Rent a Car Albania
Albania, or Shqipëria, is a Mediterranean country in Southeast Europe situated in the western part of the Balkan peninsula. Geographically, Albania marks the southern entrance to the Adriatic Sea, more specifically on the Strait of Otranto, which separates Albania from Italy. Extending from the southwestern to the northeast of the country, the Albanian Riviera is the most visited seaside destination in Albania, encompassing numerous historic towns and holiday resorts. Otherwise known as Bregu, the Albanian Riviera attracts a lot of visitors due to its music and cultural festivals, nightlife, landmarks, villages, and crystal-clear beaches. The Llogara National Park is one of the most famous destinations along the Albanian Riviera, attracting many outdoor enthusiasts and hiking lovers who want to explore the Ceraunian Mountains. Another prominent feature of Albania is the dominating mountain range of the Accursed Mountains, otherwise known as the Albanian Alps.
The Albanian Alps are the southernmost part of the Dinaric Alps and extend for more than 60 km towards the northeast. With steep terrain, rugged landscapes, deep river canyons, and lush valleys, the Accursed Mountains of Albania are a hidden gem and a paradise for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. The National Park of Theth, Valbona, and Gashi River are included within the Albanian Alps and include several peaks, rivers, and waterfalls, such as Grunas Waterfall. This mind-blowing landscape offers promising adventures and a wide range of outdoor activities to engage in within this wild ecosystem. Hiking and cycling are the most preferred activities here, but you can also admire the scenery and visit many historic villages and parts of the Alps of Albania National Park by car. The best and most affordable way to experience Albania is with a flexible car rental. With its highways and relatively good road network, Albania is ideal for road trips, and renting a car is the best way to make the most out of your visit. Check out our Albania rent-a-car offers on our website and book your car from our large fleet of safe and modern vehicles. Try our reliable car hire services in Albania today!
Rental Cars Albania
Albania’s strategic position benefited many empires looking to conquer other countries due to its location on the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas. Due to cultural and historical causes and the steep topography of their mountainous territory, they have spent most of their turbulent history in relative seclusion. After more than four centuries of isolation from Western civilization due to Ottoman control, Albania started to break free from the Ottomans in the late 19th century and rekindle its historical ties and shared interests with the West. In 1912, Albania proclaimed its independence from the Ottoman Empire; however, the following year, the major European powers delineated its borders, giving about half of its land and population to neighboring states. Between the two World Wars, Albania was a monarchy, and the interwar years were characterized by ongoing social and economic challenges and political unrest. After the Second World War, it became a communist state that strongly defended its sovereignty and in which the ruling party controlled nearly every area of society. However, new political parties and social movements arose in Albania due to the fall of other communist governments starting in 1989. Indo-European peoples, including many Illyrian and Epirote tribes, as well as Greek colonies like Apollonia, historically occupied most parts of Albania.
From an environmental and geographical point of view, about one-third of Albania is covered by forests, and the country is characterized by rugged terrain and lush woodlands. Albanian wildlife has suffered dramatically due to unrestricted hunting, but in the 1990s, hunting regulations were put in place, and natural protected areas were created to save the country's remaining mammals, birds, and protected species, including the golden eagle, which is also Albania’s symbol. Mountains and hills comprise around three-fourths of its land, with Mount Korab, at 2,764 meters, being the highest point. Albania features twelve national parks and four wetlands of international importance, home to many flora species, fish, birds, and mammals. Theth National Park is among Albania’s spectacular and diverse natural areas, consisting of verdant valleys, streams, waterfalls, and a large trail network, with the most frequent route being the one from Theth to Valbona. The village of Theth is tucked away beneath the towering peaks, encircled by verdant fields brimming with wildflowers and trees. As you traverse the winding mountain routes within the Albanian Alps, you will be inspired by the untouched scenery. You can explore the area with a 4x4 off-road car because most parts comprise winding dirt roads. We offer many types of vehicles to choose from, including SUVs, minivans, and crossovers. What’s more, you can benefit from long-term or short-term car hire deals in Albania without needing a credit card. Unlock the cheapest car rental offers in Albania and discover the country from your Imperial vehicle!
Car Hire Albania
Albania’s culture, traditions, cuisine, and arts have been widely influenced by different civilizations, such as the Ottomans, Greeks, and Balkans, which are reflected in today’s modern society. Many ancient and medieval people, customs, and religions have significantly impacted Albania's artistic and architectural history. Christian and Islamic art flourished in Albania in tandem with the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires during the Middle Ages, as evidenced by churches, mosaics, and architectural monuments all around the nation. Three archaeological sites in Albania are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the medieval historic centers of Berat and Gjirokastër, the ancient Butrint ruins, and the site of the Ohrid region's natural and cultural heritage.
The city of Berat is frequently referred to as "the town of thousand windows," and for good reason—many traditional homes with large windows stack on top of one another to create a unique vista. The views of Berat along the riverside and the surrounding area are quite breathtaking, and the location itself is rather attractive, so it's worth the hike all the way to Berat Castle. Due to the extensive influence of Albanian culture, geography, and history over the centuries, distinct regional cuisines are enjoyed in various parts of the country. The combination of different climate zones, the warm Mediterranean weather in the south, and the cold temperatures in the northern parts of Albania constitute a rich production of fruit, vegetables, herbs, and nuts. Drive to mountainous villages such as Berat to taste the traditional dish known as tavë kosi, or head to the south for scampi and fresh grilled fish cooked in virgin olive oil and vinegar. Possibilities are endless with your Albania car rental!
