Albania is fast emerging as a top destination for road travellers—and it’s easy to see why. With rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and timeless stone towns, the country delivers everything you'd want from a scenic European journey, all at a much lower cost than most of its neighbours. For Swiss tourists, the appeal is clear. The landscapes echo the beauty of the home, yet the culture, pace, and flavours feel like a whole new world. Add in affordable car hire and stress-free roads, and the adventure practically plans itself. Let’s take a closer look at where the road can take you!
Albania is a compact country packed with variety, making it perfect for a short road trip. In just a few hours, you can travel from quiet beaches to alpine villages and bustling towns—without the fatigue of long drives. Whether you're behind the wheel of a compact car or a rugged SUV, the journey is both affordable and rewarding. Beyond the scenery, the warmth of the people stands out.
A simple stop at a market or a village café often leads to genuine connection and local stories. What truly sets Albania apart is how effortlessly it blends natural beauty with deep-rooted culture. One moment you're sipping coffee under olive trees, the next, you’re exploring an Ottoman fortress or spotting a remote cliffside mosque. With your vehicle, you have the freedom to take it all in, on your terms.
Before you set off, a little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth journey:
With your car sorted, you can immerse yourself in some of Albania’s most rewarding drives.
This route combines history and highland scenery across approximately 120 km, ideal for a day trip. Begin in Tirana, famed for its rainbow-hued buildings and cultural hotspots. A short northern drive takes you to Kruja, nestled on a mountainside and best known for its medieval castle and lively bazaar—perfect for a few hours of exploration.
Visit the Skanderbeg Museum, then take the cable car to the castle for sweeping views and a crash course in Albanian resistance history. Continue to Shkodra, one of the country’s oldest cities, where Italianate and Ottoman architecture mingle. Climb the Rozafa Fortress during sunset, then stroll along the promenade before sampling local cuisine. Learn more about Albania’s historic landmarks and how to reach them with ease in Five Stunning Albanian Castles Belgian Tourists Can Visit by Car.
Spanning roughly 120 km and taking about three hours, this route navigates dramatic sea cliffs, pine forests, and traditional villages. After leaving Vlora, ascend the Llogara Pass for stunning outlooks across the Ionian Sea. Short hikes or a seaside picnic in Llogara National Park are real highlights. Descending the pass brings you to Himara, a tranquil coastal town offering both relaxation and charm. Further south, Porto Palermo Castle stands guard over a sheltered bay—a perfect spot for a swim or photos.
This route is ideal for mountain enthusiasts. Located about 130 km from Shkodra, the journey to Theth takes you along steep, winding roads that are partly unpaved and best tackled with a 4x4 vehicle. The Blue Eye, a mesmerising mountain spring, makes a refreshing stop, while Grunas Waterfall reveals traditional stone homes nestled among cliffs. From Theth, you can hike to Valbona or drive around the mountains then take the ferry at Lake Koman—one of Europe’s most scenic water crossings—into Valbona Valley.
A longer journey of around 280 km and six hours (Tirana–Gjirokastër–Blue Eye–Saranda) takes you deep into south Albania. Gjirokastër, a “stone town” with cobbled lanes and a fortified citadel, offers a portal into Ottoman-era Albania. The local bazaar and Ethnographic Museum bring the past vividly to life. A short drive away, the Blue Eye is a spring of brilliant sapphire water, ringed by lush woodlands—a serene stop. Finish in Saranda, where Mediterranean breezes, seafood restaurants, and balconies overlooking Corfu Island offer a fine end to the expedition.
A 250 km route through rolling countryside stretches from Tirana to Pogradec via Korçë. This route reveals a pastoral side of Albania, full of traditional villages and elegant towns. Korçë, known for its French-stle architecture and cathedral, also hosts a brewery and arts quarter. Pogradec, on Lake Ohrid’s shores, is peaceful, with fresh fish restaurants by the water and access to Drilon National Park—great for a quiet nature break.
A rental car is a smart and enjoyable choice for Swiss tourists looking to explore the country with ease and flexibility. From scenic mountain roads to coastal routes, having your vehicle allows you to travel at your own pace. Here are the key reasons why renting a car with Final Rentals can enhance your trip:
Staying safe and comfortable while driving in Albania is easy with a few simple precautions. Whether you're cruising along coastal highways or navigating mountain roads, keeping these tips in mind will help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey:
For Swiss travellers seeking a blend of culture, nature, and relaxed travel, Albania offers a complete and compelling experience. Each journey, from Tirana’s vibrant streets to Gjirokastër's old town and from alpine lakes to the Ionian coastline, feels personal and rich.
Switching gears in Albania often means discovering a remote monastery, stopping for freshly baked byrek in a village square, or watching the sun set beyond a cliff-edge castle. Renting a car in Albania with Final Rentals makes all of that possible. Spontaneity becomes standard, and every café break or hidden viewpoint fits easily into your journey!
