Which is the best way to travel as a tourist in Albania in 2024

If you are planning a trip to Albania for the summer, you may be considering which transportation means is the best and of course, more economical. Many tourists opt for taxis, however, any local will tell you that renting a car in Albania is actually much more affordable in the long run.

If you love exploring a country’s cultural heritage and want to get that authentic, local experience, we recommend that you rent your own car. In this blog post, we are going to cover everything you need to know about car rental in Albania, including prices, car models available, eligibility criteria and more. 

Why travel to Albania for your summer vacation?

Albania is a small and yet gorgeous country situated in Southeastern Europe. Its favorable location has made it an extremely attractive tourism destination. People worldwide travel to this warm and hospitable Mediterranean country looking for beautiful landscapes, historic monuments and delicious cuisine.

Surrounded by the azure waters of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas, Albania is bestowed with a variety of breathtaking beaches. There is plenty to do in this charming country, however, many tourists wonder which mode of transportation would be the most comfortable and affordable.

When you arrive in Tirana, you’ll see plenty of rows of professional taxis ready to accommodate and cater to every tourist’s needs. However, as easy as it may seem to just hop on  the first taxi you see, renting your own car for the duration of your vacation is actually the most sensible option. 

Why is it cheaper to rent a car in Albania?

Although getting a taxi may seem like the easiest option, taxi fees are usually a bit overpriced. If you are traveling long-distance, renting a car will cost you way less, especially if you choose a fuel-efficient car model. If your routes are short, a taxi ride should be just fine.

However, if you plan to explore Tirana, or even visit some other cities, renting a car should be much more affordable in the long run. You should also take into consideration the number of people you’re traveling with. Renting a car will give you more space and privacy, which is especially important when traveling with family or friends. 

Moreover, renting a car in Albania gives you more control over your journey. You can always find the shortest routes to go from point A to point B, saving on gas and ultimately, overall expenses. In addition, having your own car on stand-by allows for more freedom during your trip. You can get going anywhere, anytime.

There is no need to wait for a taxi or see which taxi provider offers the best deals every time you need to go somewhere. Car rental will make you feel in control of your vacation, allowing for maximal comfort at minimal costs.

Car rental in Albania: Pros and Cons

Before deciding if you want to rent a car during your stay in Albania, think of the following advantages and disadvantages:

Going on a car trip is one of the best ways to actually experience your vacation destination. Having your own car allows you to decide when you start your journey and when you end it. You can prepare your own itinerary and follow your spontaneous thoughts and desires because you are fully in control of your trip.

You can make as many stops as you want without worrying about additional costs. You can stop to take as many pictures as you like and take in scenic views whenever you wish to. That is not the case when you are taking a taxi or using public transportation. 

If you are wondering if public transportation is a more affordable alternative, the answer would pretty much be no. The main problem with public transportation is the fact that it greatly limits your ability to plan your vacation as you like. If you are going to rely on buses and vans, you will have to track bus schedules all the time.

Moreover, sometimes you will not be able to find proper routes with public transportation that get you where you need to be. Renting a car is not only the most comfortable option, but it is also the most reliable one. Google Maps has made navigating foreign countries a breeze.

Moreover, rental cars are often in much better shape than your own car would be. Car rental companies in Albania are some of the best. They basically operate solely on tourism, therefore, they make great efforts to keep their vehicles in the best possible condition. The competition is extremely high, which means better quality and competitive prices!

Rental cars are regularly serviced to ensure that everything works according to parameters. You can rest assured that the car you will be renting is in its optimal condition. If you are looking for a safe method of transportation, renting your own car is definitely the wiser choice. In addition, you can choose your favorite car model! If you ever liked a specific car but you never had the chance to drive it, this would be the perfect chance to enjoy some good rides. 

What is better when planning a vacation in Albania?

Planning a vacation is fun and exciting. However, there are many things one should keep in mind when preparing their itinerary and trip arrangements. One of the most important aspects of your vacation would be the mode of transportation you will choose. The choice depends on your budget, preferences and priorities, as well as the destination you are going to. 

In Albania, public transportation is one the most common means of transport, which means buses are more often than not overly crowded. If you are looking for comfort and privacy, renting a car would be the best option. Moreover, if you prefer to arrange your own traveling routes, car rental offers the best flexibility. You’ll have the freedom to choose where you go and when you set off. 

Getting a taxi may seem convenient at first, however, it is not an affordable way to get around. If you were to calculate the continuous expenses attributed to taxi fares, you would notice that they quickly add up. In the long run, getting around by taxi is much more expensive than renting your own car for the duration of your trip.

Private drivers are also available, which provides you with another more luxurious option if you wish to achieve maximal comfort. Some car rental companies offer chauffeur services as well, or they can at least redirect you to another provider. In this way you can sit back and relax while the professional driver takes you wherever you need to go. 

If you are planning to travel with other people, renting your own car offers the most space. A simple car can accommodate 4-5 people. Moreover, you are free to make any pit stops whenever you want. The freedom of being behind the wheel is one of the primary reasons why so many tourists prefer to rent a car in Albania during their vacations.

Here are some essential car rental tips you should keep in mind next time you visit Albania:

• Try to avoid airport locations. Most car rental services charge more knowing most tourists who have just landed will settle down for the first company they find. 
• Look for a reputable car rental company before your flight. Booking in advance will give you enough time to make a careful decision. You can compare different cars and prices to find the best fit for you.
• Ask if there are special prizes or discounts. Summer season attracts plenty of tourists, which means companies are always providing clients with attractive packages in order to secure more deals.
• If you have your own car, check if your insurance’s benefits extend to cover car rentals. If you don’t have any type of insurance, make sure to ask your car rental company about what you need. Your health should always be the topmost priority!