Albania is an enchanted land, a country and natural wonders. They say that travel is not about the destination. It’s about the journey.
Have you considered Car Rental when traveling to Albania?
The Best way to see Albania is by renting a car, especially if you travel with children or in a group, and all you need is an international driving license to drive a car in Albania.
Getting around with your car allows you all the flexibility you need for exploring different regions at your own pace, especially areas off the beaten path. You will be able to leave when and where you want without worrying about bus schedules.
However, driving abroad can be disorienting, but we’ ve got you covered! There is more Information on traffic rules in Albanian other Blog Post ‘Driving in Albania: Everything You need to know’.
Here are a few reasons why renting a car in Albania is the way to explore this beautiful Country.
1. ALBANIA HAS EXCELLENT ROADS
Despite the common misconception, Albania’s roads improve every year to keep up with the growing tourism. Indeed, this Balkan country has excellent roads that make driving much easier than many other countries- it’s even possible to drive from one end of the country to another on the same day! If you’re traveling as a family, we know how important it is to consider road safety abroad.
2. NO TOLLS ON HIGHWAYS
Tolls in Albania can only be found on the A1 Rruga e Kombit motorway, which runs west from the Kosovo border towards the capital Tirana. Charges are compulsory for all vehicle categories, including motorcycles. However, there is currently only one toll gate on the 130 km motorway located near the Kalimash tunnel, 34 km from the border with Kosovo.
The prices are incredibly cheap: only 5 euros for any car. It is possible to pay in cash, by credit card, or via the Digitalpass system with up to a 40%discount for regular users.
3. YOU CAN FIND PARKING
Albanian parking laws are straightforward to understand. Parking is usually free for the first hour, and then you need a ticket from a machine or an attendant to continue driving. There’s no limit on how long you can park as long as it isn’t causing problems with others around you, such as obstructing traffic or blocking pedestrians and people getting into/out of their homes.
Parking spaces may be metered or unmetered, just like elsewhere in Europe, and there will often be signs indicating what type they are.
4.ROAD RULES ARE EASY
Renting A Car – 2 & 3 – Winding Road in Mountainside – Albania
Albania’s road rules are not majorly different from other countries, but it’s worth reading up on them just in case there are any glaring changes. You need to wear a seatbelt at all times, and you also should have third-party insurance – check this out when hiring your vehicle. Drinking and driving is strictly forbidden. Indeed, the legal amount of alcohol allowed within someone’s system is minuscule–0.01 mg/ml, and you can expect massive fines if caught drinking and driving.
Make sure you also follow these limits:
50km/h (31mph) in residential areas
90km/h (56mph) away from residential areas
110km/h (68mph) on motorways
5. PERFECT FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN
Albania is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a destination that’s off the beaten path. While Albania is constantly growing as a must-see destination among tourists worldwide, it is not yet affected by mass tourism, which means that you can explore the typical villages and the stunning beaches with your kids or group without having to fight for a spot on the sand.
6. DRIVING IS THE BEST WAY TO EXPLORE ALBANIAN’S BEAUTY
A drive from Durres to Tirana offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into rural life outside city centers while driving through lush green hills in Berat offers visitors an opportunity for some off-road exploration. Take the spectacular scenic road trip from Vlora to Saranda, descending from the mountains to the coast, opening up to the Albanian Riviera.
7. CAR RENTAL IN ALBANIA WILL SAVE YOU MONEY
Public transport is the cheapest way to get around most cities but renting a car can be an incredible deal for those who want a little more convenience and freedom.
Despite the costs of gas and insurance, if you plan ahead, renting a car is an affordable option for those who want more freedom while traveling but don’t want to spend money on tours all day long.
8. EASY RULES
All you need is an international driving permit, along with rental vehicle paperwork when driving. Keep your headlights always on, or you will get pulled over and get a ticket. In case of emergency, dial 112 from anywhere in Europe, and an operator will connect you to an emergency service in the country you are visiting. The operators can answer your call in their native language, English or French.
Drunk driving is strictly forbidden. Albania has a zero-tolerance for drunk driving. The blood alcohol content limit for drivers of private vehicles is 0.01%.
9. GAS STATIONS ARE EVERYWHERE
Gas stations are readily available around cities and villages in Albania. It will be easier to find them on the main highways as they’re marked with signs and panels.
Gas Stations in Albania usually are open and operate from 8:00 am until 12:00 pm in urban locations. Be sure to have cash on hand as not all petrol stations accept credit cards.
10. THE LUXURY OF FREEDOM
You can take your time and explore the city without feeling like you’re on a schedule. Imagine how nice it is to be able to stop for lunch or dinner whenever you feel like, rather than being limited by choosing attractions and restaurants near to your hotel.
11. ALBANIAN PEOPLE ARE FRIENDLY
Albanians know how to enjoy life. The fantastic warmth you will receive from locals during your trip will be a long-lasting memory. Indeed, Albania is one of Europe’s most hospitable places, and its people maintain long traditions of welcoming tourists with open arms. Their natural warmth and friendliness are some of the reasons why renting a car in Albania and stopping by little villages to have a chat with locals will be one of the most enriching experiences of your life.
12. YOU WILL GET SAFETY, COMFORT AND PRIVACY
Your car will be your private universe, without the risk of being too close to strangers. The risk of contracting Covid, The Flu, or a regular cold is significantly reduced. You get to control all aspects like spreading out as much as you want to or have easy access to your things, which is vital when traveling in a group or with children.
13. YOU CAN PACK ANYTHING YOU LIKE
You can pack anything that fits into your rented car, and you don’t have to pay any extra if additional items glide in your suitcase. If you plan on bringing camping gear or sports equipment, packing it in a car is easier than taking them by bus or train. However, as a general rule, always be careful with your belongings and valuables.
14. ROAD SAFETY ABROAD
Car rentals also provide peace of mind when traveling abroad because they come equipped with insurance coverages if something happens (unlike public transportation).
However, be careful when driving in Albania during winter (December to February), when the roads through the mountains in northern Albania are covered with snow and ice.
15. MEMORABLE MEMORIES
Tom Lichtenheld once said, “A road trip is a way for the whole family to spend time together and annoy each other in interesting new places.”
If you’re traveling with your kids, the classic family road trip should be experienced at least once in their lifetime. When the vacation is about the journey, the memories last even longer.
Albania is a dream destination for road trips. The lush green mountains, overlooking clear blue water and Mediterranean coastline, are an awe-inspiring sight. The roads offer ample opportunity to explore this untouched gem as you wind your way through scenic routes surrounded by endless natural beauty.
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The type of transportation you choose can make or break a vacation, and Albania has many qualities that make it an excellent destination for travelers.
There is nothing like getting out on the open road and exploring new destinations with friends or family by renting a car. But please remember that safety should always come first. The rules of driving and parking in Albanian can seem daunting at first, but they become second nature once you get used to them. Don’t let these minor details deter you from making memories worth remembering!
The greatest part of a road trip isn’t arriving at your destination—It’s all about the wild stuff that happens along the way!
