Best Road Trip Routes in Albania for 2025 – Explore the Country by Car

Albania is one of Europe’s most exciting road trip destinations, and there’s no better way to discover its beauty than by renting a car. From coastal drives to mountain passes and UNESCO cities, Albania offers unforgettable scenery at every turn. If you’re planning a trip in 2025, here are the top road trip routes you shouldn’t miss.


🏖️ 1. The Albanian Riviera Drive

Route: Vlorë → Llogara Pass → Dhërmi → Himarë → Sarandë

This is Albania’s most iconic road trip — a mix of mountains, turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs.

⭐ Highlights:

  • Llogara scenic viewpoint

  • Palasa & Dhërmi beaches

  • Jala Beach

  • Borsh’s long coastline

  • Sarandë nightlife and promenade

🚘 Best car type:

Economy or compact for easy parking; SUV if you want to explore hidden beaches.


⛰️ 2. North Albania Mountains Route

Route: Shkodër → Theth → Valbonë → Fierza → Koman Lake → Shkodër

This loop offers unbelievable views and breathtaking mountain landscapes.

⭐ Highlights:

  • Theth National Park

  • Blue Eye of Theth

  • Valbonë Valley

  • Koman Lake ferry ride

🚘 Best car type:

SUV recommended — some mountain roads are narrow and steep.


🏙️ 3. Culture & Heritage Road Trip

Route: Tirana → Kruja → Shkodër → Berat → Gjirokastër → Tirana

Perfect for history lovers and those who want a mix of culture, architecture, and local food.

⭐ Highlights:

  • Kruja Castle

  • Shkodër Lake

  • Berat (UNESCO)

  • Gjirokastër (UNESCO)

🚘 Best car type:

Any compact or economy car works great.


💧 4. Southern Natural Wonders Route

Route: Sarandë → Syri i Kaltër → Gjirokastër → Permet → Tepelenë → Vlorë

A fantastic mix of nature, thermal baths, and historic towns.

⭐ Highlights:

  • Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

  • Gjirokastër Castle

  • Permet thermal springs

  • Benja Bridge & canyons


🌅 5. Scenic Lakes Road Trip

Route: Tirana → Elbasan → Pogradec → Lake Ohrid → Korça

Relaxing, peaceful, and perfect for couples or families.

⭐ Highlights:

  • Lake Ohrid views

  • Drilon National Park

  • Korça old bazaar

  • Local wine & gastronomy


💡 Tips for a Perfect Road Trip in Albania (2025)

  • 📅 Book your rental car early to get the best price

  • 🚘 Choose unlimited mileage

  • ⛽ Fuel up before entering remote areas

  • 🗺️ Save offline maps for mountain regions

  • 🚗 Take photos of the car at pick-up and drop-off

  • 🅿️ Parking is usually easy and often free outside big cities


🚘 Rent Your Car for the Perfect Road Trip

At First Car Rental Albania, we offer:

✔️ Affordable car rental prices
✔️ Clean & safe vehicles
✔️ Airport pick-up in Tirana
✔️ 24/7 customer support
✔️ No hidden fees

👉 Start planning your adventure today: https://first-carrental.com/