Albania is fast becoming a favourite for families craving sunshine, cultural richness, and the freedom of the open road. With its rugged coastlines, towering mountain ranges, and friendly hillside villages, the country offers a unique blend of seaside relaxation and inland discovery. Whether you're travelling with young children, teens, or grandparents, having the right vehicle can make all the difference, giving everyone the space, comfort, and flexibility to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. From choosing the best type of car to practical travel tips and how to make the most of local rental services, here’s everything you need to plan a smooth, memorable family holiday across Albania. Let’s get started!
Travelling with children or multigenerational groups by bus in Albania can be uncomfortable. Minibuses are often crowded, routes can be irregular, and many of the most scenic villages and beaches aren’t accessible by public transport. With your car, you can choose when to stop for a break, where to go, and how long to stay.
Imagine stopping mid‑drive by the Albanian Riviera for a beach picnic, or pulling off to explore the ancient stone streets of Berat. No scheduling hassles, no cramped seats, and none of the stress that comes from trying to keep young children on someone else’s timetable. Renting a family‑friendly vehicle means air conditioning for sweltering summer drives, room for luggage and beach gear, and seats where everyone can travel comfortably. It turns getting somewhere into part of the holiday itself.
With children in tow, room matters. Vehicles with generous rear legroom, a large boot for suitcases, beach toys, or prams, and comfortable seating for five or more people make all the difference. Many rental cars in Albania offer hatchbacks or compact SUVs with more boot capacity than standard city cars, providing the ideal balance of space and fuel efficiency.
Safety should not be overlooked. Look for cars equipped with multiple airbags, ABS braking systems, child locks, and ideally ISOFIX anchors for securing child seats. These safety features are increasingly common in modern vehicles, especially compact SUVs and MPVs, and provide added peace of mind while navigating mountain roads or coastal highways.
While larger SUVs offer space and height, they may consume more fuel. For families planning to drive for several days, choosing a vehicle that combines ample space with reasonable fuel economy helps keep costs under control. Compact SUVs or estate cars can often hit that sweet spot of comfort, handling, and fuel economy. For newer drivers, automatics may feel easier, and visitors often favour models with smooth handling and intuitive controls.
Compact SUVs are a popular choice for family travel thanks to their combination of practicality, comfort, and fuel efficiency. They provide enough space for five passengers and luggage, while slightly elevated seating and ground clearance are useful for navigating narrower or uneven mountain roads.
Estate vehicles offer a comfortable, car-like driving experience paired with generous luggage capacity. These are ideal for families planning to travel mostly on paved roads but still needing room for items such as prams, bags, or picnic supplies. Their streamlined shape also makes them easier to park in historic towns or tighter spaces.
For families heading to remote or mountainous regions, a standard SUV or four-wheel drive vehicle provides a more secure and stable ride. The higher ground clearance and robust suspension make them well-suited for rural roads and unpaved tracks, especially when travelling with children or luggage.
For larger families or multi-generational travel, seven-seat minivans or multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) offer exceptional flexibility. They can comfortably fit extra passengers and larger luggage volumes, and are ideal for longer road trips across the country. Despite their size, many are efficient on fuel and suitable for both highways and rural routes.
Albanian law requires children to use suitable seats or boosters. Not all rental agencies stock them by default, especially for infants or toddlers, so it’s wise to reserve these when booking. Many providers can supply car seats for a small daily charge, but availability may be limited in high season. For more detailed tips on child car seats and other helpful advice, check out Everything You Need to Know About Car Seat Laws in Albania.
Long drives without stops can bore young passengers quickly. Plan family-friendly breaks at beaches, parks, or simple viewpoints. Bring entertainment such as books, tablets with downloaded videos, music playlists, or games to keep everyone engaged.
It’s best to avoid driving at night when roads are less illuminated or may be in poorer condition. Mountain roads can be especially tricky after dark. Planning each leg of your journey for daylight hours ensures safer travel and gives you greater visibility for scenic stops.
Many families share tight spaces, so choosing an agency that maintains clean, well-sanitised vehicles is essential. Reputable providers in major locations usually offer recent models and thorough cleaning protocols, ask when booking.
Begin in Tirana and head south along the coast. Stops might include Vlore, the beaches of Dhërmi and Himarë, and end in Ksamil or Sarandë. Time for swimming, sea-view meals, and relaxing seaside towns make this route perfect for families.
Drive north to Shkodër, then climb into the Albanian Alps via Theth or Valbona. Stay overnight in a guesthouse, explore short family-friendly hikes, and return via scenic valley roads. A sturdy SUV or even a compact 4×4 is ideal here.
A more gentle route for history lovers: from Tirana, drive to Berat, then onward to Gjirokastër. With its castle views and Ottoman-era architecture, this cultural heartland offers manageable roads, historic charm, and plenty of food options.
For a detailed itinerary along the coast, don’t miss our guide to one of the country’s most scenic routes Tirana to Ksamil The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary.
If you’re planning a family holiday in Albania, renting a car with Final Rentals is one of the most trusted and convenient options available. Their easy-to-use platform and strong reputation for customer service make them a great choice for families who want a smooth, stress-free experience. Here are the key reasons why Final Rentals stands out:
For more rental guidance and tips, check out What You Need to Know Before Renting a Car in Albania.
Travelling in Albania with your family becomes infinitely more enjoyable when you have a vehicle that meets your needs. Comfort, safety, space, and flexibility all matter, particularly when children or extended family members are involved. Choosing the right car, planning your routes, and using a trusted provider all help turn travel into a seamless, memorable adventure.
For transparent booking, reliable service, and a wide choice of vehicles suited to families, rent a car in Albania with Final Rentals. With our easy booking system, clear terms, and positive reviews, you can focus on enjoying beaches, mountain views, history, and food with your loved ones, rather than worrying about logistics. Ready to explore? Rent a Car in Albania today and start your journey with confidence!
