It’s the new trendy destination for motorhomes and van lifers! For a long time Albania has been neglected by international tourism. But now the country is gradually gaining in popularity, particularly among motorhome travelers. Situated on the Balkan Peninsula, Albania will surprise you with its magnificent beaches, mountains, lakes and forests, still untouched by mass tourism. Are you ready for a new adventure ? Let’s go on a motorhome travel in Albania!
🧐 Why would you do a motorhome travel in Albania?
- For its beautiful beaches. Albania has 450 km of coastline between the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. You’ll have access to heavenly beaches and numerous coves.
- For its mountains as far as the eye can see. This small mountainous country is 70% mountainous. If you’re feeling sporty, you can head for Mount Korab, Albania’s highest point at 2,764 metres above sea level!
- Because it’s a cheap destination! Albania is (for the moment) one of the cheapest countries in Europe. So make the most of it!
📆 When should do a motorhome travel in Albania?
Albania has a Mediterranean climate. The ideal time to go is between April and early October, when temperatures are at their hottest! December, January and February, on the other hand, are the rainiest months.
🚍 Driving rules in Albania
Some basic rules of circulation in Albania
- It is compulsory to have an international insurance card (“green card”). You can obtain it from your insurer or directly in Albania.
- To rent a car in Albania, the driver must be at least 23 years old.
- Many roads are in poor condition, so you’ll need to be careful when driving a motorhome. Local driving can also be dangerous.
- It’s compulsory to turn on your lights day and night!
- Wild camping is permitted in Albania, except in national parks and nature reserves, near institutional buildings and on private property (unless you have the owner’s permission). Make sure you always respect where you camp!
Speed limits
Speed limits in Albania for motorhomes under 3.5 tons are as follows:
40 km/h in built-up areas
80 km/h outside built-up areas
90 km/h on Expressways
110 km/h on motorways (90 km/h for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes)
Be aware that radar checks in Albania are very frequent, so be on the lookout!
📸 Albania’s must-see places
Tirana
How can you visit Albania without visiting its capital, Tirana? In recent years, the city has modernized and is constantly evolving. Don’t miss the lively and colorful Skanderbeg square, the Et’hem Bey mosque for its Ottoman architecture, or the National History Museum!
🚐📍 If you’re passing through Tirana, stay at the Camping Tirana, located on the edge of a magnificent lake!
Durrës
Located on the Adriatic coast, Durrës is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches and archaeological sites. Devastated several times during wars, it has become one of the country’s most important tourist hotspots. It is particularly known for being a cultural center, as it hosts festivals and cultural events of all kinds every year.
🚐📍 During your visit to Durrës, don’t hesitate to stay at the Durrës service area, which offers a wide range of services (drainage, electricity, water, etc.).
Gjirokastër
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Gjirokastër stands out for its particularly well-preserved Ottoman architecture and its famous castle, the largest in Albania. Its charm also stems from its configuration, as it stretches out on the slopes of the Mali i Gjere mountain, earning it the nickname of “leaning city”.
🚐📍 Time for a break! Head for Camping Gjirokaster, much appreciated by the CaraMaps travel community!
Lake Ohrid
Separating Albania from Macedonia, Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest lakes in the world, alongside Lake Titicaca and Lake Baikal. It is also the deepest lake in the Balkans (288 meters!). It’s the ideal destination for nature lovers!
🚐 📍 Don’t hesitate to stay at Camping Rei to make the most of the lake!
Krujë
Located some twenty kilometers north of Tirana, Krujë will impress you with its rich historical heritage and breathtaking mountain scenery. Immerse yourself in its narrow medieval streets and discover its superb castle!
🚐📍Are you passing through Krujë? Stop off at Camping Krujë, ideally located in the heart of nature!
Berat
Also named the “City of a Thousand Windows”, Berat’s historic town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! You’ll be struck by the city’s cosmopolitan character and unusual architecture. Don’t miss out on the citadel, the Christian quarter Gorica and the Muslim quarter Mangalem!
🚐📍 Park your motorhome at Camping Villa Juri for a peaceful stay!
Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera stretches over a hundred kilometers of coastline, between the towns of Vlorë and Sarandë. Between hidden coves, turquoise waters, perched villages and cliffs, the Albanian Riviera is undoubtedly one of Albania’s most precious jewels!
🚐📍 Need a break during your road-trip on the Albanian Riviera? Head to Camping Ecuador, in the charming seaside resort of Sarandë!
Shkodër
This city in the north of the country is also a must-see if you decide to travel to Albania in a motorhome! Situated close to a lake and the border with Montenegro, its historic monuments have made it a city of great cultural influence. Don’t miss a visit to the famous Rozafa citadel, the Clock Tower and, of course, Lake Shkodër!
🚐📍 While in Shkodër, you can park at Camping Legjenda, described as “pleasant” and “very well maintained” by our travelers.
🤩 Check out here our special itinerary for your motorhome travel in Albania!
Check out also other itineraries shared by the community for this country, such as «Travel to Albania»!
Did you like the experience of your touring trip offered by CaraMaps and the advice from the community? Share your best anecdotes and travel photos with the 100% collaborative CaraMaps application!
Also follow us on our Instagram page @caramaps where you’ll discover some incredible spots, and on our Facebook page where you’ll find new areas, new routes and news from the world of motorhoming every day!
Also check out our other blog articles «The best places for wild camping in Germany», «Travelling in Croatia by motorhome 🇭🇷“» and many more!