Albania North to South: The Ultimate Road Trip
September 24, 2026 · 5 min read
Driving Albania from north to south is one of the great European road trips. In a single journey you pass snow-touched Alps, mirror-like lakes, Ottoman towns of stone, and finally the turquoise coves of the Riviera. The distances are gentle, the scenery changes constantly, and having your own car means you can stop wherever the view demands it. Here is how to plan the drive.
Why Drive North to South
A car turns Albania from a list of sights into one flowing adventure. Buses connect the main cities, but the country's magic lives on the roads between them, the mountain passes, coastal cliffs and quiet villages. Going north to south lets you start with the cool, dramatic highlands while you are fresh and end with sunny beach days, a natural build toward relaxation.
Stage 1: The Northern Alps
Begin around Shkodra, the gateway to the mountains, with its lakeside setting and hilltop Rozafa Castle. From here, head up to Theth, a beautiful stone village surrounded by peaks, for waterfalls, gentle hikes and hearty guesthouse dinners. The famous Komani Lake ferry is a wonderful way to experience the fjord-like scenery of the far north.
Stage 2: Through the Centre
Come down to Tirana, the lively, colourful capital, for museums, great cafes and the Dajti cable car. Then continue to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose white Ottoman houses climb the hillsides above the river. This is easy, rewarding driving through green valleys and rolling countryside.
Stage 3: The South and the Riviera
The south is the grand finale. Visit Gjirokastër, another UNESCO town of stone houses and a mighty castle, and stop at the mesmerising Blue Eye spring. Then reach the coast at Sarandë, swim in the clear water of Ksamil, and explore the ancient city of Butrint. Finish by driving the spectacular Llogara Pass and the Riviera coast road through Himara and Dhërmi, some of the most beautiful driving in the country.
Driving Tips for Albania
- Roads between main towns are good, while mountain and village roads are narrower and slower, so allow extra time.
- Start drives early to enjoy the light and avoid the midday heat in summer.
- Fuel stations are plentiful on main routes and most accept cards.
- Park in guarded lots in town centres where you can, and keep some cash in Albanian lek for small places.
- A standard car handles most of the route, though a higher-clearance vehicle is nice for the roughest mountain tracks.
FAQ
How many days do I need for the full drive? Seven to ten days let you enjoy the north, the centre and the south comfortably. With more time, add extra beach days on the Riviera.
Is it better to go north to south or south to north? Both are lovely. North to south is popular because you end on the beaches, but either direction works well.
Do I need a special licence to drive in Albania? Most foreign licences are accepted, and an International Driving Permit removes any doubt. Just bring your licence, passport and rental documents.
If you would like, tell us your dates and our team will map out the perfect north to south road trip for you and arrange the car, free.