Feel restful in the country of hospitality and tradition.
Morning
• Arrive in Tirana, Albania’s lively capital, beautifully decorated for Christmas.
• Stroll through Skanderbeg Square, transformed into a Christmas market with food stalls, crafts, and a sparkling Christmas tree.
Afternoon
• Visit Blloku, a trendy area known for cafes and restaurants, perfect for a festive lunch.
• Head to the National History Museum to dive into Albania’s cultural heritage.
Evening
• Take a ride on the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car for panoramic views of the city and surrounding snow-dusted mountains.
• Enjoy a cozy dinner at a traditional restaurant like Era Vila.
Driving Tip
No driving required on Day 1, but pick up your rental car in the evening to be ready for the next day.
Morning
• Drive ~2 hours to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels magical at Christmas.
• Explore the Kala (Castle) for panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.
• Visit the Onufri Museum, housed in a centuries-old church.
Afternoon
• Wander through the festive streets of Mangalem and Gorica, Berat’s historic neighborhoods known for their Ottoman-era architecture.
• Enjoy a traditional Albanian Christmas lunch at Restaurant Mangalemi.
Evening
• Stay overnight in a boutique guesthouse like Hotel Muzaka, which offers both comfort and authentic charm.
Driving Tip
The roads to Berat are generally well-maintained, but be cautious of possible winter fog.
Morning
• Drive ~ 2 hours to Kruja, a historic town nestled in the mountains.
• Visit the Kruja Castle and the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s national hero.
• Explore the Old Bazaar, perfect for picking up handcrafted Christmas gifts.
Afternoon
• Continue driving ~1 hour to Durres, Albania’s coastal city.
• Walk along the seaside promenade and visit the Durres Amphitheater, one of the largest Roman ruins in the Balkans.
• Enjoy a seafood lunch with views of the Adriatic Sea at Vertigo Restaurant.
Evening
• Return to Tirana (~40 minutes) for your departure or an optional festive dinner to conclude your trip.
Driving Tip
The roads between Kruja, Durres, and Tirana are well-paved, making for an easy drive even in winter.
Find your suitable car at A.S KASALLA during Christmas
Vehicle Recommendation:
• A compact car works well for city-to-city travel.
• Choose an SUV if you plan to visit mountainous regions.
Winter Features:
• Ensure your rental car has winter tires and a functioning heating system
• Snow chains may be necessary for mountain roads.
Booking Advice:
• Reserve early as Christmas can see a slight increase in demand for rentals.
• Opt for full insurance coverage to avoid stress on icy or wet roads.
Fuel Policy:
• Fill up in larger towns and cities, as smaller villages may have limited gas stations open during holidays.
Winter Driving Tips
• Check Weather Conditions: Be aware of possible fog, rain, or snow, especially in northern or higher altitude areas.
• Daylight Hours: Days are shorter in December, so plan to drive during daylight for safer and more enjoyable travel.
• Navigation: Use GPS or offline maps like Google Maps or Maps.me, as signage can be limited in rural areas.
What to Pack for a Christmas Trip in Albania?
• Warm layers and a winter coat for chilly evenings;
• Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets in Berat and Kruja.
• Power bank and travel charger for devices.
• A reusable water bottle and snacks for the road.
Why Renting a Car with A.S KASALLA
At A.S KASALLA , we make your Christmas road trip in Albania seamless:
• Wide Vehicle Selection:
From city-friendly cars to family-sized SUVs.
• Winter-Ready Cars:
Equipped with essentials like winter tires and heating.
• Convenient Locations:
Pick up your car in Tirana, the airport, or other major cities
• Transparent Pricing:
No hidden fees, just great service.
Celebrate Christmas with an unforgettable 3-day journey through Albania’s festive cities and scenic
countryside. Book your car rental and start planning your holiday road trip!