Car Rental in Shëngjin

Where to drive

• Drive to Lezhë Castle and Skanderbeg's Tomb: A short 15-minute drive (≈10 km) south of Shëngjin takes you to the historic city of Lezhë, offering panoramic views and significant cultural sites.
• Explore Kune-Vain-Tale Nature Park: Located just south of Shëngjin, this protected area is perfect for birdwatching and nature walks, easily accessible with a car in about 10-15 minutes.
• Day trip to Krujë: Journey to the historic mountain town of Krujë, home to the iconic Krujë Castle and Old Bazaar. This drive is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (≈60 km) inland.
• Discover Velipojë Beach: Head north along the coast for about 45 minutes (≈30 km) to Velipojë, a popular sandy beach destination, ideal for a change of scenery.
• Visit Lake Shkodra and Rozafa Castle: A scenic drive of about 1 hour (≈50 km) north will bring you to the vibrant city of Shkodra, where you can explore the impressive Rozafa Castle and the shores of Lake Shkodra.
• Coastal drive to Durrës: For a longer day trip, drive south to the ancient port city of Durrës, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes (≈80 km) away, offering Roman amphitheater ruins and sandy beaches.

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 alphabet. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or older, and a surcharge often applies for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Shëngjin vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 15-20 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles might cost 40-70 EUR or more daily. Expect prices to double or even triple during the peak summer months, with the lowest daily price being approximately 0 EUR for comparison.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Albania, you 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, but always check local signage. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very low (0.01%), so it's best to avoid alcohol entirely if driving. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children up to 36 kg or 12 years old, whichever comes first.

Parking

In Shëngjin, parking can be found along the main street and near the beach. During peak season, some areas may have paid parking, often managed by attendants or marked with payment machines. Free parking is generally available in less central areas or off-season, but always check for signs. Hotel parking is usually free for guests.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in Shëngjin and along major routes. You'll find both petrol (benzine) and diesel. Prices are comparable to other Balkan countries, subject to global fluctuations, and are paid in Albanian Lek (ALL). Most stations accept card payments, but it's wise to carry some cash, especially in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For exploring Shëngjin and its immediate surroundings, a compact or economy car is usually sufficient, especially for city driving and paved coastal roads. If you plan to venture into more mountainous regions or explore unpaved roads, an SUV with higher ground clearance would be a more comfortable and practical choice. Manual transmission cars are common, but automatics are also available.

Frequently asked questions