considering renting a car? Driving here is the best way to explore beaches, mountains, national parks, and charming historic towns. This 2025 complete guide explains everything tourists need to know about driving in Albania safely, confidently, and without surprises.
Whether you’re renting from GCT Rent Car Albania or exploring on your own, this guide covers rules, road conditions, parking, fuel, speed limits, and essential tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Why Driving in Albania Is the Best Way to Explore
Driving in Albania gives you freedom and flexibility to reach places that buses and taxis can’t easily access.
You can:
- Discover hidden beaches
- Drive through mountain passes
- Visit UNESCO towns
- Stop anywhere for views
- Explore at your own pace
Tourists say Albania feels like a “road trip paradise” and it truly is.
For maximum comfort, book a car from GCT Rent Car Albania where you get:
✔ Airport delivery
✔ New cars
✔ No hidden fees
✔ 24/7 assistance
✔ Full insurance options
Road Conditions in Albania (2025 Update)
Albania continues to improve its roads every year. In 2025, most major routes are paved and safe.
1. Highways (very good)
- Tirana – Durrës
- Tirana – Elbasan
- Fier – Vlorë
- Tirana – Shkodër
Smooth and modern.
2. Coastal roads (good – medium)
From Vlorë to Himarë and Dhërmi:
- Scenic
- Curvy
- Narrow in some areas
Take your time — the views are worth it.
3. Mountain roads (medium – challenging)
Roads to:
- Theth
- Valbona
- Llogara Pass
These areas require:
👉 A strong sedan or SUV (recommended)
👉 Extra caution
👉 Daytime driving
If you plan mountain trips, choose an SUV from GCT Rent Car Albania.
Driving Rules in Albania You Must Know
Speed Limits
- 50 km/h – inside cities
- 80–90 km/h – outside cities
- 110 km/h – highways (“Autostrada”)
Police often use radars, so stay within the limits.
Right-hand driving
Albania drives on the right side (same as Europe & USA).
Seatbelts
Mandatory for all passengers.
Phone use
Using a phone while driving is illegal unless using hands-free.
Alcohol limit
Very strict:
0.01 – 0.05% (basically zero tolerance)
If you plan to drink do NOT drive.
Renting a Car in Albania (What Tourists Need to Know)
To rent a car in Albania, you only need:
- A valid driver’s license
- Passport
- Minimum age 21+
- Credit/debit card for deposit (depending on company)
At GCT Rent Car Albania, the process is fast, transparent, and fully supported.
Helpful tips:
- Book early between June–September
- Choose an automatic if you’re not used to manual
- Choose an SUV if visiting mountains
- Ask for a backup camera if you want easier parking in cities
Parking in Albania (Simple Breakdown)
Parking in Tirana
- Blue lines = paid parking
- White lines = free parking
- Avoid sidewalks (fines apply)
Use parking garages for safety:
- Toptani Center
- Air Albania Stadium
- Tirana Lake garage
Parking in Coastal Areas
During summer it gets busy.
Best solutions:
- Paid parking lots
- Hotels with private parking
- Early arrival (10:00–11:00)
Parking in Villages & Mountains
Most are free.
Park off the road and not on sharp curves.
Fuel & Gas Stations in Albania
Gas stations are easy to find and open long hours.
Most common types:
- 95 Petrol
- Diesel
- LPG (less common)
Brands to trust:
✔ Kastrati
✔ Eni
✔ Gega Oil
✔ Bolv Oil
Fuel prices are similar across the country.
Navigation: Do You Need GPS?
Yes — but use the right apps.
Best apps for driving in Albania:
- Google Maps (accurate)
- Waze (traffic + police alerts)
- Maps.me (offline in mountains)
Pro Tip:
Download offline maps before traveling to:
- Himarë
- Dhërmi
- Theth
- Valbona
- Ksamil
Signal is weaker in remote areas.
Driving Challenges Tourists Should Know
Driving in Albania is safe, but there are some things to be aware of:
1. Local driving style
Albanians are fast and confident drivers.
Stay calm and maintain your lane.
2. Pedestrians
People may cross anywhere — reduce speed in cities.
3. Roundabouts
Always give priority to cars already inside.
4. Mountain curves
Drive slowly, especially at night.
5. Animals on the road
In villages you might see:
- Goats
- Dogs
- Sheep
Just slow down and pass carefully.
Best Tips for Safe Driving in Albania (2025)
✔ Drive during the day in mountain areas
✔ Keep a safe distance from cars in front
✔ Avoid speeding radar is common
✔ Use Google Maps but follow road signs
✔ Don’t overtake on curves
✔ In summer, carry water it gets hot
✔ Always check your car before starting long trips
Best Scenic Driving Routes in Albania
If you love views, don’t miss:
1. The Llogara Pass (Vlorë → Dhërmi)
One of the most beautiful drives in Europe.
2. SH8 Coastal Road (Vlorë → Himarë)
Crystal blue sea on your right the entire way.
3. Theth Mountain Road
Pure Albanian nature requires an SUV.
4. Tirana → Elbasan → Korçë
Smooth, scenic, and perfect for a road trip.
Car Types Recommended for Albanian Roads
Perfect for Cities
- VW Golf
- Toyota Yaris
- Opel Corsa
Perfect for Riviera + Long Trips
- Skoda Octavia
- VW Passat
- Hyundai i30
Perfect for Mountains
- Dacia Duster
- Toyota RAV4
- Hyundai Tucson
All available at GCT Rent Car Albania depending on the season.
Ready to Drive in Albania? Book Your Car Today
Driving in Albania is the best decision you can make for your trip.
With the right vehicle, the journey becomes unforgettable.
Explore our cars here:
➡️ Browse Our Fleet
Ready to reserve your car?
➡️ Contact & Booking
At GCT Rent Car Albania, we guarantee:
✔ Safe & clean cars
✔ 24/7 support
✔ Airport pickup
✔ Fast booking
✔ Best prices
Your adventure in Albania starts with the right car.