You are right, at the moment Albania is far from the most popular European country, but at the same time the tourist flow is increasing every year. I think you did the right thing by deciding to rent a car to explore Albania.
You can rent a car immediately upon arrival in the country or deal with this issue in advance. Early booking will not only save you a certain amount, but will also save you time. The price is influenced by factors such as rental period, car mileage, model, etc. It is best to deal with large international rental companies rather than local companies. You may pay a little more, but you will be guaranteed first-class service. In this regard, I can name such companies as Autoeurope and Rentalcars as some of the best.
Since Albania has only one international airport – Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, many travelers rent a car there and travel independently to the center of the Albanian capital (a distance of about 20 kilometers).
Most often, car rental is paid for by credit card, but in small companies you can also arrange for cash. Bank cards of various payment systems are accepted for payment. Don’t forget that, among other things, a certain amount will be blocked on the card as a deposit, which will be returned to the card a few weeks after the car is returned.
When it comes to documenting rentals, standard international rules apply in Albania. This includes the driver being at least 21 years old, having at least 2 years of experience and holding an international driving license.
On average, the cost of daily rental of a budget compact car is about 30 euros, but again it all depends on the company chosen.
By European standards, fines in Albania are not the highest; for a minor violation you will have to pay less than 10 euros, and for a more serious one – from 30 euros. If you pay the fine in the first five days, its amount will be reduced by 20%.
It is impossible not to note the aggressive driving style of local drivers, who often exceed the speed limit, do not allow pedestrians to pass, and violate other traffic rules. Pedestrians also often cross the road in the wrong places.