If you’re craving a road trip filled with wild landscapes, stunning coasts, peaceful lakes, and charming towns, Albania is the place to be.
With a reliable car from Shehu Rental, you’re free to explore it all — from mountain roads to historic villages.
Here are the top five scenic drives in Albania you won’t want to miss.
Llogara Pass (SH8): From Vlora to Himara
Distance: ~50 km
Drive Time: 2–3 hours (excluding stops)
This route is more than just a drive — it's a journey through the clouds. Llogara Pass is perched at over 1,000 meters above sea level and offers sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding mountains. The road itself is a ribbon of curves that snakes through pine forests and open cliffs, perfect for those craving both adrenaline and beauty.
As you climb from Vlora toward the summit, the temperature drops and the landscape changes dramatically. The coast disappears behind you and is replaced by alpine air and eagle-eye views. This stretch is among the most scenic in the Balkans and a favorite for photographers and thrill-seekers alike.
Shehu Rental tip: Choose a compact SUV for better grip and comfort along the mountain curves.
Don't miss:
- A stop at the Llogara National Park for a short hike or picnic
- Traditional food spots with open-fire grilled meats
- Local vendors selling wild honey and herbal tea
- The scenic descent toward Dhërmi with unforgettable views
The Albanian Riviera: Vlora To Saranda
Distance: ~125 km
Drive Time: 4–5 hours (plus extra time for beaches and sightseeing)
This coastal route is a dream come true for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The SH8 highway hugs the Ionian coastline, offering endless views of deep blue water on one side and rugged cliffs on the other.
Starting in Vlora and ending in the lively coastal town of Saranda, this drive gives you access to some of Albania’s most beautiful beaches, including Dhërmi, Jale, Borsh, and Ksamil.
The road is a perfect mix of scenic serenity and exciting curves, often with the sea just meters away. You’ll want to stop often — for a dip in the water, a coffee with a view, or simply to soak in the scenery.
Shehu Rental tip: Opt for a fuel-efficient sedan if you're staying mostly on the highway and want better mileage between fuel stops.
Highlights along the way:
- Dhërmi: One of the most popular beaches, perfect for sunbathing and cocktails
- Gjipe Beach: Accessible via a short hike or 4x4, it's a hidden gem between canyons
- Himara: Great for an overnight stay and local cuisine
- Ksamil: Crystal-clear waters and views of the Greek islands
- Butrint: A UNESCO World Heritage Site combining history and nature
Tirana To Valbona (Including The Koman Lake Ferry)
Distance: ~185 km (plus 2-hour ferry ride)
Drive Time: 5–6 hours driving + ferry time
This route combines mountain driving, ferry cruising, and epic northern landscapes into one adventure-packed trip. Starting from Tirana, you’ll head north toward the village of Koman, where you can load your car onto a ferry and cruise through one of Europe’s most scenic lakes, Koman Lake.
After disembarking at Fierza, the journey continues toward Valbona, a remote alpine village nestled in the Albanian Alps.
This road trip is a must for nature lovers and hikers. The beauty of this route lies in its variety — peaceful valleys, towering cliffs, and isolated mountain towns. It’s a full immersion into northern Albania’s wild heart.
Shehu Rental tip: Go for a 4x4 or a higher clearance vehicle for the mountain terrain beyond the ferry ride.
What to explore:
- Lake Koman Ferry: Like sailing through fjords, with sheer cliffs rising from emerald waters
- Valbona Valley: Ideal for hiking, traditional guesthouses, and fresh mountain air
- Fierza to Valbona road: A scenic drive through rivers, pine forests, and alpine peaks
- Overnight stays in cozy wooden lodges or family-run inns
Saranda To Gjirokastër To Pogradec (Via Zagoria)
Distance: ~210 km
Drive Time: Full-day trip or split into 2–3 days
This cross-country route takes you from the Ionian coast inland toward one of Albania’s most fascinating towns — Gjirokastër. Known for its Ottoman-style stone houses and castle overlooking the valley, Gjirokastër is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cultural treasure.
From there, take the lesser-known route through the Zagoria region, passing rivers, gorges, and villages untouched by time. The journey ends in Pogradec, a lakeside town on the shore of Lake Ohrid.
This route offers the perfect blend of culture, countryside, and calm lakeside charm. It’s less touristy and gives you the feeling of discovering Albania’s soul, far from the crowds.
Shehu Rental tip: A mid-size SUV will give you comfort for longer drives and stability on rural stretches.
Highlights:
- Gjirokastër Castle: Panoramic views and museums full of history
- Old Bazaar: A beautiful place to buy handmade crafts and enjoy local dishes
- Zagoria Valley: Hidden waterfalls, stone bridges, and traditional homes
- Lake Ohrid: Peaceful, clear water perfect for swimming or kayaking
- Pogradec: Lakeside promenade and traditional koran fish dishes
Tirana To Dajti Mountain & Bovilla Lake (Day Trip Option)
Distance: ~30 km
Drive Time: 1–2 hours round trip
Looking for a short yet stunning drive from the capital? This route is perfect for a quick escape into nature. Start your journey in Tirana and head toward Mount Dajti, known as the "Balcony of the Capital." You can drive up to the park or take the famous Dajti Express cable car for unbeatable views.
If you’re craving more nature, continue toward Lake Bovilla, a hidden turquoise reservoir surrounded by steep cliffs and forests. It’s a popular spot for hiking, picnics, and drone footage.
Shehu Rental tip: Even a city car will work, but for comfort, a compact SUV makes climbing and rural turns more enjoyable.
Top spots to explore:
- Dajti National Park: Hiking trails, restaurants with panoramic views
- Dajti Cable Car: One of the longest in the Balkans
- Lake Bovilla: Great for nature lovers and peaceful breaks
- Pellumbas Cave: A short hike from the road, full of history and views
Why Choose Shehu Rental For Your Road Trip In Albania?
Shehu Rental has become one of the most trusted rental car companies in Albania — and for good reason. They understand the roads, the landscapes, and what travelers need to enjoy the journey without stress. Whether you're exploring coastlines, mountains, or rural towns, Shehu Rental has you covered.
Here’s why travelers prefer Shehu Rental:
- Wide selection of vehicles: From economy cars to SUVs and 4x4s, there's a car for every route and every budget
- New, reliable fleet: Well-maintained vehicles for a smooth and safe driving experience
- Flexible rental options: Pick-up and drop-off in Tirana, Saranda, or other major cities
- Affordable rates: Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Excellent customer service: Friendly, helpful staff who can offer route suggestions, local insights, and 24/7 support
- Extras available: Child seats, GPS, full insurance, and more
When you’re driving through sharp mountain passes or exploring hidden valleys, you need a vehicle you can trust — and Shehu Rental delivers.
Tips For A Smooth Road Trip In Albania
Before hitting the road, keep these tips in mind to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience:
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers
- Fuel up often — some routes have long stretches without stations
- Watch for animals on rural roads, especially in the north
- Avoid night driving in remote areas — street lighting is limited
- Carry cash for small towns and road snacks
- Use offline maps — signal may be weak in the mountains
Final Thoughts
Driving in Albania is not just about getting from point A to point B — it’s about the adventure between. With diverse terrain, warm locals, and endless discoveries, the best way to explore the country is behind the wheel. Whether you crave ocean cliffs, alpine heights, or charming villages, these top five scenic drives will leave you in awe.
With Shehu Rental, every trip becomes easier, safer, and more enjoyable. So go ahead — pack your bags, grab the keys, and discover the Albania that’s waiting just around the next curve.
Your road trip starts now.
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