Why Choose a Road Trip in Albania?
Albania is a compact country with beaches, mountains, lakes, castles and UNESCO towns within a few hours of each other. A rental car gives you the freedom to visit more places without depending on buses or fixed schedules.
Many of Albania's most beautiful places are easier to reach by car, especially beaches along the Riviera, viewpoints, villages and national parks.
Best Albania Road Trip Itinerary
This itinerary is ideal for tourists who want a balanced trip with city life, beaches, coastal roads and cultural destinations.
Tirana → Durres → Vlora → Llogara Pass → Dhermi → Himara → Saranda → Ksamil → Gjirokastra or Berat → Tirana
Day 1: Tirana
Start your journey in Tirana, Albania's capital city. Visit Skanderbeg Square, Blloku, the New Bazaar and local restaurants. Tirana is also a good place to pick up your rental car before starting the road trip.
If you arrive by plane, Tirana International Airport is one of the most convenient places to collect your vehicle and begin your trip immediately.
Day 2: Tirana to Durres
Durres is one of Albania's oldest cities and is located close to Tirana. It is a good first coastal stop with beaches, hotels, restaurants and the Roman Amphitheater.
Durres is also practical for families because the road from Tirana is easy and the city has many accommodation options.
Day 3: Durres to Vlora
Continue south to Vlora, one of Albania's most important coastal cities. Vlora is known for the Lungomare promenade, beaches, restaurants and access to the Albanian Riviera.
This is a good place to stay before driving through Llogara Pass toward Dhermi and Himara.
Day 4: Vlora to Dhermi via Llogara Pass
This is one of the most scenic drives in Albania. Llogara Pass offers mountain views, fresh air and panoramic viewpoints over the Ionian Sea.
After Llogara, continue to Dhermi, a popular beach destination with clear water, beach bars and beautiful coastline.
Day 5: Dhermi and Himara
Himara is a relaxed coastal town with beaches, traditional villages and great sea views. It is a perfect stop for travelers who want a quieter Riviera experience.
You can visit nearby beaches and viewpoints, then continue south when ready.
Day 6: Himara to Saranda
The route from Himara to Saranda is one of the highlights of an Albania road trip. The coastal road offers views of the Ionian Sea, small villages and beach areas.
Saranda is a popular tourist city with hotels, restaurants, nightlife and access to Ksamil and Butrint National Park.
Day 7: Ksamil and Butrint
Ksamil is famous for turquoise water, small islands and some of the most beautiful beaches in Albania. It is one of the most requested destinations by tourists visiting the south of the country.
Nearby Butrint National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is easy to visit by car.
Optional Return Route: Gjirokastra or Berat
On the way back to Tirana, you can add a cultural stop.
Gjirokastra
A UNESCO city known for stone houses, history and the castle overlooking the valley.
Berat
Known as the City of a Thousand Windows, Berat is one of the most beautiful historic cities in Albania and a great road trip stop.
How Many Days Do You Need for an Albania Road Trip?
A good Albania road trip can be done in 5 to 10 days depending on your travel style.
- 3–4 days: Tirana, Durres and Vlora
- 5–7 days: Tirana, Vlora, Himara, Saranda and Ksamil
- 8–10 days: Full Riviera plus Berat, Gjirokastra or Shkoder
Best Cars for an Albania Road Trip
The best car depends on your group size, luggage and itinerary.
Toyota Yaris
Good for couples, city driving and short trips.
Hyundai Tucson
Comfortable for families and longer routes across Albania.
Hyundai Santa Fe
Ideal for groups, luggage, comfort and long-distance road trips.
Opel Zafira
A practical option for larger families or travelers with extra luggage.
Tips for Driving the Albanian Riviera
- Start driving early in the morning during summer.
- Use Google Maps for navigation.
- Keep extra time for coastal roads and viewpoints.
- Book accommodation in advance during July and August.
- Choose a comfortable car if you are traveling with family or luggage.
- Ask your rental company before crossing borders outside Albania.
Car Rental at Tirana Airport for Road Trips
Tirana Airport is the easiest starting point for many visitors. You can pick up your car directly after landing and drive to Tirana, Durres, Vlora, Saranda, Ksamil or other destinations without waiting for public transport.