Albania

Heavy snowfall in mountain areas may disrupt travel.

Monitor local media for updates. See Climate and natural disasters

Landmines

Landmines are a hazard in the north-east border areas of Albania.

They are a particular hazard in hill towns along the north-eastern border with Kosovo.

To protect yourself from landmines:

• avoid locations displaying landmine or unexploded weapons warning signs
• seek advice from local authorities

Driving permit

To drive in Albania you need both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• an Australian driver’s licence

Get your IDP before leaving Australia. 

More information:

Road travel

You’re three times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Albania than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• aggressive driving
• poorly maintained roads
• poorly lit roads
• power outages
• icy and slippery roads

If you plan to drive in Albania:

• check your travel insurance will cover you
• know the local road rules
• use snow chains in winter

More information:

Taxis

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines.

Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you.

Avoid flagging down taxis in the street.

Sit in the back seat.

Public transport

Bus and rail travel is unreliable.

Safety standards on public transport can be poor. 

Sea travel

Before boarding a ferry or boat, check whether appropriate safety equipment is available.

Some international cruise lines stop over in Albania.

More information:

Air travel

There are no commercial domestic flights within Albania.

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Albania’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government