10 Must-Visit Spots During Your Road Trip in Albania

If you’re planning an unforgettable adventure, Albania is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Thanks to cheap car rental in Albania, discovering the country’s unique corners is easier and more affordable than you might think. During my recent road trip, I uncovered some amazing places off the usual tourist track — here are my 10 must-visit spots you shouldn’t miss.

1. Pazari i Ri Market, Tirana – A Foodie’s First Stop

Start your journey at Tirana’s Pazari i Ri, the new bazaar full of fresh local produce, colorful stalls, and lively cafés. Grab a traditional byrek (savory salty pastry) and a strong Albanian coffee at a nearby café. Nearby, check out the National Gallery of Arts for contemporary Albanian artwork.

2. Dajti Mountain – More Than Just a View

After taking the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car, explore the walking trails around Dajti Mountain National Park. The panoramic views over Tirana are incredible, but so are the smaller photo spots tucked away along the paths — perfect for capturing Albania’s rugged beauty.

3. The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) – Nature’s Magical Spring

Near Sarandë, the Blue Eye spring is one of Albania’s most enchanting natural wonders. Its clear turquoise waters make for stunning photos, and the surrounding forest adds to the magical atmosphere. Don’t miss walking down to the river for peaceful scenery and a chance to spot native birds.

4. Gjipe Canyon – A Dramatic Natural Landscape

Before reaching the secluded Gjipe Beach, hike through the nearby Gjipe Canyon. It’s a breathtaking spot with towering cliffs, a crystal-clear river, and perfect photo ops. The trek is rewarding and less crowded than Albania’s more famous national parks.

5. Qafë Thana Pass – A Photographer’s Dream

On the road to Theth, the Qafë Thana Pass offers one of Albania’s most dramatic viewpoints. From here, you can see sprawling mountain ranges and deep valleys stretching for miles — ideal for panoramic shots or just taking a moment to breathe in the fresh alpine air.

6. Onufri National Iconographic Museum, Berat – A Cultural Treasure

Berat’s Onufri Museum, housed inside the Berat Castle, is a must for history lovers. It showcases stunning Byzantine icons and religious art dating back to the 16th century. The castle itself offers sweeping views of the city’s famous white Ottoman houses.

7. Sarandë Archaeological Museum – Step Back in Time

In Sarandë, the small but fascinating Archaeological Museum provides insight into the area’s ancient past. Exhibits include artifacts from the nearby ancient city of Butrint and other Illyrian and Greek settlements.

8. Lekursi Castle – Sunset Views and History

Perched on a hill above Sarandë, Lekursi Castle is a great spot for panoramic sunset photos. The ruins date back to the Ottoman period, and the views stretch all the way to Corfu. It’s a perfect place to capture the coastline’s beauty as the day ends.

9. Llogara National Park – Mountain Scenery and Wildlife

Driving through Llogara National Park, stop at various lookout points for breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as wild goats, and don’t miss the giant stone pine trees — a great spot for nature photography.

10. The Cold War Tunnel in Gjirokastër – A Fascinating Underground Experience

Tucked beneath the charming stone town of Gjirokastër is a Cold War-era anti-nuclear bunker — a fascinating and lesser-known stop for history enthusiasts. Built during Enver Hoxha’s regime, the tunnel extends over 800 meters and was designed to shelter key government officials during an attack. You can explore parts of it today with a guided tour.

Tips for an Easy and Affordable Road Trip 

Exploring Albania by car is definitely the most economic, safe, and comfortable option to truly discover these hidden gems. Thanks to cheap car rental in Albania, you can avoid crowded buses and strict schedules.

Car rental prices here start from around €20 per day, but booking for multiple days and in advance can unlock even better discounts. On my recent trip, booking early for 18 days got me a fantastic deal.

When planning your trip:

• Book your rental car ahead of time to secure the best price.
  
• Choose reliable agencies with good customer reviews.
  
• Prepare for some mountain driving — roads can be narrow but beautiful.
  
• Bring offline maps or a GPS for navigating rural areas.
  
• Keep some cash handy; small vendors and remote spots often don’t accept cards.

Why I Recommend Shehu Rental Cars

On my last road trip through Albania, I went with Shehu Rental Cars — and honestly, it made the entire journey much smoother. The car was in great condition, handled both city traffic and rugged rural roads with ease, and I never had to worry about last-minute issues. 

The staff was straightforward and helpful, and I appreciated that the booking process was quick and stress-free.

They also offered me a really good discount since I was staying for 20 days, which made a big difference to my budget. 

If you want to check out the cars for yourself, visit: https://shehurentalcars.al/

Final Thoughts

Albania is full of incredible places that are best explored with the freedom of your own vehicle — especially if you’re aiming to discover picture-perfect mountain villages, remote bridges, or coastal ruins that public transport won’t reach. Choose a company that’s reliable, plan your stops ahead, and get ready for a road trip that’s anything but ordinary.