Car Rental in Korçë

Where to drive

• Explore the city of Korçë itself, including the Old Bazaar, Resurrection Cathedral, and the First Albanian School Museum. All within the city, easily accessible by car.
• Drive to Lake Prespa National Park, approximately 45 km (1 hour) north, for hiking, birdwatching, and visiting the island of Maligrad.
• Visit Pogradec and Lake Ohrid, about 40 km (50 minutes) north, to enjoy lakeside promenades, fresh fish, and the unique Drilon Springs.
• Take a scenic route to Voskopojë, a historic village with impressive Byzantine churches, located just 20 km (30 minutes) west of Korçë.
• Venture south to Ersekë and the Gramoz Mountains, approximately 50 km (1.5 hours), for mountain scenery and traditional Albanian villages.
• Discover the thermal baths of Bënjë near Përmet, a longer drive of about 100 km (2 hours), offering a relaxing experience in a picturesque canyon.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Albania, you generally need a valid passport, a national driving license held for at least one year, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in a Latin script. The minimum age for renting is typically 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or older, and a surcharge may apply for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Korçë typically start from around 20 EUR per day for an economy car during the off-season. Mid-range vehicles might cost 30-50 EUR daily, while SUVs or premium models can range from 60 EUR upwards. Prices generally increase by 30-50% during the peak summer months due to higher demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Albania, drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 110 km/h on highways, though these can vary and are often posted. The legal blood alcohol limit is very low (0.01%). Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day, outside urban areas. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under a certain age or height, usually up to 12 years old or 150 cm tall.

Parking

Parking in Korçë is generally manageable. In the city center, you'll find designated paid parking zones, often with attendants or pay-and-display machines. Street parking might be available in residential areas, often free. Always look for signs indicating parking rules and avoid parking in prohibited areas to prevent fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in Korçë and along main routes. Both petrol (benzine) and diesel are common. LPG is also increasingly available. Fuel prices are comparable to other Balkan countries, subject to global market fluctuations. Most stations accept cash and major credit cards, but it's always wise to carry some local currency (Albanian Lek) for smaller purchases or remote stations.

Which car to choose

For exploring Korçë and its immediate surroundings, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient, especially for navigating city streets. If you plan to venture into mountainous regions or wish for more comfort on longer drives, a compact SUV or a sedan with good ground clearance would be a better choice. Manual transmission cars are more prevalent, but automatics are available if booked in advance.

Frequently asked questions