Best road trip routes in Albania for first-time visitors

If you’re dreaming of a scenic road trip in Albania, you’re in for a treat. Albania offers diverse landscapes, from rugged mountain passes to crystal-clear beaches, all within a few hours’ drive. Whether you’re landing in Tirana or entering the country from a neighboring Balkan country, this Albania road trip itinerary will help you explore the country’s highlights with ease.

Why take a road trip in Albania?

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Albania. Public transport exists, but it doesn’t always reach the most scenic or remote areas. With a reliable rental car, you can stop whenever you want — from mountain viewpoints to hidden beach coves.

Before you start your journey, make sure to read our guide on driving in Albania — it covers all the essentials like road rules, speed limits, and safety tips.

1. Classic South Albania itinerary (5–7 days)

This is the ideal Albania road trip itinerary for first-time visitors. It combines history, coastline, and UNESCO heritage towns.

Route: Tirana → Berat → Himarë → Saranda → Gjirokastër → Tirana
Total Distance: ~600 km
Recommended Car: Economy or compact for solo/couples, SUV for families

Day 1: Tirana → Berat (120 km – 2h)
Start from the capital and drive to Berat, the city of a thousand windows. Stroll through the Mangalem and Gorica quarters, and visit the Onufri Iconographic Museum.

Day 2–3: Berat → Himarë (190 km – 4.5h)
Drive through the scenic Llogara Pass. Stop at the Llogara National Park, then descend to the Ionian coast. Overnight in Himarë or Dhermi.

Day 4–5: Himarë → Saranda (70 km – 1.5h)
Take your time driving along the coast. Visit Porto Palermo Castle, Borsh Beach, and arrive in Saranda for dinner by the promenade.

Day 6: Day trip to Ksamil & Blue Eye
Relax at the Ksamil beaches and take a quick drive to Syri i Kaltër (The Blue Eye), one of Albania’s top natural attractions.

Day 7: Saranda → Gjirokastër → Tirana (240 km – 5h)
Explore the cobblestone streets of Gjirokastër and its hilltop castle. Then return to Tirana via Tepelenë.

Explore the Best of South Albania

2. Albania Riviera coastal road trip (4–5 days)

Route: Tirana → Vlorë → Dhermi → Saranda → Ksamil
Total Distance: ~350 km
Recommended Car: Compact or SUV for extra luggage

This itinerary is all about beach-hopping and sunset drives. Start in Tirana and head south along SH8, Albania’s most scenic highway.

Highlights include:

• Llogara Pass scenic lookout
• Dhermi, Jale, and Himarë beaches
• The abandoned village of Qeparo
• Butrint National Park (UNESCO site)

Ideal for: Couples and friends looking for a relaxed beach-focused road trip.

3. Northern Albania and the Alps (4 days)

Route: Tirana → Shkodra → Theth National Park
Total Distance: ~320 km round-trip
Recommended Car: 4×4 SUV

For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, Northern Albania offers breathtaking mountain views and unforgettable trails.

Day 1: Tirana → Shkodra (100 km – 2h)
Walk around the Shkodra Lake and visit Rozafa Castle.

Day 2–3: Shkodra → Theth (85 km – 3–4h)
The road to Theth has improved, but a 4×4 is still recommended. Stay in a traditional guesthouse and hike to the Grunas Waterfall and the Blue Eye of Theth.

Day 4: Return to Tirana

Road trip planning tips

• Book your rental car early, especially in summer
• Check road conditions if you’re heading to the mountains
• Use Google Maps or Maps.me for real-time directions
• Fill up on fuel before heading to remote areas

Need help choosing a rental car? Browse our wide range of affordable cars for rent in Albania with insurance and no credit card required.

Suggested cars by route type

Final thoughts

With short distances and ever-changing landscapes, Albania is the perfect destination for a road trip. Whether you’re a beach bum, history lover, or hiking addict, there’s a route for you. All you need is a car and a sense of adventure.

Ready to explore? Rent a car from TIRental and hit the road today.