Easy Tips for Renting a Car in Albania: Your Simple Guide

Albania is a developing touristic destination that attracts travelers from all over the world. The country has many beautiful spots, which are easily and safely explored by car. Read further the most complete Albania driving guide about everything you need to know for driving and renting a car in Albania.

Renting a car in Albania is a simple procedure. The step-by-step rental process consists of the following:

1. Choose online from our user-friendly platform or in-person in Abbycar’s rental location the vehicle type that meets your criteria according to your needs and budget.
2. Provide a valid driving license, passport or ID and credit card.
3. A deposit amount will be blocked in your credit card, but not charged. This deposit will be charged only in case of damage.
4. You take the car after inspecting its situation and take photos to prove the existence of any prior damage. You should also check the mileage and gas mileage.
5. You return the car at the drop-off point and pay.

The required documentation to rent a car in Albania is: 

• Driving license (International Driving Permit)
• Passport or ID
• Credit card under your name (the main driver’s name).

The most useful tips for renting a car in Albania are:

• Obtain an International Driving Permit: It is required along with your national license.
• Book in advance: Make the reservation early, especially in high season.
• Choose the right car: A reliable car, which is suitable for most road conditions, such as an SUV, is the best option.
• Best insurance: Choose an insurance with wide coverage and low deductible, including theft protection.
• Check the car before pick-up: Inspect the rental car for damages before taking it. Take photos to prove its prior condition.
• Use navigation app: As the cost to use your mobile phone for internet data may be high, you can ask for GPS from the rental company.

The pros of renting a car in Albania are:

• Flexibility to travel at your own pace and see as many points of interest as you want
• Convenience and avoidance of overcrowded public transportation
• Safety during your trip.

The cons of renting a car in Albania are:

• Poor road condition
• Aggressive driving habits
• Confusing road signs
• Expensive insurance.

Keep in mind that car rental in Albania is affordable and Abbycar is one of the most affordable car rental companies in Albania.

Other transportation options you have:

• Public transportation: It is cheaper than car rental, but it has limited schedules and routes and it is not very comfortable.
• Taxis: Taxis are easily available and much cheaper than in other European countries. However, if you do many routes and long distances per day, taxis will be more expensive than car rental. Plus, communication can be challenging if you don’t speak Albanian.
• Biking: In touristic destinations, you can rent a bike at low price. However, keep in mind that driving a bike in Albania is not very safe due to the poor maintenance of the road and low driving standards in the country.

For personal experiences and testimonials about car rental in Albania, you can check the following links:

• Travel suggestions and car rental in Albania
• Travel Albania without renting a car

Regarding the matter of safety when renting a car in Albania, the Albanian road conditions are variable. Major highways, such as those between Tirana and Durrës, are generally well-maintained, but rural and mountainous roads have poor condition and many of them are unpaved. Plus, driving at night is dangerous due to limited lighting and inadequate road signs.

Another safety issue are local drivers, many of whom are aggressive and don’t adhere the speed limits and the legal requirements for safe driving.

Under these circumstances, safety tips when renting a car in Albania include:

• Follow the speed limits.
• Be prepared for and don’t interact with aggressive drivers.
• Avoid driving during the night.
• Drive cautiously.
• Avoid drinking alcohol before driving.
• Carry your driving license, as there are frequent police checkpoints.

Read our article: Is it easy to drive in Albania? Safety tips for hassle-free travel

For experiences and testimonials from travelers about the safety in Albania, check here.

Regarding the age requirements to rent a car in Albania, the minimum age is 23 years, but you can be as young as 21 years old if you pay an additional young driver fee. However, keep in mind that this is an option only for a few car groups. The maximum car rental age limit in Albania is 70 years.

Tips for young drivers and car rental in Albania you should remember:

• Age Requirements: Most rental companies in Albania require drivers to be at least 21 years old and most of them charge additional fees for drivers under 23.
• Choose the right car: Especially if you are an inexperienced driver, a 4X4 car is the safest option to explore areas outside the capital.
• Drive safely: Roads in Albania can be dangerous due to poor maintenance and inadequate lighting. Follow the speed limits and be careful with local driving habits​.

The most popular cities and tourist destinations in Albania are:

• Tirana: The capital of Albania is known for its lively atmosphere, vibrant nightlife and numerous cafes and restaurants. Check Car Rental Tirana
• Durrës: It is a major coastal city on the Adriatic coast, famous for its long beaches and historical sites.
• Shkodër: It is located near Lake Shkodër. With its rich cultural heritage, it offers an interesting gateway in Albanian Alps and is a popular winter destination.
• Berat: The UNESCO World Heritage site impresses with its unique Ottoman-era architecture.
• Gjirokastër: This city, which is the birthplace of former Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha, is also a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
• Albanian Riviera: This includes the whole area from Vlorë to Sarandë and offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside villages, like Dhërmi and Himarë.
• Ksamil: It is famous for its pristine beaches and small islands that can be reached by boat. It is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood in local restaurants.

If you are looking for the best rental deals in Albania, consider the following tips:

• Travel in the low or mid-season and avoid July and August.
• Book in advance.
• Check for online deals and discounts.
• Prefer a local company rather than an international rental company.
• Choose the same pick-up and drop-off point, for example car hire at Tirana airport.
• Read the rental agreement to avoid hidden fees.
• Opt for a small car, if you travel in major destinations and not rural areas (where you need an 4x4 car).

Rent a car in Albania with Abbycar and explore the beauties of this undiscovered land safely, conveniently and on a budget!