The Complete Guide to Car Rental in Albania

February 1, 2023

Road trips are the perfect way to explore new places, create lasting memories, and connect with the people you love. You can create your own route, take detours, and discover new places and experiences.

The best part about road trips is that they can be as long or as short as you want, so you can make the most of your vacation time. While visiting Albania, there is plenty to see and explore, and the chances are you’ll need a car to see everything the country has to offer.

Don’t own a car? Fortunately, you can rent a car in Albania easily! It’s a safe and convenient way to explore Albania’s tourist attractions, even the remote ones, as you won’t have to use public transportation and be crammed into buses and trains.

So, let’s see how you can rent a car in Albania hassle-free!

How to Rent a Car in Albania

To rent a car in Albania, simply follow these simple steps:

Step #1. Find a Rental Agency

All Europeans and Americans can rent a car in Albania while visiting. The first step to renting a car is finding a rental agency.

Step #2. Understand Your Options

When renting a car in Albania, it is important to understand your options to make an informed decision.

First, you should research all the types of vehicles the companies you’ve picked offer.

Next, make sure to understand the rental agreement, including the length of the rental period, mileage restrictions, and any additional fees or charges.

It is also important to ensure you understand the process of obtaining the necessary paperwork for renting a car in Albania, such as a valid driver's license and proof of insurance.

Finally, make sure to make a fine comparison of the prices to best choose your option.

The best place to start is to find a car rental agency in Albania by searching online. You can try searching for car rental agencies in the major cities in Albania, such as Tirana.

There are plenty of companies in Tirana, each offering different vehicles at different prices. Here are some of the best ones we selected for you:

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Step #3: Book a Car

After you’ve decided on the company you want to rent the car from, it’s time to book a car. Check the car rental’s terms and conditions and understand them. After paying the required fee, you can sign the rental agreement and see if the car has any existing damage before you drive it away.

It’s critical to pick up and drop off the car at the specified time, or else you might get charged extra. As for traveling abroad, not all rental companies allow it, but there are a few who make an exception. For example, some companies that allow clients to take their cars abroad are Europcar, H er tz, and Avis.

Important Considerations While Renting a Car in Albania

Now that you know how to rent a car in Albania, here’s what you need to consider before signing the rental agreement.

Requirements for Renting a Car

Here are the requirements you must meet so you can rent a car in Albania:

Insurance

Insurance is important because it protects you from financial loss in an unexpected accident, illness, or other unfortunate events. It provides peace of mind knowing that you can cover medical bills, property damage, and other potential financial burdens associated with an unexpected occurrence.

In Albania, the insurance cost varies depending on the type of coverage and the insurance company. The cost of an average insurance package might range from 150-170 euros, although it heavily depends on the company. Some popular insurance companies in Albania include Sigal , Insig , Eurosig , etc.

Most insurance packages in Albania cover damage to property, personal liability, personal accidents, and medical expenses. The coverage limits and deductible amounts vary depending on the policy. Some policies may include additional coverage for legal expenses, travel insurance, and more.

With that said, it is advisable to consult with an insurance broker or agent to determine the best policy for your needs.

Driving Laws and Regulations

Driving in Albania can be quite an adventure. Roads can be winding, narrow, and full of potholes. You will also find that certain vehicles in Albania can be quite old, making driving even more hazardous.

It is important to remember that traffic laws in Albania are strictly enforced. All drivers must carry a valid driver's license and insurance. Seatbelts must be worn at all times, and using a mobile phone while driving is illegal. Speed limits are strict, so it is important to obey all posted speed limits.

It is also important to be aware of local driving habits. Drivers in Albania tend to drive aggressively and may not obey traffic signals or respect the right of way. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and take extra caution when driving.

Don’t Forget While Driving in Albania

To ensure your road trip in Albania goes as smoothly as possible, remember the following things:

Make sure to carry your rental car agreement, driver's license, and passport with you at all times.
Obey the speed limits and take extra caution in areas with heavy traffic.
Avoid driving at night if possible—only the main roads are fully equipped with lights.
Don't drink and drive—Albania has strict laws against driving under the influence.
Make sure to have a full gas tank before setting off on your journey.
Be aware of the road conditions—many roads in Albania are in poor condition and can be dangerous.
Always drive on the right side of the road to avoid any accidents.

Infrastructure in Albania is rapidly improving, with the total length of roads in the country estimated to be around 28,000 km. The most popular road in Albania is the E851, which connects Tirana to Durres and is the busiest road in the country. The E852 is also popular and connects Tirana and Shkodër.

The E856 is a road that runs from Tirana to Sarande and is known for its spectacular views of the Albanian Riviera. It is the only road in Albania that requires a fee, ranging from 1.50 to 10.00 euros.

Lastly, the E859 is a road that runs from Tirana to Gjirokastër and is historically significant as it was once a major trade route between Albania and Greece.

FAQ About Renting a Car in Albania

1. What is the legal driving age in Albania?

The legal driving age in Albania is 18 years old.
2. What documents am I required to have in order to rent a car in Albania?
To rent a car in Albania, you will need to have the following documents:
- A valid driver’s license
- A valid passport or ID card
- Proof of a valid credit card or debit card
- Proof of car insurance
- A signed rental agreement
- A valid form of payment
- A signed contract that includes the car rental terms and conditions
3. Do I need to buy insurance or protection packages with my Albania rental?

Although it is not required, it is highly recommended that you purchase some sort of insurance or protection package with your rental car in Albania. Many rental companies offer packages that include coverage for theft and damage as well as roadside assistance, so make sure to ask when you book.
4. How much does it cost to rent a car in Albania for a week?

The cost of renting a car in Albania for a week can vary depending on the type of vehicle, the rental company, and other factors. Generally, a mid-sized sedan may cost around $200-250 per week, while luxury cars may cost up to $600 or more.
5. What are the current petrol prices in Albania?

In the last few years, prices have gone up, with diesel costing 1.79 euros per liter and petrol costing about 1.62 euros per liter.