To Rent or Not to Rent: Navigating Albania's Roads in a Rental Car
- Alanna Gabbett
- Mar 23
- 23 min read
Updated: Apr 9
Renting a car in Albania can unlock the true potential of your travel adventure in this beautiful Balkan country. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and lively culture, having your own vehicle allows you the flexibility to visit hidden treasures often missed by other tourists and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. This is something we find particularly valuable when traveling with young children. However, driving in Albania presents a unique set of challenges and can prove difficult for more inexperienced or nervous drivers. It's important to first understand local driving culture, rules of the road, parking challenges, and insurance options in order to make an informed decision for your trip.
Let's dive into the basics of renting a car in Albania in order to further understand the process. This guide simplifies the experience, offering insights on how to choose a car, what to know about insurance, local driving rules, and more.
In this guide:
a. Type of Car
b. Utilize Comparison Sites
c. Book Early
d. Look for Discounts
e. Check Terms and Conditions
a. Know Your Insurance Types
b. Leverage Credit Card Benefits
Understanding Local Driving Rules
a. Be Aware of Speed Limits
b. Navigating the Roads/Local Driving Culture
a. Who Pays
b. How to Pay
a. Investigate Parking Options
b. Utilize Apps for Parking
c. Respect Parking Regulations
d. Anticipate Parking Fees
e. Look for Accommodation with Private Parking
f. Ask Locals if Unsure
a. Who Can Rent a Car?
b. Do I Need a Special Driver's License?
c. Should I Bring a Car Seat?
d. Do Cars Come Standard with GPS/Navigation?
e. Is it Expensive to Rent a Car in Albania?
f. How Do I Fill up With Gas and is it Expensive?
g. Do I have to Clean the Car Before Returning it?
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Choosing a Car
Choosing and booking the right car for your road trip in Albania is essential to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. The country’s diverse terrain, from bustling cities with tight parking spaces to mountainous regions with challenging roads, means that selecting the appropriate vehicle can greatly impact your comfort and safety. Whether you need a compact car for easy city navigation, an AWD vehicle for rugged mountain roads, or an automatic transmission for ease of driving, planning ahead allows you to secure the best option for your needs. A well-chosen rental car enhances your road trip by providing the right balance of space, efficiency, and capability for your Albanian adventure.
Type of Car
Vehicle Size
When choosing a rental car in Albania, selecting the right type of vehicle is crucial to ensure a comfortable and practical driving experience. One of the first considerations should be the size of the vehicle, especially in relation to luggage space and passenger capacity. If you're traveling with multiple people or carrying large suitcases, opting for a sedan or SUV may be a better choice than a compact car. However, for solo travelers or couples with minimal luggage, a small hatchback or compact economy vehicle can be ideal, as it provides better maneuverability and fuel efficiency.
Type of Drivetrain
Another key factor is the type of drive—whether all-wheel drive (AWD), front-wheel drive (FWD), or rear-wheel drive (RWD). In Albania, FWD vehicles are sufficient for city driving and well-paved roads, which cover most of the coastal areas and major highways. However, if you plan to explore mountainous regions such as Theth, Valbona, or the Llogara Pass, an AWD or 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended, especially in winter or rainy seasons when roads can be steep and slippery. Choosing the wrong drivetrain could make navigating rural or high-altitude roads more difficult and even unsafe.
Transmission
Transmission type is another crucial decision. Many rental cars in Albania come with manual transmissions, which are more common and generally cheaper to rent. However, if you're more comfortable driving an automatic, it's best to book in advance since automatic cars are less prevalent and tend to be more expensive. If you're not accustomed to driving a manual vehicle, struggling with gear shifts on Albania’s winding mountain roads or in heavy city traffic can be an unnecessary challenge.
Parking Considerations
Finally, one of the most important considerations when renting a car in Albania is parking. In cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Berat, parking spaces are often scarce and very tight. A smaller, more compact car significantly improves your ability to fit into limited parking spots and navigate narrow streets. Larger SUVs and vans may provide more comfort and space, but it can be a hassle to park in crowded urban areas where space is at a premium. If your itinerary primarily involves city driving, a compact or subcompact car will be the most convenient option. However, if you’re venturing into remote or rugged terrain, balancing the need for parking ease with road capability is essential.
Utilize Comparison Sites
When you're ready to book your car, comparison sites can help tremendously. Rental car prices can vary wildly, even within the same rental agency. We've often noticed much cheaper prices on third-party sites than on the rental website directly. For this reason, we always recommend checking multiple third-party sites to find the best rates.
Make sure to explore options by using filters for vehicle type (such as compact, SUV, or luxury), price range, and rental duration. And don't forget to filter by transmission - we once forgot to check and almost got stuck with a manual car (we can't drive a manual). This way, you can find the right car that fits your travel plans.
Comparison websites streamline the search for affordable rental car rates. They allow you to evaluate a variety of options from different agencies so you can find the right car for your trip.
Our top choice for finding affordable rental cars is Discover Cars:
Discover Cars is like your trusted co-pilot for finding the best car rental deals worldwide. They compare prices from top rental companies, making it easy for you to choose the perfect ride at the best price. With clear policies, honest reviews, and helpful customer support, they take the stress out of renting a car—so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
They have a variety of car options that you can filter through so you find exactly what you are searching for and they partner with all the best car companies out there. Their prices are affordable, they offer free cancellation, and there are no hidden fees.
You can find rental cars in Tirana Airport for as low as USD $10 per day in the off-season.
Another great site we often use is Carjet:
CarJet.com makes it easy to compare rates from the most popular car rental companies all in one place. The site shows car rentals in most European countries, offers free cancellation on all cars booked through the site, features no credit card fees, and has great reviews. The site continually offers some of the most affordable rates around.
We've found rental cars at Tirana Airport for as low as USD $15 per day in the off-season.
Economy Bookings
Another one of our favorite sites is economybookings.com. This site operates similarly to CarJet, comparing rental prices across multiple companies in real-time. The site offers rental car bookings in over 180 countries, has excellent customer service, and offers some of the best rates around.
Some other trusted sites include:
Kayak: Another site that offers a comprehensive view of available vehicles, including additional fees, is Kayak.com. Along with flights and accommodation, Kayak also compares rates for rental cars.
Booking.com: The site features an extensive network of rental agencies worldwide and often provides special discounts. They have over 5 million reviews, no hidden fees, and offer free cancellation on most options.
Expedia: Known for flights, Expedia.com also presents competitive pricing on rental cars and is worth checking out.
Auto Europe: Specializing in European rentals, autoeurope.eu is often recognized for attractive prices. The site compares all the best rental companies, offers pickup in over 24,000 locations, has no credit card fees, and offers free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup.
Book Early
Once you’ve found a vehicle that meets your needs, it’s wise to book early. In Albania, car rental prices can spike with demand, particularly from May to September, when tourism is at its peak. Booking in advance not only guarantees your car will be available but often secures better rates too. For example, early bookings can save you up to 20% compared to last-minute rentals.
Many third-party sites offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before pickup, so don't worry if your plans change. If you find a good deal, we recommend reserving the car well ahead of time to secure the best rates and availability.
Look for Discounts
Always be on the lookout for discounts. Options include:
Membership Discounts: Organizations like AAA and AARP often offer notable discounts on rentals.
Frequent Flyer Programs: Many airlines partner with rental services and provide discounts to their members, which can save you anywhere from 5% to 15%.
Credit Card Miles Programs: In addition to your regular credit card miles earned, when booking with some travel credit cards, you can receive bonus miles for booking a rental car through their travel portal. One of these options is the Capital One Venture X, which offers 10X miles on rental cars booked through their travel portal.
Check Terms and Conditions
Before finalizing your reservation, read through the terms and conditions carefully. Pay special attention to details regarding fuel policies, mileage limits, and any fees for additional drivers or one-way rentals. Being well-informed will help you avoid unexpected costs later.
Mileage Limits
We strongly suggest reserving a car with unlimited mileage, as fees for extra miles can accumulate rapidly. Opting for unlimited mileage reduces stress and lets you enjoy your road trip without being concerned about the distance you travel.
If you only have the budget for a car with limited mileage, we suggest doing a calculation of your intended travel route to see if you are within limits. Always add a buffer to account for detours, side trips to gas stations, markets or restaurants, or day trips you may consider later.
Fuel Policies
It's important to take note of fuel policies in the terms and conditions. Usually, this is discussed at vehicle pickup, however it's important to be aware of the fuel level you should be receiving and returning the car at. Most rentals operate on a full-to-full policy, meaning you receive the car full of fuel and return it the same way. However, we have rented a few cars that were not full when we picked them up.
Example 1: In Dublin, it was indicated in the terms and conditions that the rental car would be picked up with a full gas tank and was to be returned the same way. However, once we picked up the car and drove down the road, we realized the gas tank was only half full. In this case, we took time-stamped photos of the gas gauge, called the rental company, and agreed to return the car only half full.
Example 2: At the Istanbul airport, we picked up a rental car that only had a quarter tank of gas. However, this was noted in the terms and conditions. We still had to return the car with a full gas tank. We thought this was very strange; however, it was a good rate and there was a gas station located just outside the parking garage.
Add-on Fees:
Check what fees are charged additionally and what are included in your rental. For example, sometimes one additional driver may be included in the price, while other times it's an additional daily charge. Other add-ons may include child car seats, GPS navigation, roof racks, winter tires, one-way rentals, and cross-border fees.
Borders and Ferries
Keep in mind that many companies will restrict you from taking the car across international borders. If you do this, your car insurance will be void and you may face huge penalties. Additionally, if you try to cross an international border against your terms and conditions, you likely will not be allowed entry. Border officials check documents on rental cars at border crossings, and to successfully cross the border, you will need to present a cross-border travel document given to you by the rental agency. If you don't have this document, you will not be allowed across the border.
Even if the rental company allows cross-border travel, they may restrict travel to certain countries or regions and usually charge a fee, sometimes per country.
Example of a cross-border policy:
"Cross border fee (for taking the car to Germany, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Denmark, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Monaco, Norway, Netherlands, Czech Republic, San Marino, Serbia and Montenegro, Sweden, and Switzerland): 110 €. Please note that you are not allowed to take the vehicle to any countries other than the ones mentioned. Please note that in addition to the border crossing fee, there will be a Green Card fee at the border. The price will depend on the number of days spent outside Albania. Penalty for taking the car abroad without permission from the supplier: 950 €." - from OK MOBILITY NRWe have never encountered a rental car agency that allowed travel on ferries, however, that's not to say it's not possible. Always check the rental agreement and terms and conditions if you're hoping to take a ferry with the car. When in doubt, call and speak with the rental agency.
Navigating Insurance
Understanding the insurance choices for your rental car is crucial to shield yourself from unforeseen costs. Although opting for full coverage can significantly raise your rental expenses, it might be a valuable choice to safeguard you in case of an accident. Nonetheless, before opting for full coverage via the agency, it's essential to explore the various insurance types available and the strategies to help you save money.
Know Your Insurance Types
Basic Insurance
Basic insurance usually comes included in the rental rate in Albania and typically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP), but it often comes with a high deductible (excess). This means in case of an accident; you may be required to pay a large deductible toward the repairs.
What It Covers:
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Limits your financial liability for damage to the rental car but does not cover all damages. You are still responsible for the deductible (excess), which can be quite high.
Theft Protection (TP): Reduces your liability if the car is stolen, though you may still need to pay an excess amount.
What It Does NOT Cover:
Damage to windows, tires, undercarriage, mirrors, and sometimes even the roof.
Interior damage, lost keys, or using the wrong fuel.
Personal belongings inside the car.
Third-party liability (this might be included in some countries but always check).
Full Coverage
Opting for full coverage reduced your liability and your deductible responsibility.
You will usually have the option to purchase Super CDW or Full Protection Insurance from the rental agency or a third-party provider.
Always check the fine print, as coverage details can vary between companies.
Leverage Credit Card Benefits
Many credit cards provide rental car insurance as a benefit. To maximize these advantages:
Confirm Coverage: Reach out to your credit card issuer to verify coverage for rentals in Europe. Be sure to understand your credit card's coverage limits and the necessary steps to file a claim efficiently.
Decline Extra Insurance: If your credit card offers adequate insurance, you may decline the rental agency’s extra coverage, saving you a daily fee that can range from €10 to €30. The credit card company may require that you decline all insurances, even basic coverages like CDW and TF in order to access their coverage.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card offers great rental car coverage. They feature rental car collision coverage up to $60,000 for theft and collision damage for most rental vehicles with an MSRP of $125,000 or less. Check terms and conditions for specific details and how to access this coverage. Understand Local Driving Rules
Understanding local driving rules and culture in Albania is crucial before deciding to rent a car, as driving conditions can be quite different from what many travelers are used to, especially when coming from most Western countries.
While Albania follows standard European traffic laws, enforcement can be inconsistent, and local drivers often exhibit an aggressive and unpredictable driving style. Traffic in cities like Tirana can be chaotic, with frequent lane changes, minimal use of turn signals, and heavy congestion. Rural roads, on the other hand, may have poor signage, unexpected potholes, and livestock crossing, requiring extra caution.
Additionally, knowing local rules—such as the requirement to always drive with headlights on, the frequent presence of police checkpoints, and the lack of widespread toll roads—can help avoid fines or misunderstandings. By familiarizing yourself with these aspects, you can better decide whether renting a car is the right choice and ensure a safer, more enjoyable driving experience.
Be Aware of Speed Limits
In Albania, speed limits vary depending on the type of road and area. Always look out for speed limit signs and be aware of construction zones. Speed limits are strictly enforced in some areas, especially near cities and on major roads, with frequent police checkpoints and speed cameras. Speeding fines can be high, and officers may stop vehicles for minor infractions. Always check for local signage, as speed limits may change depending on the specific road or weather conditions.
Urban areas (cities & towns): 40 km/h (25 mph)
Rural roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)
Expressways: 90 km/h (56 mph)
Highways (motorways): 110 km/h (68 mph)
Road conditions in some rural areas may require driving well below the posted limit, even if legally allowed.Navigating the Roads/Local Driving Culture
Driving in Albania can sometimes be an adventure on its own. Expect to encounter a mix of well-maintained roads and some that may be less reliable. Local drivers may exhibit aggressive driving habits, so it’s important to stay alert and practice defensive driving. For instance, be prepared for sudden lane changes or unexpected stops. Cities and towns may also feature many bicycles driving in the roadway or pedestrians crossing without looking. Always be alert and drive defensively at all times.
It's important to understand local driving habits before navigating the roads in a rental car. In cities like Tirana and Durrës, traffic is often chaotic, with drivers frequently ignoring lane markings, overtaking aggressively, and using horns as a form of communication.
On highways, speeding is common, and sudden lane changes require defensive driving. Rural and mountain roads can be poorly maintained, with potholes, unpaved sections, and occasional livestock crossings. Limited road signs and street lighting make navigation difficult, so relying on GPS is essential.
Frequent police checkpoints mean you should always have rental documents and an international driver’s permit ready. By staying alert, choosing the right rental car, and adapting to Albania’s driving culture, you can ensure a safer and smoother experience on the road.
In Albania, we were stopped at several police checkpoints, and upon realizing we only spoke English, they allowed us to continue without presenting any documents. Nonetheless, it's crucial to have a translation app on your phone if you're not fluent in Albanian to communicate effectively with the police if necessary.Managing Tolls
The A1 motorway (Thumane-Kashar road) is the primary toll road in Albania. It's a 21-kilometer segment that connects Thumana to Kashar and is part of the Adriatic-Ionian corridor. The Thumane-Kashar road is the first Category A highway in Albania, meaning it has European road construction standards and a higher speed limit.
Who Pays
All drivers using the A1 motorway (Thumane-Kashar road) are required to pay the toll. However, when we traveled the A1 in a Croatian rental car, they told us at two toll booths that we didn't have to pay (they said "Free" and let us go).
We encountered conflicting information online; some sources claim that vehicles with foreign plates are exempt from payment, while others suggest that everyone must pay. Therefore, we are uncertain why we were informed it was free, as this might not apply to everyone.
How to Pay
Payment for tolls on the A1 is through a vignette, which is a sticker placed on your windshield. You must purchase a vignette before starting your journey; it can be purchased at gas stations and post offices throughout Albania, or at a toll station on the highway itself. The vignette system is designed to cover the costs of road maintenance and improvement. The price for the vignette is relatively low, and the purchase process is quick.
Parking
Perhaps the most difficult part of driving in Albania is navigating parking. Navigating parking in Albania can be challenging, especially in major cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Berat, where parking spaces are limited and often congested. Streets are narrow, parking spots are scarce, and in some areas, finding legal parking can be frustrating. Many urban streets have designated paid parking zones, but spaces fill up quickly, particularly during peak hours. Additionally, some neighborhoods lack clear signage, making it difficult for visitors to determine where parking is allowed.
In historic areas and small towns, streets are not designed for modern traffic, making maneuvering and parking larger vehicles even more difficult. Because of these challenges, renting a compact car can be highly beneficial, allowing for easier parking in tight spaces and better navigation through crowded city streets. Planning ahead by researching parking garages or hotels with dedicated parking can help avoid unnecessary stress.
Investigate Parking Options
Check city resources for authorized parking areas. Researching ahead can save you time and help you avoid fines. Look for public parking spaces such as lots and garages and familiarize yourself with street parking rules on official city websites.
Our recommendation is always to book a hotel or Airbnb with private parking included. This way you have guaranteed free parking and can either walk or take public transportation into city centers, avoiding the parking struggle altogether.
Keep in mind that parking situations that might not appear legal could actually be permissible in Albania. For instance, parking on curbs, double parking, and parking facing the opposite direction of traffic seemed to be common practices. Many locals parked in ways that blocked sidewalk ramps and crosswalks, trapping other cars. No one seemed concerned, and we never saw anyone issue parking tickets or fines.
Always check Google reviews for parking lots beforehand to see if it's a good option. Often, others will warn you of parking lots that no longer exist, are difficult to park in, or have high fees.Utilize Apps for Parking
Multiple apps, like Parkopedia, can help locate nearby parking and show real-time prices. Parkopedia will also show you what payment methods are accepted at the location you choose. Using tools like this can save you from driving in circles looking for a spot.
Some cities and towns may also require parking payments to be handled by various phone applications or SMS. Always check official sites to find the best ways to pay for parking in your location and be on the lookout for signs indicating how to pay.
In Albania, you can pay for parking using Vodafone's "Tirana Parking" feature within the My Vodafone app, or by sending an SMS to 50500 with your license plate and parking zone.
Respect Parking Regulations
Always read signs closely. Some areas may indicate no parking zones or time limits. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and always follow local rules and regulations. Additionally, some locations have designated parking spots for city officials, families with children, or the disabled. Never park in a designated spot without the proper documentation.
Anticipate Parking Fees
Prepare for parking fees that can vary significantly by location. Expect higher rates in tourist-heavy areas and attractions and cheaper options in smaller towns or rural locations. Parking garages and lots can vary in price from one side of the city to the other, so always check prices ahead of time, if possible, to get the best rates. We recommend reading Google reviews for parking lots to see what other people have paid recently.
Based on our experience, the majority of parking lots at major tourist sites, cities, and towns required payment and accepted cash only. Except for Tirana, every paid parking lot we visited, including those in Gjirokastër, Kruja, and Blue Eye Natural Park, only accepted cash. Therefore, it's important to have some Albanian lek in small denominations to pay the attendant. Some parking lots at major tourist attractions are free, so be sure to check the signs indicating whether the lot is paid or free.
Look for Accommodation with Private Parking
Most cities and towns are very walkable and easy to navigate either on foot or by public transportation. For this reason, we recommend booking accommodation, whether a hotel or Airbnb, that has private parking or a parking garage. Knowing you have a secured parking spot before your arrival alleviates a lot of stress as you don't have to drive around aimlessly searching for a space on the street and potentially walking long distances with your luggage to reach your accommodation.
If we can't afford a hotel or Airbnb in the center with private or dedicated parking, we usually choose an Airbnb on the outskirts of the city that has street parking. We find that street parking is much easier and safer outside the busy city centers.
Ask Locals if Unsure
If parking seems confusing, don’t hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. Residents can often provide valuable tips on where to park safely and comply with local regulations. If staying at an Airbnb, check with the host if you're unsure where to park - we had some lovely hosts who would come out and search for a suitable parking spot with us.
Common Questions
In this section, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about renting a car in Albania. Whether you're wondering about driving requirements, car insurance, or the best vehicle for your trip, these FAQs will help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable road trip through Albania.
Who Can Rent a Car?
To rent a car in Albania, the minimum age is generally 21 years, however, some companies allow individuals as young as 19. Keep in mind that drivers under 25 may face extra fees from some companies. Always be prepared to present a valid driver’s license and in some cases an international driver's permit. A credit card will also be required to hold a deposit for damages so make sure you check which cards are accepted by the agency.
Do I Need a Special Driver's License?
Always be prepared to present a valid driver’s license and in some cases an international driver's permit. A credit card will also be required to hold a deposit for damages, so make sure you check which cards are accepted by the agency.
An International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is an official document that translates your domestic driver’s license into multiple languages, allowing you to legally drive in foreign countries that require one. It does not replace your original driver’s license but must be carried alongside it. Many car rental agencies in Albania require an IDP, especially for travelers from outside the EU.
Should I Bring a Car Seat?
It's generally a good idea to bring your own car seat when renting a car in Albania, especially if you're traveling with young children. While many car rental agencies offer car seats for an additional fee, availability can sometimes be limited or the quality may not meet your expectations. By bringing your own car seat, you ensure that it is familiar, properly fitted, and meets safety standards.
Keep in mind that EU car seat standards may be different from other countries, such as the United States. With that said, we've used our U.S. standard car seats in the EU with no issue.Additionally, having your own car seat can give you peace of mind, knowing that it's cleaned and maintained to your satisfaction. If you do decide to rent one, make sure to request it in advance to guarantee availability, and be prepared to pay an extra charge, which can vary depending on the agency. However, if you prefer convenience and want to avoid additional costs or any concerns about the seat's condition, bringing your own is usually the best option.
One of our lifesavers traveling with 2 kids in car seats, is the RideSafer Compact Portable Car Seat. Traveling with a 2- and 4-year-old means we have 2 in car seats and while searching for a better alternative than lugging 2 car seats around the world, we found the RideSafer vest. It is proven safe and legal in all US states as well as many countries internationally. It's easy to pack, install, and is so much better than bringing along a bulky car seat on your trips. They have multiple sizes tailored to kids from 3 years of age up to 10+. This has been a lifesaver for us as we navigate travel with two toddlers. Right now, we use a standard car seat for our 2-year-old and the RideSafer for our 4-year-old but plan to buy another one for our son when he turns 3.
Do Cars Come Standard with GPS/Navigation?
While some rental cars may come equipped with built-in GPS or navigation services, most rental agencies offer this as an added fee. It’s smart to verify with the rental agency ahead of time if this is important to you. We recommend purchasing an eSIM before your trip or using your phone provider's international data plan so you can use your smartphone's navigation app. This will likely save you a lot of money.
We recommend using Airalo for eSIM's in Albania - Click Here for 15% Off!
Is It Expensive to Rent a Car in Albania?
Rental costs can vary significantly based on vehicle type, duration of the rental, and even time of year. On average, you might pay between USD $20 to $50 per day. However, this will be higher when demand is higher, ie. during summer and holidays. In the off-season, you can find car rentals for as low as USD $10 per day. Always be aware of potential hidden fees in the rental terms but remember the value of having a car opens up unique experiences and access to lesser-known destinations.
When comparing prices for rental cars, always be sure to note whether full coverage insurance is included in the rate, as this will help you determine which offers the best value for the price.
How Do I Fill Up with Gas and Is It Expensive?
Refueling your rental is straightforward. Gas stations are widespread, and most accept credit cards as well as cash in the local currency (Albanian Lek). Although gas prices can fluctuate, they are generally lower than the European average (but higher than the United States) and hover around €1.70 - €1.90 per liter.
In Albania, most, if not all, gas stations are full-service, meaning an attendant will refuel your vehicle and manage the payment. Upon arrival at the station, just inform the attendant of the amount of fuel you need (either in liters or in Albanian Lek, or simply say "full"), and they will take care of the refueling. Depending on the station's setup, you can pay either at the pump (using cash or a handheld card reader) or inside the station.
Most rental car agencies will require you to return the vehicle with a full tank of gas, so keep this in mind on your return day.
Do I Have to Clean the Car Before Returning?
While most rental companies expect the car to be in reasonable condition, a deep clean may be necessary with certain companies.
We've discovered that many European car rental companies impose additional cleaning fees if the car requires even just a vacuum (yes, this happened to us; a $250 charge if we didn't vacuum the car before returning). It's recommended to review your terms and conditions to understand their expectations and what they define as "excessively dirty." Most car rental agencies charge extra for sand, so remember this for beach trips.
We suggest visiting a self-service or full-service car wash before returning the vehicle for a quick vacuum and wipe-down. This can help you avoid unexpected charges at drop-off.
Example: Although not in Albania, when we rented a car in Oman, the agency was very specific on how the vehicle needed to be returned, meaning we were required to take the car for a professional full-service clean at a car wash. This didn't cost much but it's something you need to know ahead of time and should discuss with the rental agency.
Check out our videos from Albania HERE.To Rent or Not to Rent
Renting a car in Albania comes with many advantages, making it one of the best ways to explore the country. One of the biggest benefits is the freedom and flexibility it provides—you can travel at your own pace, stop wherever you want, and visit hidden gems that are difficult to access by public transport. Many of Albania’s most beautiful destinations, such as Theth, Ksamil’s quieter beaches, and remote villages in the south, are best reached by car. Additionally, renting a car can be more cost-effective compared to booking multiple guided tours. Instead of paying for transportation and tour fees for each attraction, you only have to cover fuel, rental costs, and entry tickets, allowing you to explore more while staying within budget.
However, driving in Albania does come with its challenges. The driving culture can be intimidating for visitors—many local drivers don’t always follow traffic rules, frequently change lanes without signaling, and drive aggressively. This requires good defensive driving skills and extra caution, especially in busy cities like Tirana.
Parking is another major difficulty, as spots in cities and tourist areas are limited, and many streets are narrow, making it hard to find a suitable place to leave your car. Even in smaller towns, parking can be tricky due to tight spaces and a lack of designated spots. Additionally, some roads in rural areas are in poor condition, with potholes, unpaved sections, and steep, winding paths, requiring extra care when driving.
Despite these challenges, we found that renting a car in Albania was absolutely worth it! Our family had an amazing two-week road trip, exploring breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and hidden beaches that would have been difficult to reach otherwise. That said, renting a car may not be the best choice for everyone, depending on your comfort level with driving in unfamiliar conditions. We recommend considering the factors discussed in this blog to decide if renting a car in Albania is the right option for your trip. Happy Travels!
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