Will be traveling to Albania in 2 weeks and keep hearing that credit card use is uncommon. We are renting a car for part of the trip and are wondering if credit cards can be used to purchase fuel for the car? We plan to pay cash for meals, and most of the lodging is prepaid or the hotels take credit cards. Since Albania doesn't use the euro, we don't want to end up with a lot of Albanian lek at the end of the trip.
UPDATE - we have returned and found that SOME gas stations take credit cards, and some do not. You may see Visa, Mastercard symbols on the large signage with the fuel prices, which can be a guideline, but ask the attendant who will fill your tank (before he starts to pump gas, as filling a tank on a small vehicle can easily cost $80-$100). Larger stations along major roads are more likely to take them (the ones with an attached cafe, hotel, etc.). Stations are also mostly full service, handy as we had a leaking tire on our rental car.
In general, if a business takes credit cards, it's tap and pay, Apple Pay, etc. We used Apple Pay whenever we paid by card. In Tirana, most places took credit cards, for at least a 500 Lek (5 Euro) purchase. It appears credit cards are now accepted in many more businesses than even a year ago. Just ask!