Did you know that Tirana is one of the youngest capital cities in Europe? And it’s no ordinary capital—it’s a unique mix of ancient history, communist-era characteristics, and a touch of Mediterranean charm.
Where else can you stroll past pastel-painted buildings and mountains, sip coffee stronger than your Wi-Fi signal, and discover a hidden underground bunker-turned-museum all in one afternoon?
You could wrestle with bus schedules or pay for a taxi that could buy you a week’s worth of byrek, but why bother when you can rent a car? Let’s look into the benefits and find you some nice car rental companies.
Why Rent a Car in Tirana Airport is a Must?
Albania’s tourism sector has been doing very well, especially in 2024. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Albania is now the top country in Europe in terms of the number of foreign visitors, even more than it was before the pandemic. From January to July 2024, the country saw a huge rise in the number of tourists from other countries. It was second in the world in terms of tourism growth, after Qatar. Let’s look into some of the key benefits of rent a car in Tirana.
1. Freedom to Explore Albania’s Stunning Scenery
Image showing Vjosa River National Park
Albania’s beauty is not just a claim—it’s a fact backed by the stunning diversity of its landscapes. There’s not enough words to describe the beauty of Albania; you just have to see and experience it yourself, and still then you won’t believe your eyes. You can search places to visit in Albania on the internet, Tik Tok will be helpful here too.
2. Convenience and Time-Saving
Let’s face it: relying on taxis or public transport during your trip is like trying to hike in flip-flops—it works, but it’s far from ideal. Picture this instead: you, behind the wheel, cruising the scenic roads of Albania with your favorite playlist blasting.
Public transportation in Albania can be limited, especially when it comes to reaching more remote locations. A survey conducted by Albania Tourism Statistics (2023) found that over 60% of visitors who rented a car in Albania reported saving significant time during their trips.
3. Cost Saving
A major benefit of renting a car instead of owning one is that it saves you a ton of money. You can find compact cars for as little as €20 per day or opt for more luxurious vehicles or SUVs for higher prices. Especially if you’re traveling with a group, you can split the rental cost among your group members, reducing individual expenses.
Best Companies to Rent a Car in Tirana Airport
Here are some of the best companies to consider when looking for reliable, affordable, and efficient car rentals at Tirana Airport:
1. Europcar
Europcar is one of the best choices for car rentals at Tirana International Airport and throughout the city. With stations conveniently located at the airport and in two city center spots, it ensures accessibility for travelers. Here’s why Europcar stands out:
- Convenient Locations: Whether you’re arriving at Tirana Airport or staying in the city, Europcar’s strategic stations provide ease of access.
- Diverse Fleet: Europcar offers a variety of vehicles, including compact cars for city explorations, spacious vans for family trips, and premium options for luxury enthusiasts.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden charges.
- New Cars: The fleet includes only modern vehicles, guaranteeing reliability and comfort.
- 24/7 Service: Available round the clock at major airports like Tirana, perfect for late-night or early-morning arrivals.
- 24-Hour Roadside Assistance: Peace of mind comes standard with Europcar, ensuring support whenever needed.
- Customer Satisfaction: Europcar boasts an impressive 4.5-star rating, reflecting its professional and friendly service
Rental Costs
- Economy Cars: Starting from €20–€30 per day, perfect for solo travelers or couples.
- SUVs and Family Vehicles: Range from €50–€70 per day, ideal for group trips or exploring rugged terrains.
- Long-Term Rentals: Discounts and tailored packages are available for extended stays in Albania
Additional Benefits
- Europcar provides flexible options for daily or long-term rentals.
- Its online booking system often features discounts, making it budget-friendly.
- Extra services like GPS navigation, child seats, and full-coverage insurance are readily available.
2. Sixt Rent a Car
Here’s what makes Sixt a fantastic option for your Albanian adventure:
- Convenient Locations: Sixt operates two prime stations in Tirana—Tirana Airport and the Mak Albania Hotel. These locations make it easy to pick up or drop off your vehicle without hassle.
- Flexible Booking: Change or cancel your booking at no extra cost at most locations, offering peace of mind for travelers with uncertain plans.
- Tailored Add-Ons: From GPS navigation to child seats, Sixt allows you to customize your rental to fit your specific needs.
Vehicle Options and Features
Sixt specializes in premium vehicles from brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz, ensuring a luxurious driving experience. Whether you need a compact car for city travel or a spacious SUV for exploring Albania’s rugged terrain, Sixt has you covered.
- High-End Cars: Perfect for those who want comfort and style.
- Daily or Weekly Rentals: Flexible durations to fit your trip length.
- One-Way Rentals: Drop off your car at another Sixt station within Albania for an additional fee.
Key Policies and Benefits
- Minimum Age: Drivers must be at least 22 years old and hold a valid license for at least one year. (Some car categories may require a higher age limit.)
- English-Speaking Staff: Travelers are greeted by courteous and helpful staff fluent in English.
- 4.3-Star Rating: With 1,581 reviews, Sixt is a trusted option, praised for its smooth pick-up and drop-off processes.
3. Avis Albania
Avis stands out as a premier choice for car rentals at Tirana International Airport. With its reputation for quality service and convenience, Avis offers a range of benefits designed to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Here’s why you might consider renting with Avis:
- Convenient Locations: Avis has a rental station right at Tirana International Airport, making it incredibly easy to pick up and drop off your vehicle upon arrival or departure. It also has 3 other locations in Tirana.
- Wide Vehicle Selection: Whether you need a compact car for solo travel or a spacious SUV for family trips, Avis provides a versatile fleet to meet your needs.
- Transparent Pricing: With Avis, you can expect no hidden fees. Their straightforward pricing policy ensures you know exactly what you’re paying for.
- Exclusive Deals: Avis frequently offers special promotions, such as discounts on multi-day rentals or free upgrades on select vehicles
- Customer Support: Avis provides 24/7 roadside assistance and exceptional customer service to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey.
Pricing and Offers
- Special Discounts: Avis offers promotions such as $15 off a three-day rental exceeding $175 and up to 10% savings on five-day rentals.
- Loyalty Perks: Frequent renters can benefit from the Avis Preferred program, which offers faster service and access to exclusive deals
Add-Ons and Flexibility
- Customizable Options: Enhance your rental experience with add-ons like GPS navigation, child seats, and additional driver coverage.
- Flexible Policies: Avis allows easy modifications or cancellations, giving you the freedom to adjust plans as needed.
4. Budget car rental
Why Choose Budget?
Budget is your go-to option for an affordable and hassle-free car rental experience at Tirana Airport. Their clear and transparent pricing system means no hidden surprises at checkout, and they offer competitive rates for all types of vehicles. Whether you’re looking for a compact car for a quick city tour or a spacious van for a family adventure, Budget has you covered.
Convenience at Your Fingertips
With locations at Tirana Airport and several spots throughout the city, Budget ensures that picking up and returning your vehicle is smooth and convenient. Their process is streamlined for efficiency, and they offer the flexibility to modify or cancel your reservation online without extra hassle.
Vehicle Choices
From economy cars for budget-conscious travelers to larger vehicles for those who need more space, Budget has a wide selection of cars to suit your travel needs. You can also add extra features such as GPS, child seats, and other essential accessories to make your rental experience more comfortable.
Affordable and Flexible Rental Terms
With Budget, flexibility is key. They offer short-term and long-term rentals, allowing you to choose the perfect rental period for your trip. Additionally, you can modify your reservation if needed. The company’s cancellation policy allows for a refund of the prepaid rental amount minus a fee, ensuring you won’t be out of pocket if plans change.
Key Benefits
- 24/7 Customer Service: Always ready to assist you, whether it’s a question about your rental or a roadside emergency.
- No Hidden Fees: The price you see is the price you pay, with no sneaky charges popping up at the last minute.
- Flexible Pick-up & Drop-off: Return your car to a different location if needed (fees may apply).
5. Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Why Rent with Enterprise?
Enterprise Rent-A-Car provides a premium and reliable rental experience at Tirana’s city center location, just a short distance from the airport. With a reputation for exceptional customer service, Enterprise is perfect for travelers seeking a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Location and Convenience:
Enterprise offers convenient locations at Tirana Airport and Neighborhood Locations like Albania Long Term, Durres, Korca, Saranda Port, Tirana City, making it easy to pick up and drop off your vehicle no matter where you’re staying.
Vehicle Variety and Flexibility:
Enterprise offers a diverse fleet of vehicles, from compact and economy cars to larger family-friendly options like SUVs and minivans. This means that no matter your group size or preferences, there’s a vehicle for you. Plus, you can easily extend your rental period or change your vehicle if your plans shift during your trip.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Excellent Customer Service: With friendly, English-speaking staff, Enterprise guarantees top-notch service to make your trip easier.
- Flexible Pickup/Drop-off: You can choose from several pick-up and drop-off locations, including the airport, and the ability to change or modify your reservation at no extra cost.
- Special Offers: Enterprise often provides discounts and deals for both short and long-term rentals.
Pricing and Policies:
Enterprise’s rates are competitive, and they provide a range of options depending on vehicle type, rental period, and any additional services. The company also offers free cancellations up to a certain period before your rental, so you can book with peace of mind.
Table Overview:
| Feature | Europcar | Sixt | Avis Albania | Budget | Enterprise |
 Locations | Airport, City Center | Airport, Mak Albania Hotel | Airport, 3 city locations | Airport, City locations | Airport, Citywide locations |
 Fleet | Economy, SUVs, Vans, Luxury | Premium cars (BMW, Audi) | Compact cars, SUVs | Economy, Compact, Vans | Compact, SUVs, Family cars |
 Rates | €20–€30 (Economy), €50–€70 (SUVs) | Premium rates | Discount offers available | Competitive, flexible rates | Competitive, varied options |
 Additional Services | GPS, Child Seats, Insurance | GPS, Child Seats, Insurance | Roadside Assistance, Loyalty Program | GPS, Child Seats, Insurance | Free cancellations, Discounts |
 Unique Benefits | 24/7 service, New cars | Luxury vehicles, Flexible booking | No hidden fees, Excellent service | Budget-friendly, Flexible bookings | Great customer service, Flexible pickup/drop-off |
Tips for Rent a Car in Tirana
When renting a car in Tirana, keep these tips in mind:
- Check Fuel Policy: Confirm whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
- Document Condition: Inspect the car and document any damage before driving off.
- Navigation Tools: Consider renting a GPS or using local apps to navigate Tirana’s streets.
- Insurance: Always choose full coverage to avoid unexpected costs.
- Parking: Be mindful of local parking regulations to avoid fines.
Final Words
Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a deep dive into Albania’s rich history, renting a car ensures you see the country your way. So go ahead, book your wheels, and hit the road! Also, make sure you take a look at rental companies to rent a car skopje and rent a car prishtina.
