Rent a Car in Albania

Taking the main road through the Llogara Tunnel is the fastest way to travel from Vlorë to Sarandë. However, if you're looking for panoramic views, hairpin bends and steep drops, the older road over the Llogara Pass is the right choice. Allow extra time if you choose the scenic pass.

A compact or mid-size car can work well if you're travelling light. For a smoother, more comfortable rental experience, consider a larger reliable car with more cabin space if you're travelling with several passengers and plenty of luggage.

For routes with uneven access roads, rent car with sufficient ground clearance and check the car rental booking terms for restrictions on unpaved roads. A higher vehicle does not automatically have four-wheel drive, and some car rental booking agreements restrict driving on certain road surfaces.

Offers in Albania include both manual and automatic cars, and the car rental Albania listing shows which gearbox each car has. Every rental car is in great condition, regardless of transmission type. If you drive a manual at home, you will manage on the coast and in the towns. If you rarely do, an automatic is easier on winding mountain roads such as the old Llogara road. Rent car with the gearbox you feel confident driving.

Both are UNESCO World Heritage towns away from the coast, and both have pickup points of their own. A trip between them can start and end in either. In the narrow old-town streets, a small car is easier to park.

The Butrint archaeological site is close to Ksamil and a short drive from Saranda. If you rent a car in Albania, look for offers with pickup in Saranda or Ksamil to avoid the long drive from Tirana. Compare available car rental offers and car types to find an option that suits your route.

Shkoder is the starting point for the lakes and mountains of northern Albania. Some roads in the mountains are narrow or unpaved. Ground clearance and the supplier's terms on unpaved roads matter more here than on the coast. When booking a rental car, look for a model with sufficient ground clearance for your planned route during the booking process.

Whether a deposit is required, and how much, is shown on each offer. The supplier sets the card rules: which type of card the deposit is blocked on, whose name it must be in, and whether prepaid or debit cards are accepted. If the offer's terms do not spell this out, the rental company can tell you.

Cross-border rules vary between rental companies. Check car rental offers for permitted countries, required documents (such as a Green Card) and any extra fees. Definitely check t the rental terms and the rental agreement before booking to make sure your planned route is allowed.

The insurance cover included in each car rental offer is described in its terms. The excess is the amount you may have to pay towards a covered claim. Exclusions vary by policy, and damage to the bodywork, glass or tyres is not always covered. If you're considering full insurance cover, check what it includes and whether an excess still applies before booking.

Two offers for the same car model can have different prices and rental terms. Deposit amounts, insurance coverage, mileage limits, and free cancellation all affect the final price. Extra items like child seats or GPS also add up. Where a young driver fee applies, confirm the amount with the rental company. Always compare the total car rental price and included terms.

Mileage is shown on each offer, either as a cap or as unlimited mileage. Coastal roads are often longer than planned. Ensure your total mileage allowance is enough for the whole trip.

At pickup, and again at return, photograph or film the whole car and show the supplier any scratches that are already there. The fuel policy is in the offer's terms. Keep the final receipt until the deposit is released.