Albania: Adventure Road Trip Full of Surprises and Hidden Gems!

Albania: Adventure Road Trip Full of Surprises and Hidden Gems!

Albania, the hidden gem of the Balkans, is attracting more and more adventure seekers to its breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. A road trip through this fascinating country promises not only spectacular views, but also bizarre encounters that will make every traveler's heart beat faster. Today we will give you valuable tips and exciting insights for your next trip to unknown Albania.

Did you know that the country is on its way to the EU? With a storied history that also impacts its infrastructure, tourists must overcome several challenges while exploring the country's beauty. Potholes and uneven asphalt roads are not uncommon. What is surprising, however, is how many locals speak German, Italian or English, which makes communication easier. Car rental in Albania is easy and cheap, so nothing stands in the way of a road trip, provided you plan in advance.

The route through Albania

Begin your journey in Berat, a city full of Ottoman architecture and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From there we continue along the Vjosa, the last great wild river in Europe, and over the thermal springs near Permet to the idyllic Albanian Riviera. An absolute highlight are the beaches of Sarandë and Vlorë, where the sparkling water curves into the Caribbean backdrop. The old town of Gjirokastër and the castle of Krujë are also worth a visit, while the villages of Valbona and Theth in the Albanian Alps are ideal for hiking.

• Stationen für Ihren Roadtrip:
• Berat (2 Tage) – Osmanische Architektur und Berat Castle
• Gjirokastër & Blue Eye (2 Tage) – Alte Straßen und osmanische Häuser
• Albanische Riviera (2 bis 14 Tage) – 120 km Küste mit herrlichen Stränden
• Krujë (1 Tag) – Historische Stadt mit Schloss und altem Basar
• Valbona und Theth (2 bis 5 Tage) – Wanderung in traumhafter Berglandschaft
• Tirana (1 bis 2 Tage) – Moderne Hauptstadt mit ihren Sehenswürdigkeiten

Important lessons for the road trip

Before you start your adventure, experts share some useful lessons. Do not rely on Google Maps as streets are often marked incorrectly. Older vehicles are particularly common in rural areas, while more expensive cars dominate in cities. Another tip: you should not offer rides at night to protect yourself and others. Nevertheless, the people of Albania are extremely hospitable and police officers often show leniency towards tourists. However, it is advisable to gradually familiarize yourself with the traffic rules, such as the applicable speed limits and the obligation to use lights during the day.

If you value the freedom and flexibility of a rental car, it's important to choose a provider that also offers comprehensive insurance. Purchasing a local SIM card can also be helpful to stay connected at all times, and cash is often required as not all places accept card payments. Large hotel chains are rare, but sports and hospitality careers thrive in small guesthouses, making for an authentic experience.

You can book guided tours, especially in Theth National Park, to enjoy the impressive nature. For an unforgettable stop, the ferry across Lake Koman is a real highlight. This runs once a day and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Practical tips for travelers

The best times to travel to Albania are September-October and May-June, as July and August are particularly hot and crowded. Accommodation costs are between 30 and 50 euros per night, and experiences such as food are also inexpensive. Eating out in Albania is inexpensive, with main courses costing between 4 and 6 euros.

Offer yourself a chance to try the diverse Albanian cuisine, which has strong Mediterranean, Greek and Italian influences. Get ready for a real adventure and don't forget to also check the local flight or ferry connection to Tirana or across the lake from Bari to Durres to plan your trip to Albania. You will not regret discovering this land full of treasures, which is still an unknown surprise for many.

For more information about Albania it is worth visiting World, The Orange Backpack and Jillon Journey.