Car Rental in Durres, Albania

Where to drive

• Explore the ancient city of Apollonia, an approximate 1-hour drive (65 km) south of Durres, offering impressive Greek and Roman ruins.
• Drive along the picturesque coastal road to Vlora, about 1.5 hours (100 km) south, known for its beautiful beaches and independence monument.
• Visit the vibrant capital city of Tirana, a short 35-minute drive (35 km) east, to experience its bustling squares, museums, and colorful buildings.
• Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Berat, the 'City of a Thousand Windows', roughly 2 hours (110 km) inland, showcasing Ottoman architecture and a historic castle.
• Take a scenic route to Kruja, about 45 minutes (40 km) northeast, home to the historic Kruja Castle and Skanderbeg Museum, offering panoramic views and a traditional bazaar.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Albania, you generally need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport, and for many non-EU licenses, an International Driving Permit (IDP). Drivers must typically be at least 21 years old and have held their license for a minimum of one year. Some premium car categories may require drivers to be 25 years or older.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Durres can vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 20-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 40-70 EUR or more. Expect prices to increase by approximately 30-50% during the peak summer months.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Albania, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 110 km/h on motorways, but always observe local signage. The legal blood alcohol limit is very strict, approximately 0.01%. Headlights must be used at all times, even during the day. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm.

Parking

In Durres, parking in the city center can be challenging but paid options are available. There are designated parking zones where you pay via attendants or sometimes through parking meters. Free parking can be found further from the main attractions, especially near beaches outside the immediate city hub. Always check for signage to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Durres and along major routes in Albania. Both petrol (gasoline) and diesel are common. Prices are generally comparable to other European countries, but can fluctuate; expect to pay cash or use major credit cards. LPG is also available at many stations.

Which car to choose

For driving in and around Durres, an economy or compact car is often sufficient, especially for city driving and coastal roads. If you plan to venture into more rural or mountainous areas, an SUV with higher ground clearance can be beneficial, though not strictly necessary for most tourist routes. Manual transmission is more common, but automatics are available, often at a slightly higher price.

Frequently asked questions