Car Rental in Gjirokaster, Albania

You can find all the information about “No deposit” and “No Credit Card” options in each car’s description.

Select a Vehicle Type for Rental in Gjirokaster, Albania

• Economy Cars. Ideal choice for exploring Gjirokaster on budget. These vehicles are fuel-efficient, easy to maneuver through the steep, narrow streets around the Old Bazaar and ideal for short trips to nearby attractions such as Gjirokaster Castle and the Blue Eye spring.
• Standard cars. Comfortable and practical with extra space for passengers and luggage. Perfect for couples, families and travelers planning scenic drives between Gjirokaster, Saranda, Butrint and southern Albania.
• 4×4 SUVs. A good choice for travelers heading into the hills and rural areas of the Drino Valley, Lunxheri and road towards Permet. These vehicles provide better handling and comfort on winding and uneven paved roads in the region.
• Convertibles. Perfect choice for enjoying sunny weather, scenic open roads and views along the route from Gjirokaster towards the Ionian coast near Saranda. Ideal for relaxed journeys and unforgettable summer drives.
• Minivans. Perfect for larger families, groups of friends and travelers carrying extra luggage or outdoor gear. Renting one spacious vehicle can be more convenient and economical than booking multiple smaller cars.
• Luxury Cars. Designed for travelers who seek premium comfort and advanced technology. An excellent option for business travel, special occasions or luxury tours through Gjirokaster and southern Albania.

Driving Rules in Albania

• Carry your driving license, passport/ID and vehicle insurance documents at all times. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended or may be required depending on your license country and rental company.
• Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Follow speed limits: urban areas: typically 40-50 km/h; outside built-up areas; around 80-90 km/h, highways (autostrada): up to 110–130 km/h (varies by road section and signage).
• Maintain a safe distance, stay in your lane, and use indicators when turning or overtaking.
• Obey all traffic lights; running red lights is fined and enforced.
• At roundabouts, vehicles already inside usually have priority but always follow posted signs (some intersections may vary).
• The legal alcohol limit is 0.1 g/l blood alcohol (effectively near-zero tolerance). Driving under the influence is treated very strictly.
• Speeding, seatbelt use and mobile phone use are enforced with police checks and traffic cameras especially on main roads and highways.
• Mobile phones may only be used with hands-free system while driving.
• Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in both front and rear seats.
• Children must use appropriate child restraint systems; young children must be properly secured in approved seats.
• Pull over and give way immediately to emergency vehicles with sirens and flashing lights.
• Parking is allowed only in designated or marked areas in cities; in places like Tirana, you’ll see paid parking zones and street parking rules. Illegal parking can lead to fines or towing.
• Dangerous driving, risky overtaking and using the road shoulder improperly are penalized especially on highways and mountain roads.

• Learn the traffic rules. Familiarize yourself with Albanian driving regulations beforehand to avoid fines. Always keep your driver’s license and vehicle documents with you in case the traffic police request them.
• Inspect the car. Check the vehicle thoroughly inside and out when you pick it up. Take photos or videos and make sure any scratches or damage are recorded in the handover report.
• Be mindful of the heat. High temperatures can cause mobile phones, tablets and food to overheat or spoil. Avoid leaving electronics or perishables inside the car.
• Park outside the old town. The streets around the Old Bazaar and the road up to the castle are narrow, steep and cobbled. It is easier to leave the car in a parking area in the lower part of town near the bazaar entrance and walk up.
• Monitor fuel level. Keep track on your fuel level especially on rural roads in Albania where gas stations can be scarce. If you’re driving in hilly or mountainous regions it’s safer to rent a car with a larger fuel tank.
• Choose the right insurance. Make sure your rental includes sufficient coverage especially for collision and theft.
• Pick the right vehicle. Consider the size and type of car for your itinerary especially if you plan long highway drives. Economy or standard car is usually sufficient for exploring cities and major attractions. It is better to choose more powerful vehicle with at least 1.6-liter engine if you plan to drive in hilly or mountainous areas. Convertible can offer the most enjoyable experience for trips along the coast.
• Prohibited routes. Regular cars are suitable only for driving on paved roads. Rental cars are prohibited on unpaved mountain tracks in the hills around Gjirokaster, Lunxheri and Nemerçka, on unpaved access roads to remote villages, springs and beaches, as well as on the Berat-Përmet (Osumi Canyon) route and within protected national park areas where the road is not paved.