Budva is a famous coastal resort city in Montenegro, known for its fine sandy beaches, azure waters, and well-preserved medieval Old Town. It is the core area of the Montenegrin Riviera, with expansive views along the coastal highway, making it one of the best starting cities for self-driving trips to Albania.
Kotor is located on the shores of the deep Bay of Kotor, an ancient town surrounded by mountains and fjord-like bays, renowned for its Old Town and city walls, which are a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. As an important coastal city in southern Montenegro, you can start a self-driving trip from here to Albania along the E851, enjoying beautiful bay and valley landscapes along the way.
Podgorica is the capital and transportation hub of Montenegro, linking coastal cities with inland areas. On most self-driving routes, you will usually pass through Podgorica from Budva or Kotor before heading to the Albanian border. The terrain around the city is mainly plains and gentle hills, and road conditions are relatively good.
Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania, as well as the country’s political and cultural center. After entering Albania from Hani i Hotit, you can reach Tirana directly via the SH4 highway. The route mainly passes through plains and river valleys, with generally good road conditions. Tirana’s urban area has squares, museums, and a wide range of dining options, making it an important stop on the journey.
Žabljak is located in the high mountain region of northern Montenegro and is an important small town for Durmitor Mountain and the surrounding national park, known for its high altitude, pristine mountain scenery, and outdoor activities. As a self-driving starting point for heading to northern Albania (such as Elbasan), departing from here involves many mountain roads and high-altitude scenic sections.
Elbasan is a city in central Albania, located east of the capital Tirana, and is a historic inland town. Some self-driving routes coming from northern Montenegro will take this city as a destination or transit point. The route passes through many mountainous areas, offering views of Albania’s inland valleys and rural landscapes.
