Updated: August 2026 | What is it really like to drive a car or camper in Albania? Before our road trip we had heard many stories about the traffic, but the reality was much calmer than we expected. However, there are a few things that are different from driving in Sweden. Here we share our experiences and best tips.
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Our experiences driving in Albania
We got away from Saranda later than expected with our motorhome and suddenly we were surrounded by dense darkness. We drove north along the coast and the road was good (with reflectors along the edges), but it was mountainous and winding. We had heard that hiking down to the beaches in this area would be fine, but how would we find a suitable route down to a beach in the dark?
The adventure ended with us finding a restaurant, where we got both food and accommodation, but after that evening we always tried to plan the day's driving so that we arrived before dark.
Driving in Albania – quick facts
- Type of journey: Perfect for road trips by car or camper
- Road standard: Varies from modern main roads to narrower country roads
- Traffic: Calm in the countryside, more intense in larger cities
- Right-hand traffic: Yes
- Fits motorhome: Yes, but drive slowly on smaller roads and in mountainous areas
- Best tip: Please plan your drive so that you do not have to drive on smaller roads after dark.
What should you keep in mind when driving in Albania?
As mentioned, the roads in Albania can be both better and worse, but either way, it's a good idea to pay a little extra attention. So, what should you consider when driving in Albania? Here are some things to consider:
The roads vary
Road standards still vary somewhat. Many main roads today maintain a high standard, but on smaller roads, asphalt can suddenly turn into gravel or road construction may appear without the same clear signage that we are used to in Sweden. Therefore, drive a little extra carefully.
Avoid driving in the dark
There are sometimes no street lights at night, and it can be difficult to know what the road conditions are around the next bend. This is especially true in mountainous areas and on smaller roads.
Be prepared for animals
It's not uncommon to encounter peaceful animals like horses and cows on the roads. In other words, you don't want to drive too fast.
Expect unexpected obstacles
Even when you're driving on a new and nice highway, a fruit vendor might appear on the side of the road, and then you have to be prepared for everyone to stop. Who doesn't want to buy apples or melons?
Drive safely in cities
In the big cities, we noticed that some manhole covers seemed to be loose, and noticed that locals often gave way to them. We did the same.
It is also not uncommon to see hay mules or donkeys pulling carts. You may even see this type of equipment on the highways.
Driving in Albania – our conclusion
We wouldn't hesitate to drive a car or camper in Albania again. Drive slowly, keep your distance and be prepared for the occasional little surprises on the road. Then a fantastic road trip through one of Europe's most underrated destinations awaits.
More tips for Albania
Would you like more tips on what to see and experience in Albania? Here you will find suggestions and reports:
FAQ – frequently asked questions about driving in Albania
Is it difficult to drive in Albania?
No, most people do not find driving in Albania difficult. Traffic can be intense in larger cities, but in the countryside it is often calmer. The most important thing is to drive carefully and adjust your speed to the road conditions.
Are the roads good in Albania?
Road standards vary. Many main roads and newer stretches of road are of a good standard, while smaller country roads may be narrower and have poorer surface conditions. New roads are also being built continuously.
Can you drive a campervan in Albania?
Yes, Albania is a great place for motorhome trips. There are both campsites and simpler camping sites, and many people choose to travel along the beautiful coast. However, on smaller roads and in mountainous areas, it may be wise to take it easy.
Is it safe to drive in Albania?
Yes, it is generally safe to drive in Albania. The traffic culture is somewhat different from the Swedish one, so it is important to be attentive and keep a good distance from other vehicles.
Should you avoid driving in the dark?
It can be an advantage to plan your drive so that you arrive before dark, especially on smaller roads. Many country roads lack street lighting and it is not uncommon to encounter animals or other unexpected obstacles.
Do you need four-wheel drive?
No, for most travelers a regular car or campervan will suffice. Four-wheel drive can be an advantage if you plan to drive on smaller gravel roads or in more remote mountainous areas.
Are there plenty of gas stations?
Yes, there are petrol stations in most cities and along major roads. In more sparsely populated areas, the distance between stations may be longer, so it is wise not to drive with a nearly empty tank.
What should you pay extra attention to?
Be prepared to encounter animals on the road, slow vehicles and occasional roadworks. In smaller communities, traffic can sometimes be less predictable than back home in Sweden.
Is it easy to park?
In smaller towns, finding parking is usually not a problem. In larger cities, such as Tirana and Saranda during the high season, it can be considerably more difficult, especially with a camper van.
Is Albania a good country for a road trip?
Yes, Albania is an excellent destination for anyone looking to take a road trip. The varied nature, beautiful coastline, historical sights and relatively short distances make the country perfect to explore by car or camper.
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Ruth i Virginia says:
What a wonderful, pleasant and unexpected event! Fun when that happens!
From your description, it almost sounds as if they could have given you...
paid to eat there. 🙂
19 August 2015 - 21:34
Åsa says:
Sometimes things get right when they get wrong! That's great! Now I almost want to travel, just for the sake of these unexpected events...
19 August 2015 - 22:27
Marie says:
So cosy! Driving "wrong" is quite often a hit!
19 August 2015 - 22:36
BP says:
Unbelievable! So unexpected and so incredibly hospitable - not to mention the price! So when I think of my "today's" today, which was indeed incredibly good but still consisted of only rice, chanterelles, vegetables, a little pesto, a glass of water and various salads and cost 105 kroner. No beer there not to mention a raki that does not even exist here.
Oh my God - you have ended up in paradise:-)
PS. Checked Apollo. The last charter trip there goes on 31 August. Unfortunately, only hotels - no apartments, which does not work for us. Checking further. DS.
19 August 2015 - 23:00
Frankie & Co says:
Ah - it was just meant for you to go there and eat and rest 🙂 Lovely story - could almost feel the calm in the quiet restaurant, what service you got wow!
20 August 2015 - 6:50
Lennart says:
Now that's what I call affordable!
Live well!
20 August 2015 - 7:47
solan says:
...and now for something completely different. I read that Benidorm has applied for World Heritage status. Why we like it: One of the first major charter destinations to remain on the famous list.
...and on to something completely different....did you think the prices in Italy were a bit too high? It must feel good to face a completely different situation and all the kindness that flows to you.
20 August 2015 - 8:11
Maggan och Ingemar says:
Oh, I forgot to warn about the darkness. We avoided driving in the dark as the nature of the roads is very unreliable. Watch out for all street wells, because they are usually without lids. Albania is at least as interesting as Morocco, but unfortunately not as warm in winter. Have an exciting journey.
20 August 2015 - 8:35
Steve says:
What an experience! Something to remember forever.
Albania, rugged and powerful, soft and friendly. And what a price level !
Albania was never on my 'places to visit' list, but would definitely be high on it if it were today.
20 August 2015 - 9:05
admin says:
Ruth in Virginia, haha, yeah the prices here are so low you wouldn't believe it!
Åsa, that's one of the best things about travelling! 🙂
Marie, of course it can be! 😉
BP, well if you start comparing prices with Sweden it's completely unlikely!!! Ok, I understand. Charter here is new, so there may not be many options ...
Frankie & Co, sometimes it feels like it's meant to be 😉.
Lennart, everything in this country is affordable!!!
Solan, haha, I find it hard to believe that Benidorm will get through that application! But... freshly dared... 😉 Yes, Italy is expensive. Especially to go out and eat. Even in France there are 3-course menus with ok prices. In Italy you pay separately for everything and it gets out of hand no matter what you do ...
Maggan and Ingemar, we probably realised ourselves that it was a bit stupid... but it just happened 😉 We just talked about it, that it might be a bit too cold here in the winter...?
Steve, I like your description of Albania! In the past it was not possible to visit this country, but today it is possible!
20 August 2015 - 9:14
Ama de casa says:
Absolutely incredible! What an experience - that's the kind of thing you remember the most 🙂 !
20 August 2015 - 9:45
admin says:
Ama de casa, I agree! These things are often remembered more than different sights! 🙂
20 August 2015 - 10:20
anita wag agrimanaki says:
haha, maybe it was not even a restaurant but you ate at someone's home... I do not understand how it can be sooo incredibly cheap there. Sounded cosy in any case.
20 August 2015 - 11:12
admin says:
Anita, it was really cheap! Though they had a menu... so it should be a restaurant 😉.
20 August 2015 - 12:36
Birgitta i Umeå says:
Wonderful description of the restaurant!
We experienced something similar in Kemer, Turkey. We took a local bus to "some" village outside of town. Only Turks on the bus. Got off in a village and the bus driver said there was a restaurant. We sat down there. About twenty Turks also sat there, it was probably the entire village population. We asked to eat something grilled because it looked like they were preparing it.
Immediately they started to build a fire in a large fireplace. When the charcoal was ready for grilling, the charcoal was transferred to several small grills and placed at the tables. When it came to our grilling, one man stood by us and grilled our food. At the other tables you had to do it yourself. The dinner was not expensive and you got a whole "on the house".
When we then wanted them to order a taxi for us, it was "no problems". "My brother will drive you when you want to go home" !!!!
21 August 2015 - 8:37
admin says:
Birgitta in Umeå, what a wonderful experience you had in Turkey! Fantastic with a ride!!! Thanks for telling us! 🙂
21 August 2015 - 14:44