The 5 Best Road Trips in Albania You Need to Experience
From the stunning Albanian Riviera to the majestic peaks of the Accursed Mountains, discover the most scenic driving routes that showcase Albania's incredible natural beauty.
Albania is a hidden gem for road trip enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes ranging from pristine beaches to rugged mountain passes, the country offers some of the most spectacular driving routes in Europe. Here are the five road trips you absolutely must experience.
1. The Albanian Riviera Coastal Route
Distance: 120 km | **Duration:** 1-2 days | **Best Time:** May-September
Starting from Vlora and winding down to Saranda, this coastal route offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. The road takes you through charming villages like Dhermi, Himara, and Borsh, each with its own pristine beach and unique character.
Highlights: - Llogara Pass with panoramic sea views - Hidden beaches accessible only by car - Fresh seafood restaurants along the coast - Porto Palermo Castle
Car Recommendation: A compact car works well, but an SUV provides more comfort on some rougher sections.
2. Theth to Valbona Valley
Distance: 22 km (hiking) or 180 km (by car around) | **Duration:** 2-3 days | **Best Time:** June-September
This route through the Albanian Alps is nothing short of magical. While many travelers hike the famous Valbona-Theth trail, driving around offers equally stunning views with the comfort of your vehicle.
Highlights: - The Blue Eye of Theth - Traditional stone houses (kulla) - Grunas Waterfall - Valbona Valley National Park
Car Recommendation: A 4x4 or high-clearance SUV is essential for this route.
3. Ohrid to Korça Cultural Route
Distance: 90 km | **Duration:** 1 day | **Best Time:** Year-round
This eastern route takes you through Albania's cultural heartland. From the UNESCO-protected Lake Ohrid region through historic towns to the "Little Paris" of Korça, this trip combines natural beauty with rich history.
Highlights: - Lin Peninsula and its Byzantine church - Pogradec lakeside promenade - Voskopoja's medieval churches - Korça's Old Bazaar
Car Recommendation: Any comfortable sedan will do for this well-maintained route.
4. Berat to Gjirokastër Historic Route
Distance: 130 km | **Duration:** 1-2 days | **Best Time:** Spring and Autumn
Connect two of Albania's UNESCO World Heritage cities on this unforgettable journey through Ottoman history. Both cities feature stunning white Ottoman houses climbing hillsides, earning them the nicknames "City of a Thousand Windows" and "City of Stone."
Highlights: - Berat Castle and its living neighborhood - Ottoman houses and traditional crafts - Gjirokastër Fortress - Zekate House museum
Car Recommendation: A sedan is perfect for this well-paved route.
5. The Northern Albania Adventure
Distance: 200+ km | **Duration:** 3-4 days | **Best Time:** June-September
For the ultimate adventure, explore northern Albania's wild landscapes. From Shkodra to Koman Lake Ferry to the Valbona Valley, this route showcases Albania at its most untamed.
Highlights: - Koman Lake Ferry (cars can board too!) - Shkodra Castle and lake - Traditional Albanian hospitality - Remote mountain villages
Car Recommendation: A 4x4 SUV is highly recommended for northern routes.
Essential Tips for Road Tripping in Albania
- Fuel up regularly** - Gas stations can be sparse in remote areas
- Carry cash** - Many smaller places don't accept cards
- Download offline maps** - Mobile coverage is limited in mountains
- Start early** - Mountain roads take longer than expected
- Rent from a reliable company** - Choose quality vehicles for mountain routes
Ready to start your Albanian road trip adventure? Browse our selection of rental cars perfect for exploring every corner of this beautiful country.
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