Road Trip in Albania: Summer 2025 Guide
Albania has been catching the eye of travelers recently, and for good reason. If you’re planning to explore this destination in the summer of 2025, I definitely recommend renting a car. In this guide, I’ll share tips, must-see places, and everything you need to know to make your Albanian road trip enjoyable.
First Things First: Which Means of Transport Is The Best?
Albania is small, but trust me, it’s packed with amazing places scattered across the country. Public transport can be slow and limited, especially if you’re trying to get to those remote mountain villages or hidden beaches. Renting a car makes things way easier—and honestly, it’s almost necessary to get the most out of your trip.
The good news is driving in Albania is safe, and the roads have improved a lot in recent years. Whether you’re cruising along the Albanian Riviera or driving through the mountains, having your own car gives you freedom. You can stop at cool spots, take photos, and make detours when you feel like it.
Renting a Car in Albania: What to Expect
One of the great things about Albania is that car rentals are pretty affordable compared to other European countries. Prices start around 30 dollars per day, but if you’re planning to stay for a while, you can often get a nice discount. For example, when I was in Albania for 18 days in 2024, I got a great deal on my rental.
I rented through Shehu Rental Cars, a local car rental company in Tirana. The car was clean and perfect for the trip. The staff was friendly, and they even gave me some great local tips. I’d definitely recommend them if you’re planning a similar trip. Now, let’s get on with the actual schedule.
Planning Your Route: Top Places to Visit in Albania
If you’re planning a road trip through Albania in summer 2025, you’re in for a real adventure. The country is small enough that you can see a lot in a short time, but varied enough that every region feels like a different world. Here’s a suggested route based on my own 18-day trip, with some real, practical tips along the way.
Tirana’s vibes are always on point.
Start in Tirana
Your journey will most likely start in Tirana, the capital city. If you’re picking up your rental car from the airport like I did, make sure to double-check the meeting point and have data on your phone to contact the agency.
Tirana itself deserves a couple of days. Visit Skanderbeg Square, explore the BunkArt museum (yes, it’s inside a real Cold War-era bunker), and walk through the colorful Blloku neighborhood for cafes and nightlife. Parking in the city center can be tricky, but most hotels offer free private parking—just ask when you book.
🍽️ Tip: Try local dishes like tavë kosi and fërgesë at a traditional restaurant.
Drive South to the Albanian Riviera
After a couple of days in Tirana, it’s time to hit the road and head south toward the Albanian Riviera. The drive itself is part of the experience—twisting mountain roads with stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
🚙 First stop: Vlora, a seaside city that marks the start of the Riviera. You can stretch your legs at Zvernec Monastery, located on a peaceful little island just outside the city.
Then continue toward Dhërmi, Himarë, and eventually Ksamil, which is the crown jewel of southern Albania. Along the way, you’ll find small beaches hidden by cliffs, perfect for a swim break. I recommend stopping at Jale Beach and Gjipe Beach (you’ll need to park and hike a bit, but it’s worth it).
⛽ Tip: Fill up your tank in Vlora—gas stations become less frequent the further south you go, especially late at night.
Ksamil and Butrint
Once you reach Ksamil, plan to stay at least two or three nights. The beaches are white and sandy, and the water is insanely blue—some of the best I’ve seen in Europe. You can rent a paddle boat, grab fresh seafood by the water, and relax like you’re in the Caribbean.
Just 15 minutes from Ksamil is the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s quiet, surrounded by nature, and surprisingly intact. There’s a Roman theater, an old fortress, and incredible views over the lagoon.
🕒 Tip: Get there early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and bring cash for the entrance ticket.
Inland to Gjirokastër and Berat
After soaking up the sun, it’s time to go inland and see another side of Albania. Drive to Gjirokastër, a stone town built into the side of a hill. This place feels like stepping back in time. The cobblestone streets are steep—wear comfy shoes—and the old Ottoman-style houses are beautiful.
The Gjirokastër Castle is massive, with great views of the valley below. Don’t skip the Cold War tunnel underneath the city—it’s a quirky and fascinating reminder of Albania’s past.
From Gjirokastër, head to Berat, another UNESCO town known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” The drive takes about three hours. Once there, stroll through the Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, cross the stone bridge, and visit the Berat Castle, where people still live inside the ancient walls.
📸 Tip: Bring a camera—these towns are incredibly photogenic. Also, the local wine is fantastic; try a glass of Puls or Shesh i Bardhë with dinner.
The North: Shkodra and the Albanian Alps
If you have the time (and I strongly recommend making time), drive north toward Shkodra, one of Albania’s oldest cities. Visit Rozafa Castle for panoramic views, and grab coffee at one of the many street cafés downtown.
From here, take the scenic route into the Albanian Alps—a completely different vibe. Villages like Theth and Valbona are surrounded by dramatic peaks and peaceful nature. The roads get narrow and winding, so drive carefully, but the reward is incredible hiking and fresh mountain air.
🚗 Tip: If you’re going to Theth, make sure your rental car has decent clearance—it’s not full off-road, but you’ll be glad for a sturdier vehicle. Also, download offline maps; phone signal drops in the mountains.
Theth’s mountains are next level.
Looping Back to Tirana
From the north, you can either loop back to Tirana through Kukës or take the ferry across Lake Koman, one of the most scenic boat rides in Europe. It’s a full-day experience, but it breaks up the drive beautifully.
By the time you return to Tirana, you’ll have seen ancient ruins, mountain villages, wild beaches, and charming towns—all in one road trip.
This route covers a lot, but it doesn’t feel rushed if you spread it over 12 to 18 days. Plus, having your own car makes it incredibly smooth—you can stop for photos, snacks, or spontaneous swims anytime you want.
Best Time to Travel
The summer months—June to September—are the busiest, but they’re also the best for beach lovers. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting in late May or September. The weather is still great, but you’ll have fewer tourists to share the beaches with.
Booking your car rental early is also a good idea, especially during the busy season. I booked my rental with Shehu Rental Cars ahead of time, which saved me a lot of stress and helped me get a better rate.
Budgeting for Your Road Trip
Albania is still a very affordable destination, especially for a road trip. A daily budget of $60–$90 per person will cover your car rental, gas, food, and accommodation. If you’re traveling with a friend or partner, the cost becomes even more manageable.
With these tips, you’re all set! Albania’s got so much to offer, from the stunning beaches to the charming towns and breathtaking mountains. Just follow the route, enjoy the ride, and make the most of every stop. Have an amazing time exploring Albania!
