Albania's most popular road trip covers the 280km route from Tirana to Saranda, weaving through UNESCO cities, mountain passes and some of Europe's most stunning coastline. Here's how to do it in a single action-packed day.
7:00am — Tirana Airport Pickup
Start early. Collect your Hana Rental car at Tirana International Airport and fuel up. The route south takes you first through the flat Myzeqe plains — long and straight, good for making up time early in the day.
10:00am — Berat Stop (2 hours)
Berat is unmissable. The UNESCO 'city of a thousand windows' sits about 1.5 hours south of Tirana. Walk up to the castle for the views, grab a coffee in the old bazaar and explore the Mangalem quarter. Don't rush — Berat rewards slow wandering.
1:00pm — Lunch in Gjirokastra
Continue south to Gjirokastra — another UNESCO city and well worth a quick stop. Eat at a traditional restaurant in the old bazaar. Try tave kosi (baked lamb and yoghurt), byrek (savoury pastry) or fresh grilled trout.
Planning a trip to Albania?
We're here to help.
Have questions about routes, rental options, or hidden gems? Our local team offers free travel tips — just send us a message on WhatsApp.
Typically replies within a few hours · No commitment needed
3:00pm — The Llogara Pass
The drive over the Llogara Pass at 1,025m is the highlight of the journey. Pull over at the viewpoint at the top — on a clear day you can see across the Ionian Sea to Corfu. The descent to the coast is a series of exhilarating switchbacks with the sea glittering below.
5:00pm — Himara Beach
Drop down to Himara for a swim. The beaches here are uncrowded and the water is crystal clear. A quick 30-minute stop to cool off before the final push south.
7:00pm — Arrive Sarandë
Pull into Saranda as the sun goes down over Corfu — visible just across the strait. Drop the car at the agreed location and walk the promenade for dinner. You've driven 280km, visited two UNESCO cities and crossed a mountain pass. Not bad for a Tuesday.
This route is doable in a day but is even better spread over two or three days. If you have time, stay overnight in Berat or Gjirokastra and explore at a slower pace. Hana Rental offers flexible one-way rental options so you can drop the car in Saranda without driving back.
Ready to hit the road?
Browse our full fleet and book your rental car — airport pickup, no prepayment needed.
Browse CarsRelated Destinations
You may also like
Tirana
Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, is a city of contrasts — communist-era bunkers alongside colourful modern buildings, buzzing bazaars next to trendy cafés. A perfect base for exploring the rest of Albania.
Himara
Himara is a coastal gem on the Albanian Riviera, known for its turquoise waters and pebble beaches. A quieter alternative to Saranda, perfect for a relaxed escape.
Berat
Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called 'the city of a thousand windows' for its distinctive Ottoman-era houses stacked up the hillside.
Keep Reading
More from the blog
Get behind the wheel
Browse our fleet and book a car for your Albanian adventure. Free airport delivery, transparent pricing — no hidden fees.
Browse cars & book now