When renting a car in Albania, your main choice is between manual transmission or automatic transmission.
Quick overview:
- Manual cars → Cheaper, more common
- Automatic cars → Easier to drive, better for tourists
- Automatic SUVs → Best choice for mountains or long trips
Choosing between a manual vs automatic car Albania rental depends on your driving experience and the type of roads you plan to explore.
Availability of Automatic Cars in Albania
Automatic cars are becoming more popular, but they are still limited. Most tourists prefer automatics, which means they often sell out fast.
Automatic cars in Albania:
- Limited availability
- Higher demand in summer
- More comfortable for long trips
- Easier for city driving (Tirana traffic)
- Perfect for visitors used to automatics
If you want an automatic, book early.
Availability of Manual Cars in Albania
Manual cars are the most common type in Albania. They are usually:
- Easier to find
- Cheaper to rent
- Available even last-minute
However, manual cars can be harder for tourists unfamiliar with stick shift, especially on mountain roads or busy city streets.
Which Option Is Better for Driving in Albania?
It depends on where and how much you plan to drive:
City Driving (Tirana)
Automatic is better
- Heavy traffic
- Frequent stopping
- Traffic circles everywhere
- Steep side streets
Coastline Trips
Both manual and automatic work well.
Mountain Roads (Theth, Valbona, Llogara Pass)
Automatic SUV is BEST
- More control
- Easier on steep climbs
- No clutch damage
- Safer for beginner drivers
Automatic Cars in Albania – Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easiest for tourists
- Great for traffic
- Perfect for mountains
- Less tiring on long routes
Cons
- More expensive
- Limited availability
- Booked out early in summer
Manual Cars in Albania – Pros & Cons
Pros
- Cheaper rental price
- Good availability
- Suitable for experienced manual drivers
Cons
- Harder in traffic
- Stressful on mountain roads
- Not ideal for tourists unfamiliar with manual transmissions
Price Differences Between Manual and Automatic Rentals
Typical price comparison:
Manual Cars
€20–€35 per day
Automatic Cars
€30–€50 per day
Automatic SUVs
€45–€90 per day
The price difference is usually €10–€15/day, sometimes more in high season.
For many visitors, the manual vs automatic car Albania decision also depends on budget.
Which Is Better for Mountain Roads?
If you plan to explore Theth, Valbona, Llogara, or rural villages:
Automatic SUV is the safest and easiest choice.
Manual cars require more skill, especially on:
- Steep climbs
- Tight corners
- Gravel sections
Which Is Better for Tirana City Traffic?
Automatic.
Tirana is known for:
- Busy intersections
- Roundabouts
- Stop-and-go traffic
- Narrow inner streets
Automatic helps reduce fatigue and stress.
Manual vs Automatic Car Albania – Which Should Tourists Choose?
Choose Automatic if:
You normally drive automatic
You want a relaxed holiday
You will drive in Tirana
You plan to visit mountains
You want maximum comfort
Choose Manual if:
You drive manual every day
You want the cheapest option
You are traveling only on main roads
Automatic cars are sold out
Ultimately, the manual vs automatic car Albania choice is simple:
Automatic = comfort & safety
Manual = budget & availability
Outbound Link
For official Albanian driving rules, see:
https://www.transport.gov.al/
Final Thoughts
Both manual and automatic cars work well in Albania, but automatic is the best choice for most tourists, especially when dealing with city traffic or mountain drives. Manual is great for experienced drivers looking to save money — but it requires confidence.
Rent Your Manual or Automatic Car in Albania Today
Ready to choose the best car for your trip?
We offer both manual and automatic vehicles with airport pickup, full insurance, and 24/7 support.
See all cars: https://gctcaralbania.com/car-listing/
Contact: +355 69 841 0025