albania capital tourism

11 Best Things to do in Tirana, Albania

Albania , a country that only recently appeared on the tourist radar, is incredibly diverse and full of surprises. The same goes for the bustling capital of Tirana. Though visitors often overlook this city, it’s full of complex history, impressive architecture, and friendly locals – making it worth exploring for a day or two. Dive deep into the country’s past by visiting the many museums, stroll around the beautiful parks, and enjoy sitting at one of the many vibrant cafes downtown. Discover all the best things to do in Tirana.

Things to do in Tirana, Albania

Tirana is very different from other European capital cities. However, its incredibly unique vibe and fascinating history make it a great destination to visit on any trip to Albania . 

Over the years, tourism has started to grow in Albania, with countless people visiting to dive into the country’s historical and cultural heritage and roam around the beautiful landscapes. Tirana has become a very developed city with good roads, beautiful buildings, and a booming restaurant and bar scene.

There are lots of different stories to tell, which are showcased in many interesting museums. Visit for a day or two to enjoy the city’s colorful architecture, lively boulevards, and rich culture. 

Here are all your hotel options in Tirana.

1. Skanderbeg Square

At the very center of the city, you’ll find Skanderbeg square, a large open area surrounded by several important sights of Tirana. This interesting meeting point is one of the best places to start your journey through the city.

On the square, there’s the National History Museum with its impressive mural, some of Tirana’s colorful government buildings, and an Ottoman-era mosque with a clock tower. The combination of all these different architectural styles perfectly represents Tirana’s variety of influences. 

If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll notice that this is also a spot loved by the locals. During the day, it might be a bit emptier, but around the evening, many people gather here to hang out and join in on whatever live event is taking place. There are typically also a few street artists working on their craft and people selling small products. If you can, come back to take a pleasant evening stroll and soak up the lively atmosphere.

The Story of Skanderbeg

The square is named after the national hero Skanderbeg, a military commander who fought off invading Ottoman forces for 25 whole years before his death in 1468. He temporarily relieved the region around Tirana and Krujë from being ruled over by another empire. Though this happened a long time ago, many locals remain proud of this bit of Albania’s history (you can spot his statue in the middle of the square). 

2. Et’hem Bey Mosque

The small 18th-century Et’hem Bey Mosque on Skanderbeg square is an incredibly unique place of worship. It’s one of the oldest mosques in the country and a powerful symbol of the survival of faith. This is because the mosque is one of the few that resisted the communist regime. For almost half a century, the authorities banned Islam in the country. But at the fall of communism in 1991, the square filled with thousands of people gathering to practice their religion. This ultimately led to religious freedom in Albania .

Did you know? About 60% of the country is Muslim, but all religions live together in harmony. You’ll notice many beautiful mosques all over the country and the sound of the call to prayer echoing out across the ancient towns and vistas.

Though the exterior is already beautifully decorated, it’s worth looking inside. Everyone can enter the mosque by leaving a small donation, and covers are available. Take a moment to admire the interior with its stunning frescoes depicting plants and waterfalls, which is rare imagery in Islamic architecture.

3. Bunk’Art

Albania’s complex history is sometimes difficult to imagine. However, to better understand it, you’ll have to dive into its dark past, and there’s no better place to do that than in Bunk’Art. This museum has two locations, Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2, both set inside an underground nuclear bunker. Focusing on the history and contemporary art, you’re guided through the rise and fall of the communist regime in Albania. 

As the museums are underground, they’re a perfect sight to visit on a hot summer day. You can discover the museums by yourself, with the extra option of an audio tour (through an AR app). Alternatively, you can join a guided history tour through the entire city, which includes the Bunk’Art museum.

You’ll easily find the entrance, as it sticks out of the ground in the middle of the city. While you make your way through the astonishing tunnels, you’ll come past more than 20 different rooms that were built for the politicians and military of the communist era in case of a nuclear war. Discover how the secret service ‘Sigurimi’ bugged a room or read about the many stories of political persecutions. This is one of the interesting things to do in Tirana. 

Entrance fees & Opening Times: Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2 both have an entrance fee of 500 LEK (4.40 USD). Bunk’Art 1 is open Wed-Sun from 9:30 AM till 4 PM, and Bunk’Art 2 is open Sun-Thu from 9:30 AM till 6 PM and till 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

4. Visit the Local Market

While walking around the city’s unique neighborhoods, make your way to the street market on Rr. Çameria. This area has lots of little shops and stalls selling all sorts of products, from clothing, rugs, and bags to various delicious fruits. Best of all, this market is where the locals love to spend their time and go shopping, making it a fun local thing to do in Tirana. The market is open daily from 8 AM till 6 PM and closed on Sundays. 

Book your cooking class in Tirana (you’ll get to buy your ingredients at the market first!).

Tip: The Albanian people are incredibly friendly. When you’re interested in an item, don’t hesitate to ask for it, but get ready to bargain. Most people speak some English, but otherwise, you can use Google translate to communicate.

5. Pyramid of Tirana

The Piramida of Tirana is an incredibly unique and culturally-significant building, completed just before the fall of communism. It was initially built to honor Albania’s ex-communist leader Enver Hoxha. Now, the building stands abandoned—a curious remnant covered in colorful graffiti. ( Edit: The Pyramid is currently under construction) Nevertheless, it remains an interesting thing to do in Tirana as it’s close to many other sights in the city.

6. Blloku Area

Tirana is a relatively young city with an incredibly vibrant atmosphere. This year, it even received the title ‘European Youth Capital 2022’, crowning the city’s efforts of creating a rich program dedicated entirely to young people. Because of this, you’ll find many neighborhoods with lovely cafes, delicious restaurants, and fun (cocktail) bars. 

Also read: Best Things to do in Albania .

One of the best areas to take part in the social life of the locals is Blloku. While you walk through the tree-lined streets, you’ll find this neighborhood dotted with great places to go for a drink or a bite to eat. Take a break from sightseeing with an espresso or a delicious lunch at one of the many cafes. As the weather in Tirana is mild year-round, most have a large terrace where you can sit and watch people walk by.

Make sure to return to Blloku at the end of the day, as the area is just as vibrant at night. You’ll find the streets beaming with cozy lights as doors open to fantastic restaurants, bars, and pubs, often with karaoke or live music. 

Tip: If you like to drink a cocktail, make sure to visit the Colonial Cocktail Academy in Blloku. This unique cocktail bar is known for creating cocktails together with its customers. Whatever you want to drink, the friendly staff are very open and enthusiastic to make it with you.

7. House of Leaves

House of Leaves is an interesting museum that allows you to dive deep into the surveillance methods of the state, which were used to control the country’s very own people. The museum has two floors, both dedicated to fascinating documentation of the various equipment and techniques used by Sigurimi (Albania’s secret police).

What makes it even more interesting is that the museum actually lies in the old secret police headquarters. Additionally, the name ‘House of Leaves’ comes from the fact that the building was purposely hidden from the public by layers of leaves—a technique used in warfare. The entrance to the museum costs 700 LEK (6.10 USD) per person.

8. Ministry of Agriculture

Besides the Ottoman styles and communist architecture, there are dozens of colorfully painted buildings all over Tirana. Most of them are centered around the bustling neighborhood of Blloku and are an incredible sight to look at. From vibrant pinks to bright yellows, the colors add a nice touch, revitalizing the city. 

Best of all, Tirana’s earned a reputation for these colorful buildings due to the city’s mayor being an artist. He began this painting campaign to give Tirana a more modern look. Take a moment to marvel at the colorful government buildings, especially the Instagrammable Ministry of Agriculture . Walking past these buildings is one of the best things to do in Tirana, Albania.

Must-read: Albania 2-week road trip itinerary!

9. Visit the National History Museum

One of the highlights around the famous Skanderbeg square is the National History Museum in Tirana. With its soviet-style mural, you’ll immediately spot it when you stroll around the area. The museum goes beyond the communist period, back to the very beginnings of Albania . In chronological order, from ancient Illyria B.C. to the post-communist era, the rooms guide you through the country’s complex history. 

Discover the archeological wealth in the different pavilions of the museum, observing thousands of items from different periods in Albania’s history. The most treasured exhibitions are those in the Pavilion of Antiquity, which covers stories from the late Palaeolithic (prehistoric era) to the early Middle Ages. Expect to spend about 2 hours walking around the museum.

Entrance Fee & Opening Times: Entrance to the museum is 500 LEK (4.40 USD), and doors are open between 9 AM – 4 PM on Tue-Sat, and between 10 AM – 3 PM on Sundays. The museum is closed on Mondays.

10. Grand Park of Tirana

Though Tirana is a busy urban area, it’s also managed to incorporate nature. Just south of the vibrant Blloku neighborhood, you’ll find the city’s enormous Grand Park, which is one of the best things to do in Tirana. Spanning 230 hectares and enclosing a large artificial lake, it’s a great area for an afternoon walk.

The locals love to come here for some fresh air or exercise. The trail looping around the lake is about 5 kilometers long, so only embark on it if you’ve got the time. In the park, you’ll also find the old Presidential Palace and the tombs of several Albanian national heroes, from politicians to writers and philosophers. Take a moment to soak up the sun while you admire the calm nature next to the bustling city. There are also a few lovely riverside cafes where you can grab a nice cup of coffee and enjoy the beautiful views.

11. Join a Walking Tour

When visiting Tirana, Albania, one of the best ways to discover the city is to join one of the free walking tours given by local volunteers. These tours take you past the city’s iconic sights and offer a more detailed insight into them. The young guides are very knowledgeable and help you understand the country’s fascinating history, culture, and people. 

The free walking tour in Tirana starts from the Opera house at Skanderbeg Square and happens twice daily, every day of the year. The first starts at 10 AM, the second at 2 PM (wintertime) or 6 PM in the summer. Hear Albania’s stories through the locals as you make your way through the diverse city. Most tours also include some time at one of the museums, a coffee break in Blloku, and a visit to some local favorites.

You can also book a guided tour online if you’re looking for a more private experience. Book ahead here .

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Tirana

Tirana (and Albania in general) has a mix of history, culture, and religions, all coming together in one big melting pot. This means there are many delicious cuisines you can choose from in the city, from traditional Albanian dishes to Italian pasta or Middle Eastern grill. This diversity, together with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal products, makes Tirana more and more of a worthy gastronomic destination.

Though many meals can be meat-heavy, there are plenty of delicious vegetarian choices, too, from tzatziki (like in Greece ) to incredible stuffed peppers and eggplants. Some of our favorite places to eat were:

• Artigiano at Villa
• L’Osteria Restaurant (pasta)
• Happy belly (juices)
• Komiteti Cafe
• Tartuf Shop (Truffle)

For a memorable foodie experience, consider going on a city tour of Tirana with food tasting along the way!

Book your city and food tour of Tirana here

Where to Stay

If you’re making a road trip through Albania , you’ll most likely start and end your journey in the capital Tirana. With a fascinating history and culture to be discovered, we recommend staying at least one or two nights in the city.

There are plenty of good neighborhoods to stay in the center, all within walking distance from many of the things to do in Tirana. Zona 1, Blloku, Tregu Çam, and 21 Dhjetori are all great options. If you are traveling on a budget, there are also plenty of low-cost options in Tirana ( search for your hostel here ).

Hotels in Tirana 😴

How to Visit Tirana, Albania 

Like the entire country, Tirana is a lovely surprise with many hidden treasures all over the city. The main airport in Albania is Tirana, and many international flights arrive here from all over Europe and the Middle East . 

It’s about a 30-minute drive from the airport to the city center. The most affordable way to do that is by shuttle bus, which leaves for Skanderbeg Square. The bus is called Rinas Express, leaves about every hour from 8 AM till 11 PM, and costs 300 LEK (2.60 USD). If you would rather grab a taxi instead, expect to pay between 20 – 25 USD.  

Getting Around

If you’re staying in the center of Tirana, then you can easily get to most of the must-see sights on foot. You can find lots of them around Skanderbeg Square or just a few blocks away. There are many lovely boulevards alongside the streets of Tirana, making it a pleasant way of getting around.  

If you’ve rented a car, then prepare yourself for the slightly chaotic traffic in Tirana. Many drivers don’t follow all the rules, so always keep an eye out. Finding parking in Tirana can be a little challenging, so you might have to drive around a bit to find a proper spot or car park to park your rental car. 

We recommend to rent a car in Albania through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

How Much Does Tirana Cost?

Albania is incredibly affordable; you can get a big meal for two people (a salad and two main courses) for just 10 EUR (10.30 USD). Hotels, hostels, activities, and entrances are all also reasonably priced. 

Costs of Traveling in Tirana

Travel on a budget in Tirana, from $110 − $220 USD weekly per person, mid-range $460 − $560 USD, and high-end from $530 − $710 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $40 − $70 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $5 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $3 − $15 USD Book public transport
• Food: $3 − $15 USD
• Activities: $1 − $8 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Tirana, Albania

Albania is known to have very hot summers and mild winters. Most people visit in the summer, and though Tirana won’t be packed with tourists, it’s growing in numbers each year. Especially if you’re traveling through Albania on a road trip , we recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons: May/June or September. This is the perfect time to enjoy the warm weather and sunny days but without lots of crowds.

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Theth: Most Beautiful Mountain Village in Albania

7 best things to do in himare, albania, 9 incredible things to do in albania in 2024.

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The 25 Best things to do in Tirana, Albania’s Capital City

The ultimate list of the best things to do in Albania’s capital city any time of year. The city center of Tirana is a perfect place for a walking tour. Many of the touristic highlights are close to Tirana’s main square called Skanderbeg Square. All the places for sightseeing have been described below into detail. Furthermore, there are also a few recommendations for day-trips from Tirana, like Kruja Castle, the Caves of Pellumbas, Preza Castle or Petrela Castle.

1. Museum of Secret Surveillance: “House of Leaves”

The Museum of Secret Surveillance is the former headquarters of the National Intelligence Service. It is one of the best things to do in Tirana. You cannot imagine that the unremarkable villa was the “House of Spies”. During World War II, the secret police of the German Nazis used the villa. After the war, the Albanian secret service of the communist regime took over the villa. You can see the bugs, monitoring equipment, wiretapping phones and laboratories inside the museum. As a result, you will have a unique experience of what it is like to be a spy.

2. Skanderbeg Square & the Skanderbeg Statue

The main square in the middle of Tirana is Skanderbeg Square. Skanderbeg is the national hero of Albania. When the Ottoman Turks ruled Albania, Skanderbeg fought for Albania’s independence. There is a big statue of the Skanderbeg on his horse on the middle of the square. Around the square you can see many touristic sights like the National History Museum, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the Clock Tower, the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, the National Bank, the City Hall and the Ministries of Infrastructure, Agriculture, Economy and Energy.  One of the best things to do in Albanian capital is to spend an afternoon on the central square of the city and simply wander around the center.

3. The Clock Tower Tirana

The Clock Tower is in the centre of Tirana next to Skanderbeg Square. It is one of the best things to do in Tirana. You can climb the 90 stairs of the tower and when you reach the top you can enjoy a lovely view of the square. Molla Bey, an Albanian religious leader, started the construction of the Clock Tower in 1822. At that time, the Ottoman Turks ruled Albania. Furthermore, Molla Bey also constructed the Et’hem Bey Mosque, which is next to the Clock Tower.

4. Et’hem Bey Mosque

The Et’hem Bey Mosque is one of the touristic sights located at Skanderbeg Square.  You should visit the mosque, because it has beautiful frescoes of trees, waterfalls and bridges. This decoration is unusual for Islamic Art. Molla Bey, an Albanian religious leader, built the mosque in the 18th century. However, the communists closed the mosque during their rule. Furthermore, the communists closed and destroyed many churches and mosques. Therefore, it is a miracle that the Et’hem Bey Mosque survived. On the 18th of January 1991, the Albanian public re-opened the mosque against the will of the communist government. Shortly after, the communist regime ended.

5. Bunk Art Museum

The Bunk Art museum is inside a bunker and it is one of the touristic highlights of Tirana. The former dictator ruling Albania, called Enver Hoxha, was paranoid. He feared a nuclear attack on Albania. Therefore, he constructed thousands of bunkers all over Albania to protect the population. He also built a large bunker to protect the government during a nuclear attack. The nuclear attack never took place, therefore, nobody used the bunker. But you can visit it because the bunker has been transformed into a museum. The bunker museum brings you back to the communist rule of Albania, with displays of nuclear equipment, voice recordings of the dictator and photographs of concentration camps. The museum in the bunker is fascinating, incredibly impressive and very creepy.

6. The Cave of Pellumbas

The Cave of Pellumbas is one of the best things to do in Tirana for adventurous travelers. After a 45-minute drive from Tirana you will reach the village of Pellumbas. From the village, you can hike for about 1 hour towards the Cave. The hiking trail offers an amazing view of the mountainside and the Erzen River down below. About 10.000 years ago, cave bears lived in the cave. Furthermore, during the World Wars, the locals kept the cave a secret, so that they could hide in the cave. During your visit, you will see beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, but be aware of the bats flying around in the cave. After the visit you can have swim in the nearby Erzen River.

7. Tanners bridge Tirana

Tanners bridge is a beautiful stone bridge in the centre of Tirana. The Ottoman Turks built the bridge in the 18th century. The bridge was a part of the road between Tirana and the highlands in the east. At the time, farmers used the bridge to bring livestock into the city. In the past, there was water from the Lane river underneath the bridge. But the river was diverted later, therefore, there is no water underneath the bridge today. Nowadays, the bridge is a monument and can only be used by pedestrians.

8. The Grand Park Tirana

The Grand Park is one of the best things to do in Tirana, if you are looking for a place to relax with your family. The park has a beautiful path around the large lake, which is a popular running route. The park also offers restaurants, several playgrounds and a little amphitheatre. The view from the park across the lake is beautiful, especially when the sun shines on the lake across the mountains.

9. Cable Car to Dajti Mountain

Just outside the city centre of Tirana, you can take a cable car up the Dajti Mountain. The 15 minute journey up the mountain side offers a breath-taking view. From the cable car you can see the forest, farms, hilltops, bunkers and city centre in the distance. Once you arrive on the mountain top, there is a fantastic cabin restaurant where you can enjoy a lovely glass of wine and a roasted dish. Furthermore, the top station also offers entertainment like target shooting, phony riding, outdoor fitness equipment and a playground. If you feel up to it you can go for a hike on the trails, a mountain biking trip or you can go paragliding. In short, the Dajti Cable Car is a perfect destination for a day trip from Tirana city.

10. Blloku Area

The Blloku Area is a high-end area in Tirana. The area is famous for the trendy bars, boutiques, upscale restaurants and cafes. In the past, the communists restricted the Albanian public from entering the Blloku area. Because, the Blloku area was a residential area for the communist elite. Therefore, the communists made maps without the Blloku area on it. Nowadays, the Blloku area is a vibrant area with expensive apartments and a busy nightlife.  It is one of the best things to do in Tirana.

11. Former Residence of Enver Hoxha

The former residence of Enver Hoxha, Albania’s former communist dictator, is in the Blloku area. During the regime, the communists restricted the Albanian public from the Blloku area. Therefore, after the fall of the communist rule, the Albanians were very curious to see the residence. The villa has three-stories and is unfortunately not open to the public. However, the Blloku area is a lovely area to relax, so you may just pass by the residence on your way to a café.

12. National Gallery of Arts Tirana & The Cloud Artwork

Tirana’s National Gallery of Arts is located on the main boulevard in Tirana. The artwork inside the gallery, made by Albanian Artists, gives you a unique inside into Albania’s past. During the communist regime, the artists worked under strict censorship. The government forced artists to create work that idealized the communist dictator. Furthermore, the art work had to glorify the second World War victory of the dictator. As a result, the dictator sent several Albanian artists to prison, because they created inappropriate art. Ironically, you can see the inappropriate artworks in the Gallery now. The Gallery is worth a visit as it tells the history of Albania through arts. Furthermore, in front of the gallery, you will see an art installation, called “The Cloud”. The white installation is transparent and looks like a cloud. Moreover, the Cloud is a popular place to take photographs.

13. Martyrs of the Nation Boulevard

The Martyrs of the Nation Boulevard is the main street in Tirana. The boulevard is very wide and it has impressive buildings along side the road. You can see the Presidential palace, the Prime-Minister’s office, the Palace of Congress and the University of Tirana. An Italian architect designed the boulevard while Albania was occupied by the Italian government. It is one of the best things to do in Tirana.

14. The Canyon of the Erzen River

The Canyon of the Erzen River are an excellent destination for a day-trip from Tirana. From the city, it is about a 45-minute drive to the Pellumbas Village. The village has a hiking trail that leads to two destinations: The Cave of Pellumbas and The Canyon of the Erzen River. The hike to the canyon takes around 1 hour. You will see that the canyon is spectacular. Moreover, you can also visit the beautiful waterfalls and natural pools around the canyon. It is a perfect place to take a bath or swim in the summer.

15. The National History Museum

The National History Museum is one of Albania’s top museums. The museum has a very prominent location on the central Skanderbeg square. The outside of the museum has a beautiful mosaic called “the Albanians”. The mosaic shows the Albanian people throughout history. The most interesting display to see inside the museum is pavilion about the communist terror. The room is full of images, documents and videos of persecutions during the communist regime. There is also a replica of the massive sword of the national hero Skanderbeg. It is one of the best things to do in Tirana.

16. Pyramid Tirana

The Pyramid building in Tirana’s main boulevard is a very strange building. The daughter and son-in-law of the communist dictator constructed the pyramid in 1988, to honor his memory. But in 1991, the communist regime ended and as a result the museum closed. Afterwards, the government gave the building a new purpose several times. The pyramid was a convention center, then a night club, then an office for NATO during the Kosovo war and finally a radio and television center. There were plans to demolish the Pyramid, but Albanian people protested against it.

The Pyramid is a Landmark for Albania

Even through the Pyramid reminds the Albanian people of the dark communism past, the building has also become a landmark. It is one of the best things to do in Tirana. In fact, it is quite popular to climb on top of the Pyramid. Because top of the pyramid offers a beautiful 360 degrees view of Tirana. At this moment in time, the “landmark” is in a state of despair and in need of maintenance. But the government has not decided on the future of the pyramid yet.

17. The Peace Bell

The Peach Bell is an art installation in front of the Pyramid building. The monument is a reminder of the collapse of the pyramid schemes in Albania. In short, after the communist regime ended in 1991, the Albanian population had no experience with private ownership and investing money. Private operators started “Ponzi Schemes or Pyramid Schemes” with very high interest rates. The operators were basically taking money from new investors and paying it out to earlier investors. Then in 1997 all the Ponzi schemes collapsed. As a result, unrest and riots hit the street leading to the death of hundreds of people. The peace bell monument is a landmark. Children from Shkodra collected gun shells from the street. The artist melted the gun shells create the Peace Bell.

18. The Murat Toptani Street

The Murat Toptani Street is a beautiful pedestrian street with leafy trees. It is the ultimate place to relax, to have a cup of coffee and to sit down on a terrace. It is one of the best things to do in Tirana. There is a beautiful stone wall along the street. The wall was a part of the Castle of Tirana during the Turkish Ottoman empire. Unfortunately, the wall is the only remaining part of the former castle, but it has been incorporated beautifully in the pedestrian street.

19. Spille Beach

Spille Beach is about an hour drive from Tirana. To reach Spille Beach, you should follow the road to Durres and then follow directions to Kavaje. The water is relatively calm and the sand is perfectly white. You may want to consider this beach site instead of the popular Durres, so that you can avoid the crowds. There is a lovely promenade, a pine tree forest and there are restaurants that serve fresh fish.

20. Rinia Park

Rinia Park is a green area in Tirana. The park has a large entertainment complex called Taivani or the Taiwan Center. The Taiwan building has a bowling alley, a casino, several restaurants and a cafe. The cafe is incredibly popular among locals because it looks over the beautiful fountain in the park.

21. The New Bazaar

The New Bazaar (called Pazari i Ri) is a market place with little cafes and restaurants. It is one of the best things to do in Tirana. The market place offers a variety of olives, cheeses, fresh figs, wine, raki and meats. It is a great place to visit and mix with the locals. You will be able to see a lively Balkan style market and to observe the local Albanians bargain for the best price.

22. Toptani Shopping Centre

The Toptani Shopping Center is a 7-floor shopping mall in the center of Tirana. It offers international shops and mostly Italian branded stores. As a tourist, the best place to go is the top floor, where there is variety of cafes with a beautiful view of the city. The perfect location to relax.

23. Kruja Castle

Kruja Castle is an excellent destination for a day-trip from Tirana. The village of Kruja is only 45 minutes from Tirana city. The castle is on top of the mountain, therefore it has a beautiful panoramic view over the area below. From the castle garden you can see the mountains, Tirana City, Kruja and the sea side in the distance. Furthermore, there is a the bazaar market on the hill side with lovely souvenirs and handicraft products. Moreover, you can visit the museum inside the castle walls. The museum is dedicated to Albania’s national hero Skanderbeg.

24. Preza Castle

Preza is a lesser-known destination for a day-trip from Albania. The Preza village is on the top of a mountain. The journey to Preza will take you around 45 minutes by car from the center of Tirana. The castle is all the way on the top of the hill. The ruins of the castle are lovely, but not impressive. However, the reason why you should visit Preza is the unimaginably panoramic view. Furthermore, since Preza is not crowded by tourists, you will most likely have the place to yourself. Therefore, Preza is an excellent place for a quite relaxing afternoon in the sunshine with a beautiful view and a lovely picnic lunch.

25. Petrela Castle

The Petrela village is just 30 minutes outside of Tirana by car. Even though, Petrela is incredibly close to the city, the atmosphere is completely different. Once you have arrived to the village you can drive up the winding road to the castle on the hilltop. Petrela castle is on the top of a massive rock. You must climb the stone path up the hill to reach the castle. But the view is worth it when you reach the top. There is also a little coffee house inside the castle, which is an excellent place to relax.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania . I arrange your transportation and I am your English speaking guide. So that, you get to experience the most beautiful places in Albania! Kind regards, Manon

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The 9 best places to visit in Albania

Nov 18, 2023 • 7 min read

A hike to the Theth Waterfall can be combined with the trail to the Blue Eye © Ben Pipe Photography / Getty Images

Albania is slowly becoming the jewel of the Balkans due to its sparkling crystal waters, impressive mountains and affordability for all types of travelers. Come with an open mind and a rough plan, and be ready to be submerged in a rich culture like no other in Europe.

If you’re planning a trip to this magnificent destination and are looking for the most beautiful places to visit but have no idea where to go in Albania , we’ve got you covered.   

1. The village of Theth

Best place for hiking and adventure lovers

Theth might just be the most peaceful place to visit in Albania. This small village nestled in between the Albanian Alps is perfect if you’re looking for the best hiking in the country and dramatic landscapes to enjoy.

There are two hikes you must do while visiting Theth . The first is the hike to the Blue Eye , which leads you through a forest, over rivers and finally to a vibrant blue natural spring. This hike is easy to moderate and perfect if you’re not an experienced hiker.

The second is one of the most popular in the country and one of the most beautiful: the Theth to Valbona  hike. This trail starts from the top of Theth village, near Guest House Gjelaj, and it leads you through the Albanian Alps to breathtaking views at the top. It’s not for the faint-hearted, as it will take roughly six to eight hours to complete – but you will be glad you did it!  

Planning tip: Make sure you bring cash with you, as ATMs can be hard to come by, and almost everything will need to be paid for in cash.

Prettiest place in Albania

When you visit Korce, make sure to stroll through the Pazari i Vjeter , which is the old bazaar of the city. Here, you can admire the bazaar’s 13th-century style in the form of old cobbled streets and Ottoman-style architecture.  

When you visit this area, be sure to pop into The Kooperativa, a communist-themed cafe that gives you a glimpse of Albania’s communist history from 1944 until 1991. 

Try the traditional alcoholic drink called raki, made from distilled grapes and very popular in Albania. You might even catch someone having a glass of raki with their morning espresso!

3. Gjirokastra

Best city for Albanian traditions

Known as the city of stone, Gjirokastra is a UNESCO city in the south of Albania. It was the birthplace of the former communist dictator, Enver Hoxha. 

One of the best things to do here, apart from walking the bazaar and visiting the castle of Gjirokastra, is to wander around  Zekat e House .  This traditional family home was built between 1811-1812 and is a beautiful example of some of the most fascinating Albanian home and marriage traditions. When you visit, one of the family members will show you around and explain the different rooms and their purposes.

If you love wine and want a foodie experience, then you need to take a trip to Te Fucite  (The Barrels). This family restaurant and winery specializing in smooth handmade wine offers platters of local cuisine for you to try while overlooking their vineyard and the surrounding mountains.

Planning tip: Try the dish called pasha qofte , which is essentially a cream soup made from milk with small meatballs inside. It’s a delicious dish you can only find in Gjirokastër.

Best place to go for beaches  

If you’re looking for a destination where you can lay about, get a sun tan and enjoy a dip in the sea, then you need to visit Dhermi . It’s one of the pearls of the Albanian Riviera and home to many summer music festivals, including the Kala festival and ION festival .

With idyllic beaches, trendy beach bars and views that might make you never want to leave, Dhermi is a hotspot for younger generations looking for the hottest parties and the best vibes of the summer. 

Try Restaurant Luciano for delicious food overlooking the water, or head to Alevra restaurant and beach bar to try some mouthwatering seafood with a twist.

Planning tip: Make sure you book well in advance if you’re visiting in July and August, as hotels can be booked out due to the festivals mentioned above.

5. P ë rmet

Best for white-water rafting and mountain biking

On a bend in the fast-flowing turquoise Vjosa river, about 32km (20 miles) from Greece where the river springs, is the hub town of Përmet. From here you can organize adventure activities from white-water rafting to camping, hiking and mountain bike riding in the region. Once an Ottoman-era commercial center, Përmet is "one of the greenest and cleanest parts of the country" today. The Vjosa River was recently designated as a wild river national park , Europe's first. 

Detour :  A 29km (18-mile) taxi or bus ride away is the Bënjë thermal baths next to an Ottoman-era bridge on the Lengarica River (a tributary of the Vjosa). In summer, you can pick up supplies from small vendors here; in the off-season, bring your own food and drinks. 

Best northern city in Albania

The city of Shkodra  is a breath of fresh air and is unlike any other city in Albania. When you arrive, you’ll notice most of the population peddling around the city by bike. While you’re there, do as the locals do and hire a bicycle for the day. Then head down to Liqeni i Shkodrës to enjoy the beautiful lake views. 

While you’re in the area, make sure you visit Rozafa Castle and ask one of the guides about the legend of Rozafa. Also, when you reach the top, you’ll experience a magnificent 360-degree view.

Planning tip: If you would like to do the Theth to Valbona hike and don’t fancy taking your luggage with you, a popular option is to leave your bags in Shkodra at your accommodation. Shkodra is a great city to base yourself in, as transfers will leave from there to take you to either Theth or Valbona.

Most peaceful village in Albania

Lin is a quiet village positioned on Lake Ohrid, which means there is excellent fishing here. If you’re looking for a lake getaway and craving silence and tranquility, this is a perfect choice. 

One of the best things to do is walk to the archaeological site on the hilltop, where you’ll get to see the well-preserved mosaics of a Paleo-Christian church built in the 6th century. If you visit in the summertime, the mosaics will be uncovered, and there should be a guide who can tell you all about their history.

You also get an incredible view from the top of Lin and can see North Macedonia as you look over Lake Ohrid.

Most visited place in Albania during summer

Saranda is the southern gateway to the Albanian Riviera and one of the best cities to visit, not least because it’s close to one of the region's best beaches, Ksamil Beach. 

Get a hotel in Saranda, where you’ll be close to some of the best restaurants in Albania and the city’s buzzing nightlife. Then explore the beaches of Saranda and Ksamil during the day.

One of the best things to do from Saranda is to hop on one of the day trip boat tours that leave from the boulevard and go to the beaches of Kakome and Krorez. Tickets start from €30.

Planning tip: The best time to visit Saranda is in May, June or September when the crowds are not crazy but the beach bars and restaurants are open. As this is a summer destination, most businesses close during the off-season.

9. Porto Palermo

Most underrated Albania Riviera destination

The triangle-shaped castle is a great reason to stop at Porto Palermo castle, as are the beautiful, unspoiled and peaceful beaches you'll find here – making for an excellent camping spot along the Albanian Riviera coast. 

You can also rent a kayak and paddle along the beaches and quiet bays. As you kayak, you’ll see the old military submarine bunker situated on the hill not far from the main beaches of Porto Palermo. 

Porto Palermo is filled with history and spectacular swimming bays and has a peaceful positioning along the Riviera.

This article was first published October 2022 and updated November 2023

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• Oct 17, 2022

Tirana, Albania: A Complete Guide To Albania's Capital City

Updated: Oct 27, 2022

Located in central Albania, Tirana has been the country’s capital since 1920. And although it experienced political turmoil until 1991, the city has now evolved into the cultural and entertainment center of the country. In fact, it is often referred to as one of the most underrated cities in Europe. And while we agree that it isn’t one of the most beautiful capital cities in Eastern Europe terms of its architecture, it certainly is one of the most interesting ones. Let’s explore the important things to know before going, where to eat and drink, where to stay, and the best things to do in and around the fascinating city of Tirana.

Check out our video on Tirana to get a sense of what it's like there!

Tirana Table Of Contents

Important things to know

Where to stay in Tirana

Where to eat and drink

Best things to do in Tirana + map

Tips to save money and other resources

Important Things To Know

Best time to travel to tirana.

The best time to travel to Tirana is from April to June or from September to October. In June, Tirana hosts an open-air electronic music festival and in October they have the Tirana Literature festival. Definitely go check them out if you're in the city at that time.

Cost & currency in Tirana

In general, Tirana is a bit more expensive than the other places in Albania, but it is still very affordable. In Albania, they use the Albanian Lek so if you plan on going, keep an eye out for the exchange rates to save more money. Withdraw your money at the Credins Bank for the best rate (and no extra fees!).

Safety in Tirana

The Tirana city center is very safe. Albania doesn't have the best image among tourists yet, but we never felt unsafe during our entire trip. Even at night, we felt safe and didn't encounter any problems ourselves.

Where To stay in Tirana

When you visit Tirana make sure you stay in downtown Tirana to be close to everything. Here are some suggestions:

Prime Hotel : only 80 meters from the Skanderbeg Square it has the perfect location.

Villa Center : a great option if you don't want to spend too much on accommodation.

LINA Apartment : where we stayed, has a kitchen and very good location near the New Bazaar.

Where To Eat And Drink

Everything inside the Tirana Castle has a really good atmosphere and tasty food. Also, the Zgaras around the New Bazaar are great!

Tartuf Restaurant : an awesome pasta/truffle restaurant in the Tirana Castle

Zgara Te Pazari : the zgara we went to, which is close to the New Bazaar

Greek Snacks : has good crepes

Oda : traditional Albanian food

Era: popular restaurant in the Blloku area, can get very crowded so come in time to get a spot!

Best Things To Do In Tirana

We recommend staying in Tirana for 3-4 days. This is enough time to get to know the city and atmosphere and visit all the places we mention below without having to rush.

If you're traveling to Tirana and want to save time searching for directions to all of the places we mention in this article, then look no further than our custom map. Simply click on a point in the map below to get directions there for yourself!

8. Do a free walking tour

The first and foremost thing you should do in Tirana is going on a free walking tour. During the 2.5 hour tour, you explore Tirana’s downtown area while learning about the city and country’s turbulent history, art, and everyday life. The tour starts at Skanderbeg Square . Other highlights include the Clock Tower , and various mosques and cathedrals. It’s not only a great introduction to the country but also provides a deeper understanding of Albanian culture. The tour runs every day from the Opera House in both English and Spanish. You can reserve your spot on the free walking tour here .

7. Visit the New Bazaar

Tirana’s New Bazaar (Pazari ri Bazaar) is a newly renovated market that offers fresh fruits, vegetables, as well as souvenirs, local wine, and raki. Around the bazaar, you will find several bars and restaurants to drink and eat at. Many of these places are called ‘zgara’s’, which literally translates to ‘grill’. And as the name suggests, these local grill houses offer a variety of grilled meats and other dishes.

6. Go on a day trip to Kruja

If you are looking for a nice day trip outside of the Albanian Capital city, then the picturesque town of Kruja might be for you. Located only 20 km north of Tirana, Kruja can easily be reached by public bus from the “ South and North Albania Bus Terminal ”. Kruja played a crucial role in the 15th century when it was the center of the Albanian opposition, led by the national hero Skanderbeg during the Ottoman invasion. Skenderbeg is still celebrated here today and there is even an entire museum dedicated to him. You can find this museum inside the castle that overlooks the town. Also check out the beautiful bazaar located in front of the castle.

5. Wine & dine at Tirana Castle

Tirana also has its very own castle , located in the heart of the city. Only this fortress has been transformed into a commercial space, filled with restaurants, wine bars, art, and souvenir shops. It’s a great place to have dinner with a glass of wine, and we found it quite affordable. The pedestrian street right next to the castle is one of the most charming streets you’ll find in the city.

You can find more castle destinations in our full Albania Travel Guide .

4. Explore Blloku

Another great area for entertainment in Tirana is Blloku . This small neighborhood really comes alive at night and is a trendy spot among locals. In addition to a variety of hip bars, nightclubs, and cafés, you can also find some of the best restaurants in Tirana here (such as Era!). This area became very attractive after the fall of communism, because during that period only communist elites were living there. Today, you can still find the former residence of Albania’s communist leader Enver Hoxha.

3. Take the Dajti Ekspres

Located in the outskirts of Tirana, the Dajti Ekspres cable car takes you to Dajti National Park which is 1,613m above sea level. It’s easy to get to the cable car station by public bus. Just hop on the blue bus near the clock tower next to Skanderbeg square. Find more details on how to get there by public transportation here . Once you’re in the cable car, the ride offers panoramic views of Tirana and the nature around it.

2. Visit Bunk’art

Combine your visit to Mount Dajti with a visit to Bunk’art 1 , as they are basically right next to each other. Bunk’art 1 is a large bunker with five levels, which was meant to be used by communist leader Hoxha and his regime in case of a nuclear attack. Videos weren’t allowed inside, but pictures were. The bunker has now been converted into a museum, which covers the history of Albania’s past century in great detail. But it’s the preserved rooms, conceptual art, and sound effects that really bring the story to life. This was our favorite museum in all of Tirana and even though the history is heartbreaking, it’s absolutely worth visiting. Alternatively, you can visit other communist museums closer to the center, such as the House of Leaves and Bunk’art 2 .

1. Hike Lake Bovilla

We kept the most beautiful sight for last! Lake Bovilla is a stunning reservoir that lies within Dajti National Park. Surrounded by two mountain ranges, hiking is the best activity you can do here. Gamti Mountain offers the most spectacular views of the lake and doesn’t require any experience. There are even some man-made stairs that help you get to the top, which are easily reachable from the Dajti Restaurant. To get to Lake Bovilla from Tirana, you need your own rental car. If you don’t have one, we suggest booking a guided tour .

Use These Websites To Save Money On Your Trip To Tirana

Booking.com for places to stay

Skyscanner for cheap flights

GetYourGuide for local tours

Rentalcars.com for affordable car rentals

Free Giveaway

Did you enjoy our article on the best things to do in Tirana? Download our free giveaway and spark your wanderlust with our top 100 travel destinations around the world!

Other Top Tirana resources:

If you're looking for some other suggestions and tips on Tirana, here are some great articles that will help you:

15 Best Things To Do in Tirana, Albania by Goats On The Road

The 15 Best Things to do in Tirana, Albania by Wandering Wheatleys

Ultimate travel guide to Tirana by Travelling King

Need more travel inspiration? Check out our Albania Travel Guide or other destinations and other articles about Albania:

Gjirokaster, Albania: The Best Things To Do

Saranda, Albania: A Guide To Albania's Most Popular Beach Destination

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Hi! We are Ine & Zac. An international travel couple from Belgium and the US. We created World Wild Hearts to inspire life-changing travel experiences like we've had. Use these tips, stories, and guides to inspire your next adventure of a lifetime!

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2 Days in Albania’s Capital? Here’s What You Should do in Tirana

Tirana is the vibrant capital city of Albania. You’ll find so much life, culture, history, and things to do in Tirana – this city definitely warrants a spot on your Albania bucket list. In this guide I’ll tell you all about the best things to do in Tirana as well as give you a detailed 2 day itinerary and tips for navigating the city – because it can be confusing!

I spent quite a while soaking up the vibes and culture of Tirana. About a week and a half to be exact. To be completely honest I actually didn’t do a whole lot in Tirana. I was more focused on acclimating to the culture and adjusting to the way of life in Albania because it’s MUCH different than life in Canada or in Western Europe. But I’ll get into all that later.

In saying this, you could easily spend a week+ in Tirana without getting bored (especially if you’re a city person), however I’m recommending you only spend 2-3 days in Tirana. Why? It’s not “real Albania.” As with any big city you’re only seeing a fraction of what the country and the people are actually like. If you want to see real Albania , you’ll want to head to the smaller villages and cities like Permet , Shkoder , Gjirokaster , and Berat .

Skip Ahead:

• How to navigate Tirana
• Where to stay in Tirana
• Tips for visiting Tirana
• Things to do in Tirana
• 2 Day Tirana itinerary

As you read this post, please consider clicking the links throughout . These are affiliate links which means when you book a hotel or purchase a product, I make a small commission at no additional cost to you ( full disclosure ). These commissions fund The Holistic Backpacker and help me write more blog posts.

Thank you for supporting my work!

Quick Albania Travel Guide:

Currency : Albanian LEK (aka ALL). This is a closed currency so you’ll need to wait until you’re in Albania to exchange $.

Transportation : to enter the country you can find 1 international airport in Tirana, 1 port in Saranda (daily ferry arrivals/departures to Corfu, Greece), and a bus line from Montenegro. Buses are very cheap here, but unreliable. Driving is chaotic, I’d recommend sticking to buses. There are no trains within the country.

Phone : purchase a local SIM card from Vodafone – the plans are cheap and they include lots of data, however international minutes are typically not available.

Language : Albanian, however you can get by with English. Google translate is recommended for smaller cities/villages.

Helpful Info : don’t drink the tap water or bring a purifying bottle like this one . Bring an international travel adapter , and notify your bank before travelling.

Travel Insurance : ALWAYS purchase reliable travel insurance prior to any trip. This insurance is trusted by backpackers and adventure sport enthusiasts around the world, however here are a few more insurance company suggestions .

Purchase my Albania map which is downloadable to google maps on your phone. It has 200+ pinned locations around the country – all available at your fingertips.

Albania is one of the last “undiscovered” countries in Europe. Plan your trip while prices & tourism levels are low!

Downloadable Map of Albania

I’ve created a map of Albania equipped with 200+ pinned locations including:

• Hiking trails, national parks, caves, waterfalls & beaches
• Historical, cultural & religious sites
• Lodging options, restaurant recommendations & transit hubs
• Main points of interest, big cities, beach towns and mountain villages

Each pin has photos, a description, direct booking links, and external itineraries (when applicable).

The map is downloadable to Google Maps on your phone and was designed to be a digital tour guide when you’re on-the-go.

This map has all of Albania’s best and will save you loads of pre-travel research time.

Related Articles:

• 18 Helpful Tips You Should Know BEFORE Travelling Albania
• 30+ Best Things to do in Albania: Excursions, Tours, and Destinations
• 17 Best Places in Albania
• Backpacker’s Guide to the Best Hostels in Albania
• Hiker’s Guide to the Albanian Alps
• 10 Reasons to Visit the Shala River aka the “Thailand of Albania”

How to Navigate Tirana

First things first, navigation.

Navigating Albania – especially Tirana – can be quite confusing. So, I figure what better way to introduce you to Tirana than to tell you all about the bus “system” there?

Tirana is the capital city of Albania which means you can reach it via bus from anywhere in Albania. No matter what city or little village you’re in, you’re almost guaranteed a direct bus here. HOWEVER I must warn you about the bus system in Albania – it’s unreliable, it’s flaky, it’s not connected to google maps, and you won’t find an accurate time table online. Rely on local knowledge (like employees at your hotel or hostel) for information about the bus schedule.

If you’re flying into or out of Albania, you can plan to visit Tirana. Tirana currently has the only international airport in the country, although there are rumours about another one starting up in Korçe.

Tirana is a large city which means there are multiple, important bus stops:

• Alternatively, if you’re arriving at the regional stop and need to get to Tirana’s city centre, you can find the bus stop across the street. The bus departs frequently, so you won’t need to worry about the schedule.
• If you need to get to the airport from the city center you can catch the bus near Skanderbeg Square – behind the Opera.

If all else fails and you’re feeling confused or overwhelmed, ask the locals for directions. Most people in Tirana speak English and Albanians are always happy to help!

Where to Stay in Tirana

Albania hasn’t been subjected to Schengen inflation which makes it a total backpacker’s paradise.

At the time of writing this, accommodations typically run anywhere from 6 to 100 euros in Tirana depending on the type of accommodation you’re booking.

Here’s a quick crash course for the best accommodations in Tirana according to each budget:

• Hostels – When I visited Tirana I stayed at the English hostel and loved it; unfortunately it’s no longer operational. Aside from this one, Trip’n’Hostel is a big party hostel in the city and the Tirana Backpacker Hostel is quite popular.
• Budget Guesthouses – Guesthouse NEO , Guesthouse Sense , Home Sweet Home 1
• Mid-range hotels – there are literally SO many mid-range hotels in Tirana it’s crazy. You can see them all here .
• Luxury accommodations – Plaza Hotel , Arté Boutique Hotel , Rogner Hotel (one of the best hotels in Albania).

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Tips for Visiting Tirana

• Spend 2-3 days in Tirana.
• Prepare yourself for a little bit of culture shock if you’ve never been to Eastern Europe. The driving culture and infrastructure is quite frankly comparable to India in a lot of ways.
• Don’t drink the tap water – you’ll need to buy bottled water here.
• Albanian’s are some of the most friendly and helpful people I’ve ever met. If you need to ask questions, don’t be shy! They love tourists and are always thrilled to help.
• Refer to these quick tips for visiting Albania and these Tirana navigation tips for an introductory crash course to Albania and Tirana.

Things To do in Tirana

1. dajti ekspress & hike maja e tujanit.

As with all my city based posts, I’m starting this list of things to do in Tirana out with none other than a hiking recommendation!

The Dajti Ekspress is the cable car in Tirana. The cable car takes you partway up Dajti Mountain where you’ll find restaurants, patios, mini golf, horses, a view overlooking all of Tirana, as well as other games and activities.

The cable car in Tirana is a bit far to reach by foot, so you’ll have to take a local bus to reach the base of the mountain. The Dajti Ekspress website has a detailed video which perfectly explains how to reach the cable car via bus. I’d definitely recommend watching their video as this makes getting there super easy!

The real magic atop Dajti Ekspress happens a little higher than where the cable car takes you though. If you walk behind the abandoned hotel at the end of the field you’ll find an unmarked trailhead for Maja e Tujanit. This is a steep, but simple trail that’ll take you to a viewpoint looking into Dajti National Park. My favourite part about this hike is the view you get of the beautiful Bovilla Lake !

You can read my full guide to hiking Maja e Tujanit here .

2. Free Walking Tour of Tirana

The free walking tour of Tirana is the best way to learn about the local attractions, historic sites, and layout of the city. The tours typically depart twice a day at 10am and 6pm – although you’ll want to double check with your hotel or hostel employees for an updated schedule.

The tour departs in front of the Opera at Skanderbeg Square where you’ll be led by knowledgeable, lively, and licensed tour guides to all the Tirana highlights.

The free walking tour should definitely make your list of things to do in Tirana because it’s the best way to check all the major attractions like the mosque’s, churches, Enver Hoxha’s house (Albania’s former communist leader), etc off your Tirana bucket list. The tour is perfect because you can see everything, learn the history, snap some photos, and decide if you want to come back to explore these locations more in depth later.

The tour typically lasts 2 hours.

3. Skanderbeg Square

Skanderbeg Square is the main “meeting place” in Tirana. This is where you’ll find loads of Albanians meeting in the later hours of the day for their evening xhiro. Xhiro being an evening “walk” or social hour. Albanians LOVE their xhiro!

Skanderbeg Square is essentially just a large empty square framed by multiple important points of interests (like mosques, the opera house, statues, etc). It marks the centre of Tirana and you can find all the intracity buses nearby.

Something interesting you’ll notice about Skanderbeg Square is that there’s often water covering the tiles in the square. This is actually used as a technique to cool the square down amidst the scorching Albanian heat.

So, when you’re making your list of things to do in Tirana, make sure you add a walk through Skanderbeg Square to your bucket list. This location is pretty iconic in Tirana.

4. BUNK’ART

BUNK’ART should 100% make your list of things to do in Tirana.

Why? BUNK’ART is located underground in one of the old bunkers from Albania’s communist times. If that isn’t cool enough to make you want to visit, then maybe this will: within BUNK’ART you’ll find lots of interesting history and artifacts from the communist regime like communication devices, bugging devices, camera gear, important paperwork, videos, etc.

There are actually 2 BUNK’ARTs within Tirana: BUNK’ART 1 and BUNK’ART 2. Apparently BUNK’ART 2 has more to see and is the “highlight” of the bunkers, however BUNK’ART 2 is located quite far from the city centre – you’ll need to take a bus to access it. Actually, the best time to visit BUNK’ART 2 is if you take the Dajti Ekspress, they’re located nearby one another.

BUNK’ART 1 is located right in the city centre and is super interesting too though – this is the one I visited and I quite enjoyed my time here.

5. Grand Park

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the city or are craving some nature, add a stroll through Grand Park to your list of things to do in Tirana.

Grand Park is a beautiful outdoor space complete with an artificial lake, outdoor workout equipment, greenery, gardens, kids play equipment, patios, etc.

It is SO relaxing and quiet in Grand Park, you’d never know you were in the capital city of Albania!

6. Rruga Murat Toptani

Rruga Murat Toptani is a pedestrian street full of patios and greenery. This is a great place to grab lunch or sit back and watch the culture of Tirana unfold in front of you.

7. Experience Albanian Night Life

Albania nightlife is… interesting to say the least!

You’ll find that Albania is a very social place – you’ll always find locals chatting, drinking, and meeting at the patios scattered all over the city.

Nightlife though is something different. At the nightclubs in Albania you’ll find extremely loud music, great venues, but no dancing, minimal drinking, and lots of staring. It honestly feels like Albanians go out just to “look cool” because they don’t party like North Americans or Western Europeans do!

The dance floors are filled with tables which really promotes the whole standing around and not dancing vibe. I was always out with a fun group which made the experience enjoyable, however I wouldn’t expect to go out solo and have a “wild night.”

Anyways, the experience is so bizarre that I would definitely recommend adding a night out to your list of things to do in Tirana. The best area to go out for drinks or nightlife in Tirana is the Blloku District. I personally went to Folie Terrace nightclub and I would definitely recommend it. There were live performers, smoke machines, great lighting, and fantastic music.

By the way, ladies you won’t ever have to pay for a drink when you go out in Albania!

8. Discover More of Albania’s Communist History

You’ll find that Albania has tons of history (like SO much) and Tirana is definitely one of the best places in all of Albania to learn about it.

In addition to the BUNK’ARTs you can also visit the National Museum of History and the House of Leaves. Both are jam packed with information, each offering something a little different!

2 Day Tirana Itinerary

Okay “real day 1” in Albania is probably going to be filled with transportation, confusion, and logistics, especially if you’re flying in. This 2 day itinerary starts with your first full day in Tirana.

Day 1 in Tirana starts off with a hearty breakfast. You’ll find loads of patios all over Tirana which make for ideal breakfast locations, however most of the time your hotel or hostel will include breakfast in the price.

After breakfast you’ll want to start your day off with a nice walk around the city to get your bearings. I always recommend starting the day off with a walk to Grand Park. This is where you’ll find the artificial lake in Tirana as well as lots of green space. I was actually shocked by how nice this area was! Tons of trees, outdoor workout equipment, gardens, parks for the kids, etc.

Afterwards walk back to the city center and check out the fruit markets. They are everywhere and they’re sooo cheap! Midday is also a good time to check out Rruga Murat Toptani which is a beautiful pedestrian street full of greenery, patios, and cafes – great lunch spot! It’s also right next to the castle if you feel like venturing in there.

After lunch can you take your ack at what history you want to learn about: visit the House of Leaves, BUNK’ART, or the National History Museum.

And finally, end your day with a free walking tour of Tirana. I always recommend partaking in the evening tour as the temperatures are usually much cooler in the evening.

If you want a taste of the Albanian xhiro vibe, you can also walk through Skanderbeg Square to end off your first big day in the city. Here you’ll find all of Albania comes alive – it’s the “meeting place” for Albanians in Tirana.

On day 2 you’ll want to make your way to the Dajti Ekspress. If you’re feeling adventurous you can also hike up to Maja e Tujanit !

Afterwards, come on back down to the city center and spend more time exploring the points of interest you learned about on last night’s free tour. Now is a great time to venture inside the churches, mosque’s, or the museums scattered around the city.

Finally, you’ll want to end your last night in Tirana in the Blloku District. This is where you’ll find the best bars and nightlife in Tirana. You can grab dinner if you go early, but later in the evening most of the restaurants turn into bars only – no food is served.

The Blloku District is the ideal place to grab a drink in Tirana and if you’re feeling the party vibes you can hit up one of the nightclubs in Tirana. I went to Folie Terrace which was honestly one of the coolest looking nightclubs I’ve been to!

Happy adventuring!

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About The Author

HI, I’m Taylor – the voice behind The Holistic Backpacker.

After moving to Banff National Park in 2020 I became an outdoor adventure enthusiast and vowed to never stop exploring.

I now spend my days travelling the world, climbing mountains, and spending nights under the stars in the Canadian Rockies backcountry.

I created The Holistic Backpacker so I could share my adventures and help connect people like you with the same amazing experiences.

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Home » Travel Guides » Albania » 15 Best Places to Visit in Albania

15 Best Places to Visit in Albania

Albania may be a little country but there is a lot to see and do in this exciting up-and-coming location. Bordering Macedonia, Greece, Kosovo and Montenegro, Albania’s long coastline is one of the most ruggedly beautiful in the world.

While Albania is slowly becoming more popular with tourists it remains extremely undiscovered, as well as almost completely unspoiled. Albania boasts some of the best examples of Ottoman architecture in the world, along with supremely clear Mediterranean air and stunningly fabulous beaches.

And, perhaps best of all, travelling to Albania remains an extremely affordable trip, even compared to much of the rest of this part of Europe. Let’s have a look the best places to visit in Albania !

1. Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera is perhaps the most popular place in the country for tourists to visit. The riviera has a growing reputation as an important music location, with many international music festivals – including Turtle Fest and Soundwave Albania – having taken place here.

Nightclubs such as Folie Marine in Jale beach and Havana Beach Club near Dhermi draw young people from across Europe to the Albanian Riviera.

The seaside town of Himara is one of the riviera’s best places to visit, while Porto Palermo Beach, Llamani Beach and Filikuri Beach are some of the area’s finest sandy stretches, while Drymades Beach is one of the liveliest spots here.

The capital city of Albania, Tirana will be the starting point for many people exploring the best places in Albania.

The city is home to few must-see tourist locations, but the 18th-century Et’hem Bey mosque is well worth a visit.

Tirana’s people, like the vast majority of Albanian locals, are exceptionally friendly and the city is supremely affordable, with surprisingly excellent food and drinks both very cheap.

Skanderbeg Square is one of Tirana’s most important places and this is where the National Historical Museum can be found too.

At the heart of Skanderbeg Square – and therefore the heart of Tirana – is a statue of the historic Albanian national hero Skanderbeg.

3. Llogara Pass

The Llogara Pass is one of Albania’s most famous places, with the road providing one of the most spectacular drives in the whole world.

Located in the middle of the Llogara National Park, the road travels to over 1,000 metres above sea level and the scenery will take your breath away.

At the top of the pass there is a good range of restaurants, which are ideal places to enjoy some of the most stunning sights in Albania.

Llogara National Park itself is home to animals such as the golden eagle, European wildcat and fallow deer.

A drive from  Tirana to Saranda taking in the Llogara Pass should take a few hours, but allow plenty of extra time to stop and take lots of photographs.

Berat is in the middle of Albania and it is believed to be one of the country’s oldest towns. Berat is often known by its nickname – the City of a Thousand Windows – due to its mix of Ottoman and Albanian architecture.

Berat’s main tourist site is the 140th century castle, Kalaja, which is still home to hundreds of people. Formerly among the most important Albanian cities of the Ottoman Empire, Berat was added to the list of Unesco World Heritage sites in 2008.

The Church of St. Mary of Blachernae is a must-see sight for anyone visiting Berat, as is the Mangalem Quarter.

Saranda is one of the hottest tourism locations in Albania, with the town having undergone a huge amount of development in the last 20 years or so.

Saranda is home to some of the most unforgettable beaches in Albania, while the Unesco World Heritage site at Butrint is located just outside of Saranda and is well worth a visit too.

Lekursi Castle is one of the best places to go in Saranda, with people flocking here to enjoy stunning sunsets. Saranda is located a short trip across the Ionian Sea from the popular Greek island of Corfu.

6. Gjirokastra

A Unesco city, Gjirokastra is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Albania. Unique Ottoman period architecture – with houses designed like small castles – can be found all over Gjirokastra, which has a military museum and art gallery in its amazing castle that dominates the skyline.

A folklore festival also takes place in Gjirokastra’s castle every five years – the last one was in 2015. Visiting the old Ottoman bazaar in Gjirokastra should be on the agenda for anyone visiting this part of the country.

Gjirokastra is famous as the birthplace of world-renowned author Ismail Kadare and Albania’s former dictator Enver Hoxha – today their old homes are museums.

Located a short trip away from the capital Tirana, Kruja is a must-visit spot for anyone heading to Albania for the first time.

Kruja is home to the national ethnographic museum, but it is best known for being where the Skanderbeg museum can be found. Located in the Kruja castle, the museum is one of Albania’s most important and popular tourist attractions.

It was from this fortress that Albania’s hero – George Kastrioti Skanderbeg – defended the country from Ottoman invasion over a period spanning three decades.

The castle also offers staggering views of the Adriatic Sea. The national park Qafe Shtama and the tomb of Sari Saltik are also located close to Kruja.

Away from Albania’s biggest cities, in the north of the country, is Theth. Located high in the Albanian Alps, Theth is a designated area of outstanding natural beauty and it is easy to see why.

Theth National Park is perhaps the most beautiful place in all of Albania, with its Grunas Waterfall and the Lock-in Tower both extremely popular with visitors.

The mountain peaks of Thethi, Boga, Razma and Vermoshi provide an unforgettable experience of Albania in its most natural state.

Hikers and nature lovers will find Theth to be one of the best places to visit during a trip to Albania.

9. Ksamil Islands

The highlight of the Albanian Riviera is perhaps the Ksamil Islands, a remote group of three small islands located just off the coast, accessible only by boat from the small town of Ksamil.

Part of the larger Butrint National Park, the Ksamil Islands are a fantastic example of Albania at its most untouched and unspoiled.

Visiting the Blue Eye Spring is also a must for anyone who wants to experience what Ksamil has to offer during their magical Albanian break. July and August are the busiest time of year for the Ksamil Islands, but even then there are few tourists around here.

10. Shkodra

The largest town in the north of Albania, Shkodra is often considered the cultural capital of the country.

This is because it hosts events such as Carnival, Lake Day, the Children’s Festival and Shkodra Jazz Fest, while it is also home to a famous historic castle notable for its important role during the First Balkan War.

Shkodra has a simply gorgeous lake, while the medieval citadel of Drisht is only a few miles away. The famous Migjeni theatre is in Shkodra as well, along with an ace market that is well worth visiting. Shkodra’s Malazeze cuisine is perhaps Albania’s best too.

In the south-west of Albania is the popular coastal resort of Vlore , which has long been best known for its olive production – it is believed to house some 280,000 olive trees.

Vlore has many important historic sights, but perhaps the most famous of them is the Albanian Independence Proclamation Building, which is where Albania declared independence a little over 100 years ago.

Today, there is a monument dedicated to this defining moment in Albania’s history. The area of Cold Water in Vlore is popular with younger tourists due to its choice of hip bars and restaurants.

12. Apollonia

Apollonia was once one of the most important cities in the world, and as such it is a must for anyone visiting Albania for the first time.

Found in the heart of Albania, within easy reach from the city of Fier, Apollonia’s ruins are breathtaking and the views from this part of the country are superb too.

Once upon a time, Apollonia was listed among the dominions of Pyrrhus of Epirus. Those days are long gone, but Apollonia should still be on the itinerary for anyone who wants to learn more about Albania’s rich history up close.

Albania’s main port, Durres is also one of the nation’s oldest cities. Durres is most famous for being home to the biggest amphitheater in the Balkans, while the unspoiled northern coastal stretch of Lalzit Bay is one of Albania’s most beautiful places to visit.

Tourists should consider taking time out of their schedules to visit the Durres Archaeological Museum, the Aleksander Moisiu Theatre and the Royal Villa of Durres during their time in the second largest city in Albania.

Many cultural events and feastings are held in Durres throughout the year, while the city is also the birthplace of Bujar Nishani, the current President of Albania.

14. Lake Koman

For the most breathtaking scenery in the entire Balkans, visiting Lake Koman in Albania should be on anyone’s bucket list. Often described as one of the world’s great boat trips, the journey takes visitors from the hydro-electric dam at Koman to the port of Fierza.

While the locals that use the boat regularly may now take the rugged beauty of the Albanian mountains for granted, any first-time visitor will find the sights from the Lake Koman Ferry to be truly jaw-dropping. The trip on the ferry is also a great opportunity to see what life is like for many Albanians in remote areas.

15. Pogradec

One of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Albania is Pogradec, which can be found on the shores of Lake Ohrid in the east of the nation.

Lake Ohrid is the deepest lake in the Balkan region and while the Macedonian side of the lake is more popular, Albania’s shore is definitely on the up.

Pogradec is famous for its rich folklore, while its Puppet Theater Festival is one of the most interesting events on Albania’s tourism calendar.

The stunning Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park is around 30-45 minutes away from Pogradec as well, while the springs of Drilon are also close.

15 Best Places to Visit in Albania:

• Albanian Riviera
• Llogara Pass
• Gjirokastra
• Ksamil Islands

Wander-Lush

22 Travel Tips for Albania: Useful Things to Know Before You Go

My top travel tips for Albania to save you money, time and stress. Read this before you go travelling in Albania.

When I embarked on my 6-month overland journey through the Balkan countries, Albania was definitely the country I was most nervous about visiting.

I had read all about the rugged beaches , high mountains and historic towns and castles – so I had no trouble deciding where to go and what to do . But the people, the culture, the food and all the practical details such as transportation, WIFI and accommodation – well, I had absolutely no clue what to expect.

On the ground, I discovered that most negative stereotypes about the country are untrue. In my experience Albania is safe, affordable, friendly, diverse, tolerant and above all else, incredibly beautiful .

At the same time, I learned that Albania does present some particular challenges , even for those well-practiced at travelling in the region.

Without spoiling any of the country’s special secrets or revealing too many of the quirky things about Albania that are fun to figure out as you go, I want to share a couple of things that will make your travel experience smoother and more fulfilling.

Here are 22 practical travel tips for Albania that I think every traveller should know.

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What is travelling in Albania really like? 22 useful travel tips for Albania

Albania is quite unlike any of its neighbours.

It’s tempting to think of the Balkans (particularly the western Balkans) as a monolith. But I don’t need to tell you that every country is its own entity. Within this tapestry, Albania is perhaps the most distinct nation in terms of both its culture and history.

An obvious example: The Albanian language, Shqip , is unlike anything else spoken in the region (or anywhere else in the world for that matter). It’s thought to be descended from an extinct Illyrian tongue, but its exact origins are still a mystery to linguists.

After months of being able to follow the rough contours of a shared speech in Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina , hearing the curious chatter of Albanian on the streets of Tirana was quite a contrast.

Albania’s cultural and religious traditions are also very distinct. And although you can find local variations of cevapi and burek, the cuisine is totally different too!

With the exception of Kosovo where almost 93% of the population are ethnically Albanian, it’s hard to draw a comparison between Albania and any of its neighbours. In many ways Albania feels more like Georgia – slightly chaotic but imminently beautiful, with the furgon the local equivalent of the marshrutka.

Learn a bit about the history before you go

Of course this runs much deeper than just food and minivans. Albania wasn’t part of Yugoslavia and doesn’t have the same ‘baggage’ as its northern neighbours. That’s not to say the nation wasn’t impacted by the Balkan Wars and genocide – it certainly was – but in a different way. No fighting took place on Albanian soil.

Instead, Albania was subjected to its own private horrors, namely 45 years under an oppressive political regime including 30 years with despotic communist dictator, Enver Hoxha, at the helm. Hoxha’s ideology was so hardline, he viewed Yugoslavia and the USSR as too lax. It’s very difficult for an outsider to try and comprehend how this period of history impacted Albania and its people. But I felt compelled to at least try.

One of the most interesting things I found is that Albanians embrace their whole history – the good and the bad. The communist regime only fell in the 1990s so for the majority of the population, it’s not a distant memory but something that’s still very fresh. But it’s never glossed over. Most people we met were happy to chat politics and share their experiences.

For example: There are 173,000 disused nuclear bunkers sprinkled around Albania, each a monument to Hoxha’s paranoia. Instead of destroying them, people decided to either leave them be or repurpose them as museums or galleries. (Now there’s even a Cold War military base that’s being rebranded as an island destination .) Tirana’s collection of Communist-era statues and busts are displayed in a courtyard behind the National Art Gallery. And Blloku, once an exclusive neighbourhood where the party members lived, has been reclaimed as a vibrant cafe and street art district. Even Hoxha’s old house is still standing.

Some might think of Albania as a dark tourism destination. To me, this is a nation of light and colour. While visitors have an obligation to familiarise themselves with the nation’s recent history, it’s important to do so in a respectful, thoughtful way. The Bunk’Art museums in Tirana are a great place to start and will enrich your experience immensely. 

The man atop the horse is General Skanderbeg

On a lighter note, here’s a bit of trivia for you. If Hoxha is Albania’s villain, then the nation’s hero is definitely Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, AKA General Skanderbeg. 

It took me far too long to learn who Skanderbeg is and why he’s so beloved in this part of the world. As I travelled around the Balkans, I kept seeing the same statue of a warrior – including in squares in Skopje and Prishtina – and started referring to him simply as ‘the man atop the horse’. It wasn’t until I got to Albania that I was finally able to put a name to the face.

Skanderbeg was an Albanian military commander who lived during the early 15th century. He’s famous for leading a campaign against the Ottomans which freed Albania and several neighbouring countries from being vassal states. His penultimate battle was launched from the town of Kruja north of Tirana, now the location of Skanderbeg’s castle-museum. It’s a popular day trip and the place to go if you want to learn more about this chapter of history.

The only other person held in similar esteem is Albania’s heroine, Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, AKA Mother Teresa. Born to Albanian Kosovar parents in Skopje – then part of the Ottoman Empire and now the capital of North Macedonia – she’s beloved in all three countries (though each claims her as their own!).

Albania is overwhelmingly a safe country for tourists

One of the biggest misconceptions about Albania is that it’s unsafe for tourists. In reality, foreigners are very rarely the target of violent crime, and although pickpocketing and scams do happen, they’re not as widespread as in other countries in Europe.

Generally speaking, Albania is overwhelmingly safe for travellers of all types (including solo females) provided you exercise common sense and caution.

My one negative experience in Albania was being fleeced by a taxi driver in Gjirokaster . It was my mistake for not doing my research – I was unfamiliar with the location and agreed to a price without understanding just how short the distance to my hotel was. To avoid misunderstandings within the cities, it’s best to download a taxi app .

The biggest thing to watch out for in Albania is road safety. (Here we find another similarity to Georgia: The driving style.) More on that later.

As a side note: It’s not advisable to drink the tap water in Tirana or other cities/towns.

Avoid visiting in July or August

The best time to visit Albania in my opinion is any time except summer. I travelled during June. As the month went on and my trip was coming to an end, I found most places were getting a little too warm and dry – and much too crowded – for my liking.

Albania has a Mediterranean climate, thus winters are mild but wet. The best time to visit Albania is shoulder season (late March to early June or September through October) when the weather is pleasant both on the coast and in the mountains.

July and August are hot and busy, especially on the riviera, and should be avoided. That’s unless you plan to stick to the mountains, in which case summer is the best time for trekking.

Consider flying into a neighbouring country

Most people arrive in Albania via the country’s main international airport, Tirana Airport Nënë Tereza. This makes sense if your itinerary starts in the capital or in the northern part of the country.

A second international airport opened in July 2021 in Kukës (KFZ), 150km north-east of Tirana (and just 45-minutes from Prizren in Kosovo ). It’s a suitable starting point for the Albanian Alps, but international arrivals are so far limited to flights from Zurich and Istanbul.

If you’re travelling around the south of Albania, it might be more convenient (and more affordable) to fly into a neighbouring country instead. Corfu International Airport in Greece is a short ferry ride from Saranda, for example, and a logical place to arrive/depart if you’re mainly focusing on the Albanian Riviera.

Also read: My top tips for visiting Montenegro .

Lek is the official currency, but Euros are widely accepted

The official currency in Albania is the lek. Although Albania is not part of the EU, the Euro is widely used as well.

Lek is common currency in convenience shops, at restaurants and among taxi drivers – i.e. for small purchases. You’ll find that most hotels and guesthouses list their prices in Euro, and it usually works out far better to pay for big-ticket items such as hotel bills and rental cars in Euro rather than lek. If you try to pay in lek, you risk losing a big chunk of cash due to the conversion rate.

At the time of writing, 1 Euro is equivalent to 121.5 LEK.

Always have cash on you

Albania is very much a cash society so you need to make sure you have plenty of bills on you at all times. You can get by in Tirana using card only, but outside the capital, cash is still king.

Lek is a closed currency so you’ll have to wait until you arrive in-country to get your hands on some. Remember that lek is only good for small purchases and meals, so only withdraw as much as you need.

ATMs are easy to find in Albania (even in rural areas). Most banks charge a 300-700 lek withdrawal fee, but Credins Bank and Alpha Bank are among those that are fee-free (at the time of writing). Remember to check for any extra charges issued by your home bank.

Albania is extremely affordable – even by Balkans standards

Accommodation, restaurants and activities in Albania are all extremely good value for money. We easily got by on 40 USD per person per day – and you could spend a lot less by taking advantage of the hostel scene and sticking to free activities. One of our biggest expenses was museum tickets, something we don’t tend to skimp on.

A generous meal in a restaurant in Albania might cost you 500-1000 lek per person, while cheap snacks such as burek are perfect for breakfast and will only set you back around 100 lek.

Expect to pay 1,600 lek for a local sim card with data, around 200 lek for a cup of coffee, and anywhere from 400-1,000 lek on average for an intercity bus fare.

Buy a sim card when you arrive

Majority of hotels, bars and restaurants in Albania have WIFI, while many beaches and archaeological sites are now serviced by a free public network. Still, if you want unfettered access to the internet for things like booking taxis and navigation, you will need a sim card.

ALBtelecom is the preferred mobile provider in Albania. It’s very easy to buy and register a sim card at one of their shops in Tirana using your passport/ID card. A sim card and internet package (20 GB with 30 days validity) will set you back 1,600 lek.

While coverage in Tirana is good enough to support a burgeoning digital nomad community, reception is still fairly limited in remote areas and non-existent in the mountains.

Don’t put your faith in Google Maps

If you’re getting around Albania with public transport and only using Google Maps for general navigation within the cities, then you have nothing to worry about. But if you’re driving in Albania and using Google Maps to plan your road trip route , you need to watch out for a couple of things.

It seems Google Maps hasn’t quite been able to keep pace with Albania’s rapid infrastructure developments. Missing roads and non-existent turn offs are common encounters, and you’ll find you’re constantly being forced to re-route. Take directions with a grain of salt and always budget extra time to account for detours.

The same goes for finding addresses – street names and house numbers often don’t correspond to what’s on the map. Even major landmarks are sometimes pinned in the wrong spot.

Furgons are your friends

Albania has a limited railway network connecting Tirana with Shkoder in the north, Durres and Vlore on the coast, and Pogradec on Lake Ohrid in the east. Domestic flights are now available from Tirana to Kukës, and flying can certainly save you time getting from the capital to the far-north.

Travelling around the centre and south of Albania, you’ll be relying on road transport. Renting a car is a great option if you’re a confident driver. Otherwise, furgons are your friends.

Furgons are intercity minivans similar to marshrutka vans used throughout the former Soviet countries . They run on a flexible schedule, stop on demand, and are extremely budget-friendly. The downsides: Road safety is not exactly a priority, luggage space (and legroom) is very limited, and you can forget about AC. Furgons depart when full so it’s important to always arrive at the bus station well ahead of schedule.

An upgrade on the furgon is the coach bus. You’ll find large air conditioned coaches running on most popular routes during the warmer months, including between Tirana and Berat , Kruje, Gjirokaster, Korca , Durres, etc.

Gjirafa Travel is a terrific website for checking bus schedules and timetables online in English. Whenever possible, I recommend cross-checking times locally at the station.

Speaking of bus stations – there are multiple bus terminals in Tirana and trying to figure out which one you need can be extremely confusing! Pogradec and Shkoder have their own stations, while other buses depart from the Regional Bus Terminal – North and South Albania.

Take extra care on the roads

Albanians have a reputation for their maniacal driving style and for flouting the rules of the road. Combined with poor road conditions in many parts of the country (although the major highways are in good nick) and the proliferation of old and worn-down cars on the road, it’s a recipe for disaster.

Be careful when crossing the road, especially in the city. Take precautions whenever you travel by road, and only hire a car if you’re very confident. Try to avoid being out on the road after dark, and never get into a car with someone who’s been drinking. I also recommend capping your road journeys to a couple of hours per leg.

Albanian cuisine is a revelation

Albania is not exactly known as a foodie destination , but it should be. Regional cuisine, traditional Albanian dishes and the country’s super-popular farm-to-table fresh food movement all combine to create a fascinating culinary scene.

Albanian food is so diverse, you can find something new to try every day. I was quite satisfied eating only Albanian food for the entire duration of my stay. I found Albanian food fresher and less meat-oriented than in some other countries in the region. Most restaurants have plenty of vegetarian options.

Northern, central and southern Albania all have their separate culinary traditions , and within that towns and villages have their own specialties. Balkan, Italian, Turkish, Greek and even ancient Roman influences can all be identified, while you’ll find many similarities to other Mediterranean cuisines (especially Greek and Italian).

Seafood reigns supreme on the coast, while in the south, food choices reflect the pastoral landscape: Dairy, citrus and olive oil are all prominent. Garlic and onions are ubiquitous.

Some of my favourite Albanian dishes include: Tavë Kosi , a meal of lamb, eggs and yogurt traditional to Elbasan; Gjirokaster qifqi (arancini-like rice balls flavoured with mint and black pepper); ‘Berati schnitzel’ (pork stuffed with hard cheese) and pispili (spinach pie with a cornbread base), both traditional to Berat; and Korca’s famous savory lakror pie.

Watch out for raki

One thing Albania does have in common with its Balkan compatriots is the proclivity for alcohol. Sipping spirits in particular is a huge part of the culture.

The drink of choice in Albania is raki or rakia , a potent clear spirit distilled from grapes. Commercial versions are up to 45% proof, but homemade raki is much, much stronger. If you’re at a small restaurant or guesthouse and a recycled plastic soft drink bottle comes out, brace yourself.

It can be difficult to get out of these drinking sessions. I found it much easier to decline as a woman. Remember you can always step away if you feel uncomfortable. Otherwise, take small sips and make sure there’s always something left in your glass to avoid unwanted top ups!

Raki isn’t all bad. In Northern Albania in particular you’ll find lovely varieties of fruit raki made from cherries.

Every day ends with a xhiro

The xhiro is an Albanian tradition and the perfect way to put a full-stop on your day. Essentially a xhiro is a sunset stroll: It involves heading to the nearest pedestrian street and walking laps.

For locals, it’s a way to catch up with friends and neighbours, learn the latest goss and socialise. Ice cream stalls and popcorn vendors set up to cater to walkers, and sometimes entire streets close to traffic for a couple of hours to accommodate people.

This is the ultimate people-watching activity and a terrific opportunity to mix and mingle. But don’t be surprised if people let their glance linger a little bit too long – staring is not considered impolite in Albania, neither whilst out on a xhiro or in everyday life (at restaurants, at the supermarket – I’ve experienced it all). It can be awkward but try not to take it personally – in most cases, people are just curious.

Albanian people are incredibly hospitable

Hospitality is serious business in Albania (yet another point of similarity to Georgia). In Albania, people are bound by Besa , a code of honour that dictates how others – especially strangers – should be treated. According to Besa, if someone approaches you for help, you accommodate them. If someone comes to you hungry, you feed them. This creed has shaped Albania into an immensely tolerant and welcoming nation.

After WWII, Albania was one of the few nations to emerge with a larger Jewish community – the nation protected its own and offered sanctuary to families fleeing from elsewhere in Europe. In the 1990s, Albania sheltered refugees from Kosovo displaced by conflict.

Today that same kind of generosity is extended to tourists. Kanun , the customary law of Albania, says that the master of a house should always have a spare bed ready for unexpected guests. While I wouldn’t recommend showing up on someone’s doorstep unannounced (Albania has Booking.com for a reason!), the takeaway is that Albanians will extend you a helping hand if and when you need it.

English is widely spoken, but not ubiquitous

Albanian is the official language in Albania but many people – especially those born after the fall of communism – speak a second language. As one person described it to me, Albanians are ‘thirsty to know the world’, and learning a foreign language is seen as a pathway to knowledge, experience and more opportunities.

English is the most popular second language and is taught in schools. At last count, around 40% of Albanians speak English. In my experience, anyone working in tourism or hospitality has at least a basic understanding of English. We got by in all the major cities and tourist destinations without any issues.

Albania is one of those countries where the language is so much more than a means of communication, it’s part of the culture and identity and a massive source of national pride. Learning a few words of Albanian will earn you big props.

Here are a few basic words:

• Hello – Përshëndetje (per-shen-det-ye)
• Bye – Mirupafshim (mi-ru-paf-shim)
• Yes – Po (po)
• No – Jo (yo)
• Thanks – Faleminderit (fal-e-min-der-it)
• Cheers – Gëzuar (ge-zu-ar)

There is a strong Italian and Greek influence

Albania is just across the pond from Italy and very close to Greece (especially Corfu). There were Italian colonists in Albania from 1926 onwards, and the country was actually invaded by Italy in 1939. Italy especially has a big influence in Albania – to such an extent that I noticed it right away.

You’ll see Italian cars, Italian coffee culture – and yes, pizza on almost every restaurant menu! Pizza is so popular in Albania, if you ever tire of local fare there’s always a Napoletana to fall back on.

Almost a third of Albanian people speak Italian and a quarter of the population speaks Greek. Many areas are officially bilingual Albanian-Italian, with road signs in both languages. If you know either of these languages, communication will come even easier to you.

Tirana is one of the coolest cities in Europe – so don’t rush it!

Unlike a few other capital cities in the Balkans that are all cold concrete, Tirana is a warm, green, welcoming city that’s bristling with creative energy. I’ve said before that it’s probably the most liveable capital in the region in my opinion. There’s a park, dining precinct, cool museum or street art district around almost every corner.

One day in Tirana is enough for the must-sees, but I really recommend slowing down and spending a couple of nights here, getting into the rhythm of the city with morning markets and nightly xhiros.

We stayed in Tirana for a full week and still didn’t see everything.

Hiking in Albania is a must

I fell in love with Albania’s cities and towns, but even I agree that the country’s natural beauty is its biggest asset.

Albania has 15 national parks, each offering incredible scenery and hiking opportunities. As I recently discovered, Albania has more than 3,200 species of plants, accounting for a whopping 30% of the flora in Europe. One of the best places to appreciate this ecology is Llogara National Park, known for its wildflowers. Others, notably Butrint National Park, combine surreal landscapes with valuable archaeological sites.

Even if you’re an anti-hiker like me, there is one day trek in Albania you at least have to consider: Valbona to Theth . Walking between two alpine villages across two jaw-dropping national parks in the country’s far north, the trail takes you through the heart of the picturesque Albanian Alps or Accursed Mountains as they’re also known. The hike is tough going in spots, but it’s absolutely the best way to experience this side of Albania.

The lakes are just as impressive as the beaches

Albania might be famous for its beautiful beaches, but the unsung heroes of the landscape are the country’s lakes. Komani Lake, Lake Ohrid (shared with North Macedonia) and Skadar Lake in the north (shared with Montenegro ) are all beautiful and worth visiting.

Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans. Boat trips on the marshy wetlands are popular on the Montenegrin side; on the Albanian side, you can cycle around the periphery from the lakeside city of Shkoder, visiting Rozafa Castle at the same time.

Albania’s share of Ohrid Lake is similarly smaller and with fewer points of interest to the North Macedonian side, yet charming villages such as Lin – a little red-roofed settlement on a natural peninsula – make it worth a visit. Lake Koman is my favourite. The ferry ride through the dramatic river gorge to reach Valbona and the starting point for the aforementioned hike was one of the highlights of my time in Albania.

There are more stunning water features around the country, including cascades and river canyons in the centre (Osumi and Begove near Berat are great), hot springs, and of course the famous Blue Eyes. All offer some much-needed reprieve in the hot summer months.

Have you been to Albania? Are there any extra travel tips for Albania you’d like to add? Leave your best advice in the comments below!

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More from Albania

• 21 awesome things to do in Albania
• The perfect Albania itinerary
• 22 essential travel tips for Albania
• One day itinerary for Tirana
• Guide to the Valbona Theth hike
• Things to do in Gjirokaster
• Things to do in Berat
• Things to do in Korca
• Best beaches in Albania
• How to visit the Albania Blue Eyes
• 21 best things to do in Albania
• 22 useful travel tips for Albania
• Where to stay in Tirana

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The 9 best places to visit in Albania

From the beaches of the Riviera to remote ruins and pretty towns, this is where to go in Albania

Albania is the Europe you never knew existed. Rugged mountains laced with quiet hiking trails, ancient ruins hiding in the shade of trees, stunning beaches ripe for exploration and fast-developing urban centres. But visiting Albania is much more than just ticking off key sites; it’s experiencing a country that was isolated from much of the rest of the continent until the early ‘90s. And while it’s been playing catch up ever since, Albania retains an air of an older and wilder Europe. It’s a place where tradition matters. A place with unexpected adventure at the end of every dusty country lane. A place that could change your whole idea of twenty-first-century Europe. So: where to begin? From its historic capital to its beach-lined coast, these are the best places to visit in Albania.

Stuart Butler is a travel writer and guidebook author who has travelled extensively in Albania. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines and check out our latest travel guides written by local experts. RECOMMENDED: 🏖 The best alternative Mediterranean beach breaks 🪩 How Albania is becoming Europe’s new music festival hotspot

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Where to go in Albania

1.  Tirana

The capital of Albania, and the only place that genuinely feels like a city, Tirana isn’t overwhelmed by its recent repressive history. Instead of hiding away the Communist-era interrogation centres and prisons, city authorities have transformed them into darkly fascinating museums, art galleries and memorials – and then surrounded them with an ever-changing cast of hipster bars and restaurants. At weekends, ride the cable car up Mount Dajti to join the locals for a spit-roast lamb lunch with a view down over the city.

2.  Berat

Beautiful Berat is a town of two halves. Down on the river bank houses are clustered up tight against the side of a forested hill, their windows bouncing sunlight off the water. Take the steep climb up towards the summit of that hill though and you’ll arrive at Berat’s other – and much older – half. A restored medieval gateway leads into the Kalaja, or fortress, where wildflowers sprout from crumbling walls and a clutch of centuries-old churches and mosques have been turned into museums.

3.  Ksamil

Albania’s quintessential beach spot. Although far from undiscovered, Ksamil – which sweeps around a series of low, wooded headlands and encompasses a number of still glistening bays, beaches and small islets – is something special. Mass tourism, fuelled by visitors from neighbouring landlocked countries, has dramatically changed the Albanian coastline in recent years, but Ksamil retains the laidback magic that first attracted people to the Albanian Riviera. And, of course, the seafood is excellent.

4.  Gjirokastër

The story of the small hill town of  Gjirokastër , in southern Albania, stretches back at least 2,500 years – with some of the treasures from this great antiquity carefully laid out in the town’s small museum. Most people today though come here to see the 600 or so stunning Ottoman-era manor houses that dot the town and surrounding hillside, some of which are open to visitors. The pretty-but-touristy centre of town ( Gjirokastër is a favourite with bus tours on a day trip from Corfu) is all cobbled streets, arty cafes and less arty souvenir shops.

5.  Butrint

Arguably the most impressive historical site in Albania, Butrint is an ancient Greek city of sunflower-yellow stones and rocks. Some of the ruins here – the theatre, Forum and public baths in particular – are extraordinarily well preserved, but just as much pleasure is to be had poking about the lesser-known ruins. To add to the wonder of the site, the whole complex is beautifully situated under shady woodland and on the shores of a quiet coastal lagoon.

6.  Shkodër

The large town of Shkodër, which lazes on the side of a lake a short way back from the sea, doesn’t make it onto many Albanian itineraries. Yet, with its pastel-painted buildings and elegant squares, it has a distinctly Italian ambiance. Add to this an abundance of history and culture and you have yourself a perfect city break. The city boasts some of Albania’s best museums (such as the Marubi National Photography Museum, which covers the history of photography in Albania, and the Site of Witness and Memory Museum, which outlines Albania’s recent Communist past), a large fortress complex, some excellent restaurants – and yes, the Italian influence extends to dinner – and long, sandy beaches just a short drive away.

7.  The Albanian Alps

The Albanian Alps, otherwise known as the Accursed Mountains, are anything but cursed. The valleys of these soaring mountains are filled with meadows, pastures and lakes in vivid greens, while beautiful, traditional stone villages dot the region. The slopes, which are thickly forested and turn a fiery red and orange in autumn, lead to summits that are licked in ice and snow for months on end. Its fabulous hiking country and numerous day and multi-day trails snake around the slopes, the most celebrated being the three-nation Peaks of the Balkans Trail, which traverses neighbouring countries Kosovo and Montenegro.

8.  Apollonia

Far from anywhere, and little known to most foreign visitors to Albania, the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia are a huge 2,500-year-old complex of half-buried walls, mosaics and pillars, spread across olive tree-dotted hills. The theatre and the administrative centre still retain great grandeur, and the treasure-stuffed museum is well worth a visit. Away from the main ruins, one of Apollonia’s biggest draws is its feeling of quiet solitude. Come for the history, stay for the tranquility.

9.  Gjipe beach

The forty-five-minute cliffside walking trail to Albania’s Gjipe beach starts from beside the thick stone walls of the Saint Theodore Monastery. T he religious start is appropriate: as soon as you set eyes on this small, white-pebble beach, set below cliffs at the mouth of a wooded gorge, you’ll think you’re in Mediterranean beach heaven. The atmosphere at Gjipe remains low-key and development mercifully limited. There’s a seasonal beach café and, a short way up into the gorge, a basic camping area. Come in June or September and you might have it all to yourself.

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3 Holidays
• 4.4 Visitor information
• 5.1 Entry requirements
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.3 By train
• 5.4.1 From Montenegro
• 5.4.2 From Greece
• 5.4.3 From Germany
• 5.5 By boat
• 5.7 By taxi
• 6.2 By train
• 6.3.1 Rules
• 6.4 By bicycle
• 6.5 By thumb
• 6.6 By taxi
• 8.1 Beaches and swimming
• 8.2 Mountains
• 8.4 Thermal springs and baths
• 10.1.1 ATMs
• 10.1.2 Credit cards
• 10.1.3 Currency exchange
• 10.2 Shopping
• 10.3 Tipping
• 10.4 Repairs
• 10.5 Restaurants
• 11.1 Main dishes
• 11.2 Dairy products
• 11.4 Desserts and snacks
• 11.5 Fruits and vegetables
• 12.2 Beer and wine
• 12.4 Non-alcoholic
• 14.1 Stray dogs
• 15 Stay healthy
• 16.1 Traditions
• 17.1 Electricity
• 18.1 Mobile
• 18.2 Internet

Albania ( Albanian : Shqipëria ) is a country in the Balkan region of Europe with unspoiled beaches, mountainous landscapes, traditional cuisine, archaeological artefacts, unique traditions, low prices and the wild atmosphere of the countryside. It is one of the sunniest countries in Europe. The country has an extensive archaeological heritage; it was part of Ancient Greece , the Roman Empire and the Ottoman Empire until its first declaration of independence in 1912, becoming a kingdom and then a communist dictatorship before becoming a democratic republic. Albania is one of just a few Muslim majority nations in Europe.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 41.328889 19.817778 1 Tirana (Tiranë) — the capital. Trees and mountains surround the city. Mount Dajt is a popular tourist site for a great view of the city.
• 41.313333 19.445833 2 Durrës - Albania's second-largest city and largest port, with historic ruins, current-day cultural institutions and beaches
• 40.704939 19.949673 3 Berat — Thought to be one of the oldest towns in Albania, it is a new member of the UNESCO world heritage list. Berat has long been known as the "city of 1001 windows" because of its unique Ottoman/Albanian architecture. It has a well preserved castle with residents still living inside its protective walls.
• 40.716667 19.55 4 Fier — Lively seaside city, and only about 8 km (5 mi) away from the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia.
• 40.07583 20.13889 5 Gjirokastër — another UNESCO city, located in the south is known for its unique Ottoman period architecture. There is a large castle on the hill in the middle of the city which served as a jail for many generations. A Military Museum and Art Gallery are now located inside. Gjirokastër is also the birthplace of former communist Leader, Enver Hoxha, as well as Albania's most internationally famous author, Ismail Kadare, their homes now serve as museums.
• 40.616667 20.766667 6 Korçë (Korça) — Located in southeast Albania, several miles from the Greek border, this city is full of life during the summer when you can find couples and families strolling through the city's main park, Parku Rinia. You can hike to the top of the beautiful mountain Moravia and view the city and its surrounding landscape. Don't miss the Korça Brewery (famous throughout Albania) which sponsors a week long Beer Festival every August!
• 41.510833 19.7925 7 Kruje (Krujë) — ancient city of the national hero Skanderbeg. It consists of beautiful mountains; Skanderbeg's castle is now a museum. Kruje also contains an old style bazaar with shops selling traditional goods amid cobblestone streets. Kruje is known for its carpet craftworks.
• 42.066667 19.5 8 Shkodër — the biggest town in Northern Albania. Shkodër is considered the capital of Albanian culture. The local "Migjeni" Theatre was the first in Albania and also held the first cyclic race, the first football match and is where the first Albanian photograph was developed (by Marubi). The Rozafa Castle is a major tourist attraction here, but also "The Great Cathedral", "The mosque Ebu Beker" and several others.
• 40.45 19.483333 9 Vlorë — Lively seaside city, nice beaches south of town. Passenger ferries to and from Italy dock here.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 42.475 19.994 1 Albanian Alps — This mountainous complex on the north of the country forms the border between Albania and Montenegro. Rich on rainfalls, sheep, bare rocks and scenic views it is one of the places in Albania you should see. One of the places where you can be less than 10 km away from the nearest village and still have a day long trip there.
• 40.07261 19.7638 2 Albanian Riviera — Featuring crystal clear waters, unspoiled beaches, and picturesque villages, this is the Mediterranean coastline as it once was.
• 40.15139 19.63889 3 Dhërmi — One of the finest of the many beaches along the coastal road between Vlore and Saranda, perfect for camping.
• 39.74613 20.02121 4 Butrint — Largest archaeological site from Greek era in Albania. It lies on the coast in the southernmost tip of the country, near the Greek border. Minibuses are available from Saranda.
• 41.783333 20.183333 5 Lura National Park — A 20,242 hectare national park with high mountains, big meadows, and glacial lakes.
• 40.787778 20.905 6 Pustec contains Albania's share of Lake Prespa, which forms Prespa National Park. This is also an area of much history, evidenced by the multiple cave churches found near its villages as well as on the island of Maligrad.
• 42.395833 19.774444 7 Thethi — National park and village in Northern Albania

Understand [ edit ]

While the relative majority of the people in Albania are of Muslim heritage (55-65%), according to the polls, around 35% of the Albanians are agnostics; 22% are atheists; 19% are Muslim; 15% are Orthodox; 8% are Catholics and 1% are of other religions. Mixed marriages are very common.

Traditional Albanian culture honors the role and person of the guest. In return for this place of honor, respect is expected from the guest. Albanians enjoy long walks in the city streets, drinking coffee, and among the younger generations, participating in nightlife activities such as cafe lounging and dancing.

Albania is a poor country by European standards.

The English name Albania comes from Albanoi , the Greek name of an Illyrian tribe which lived in the area in during antiquity. Albanians call their own country Shqipëria , which means "Land of the Eagles". The name comes from an old myth that Albanians descend from a black eagle. A double headed black eagle was used as an insignia by the "Father of the Nation", Skanderbeg, as early as the 15th century, and can still be seen on the country's flag.

History [ edit ]

Beginning in 1385, the Ottoman Empire was able to take control of what is now Albania. In 1443, a revolt started, led by George Kastrioti Skanderbeg. This revolt was stamped out only in 1479. The end of Ottoman rule in Albania occurred in 1912, and Albania became a country again.

In 1939, Albania was conquered by Fascist Italy and was subsequently occupied by Nazi Germany. Albanians very effectively shielded their small local Jewish population and a few hundred foreign Jews, giving Albania the distinction of being the only country occupied by the Nazis to end World War II with more Jews than before the war.

Following the defeat of the Axis powers at the end of World War II, a Communist government was established, presided over by resistance leader Enver Hoxha. Albania was known for its isolation, not just from the market-run democracies of Western Europe but from the Soviet Union, China, and even neighboring Yugoslavia. Hoxha also declared Albania to be the first "atheist state", and thus the anti-clericalism found in many communist parties was even more pronounced in Albania. Even as the Iron Curtain came down and communists lost power throughout Eastern and Central Europe, Albania seemed intent on staying the course, alone.

But in 1992, several years after the death of Hoxha, the Communist Party relinquished power and Albania established a multi-party democracy with a coalition government. The transition was difficult at first, as governments tried to deal with high unemployment, a dilapidated infrastructure, widespread organized crime, and disruptive political opponents. Catalyzed by the failure of a widespread pyramid scheme, a civil war broke out in 1997, resulting in UN intervention. Today Albania is moving closer towards neo-liberalism, with EU integration as its goal; Albania signed a Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) with the EU in 2006, and became an official candidate country in 2014, thus completing the first major step towards joining. In 2008, Albania received an invitation to join NATO and joined that alliance.

Climate [ edit ]

With its coastline facing the Adriatic and Ionian seas, its highlands backed upon the elevated Balkan landmass, and the entire country lying at a latitude subject to a variety of weather patterns during the winter and summer seasons, Albania has a high number of climatic regions for so small an area. The coastal lowlands have typically Mediterranean weather; the highlands have a Mediterranean continental climate. In the lowlands and the interior, the weather varies markedly from north to south.

The lowlands have mild winters, averaging about 7°C (45°F). Summer temperatures average 24°C (75°F). In the southern lowlands, temperatures average about 5°C (9°F) higher throughout the year. The difference is greater than 5°C (9°F) during the summer and somewhat less during the winter.

Inland temperatures are affected more by differences in elevation than by latitude or any other factor. Low winter temperatures in the mountains are caused by the continental air mass that dominates the weather in Eastern Europe and the Balkans. Northerly and northeasterly winds blow much of the time. Average summer temperatures are lower than in the coastal areas and much lower at higher elevations, but daily fluctuations are greater. Daytime maximum temperatures in the interior basins and river valleys are very high, but the nights are almost always cool.

Average precipitation is heavy, a result of the convergence of the prevailing airflow from the Mediterranean Sea and the continental air mass. Because they usually meet at the point where the terrain rises, the heaviest rain falls in the central uplands. Vertical currents initiated when the Mediterranean air is uplifted also cause frequent thunderstorms. Many of these storms are accompanied by high local winds and torrential downpours.

Holidays [ edit ]

• 1 January: New Year's Day
• 7 March: Teacher's Day
• 14 March: Summer Festival
• Easter (moveable)
• Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (Islamic high holidays)
• 19 October: Mother Teresa Day
• 28 November: Independence Day
• 29 November: Liberation Day
• 8 December: Youth Day
• 25 December: Christmas

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Albania National Tourism Agency

Get in [ edit ]

All road and tourist taxes (upon entering or leaving) the country have been lifted as of 2021.

Entry requirements [ edit ]

There is no longer a visa charge for any foreigners entering Albania.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, nationals of the following countries/territories can enter Albania without a visa: Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Australia*, Austria*, Azerbaijan, Belgium *, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria*, Canada*, Chile , Croatia , Cyprus*, Czech Republic*, Denmark*, Estonia*, Finland*, France*, Germany*, Greece*, Holy See, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary*, Ireland*, Iceland*, Israel, Italy*, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Latvia*, Liechtenstein, Lithuania*, Luxembourg*, Malaysia, Malta*, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands*, New Zealand*, North Macedonia, Norway*, Poland*, Portugal*, Romania*, San Marino*, Serbia, Singapore , Slovakia*, Slovenia*, South Korea, Spain*, Sweden*, Switzerland*, Taiwan (Republic of China), Turkey, United Kingdom*, USA*, Ukraine.

(Passport-holders from countries with an asterisk can enter with an ID card.)

States whose citizens may enter without visas due to their visa liberalization with Schengen area: Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Brunei, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, Mauritius, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, El Salvador, Seychelles, St. Kitts and Nevis, Uruguay, Venezuela, Macao (China).

Foreigners who possess a valid residence permit or multi-entry visa from one of the Schengen states, the United Kingdom, and the United States are also allowed to enter Albania without a visa for a stay of up to 90 days (for staying more than 90 days within the period of six months, they need to get visa type D). However, this policy has not been systematically applied. There have been instances that travelers have been turned away based on their nationality even while holding valid residency in one of the above countries, this even when they were previously allowed entry. So have contingencies if you fall under this category.

By plane [ edit ]

Tirana's "Mother Teresa" International Airport ( TIA  IATA ) is 15 minutes drive from the city. It is served by numerous European carriers such as British Airways, ITA Airways, Lufthansa, Austrian, and the low cost carriers Wizz Air and Ryanair. There is a large and modern terminal and a tourist information center.

Another cheaper and convenient way to reach the Albanian Riviera in Southern Albania is by flying to Corfu ( CFU  IATA ) and taking the hydrofoil to Saranda .

Furthermore, Pristina International Airport ( PRN  IATA ) in Kosovo with many connections is just 3-4 hr or €15 from Tirana. Other options are the airports in Skopje, Ohrid and Podgorica.

A second main airport in Albania is under construction in Vlorë , which is supposed to become the main hub for the Albanian Riviera.

Kukës International Airport ( KFZ  IATA ) has no flights as of February 2024.

By train [ edit ]

It is not possible to visit Albania by train. The only international connection, Podgorica–Shkoder, is freight only. See the following section for domestic trains.

By bus [ edit ]

You can reach Tirana by coach from

• Istanbul , Turkey – 20 hr, €35 one-way
• Athens , Greece – 12 hr, €30-35
• Tetovo , North Macedonia – 7 hr, €15
• Prishtina , Kosovo – 4½ hr, €10
• Sofia , Bulgaria – 12 hr, €35
• Germany – 22-26 hr, €80-120

Check out Tirana#By bus itself for more information on international connections.

From Montenegro [ edit ]

There are 3 daily buses from Ulcinj in Montenegro to Shkodër . They depart at 07:00, 12:30 and 16:30 at Ulcinj bus station and traveling time is between 2 and 3 hours depending on the time needed to cross the border. The 12:30 bus tend to get full very quickly during the high season. Shared taxis (mini-busses) are also an option to go to Albania from Ulcinj. They depart from the parking place next to the market in Ulcinj. It goes at 13:00 and costs €5; it takes 1½ hr. The stop is not marked, a reservation can only be made by finding the driver in the cafe at the corner of the parking place. Ask around and be persistent, as not all the locals know about this.

There are also scheduled buses twice a day from Kotor (Montenegro) to Tirana , passing through Budva, Podgorica (both in Montenegro), and Shkodër .

From Greece [ edit ]

There are buses running daily from Ioannina to the border at Kakavia (9 daily, €5.70, 1 hour). From there it's a short walk between the Greek and Albanian checkpoints. Just make sure you don't delay, as the furgon (minibus) to Gjirokastra won't wait for one extra passenger and you will be forced to haggle with predatory cab drivers. In Gjirokaster you can buy a bus ticket to Athens, Greece or anywhere in between. The buses are new, cheap, air conditioned, and stop along some gas stations

There are buses running daily from Igoumenitsa to the border at Mavromati (3 daily, € 3,50, 45 minutes). From there it's a short walk between the Greek and Albanian checkpoints. After that there are taxis driving to Butrint (10-15 €) or Saranda.

From Germany [ edit ]

• Deva Tours (+355673835770, +38344128770) has buses every 2-3 days or so, and costs €90 between Munich and Tirana. The buses are actually to and from Northrhine-Westphalia .
• Zagoria Travel (+355674542627, +355699386358) also has buses every 2-3 days or so, and costs €80 between Munich and Tirana. Likewise, buses are actually to and from Northrhine-Westphalia .

By boat [ edit ]

• Ferries to Durrës arrive from Bari (9 hr, daily, €50), Ancona (19 hr, triweekly, €70) and Trieste (14 hr, weekly, only during high season). Full price information
• A high-speed service operates from Bari (3 hr, €60). [1]
• There is also a reliable overnight ferry service operated by European Seaways from Brindisi to Vlore .
• Ferries from Corfu to Saranda every day. [2]
• Ferry between Brindisi and Shengjin by European Seaways operating twice a week in the summer (2015).
• Orikum Marina . Private boats can be anchored at Albania's only marina in Orikum, south of Vlore. ( updated Oct 2021 )

By car [ edit ]

To enter the country, ensure that your International Motor Insurance Card (called Green Card) is valid for Albania (AL) along with the Vehicle Registration and a Power of Attorney from the owner if the car is not yours. The border guards are very strict about allowing cars through without these documents. Be sure to print those out, since border guards are quite reluctant to recognize small text PDFs on your phone.

The road between Ioannina, Greece and Tirana (E853/SH4) is of sufficient quality. Construction works between Tepelene and Fier are mostly finished (2014). The new portion between Rrogozhine and Durres is also mostly complete (2014). This is the main north–south route between Montenegro and Greece.

The road between Krystallopigi (Greece) and Billisht is of very good quality. On the Greek side there is a paid 2-lane highway A29, which has very small traffic. The Albanian side has COVID-19 testing labs. The Greek border control tests all people for antibodies upon entering (as of November 2021).

The road between Struga, North Macedonia and Tirana (E852/SH3) is of a sufficient quality. There are a lot of slow moving vehicles along the curvy mountainous route so extra caution must be exercised especially around corners or during over-taking. A new motorway is being constructed between Elbasan and Tirana (2011).

The road between Prizren (Kosovo) and Tirana (Albania) (E851/A1/SH5) is to the levels of quality found in other parts of Europe. Extra caution should be exercised along some bridges near the Kosovo border, as they have not been widened while uncontrolled access points are becoming dangerous. Also beware that cows run free on the motorway: there is no fence and before dusk they return home using the motorway itself.

The road between Shkoder (border of Montenegro) and Tirana (E762/SH1) is of sufficient quality for driving but there are a lot of slow moving vehicles and uncontrolled access points so extra caution must be exercised especially during over-taking. A portion between Milot and Thumane has been widened to dual carriageway standard.

There are two border control points in the north of Albania with Montenegro. The narrow windy road from Ulcinj, Montenegro to Shkoder via Muriqan/Sukobin (E851/SH41) is used mainly by locals. There is a new Montenegrin section near the Albanian border. However, it is worth a try to avoid heavier traffic on the newly built main road (E762/SH1) between Hani Hotit and Shkoder. Ask any police officer to point you in the right direction from Shkoder. They are helpful, courteous and friendly.

By taxi [ edit ]

Albania is geographically a small country and as such it is possible to leave by taxi.

A taxi from downtown Pogradec to North Macedonia's border at Sveti Naum is about €5 (and less than 10 minutes). After Albanian exit procedures, walk about 500 m down the road to the North Macedonia border control. The beautiful Sveti Naum church is very close by, and from there you can get a bus north around the lake to Ohrid (110 Macedonian denars). (prices April 2010)

A taxi from Ulcinj in Montenegro to Shkoder in northern Albania costs about €30. It takes 1 hr. You do not have to change at the border, the taxi will bring you all the way (2010).

Some taxis can take you into Greece; however most will not go further then Ioannina.

Get around [ edit ]

Buses and furgons (minibuses) are generally the best method for travelling within Albania. They run on a time schedule and are generally well regulated. There are few bus companies, but many are operated by individual drivers. Drivers are supposed to leave when it's time, but sometimes they leave earlier when full. So, arrive sufficiently ahead of time. They are not in the best of shape, but buses are generally more comfortable and cheaper.

Whether there will be a furgons or a bus running to or from a specific destination depends on the destination and the time of the day. So, there isn't really a choice.

Furgons often provide access to some smaller towns where buses don't frequently run. Furgon stations there aren't always in obvious locations, so you can ask around to find them, or keep an eye out for groups of white or red minivans gathered together. Destination place names are generally displayed on the dashboard, prices are never posted (but to get an idea, Tirane to Vlore is about 600 lek, or check the website below).

From Tirana , many buses and furgons a day depart to Shkodër , Durres , Elbasan , Fier and Berat . Furgons departing to the south like Gjirokaster or Saranda tend to depart fairly early in the morning. Check out the schedules under Tirana#By bus .

A good website to find the latest bus times (and prices), even for cross border transport, is gjirafa.com . Prices are indicative and each bus (driver) should have a proper stack of tickets with him, where you could identify the right price. Note that city names of other countries might be spelled differently in Albanian when searching. So, not finding a city does not mean that there is no connection.

All passenger trains seem to have been suspended since COVID and due to budget issues.

The roads between the important destinations have been repaved and fixed, and offer most of the security measures one would expect on a highway. However be aware that some highways are not fully completed, and contain uncontrolled entry-exit points. There are no fees for using the highways.

Beware of minor roads. Road surfaces can be poor, deeply pitted, or non-existent, and sometimes a decent paving can suddenly disappear, necessitating a U-turn and lengthy doubling-back. It seems all the expensive cars in Albania are SUVs, rather than low-slung sports cars - and for good reason. Ask the locals in advance if travelling away from a highway.

Highways have frequent changes in speed limit (sometimes with little apparent reason). And there are frequent police mobile speed checks. Police will also stop you if you have not turned on your car lights.

Car-driving behavior on the highways is not as orderly as elsewhere in Europe. Expect cars to pull out in front of you, little use of indicators, and hair-raising overtaking. Lanes on dual or triple carriageways tend to be observed. Also expect pedestrians, horses or donkeys cross highways or walk on them. In the mountains, roads can be quite tight and windy with hairpins and serpentines requiring frequent gear shifting and braking. Drivers are encouraged to always keep a spare tire in case of emergency, and check engine coolant levels to avoid overheating.

Navigation is pretty easy although some maps of the country are out of date or contain errors. It is strongly recommended to have an up to date GPS, as new roads are being constantly added to the Albanian road network. In case the GPS does not work, its good to have an alternative good paper or internet-based map.

In the cities, and especially Tirana, many roads are being upgraded, fixed, and renamed. Because of that, traveling by car inside the city will be slow and difficult. Tirana suffers from great traffic congestion during mornings and midday.

A very nice ride is the SH8 Vlorë- Saranda mountain road. It is a typical Mediterranean road and offers an amazing view of the sea from the mountains. The road to the top of Dajti mountain is very bad, though does not (just about) require a 4x4.

Beggars and beggar children may approach your car at major stop lights. Nudge slightly forward to get them off your car and if necessary go into the traffic intersection to get rid of them. The locals will understand.

Around Greek holiday seasons, including Orthodox Easter, the roads leading to/from Greece can be crowded with cars with Greek plates of Albanian immigrants going to Albania or returning to Greece after their holidays.

Renting a car is a good option to choose, but the practice is fairly new in the country. Rental companies are available mainly in Tirana Airport, and Tirana proper. Various travel agencies may offer such services as well.

Rules [ edit ]

Ensure you travel with driving licenses and insurance documents (ask your car hire company for these) to present to the police.

There are no toll roads in Albania.

Snow chains are allowed in conjunction with summer tires from 1 November to 30 April. They must be present on at least 2 driving wheels. Snow chains are only allowed if the road is completely covered with snow or ice. Studded tires are permitted. The use of winter tires is optional.

Dipped headlights are not mandatory for daytime driving, but are mandatory when driving at night or when visibility is poor due to bad weather conditions.

The maximum permitted level of alcohol is 0.1‰ (0.01%).

By bicycle [ edit ]

There is a lack of respect for people riding on bikes on most streets. Also, there are few places to put your bike. These and other challenges make Albania a difficult cycling destination, but a rewarding one. Often, asking around to see if you can stay in somebody's home or camp in their garden is the only option. Check out hospitality services in Albania, some have an existing community, and it is easy to find places to stay.

Food and water are easily available in the frequent roadside cafes and bars.

Camping on public land is allowed, and even on private land you shouldn't encounter any problems, although you should ask the owner if you're not sure.

It's very hard to get parts or repairs for modern bicycles outside of Tirana .

By thumb [ edit ]

Albania is quite good for hitchhiking, even though locals rarely do it. For women it is generally safe to hitchhike, but it is a good idea to have an alibi ready, when the question about whether one is married comes up. While Albanian men are respectful towards women and Albanian culture is all about family and honor, a single women is most certainly an invitation to flirting.

The best way to obtain a ride is to wait by the side of the highway where there is open space for a car to easily pull off from, and use your whole hand to point down the road in the direction you want to go—the thumb is not that common.

Like anywhere, exercise normal caution and don't hitchhike at night or in the 'wrong part of town'. Good info on what it's like to hitch in Albania can be found here .

Also, watch out for any Scams by soliciting taxi drivers.

Taxis are abundant all over Albania. There are also unofficial ones which can save you some money and can be a good option at night to get around and even to and from the airport (at night), even from Shkodër, but be careful with them.

Unofficial taxis (e.g. at night or to remote places): Be very careful, especially as a tourist you are a walking invitation to scams. Be clear on what the agreed price is (per person!), only pay in the end, have the exact change ready, and never give the driver more money if not at the same time he gives you back the change (and not less!). It is common that the price suddenly inflates during the ride, or the driver does not remember anymore what he agreed on. That is all BS—don't get tricked. If the situation escalates, seek the help of other locals (but not other taxi drivers!). And never ever give him any money in expectation you will get back the correct change.

See [ edit ]

Albania has varied cultural influences. In the south you can see the legacy of the Turks and Greeks, whereas in the north you can see many ancient Illyrian ruins.

• The coastline is always a place to go, with its clear turquoise seas, and its many islands cast upon it, like in Saranda, the southern most coastal city in Albania. Along the Albanian Riviera , from Vlore to about Qeparo there exist mainly wooden villa complexes, bed and breakfasts, camping sites and a few beach resorts as accommodation facilities. Llogara Pass is a mountain pass located near Llogara National Park offering a majestic view of the riviera from above. Nearby is found Cesar's Pass, the place where Julius Cesar passed in his pursuit of Pompey.
• Dajti Mountain , a popular sight in Tirana allows you to get a whole green view of the capital.
• The ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia is only about 8 km (5 mi) away from Fier .
• A walk around southern cities like Butrint , a UNESCO world heritage site, is always ideal and memorable. Butrint is home to many ancient ruins .
• Castles are in many cities in Albania. Their beauty reminds anyone of the ancient times of Albania, and the world. There is Petrela Castle near Tirana , Rozafa castle in Shkodër , the inhabited castle of Berat , and Skanderbeg Castle in Kruje , (named after the national hero and now a popular museum holding his belongings).
• Albania has thousands upon thousands of bunkers , many of which are scattered in cities and across the countryside.

Do [ edit ]

Beaches and swimming [ edit ].

Including various lagoons and harbors, the coast stretches for a total of 450 km and touches two seas: the Ionian in the south and the Adriatic in the north.

• Half of the coastline stretching to the north of Vlore and up to the Montenegrin border (at the Buna River delta) is washed by Adriatic Sea. It contains fine-grained sandy beaches, sloping gently into the water, which makes them ideal for families with children. But the water is murky green and not suited for snorkeling. There are almost no algae or jellyfish near the coast. Due to the shallow depth, the water warms up well, so the beach season in local resorts starts early, in the first weeks of May.
• While the Albanian Riviera stretching south of Vlore washed by Ionian sea up to the Albanian-Greek border with Stillo Cape. It is made up of rocky beaches and steep sea bottom, but the water is crystal clear and has turquoise color.

The entire coastline and beaches belong to municipalities and is free and open to anyone. But sun loungers and umbrellas are paid here and belong to restaurants located somewhere nearby. For a day, you will have to pay around €3 for one set. But no one can prohibit sitting on the sand on one's towel or bedspread under one's own umbrella. During the high season in July and August beaches are cramped with locals and tourists, but on the 1st of September you would see very few people swimming - although water temperature is still around 23—25°C, apparently it's too cold for locals.

Mountains [ edit ]

Almost two-thirds of Albania's geography is either hilly or mountainous. These enable outdoor recreation potential and of course impressive off-road cycling . There is a renewed interest in adventurer tourism in Albanian famous attractions—even tough, most Albanians stick to pre-organised 4WD trips for the weekend for that matter. Various destinations in the Northern Alps, with elevations as high as 2,700 m, beckon to all types of “adventure seekers”. Specifically, the towns of Vermosh, Thethi, Razëm, Bogë, and Valbona can all serve as destination points for expeditions.

Hiking [ edit ]

Thermal springs and baths [ edit ].

Albania has numerous hot springs and a mentionable thermal and spa culture. While this industry has suffered in the 21st century, many sites can be visited all around Albania.

• The spa towns Llixhat and Tregan near Elbasan with numerous spa hotels.
• The thermal river pools of Benjë near Përmet .
• The thermal baths of Kozani-8 well south of Tirana.
• The spa facilities in Peshkopi .
• The many natural hot springs all around the country like Holta, Postenan and Sarandoporo (also interesting nature destination) as well as Shupali and Mamurras (less popular/known).

There are many more, but the hottest ones are listed above.

A great read on the topic, if you want to discover more, is "Thermal and Mineral Waters of Albania" by Romeo Eftimi and Alfred Frashëri (ISBN: 978-99943-2-346-3).

Talk [ edit ]

• Albanian is the official language.
• Italian is often viewed as the second language due to various Italian occupations, the most famous being during World War II.
• English is understood in Tirana and to a lesser extent in frequented tourist cities.
• Greek can be encountered in the southernmost areas of the country. Albania has a lot of immigrants in Greece, from which around 200,000 people have returned and now live in Albania. Albania is also home to an ethnic Greek minority.
• Macedonian is also occasionally understood in areas near Pogradec and Korca.

From a country of 3 million, there have been about 1.2 million emigrants, and many of them have returned to Albania from countries such as Germany, France, Greece (especially those in the south of Albania) and Italy so you'll find a lot of people who speak the respective languages. Older people may speak Russian as it was a compulsory second language in schools during the communist era.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The national currency is the lek (plural lekë , symbol L , ISO code: ALL). During the communist regime, the government redenominated the old lek into the new lek at a ratio of 1 to 10 (replaced previous Lek banknotes with new ones, 1,000 old lek became 100 new lek). According to a 2021 survey, despite the change taking place in 1965, the majority (80%) of citizens still use the logic of “old lek” in their language and when doing business, leading to a great confusion for both locals and tourists. For instance, for "200 lek" they would say dy mijë lek , literally meaning two thousand lek — the word 'mijë' is similar to the Latin 'mil'. The survey also revealed that almost 30% of financial institutions workers use the term, and 40% of public administration. Nevertheless, most prices are displayed in "new lek" nowadays.

Coins of Albania are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 lekë. Although, you will barely or never encounter 1 lek coins. Banknotes of Albania are issued in denominations of 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 lekë.

ATMs [ edit ]

ATMs are available in most major cities. Use the MasterCard ATM Locator or Visa ATM Locator to find them. The ATMs accept most international Visa and MasterCard credit/debit cards.

All ATMs charge a withdrawal fee of 500–1,400 lek (abi and UnionBank vs. otpbank) for international debit and credit cards—even Credins Bank as of July 2023.

Credit cards [ edit ]

Cards payment is widely accepted, even for minor amounts. However, smaller shops and stalls will not accept any other method of payment other than cash.

Currency exchange [ edit ]

Exchanging money in Albania is quite easy and competitive, especially in Tirana. Most exchange places in Tirana will give you rates for euros, dollars or pounds that are comparable to your bank. All major currencies are accepted, Bosnian convertible mark is not though—oddly enough, since its exchange risk is equal to the Euro.

Shopping [ edit ]

The euro is very widely accepted and such a request to pay in euro is met with understanding and sometimes eager. If you don't speak Albanian or Italian, then the easiest way to haggle or ask for the price is to show hundreds of leks with your fingers—the locals would understand, you're not the first one not understanding their language.

Albanian shops are open at 09:00-20:00 usually, and until 22:00 at summer. Most of the shops open on Sunday.

In all the Albanian cities you can find numerous shops, which offer different goods, of well known marks, glasses, antique objects, etc. Of great interest for the tourists are the traditional bazaars of Kruja, Korca, Shkodër, Gjirokastra and Tirana, where you can find the artisan works produced by locals. You can buy wooden carved objects, ceramics, embroidery with popular motifs and also copper objects. Souvenirs: raki, alabaster bunker ashtrays.

Always demand a receipt or ticket, especially at official tourist sites. It is a common scheme that they just reuse tickets or keep the money in their own pockets, as it happens in Butrint . This doesn't help conservation effort and supports money laundering.

Online you can try MerrJeb.al for various used goods—Ebay or Facebook Market (or any Facebook Groups for that matter) do not seem to be very common or highly frequented.

Tipping [ edit ]

Tipping has not become a custom in Albania and it is not expected; in some cases it might even confuse staff. If dining in a westernised restaurant in the capital you may round up the bill.

Repairs [ edit ]

If you have a worn-down pair of shoes or have ripped any of your clothes, or even if your backpack is falling apart, such things can be repaired dirt-cheap in Albania for a few hundred lek. For example, fixing a hole in your shoes can be done for 200-300 lek. Help the environment, no need to buy new stuff!

Restaurants [ edit ]

Never ever dine in a restaurant without menu and/or prices: they are an invitations to scams. They do not have a menu for a reason, since they often come up with an outrageous bill for simple dishes. Don't give them any reason, stay away from them.

Eat [ edit ]

Albania, like the Balkans in general, has a primarily Turkish influence in its cuisine. This influence stems from over 400 years of Ottoman rule in the region. Influences since the fall of communism in the early 1990s have been from Italy and Western Europe in general. Most of what is available in neighboring countries such as Greece and Italy will be available in Albania, particularly in the larger cities.

Main dishes [ edit ]

• Tasqebap – A traditional Albanian stew made of lamb fricassee, tomatoes and onions. Some sort of hearty stew is generally included in Albanian dinners. These stews are easy to make, and flexible with ingredients, like potatoes, onion, rice, etc.
• Paçe Koke – A stew made from the head ( kokë ) of a lamb or a goat.
• Paçe Plenci – Same as before, but made from intestines. However, the smell of cooking it can be off-putting.
• Fërgesë – Baked cheese, vegetables and eggs; originating from the capital of Albania, Tirana.
• Tavë dheu – Fërgesë with the addition of liver. Sometimes referred to as Fërgesë me melçi .
• (Mish) Tavë kosi – A baked dish of lamb and rice, together with a yogurt sauce. It is sometimes referred to as a national dish in Albania. Similarily, further such baked dishes exist; like Burani me Spinaq dhe Mish or just Mish Burani Spinaq with meat and spinach.
• Pllaqi – Oven-baked beans with tomatoes sauce and herbs.
• Mish me Bizele – Beans and meat.
• Mish me Bamje – Ocra and meat, made in the late summer and fall when Ocra is harvested. Vegetarians can instead enjoy Bamje pa Mish .
• Byrek – Found everywhere, and made in different ways. Byrek Shqipëtar me perime (with spinach and feta cheese) is often considered the national dish. Another type sold everywhere is Byrek me mish (with ground meat and onions). Everywhere in the country one piece of pie costs around 30 lek, so in many places bakers don't even bother writing down the price. Two byreks and an ayran is a very common breakfast, so try it to understand why. This is also the reason why you should buy in the morning, when it is still freshly baked.
• Qifqi – Served predominately around Gjirokastër, a vegetarian dish of fried rice balls.
• Fli(ja) – A stack of layered hearty pancakes, brushed with cream and served together with sour cream. Also, a famous dish in Kosovo.
• Shapkat – A traditional corn pie casserole originally from Gjirokastër, filled with feta cheese, dill, and spinach, but many variations exist.
• Pastiche – Like a quiche, spaghetti cooked in milk, butter and white cheese.
• Imam Bajalldi – Baked eggplants with a mix of vegetables and sometimes cheese ontop.
• Japrak – Wrapped vine leaves with minced lamb, rice and herbs, cooked until tender. The vegetarian version (dolma) is also highly recommended.

Expect lamb ( qengji / qingji ) to be the main meat ( mish ) in many places. Lamb is naturally fed, and does not have any Odor like it does in North America for example. However, also veal ( viçi ) and chicken ( pule ) meat is common. Various types of meat dishes exist:

• Fileto , biftek and bërxollë (chopped) are different ways to prepare the meat, besides zgare (grilled) or pjekur (baked).
• Qofte – Meatballs, comes in different versions and is traditionally served as lunch or dinner together with salad, bread or rice. Sometimes they are declared to be homemade ( shtëpie ).
• Qofte (të) fërguara – Fried meatballs but with feta cheese inside. Again, traditionally served with fried potatoes or rice.
• Fileto Pule Me Panna Dhe Kerpudha – Grilled chicken breast served with mushrooms and cream sauce. Similar or even the same dish Pule me qull , just written in short.
• Paidhaqe Giçi – Pork Ribs
• (Mikse) Mish Zgare – Literally (mixed) grill meat.
• Kukurec – Strongly inspired by Turkey, grilled intestines and liver, sometimes served inside a bread like shawarma.
• Të brendshme – More intestines
• Mëlçi - Liver
• (Pulë me) Përshesh – Originally from Elbasan, chicken with bread and walnuts. But you will barely find it on restaurant menues, it is mostly cooked at home.
• (Pulë me) Rosnica – Similar to the one before, chicken boiled, onion and tomatoes added, and then baked together with small and fried dough or bread pieces. Also seldomly found in any restaurant.

Sallatë (salad), usually made with fresh tomato and onion, but you have all different kinds of vegetable ( perime ) dishes:

• Perime Zgare/Në Scarë – Grilled vegetables; eggplants, zucchini, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and/or mushrooms.
• Perime të Ziera – Boiled vegetables
• Perime Furre – Baked vegetables
• Fshati – Village salad
• Rukola – Rukola
• Mikse – Mixed (salad)
• Turshi – Pickles
• Lakër – Cabbage
• Karrotë – Carrot
• Ullinj – Olives
• Djathë i bardhë – White cheese
• Djathë Kaçkavall – Hard cheese

As add-on to salads and meat:

• Kos – Just yoghurt as an add-on to salads (baked), stews or meat.
• Salce Kosi – Like the Greek tzatziki, best as a dip for grilled meat.
• Speca me gjizë / Speca me djathë – Peppers with (cottage) cheese as casserole
• Speca te mbushura – Peppers stuffed with cheese
• Djathë I Bardhë – Baked cheese
• Tarator – A cold cucumber "soup" made with (lots of) yoghurt, cucumber and dill.
• Supë (soup):
• Perime – Vegetables
• Krem pule – Chicken cream
• Pasha Qofte – Meatballs
• Krem Brokoli – Brokkoli cream
• (Jani me) Fasule – White bean soup, varying from clear to creamy, sometimes served with meat.
• Fish and seafood – Can be found everywhere around the coast and lakes, but there are also many restaurants in Tirana serving such dishes. You will find all the usual, and Ohrid trout around the lakes.
• Omletë (me Djathë dhe Proshutë) or Vezë syze – Omelets (with cheese and ham) or fried eggs

Dairy products [ edit ]

• Djathë i bardhë (young cheese) – There are lots of different types but mostly young cheese (white and soft feta-like). In village shops, cheese may be kept at a lower standard of hygiene than in supermarkets, but it's worth a try as it's usually fresh and delicious. Such cheese is sold for a very good price (600-800 lek/kg; try the higher-priced ones first), which in the rest of Europe can't be bought for less than €15/kg.
• djathë lope (cow cheese) – 400 lek/kg
• djathë dele (sheep cheese) – 800 lek/kg
• djathë dhie (goat cheese) – 700 lek/kg
• The "Gjirofarm" feta cheese is similar to Greek feta cheese, although a bit more expensive. However, most of the restaurants, especially in Tirana and the southern part of the country, use this cheese. It's very delicious, and it's one of the few cheeses that is exported from Albania.
• Kaçkavalli (hard cheese) – It's of good quality is not easy to find. It is advised to look for products imported from Italy.
• Gjizë (cottage cheese) – A type of dry curded cheese, made from yogurt and citric acid (200 lek/kg).

Bread [ edit ]

Most Albanian people make their own bread, but going out for meals is very common. And bread is often served with meals, especially with salads, stews and soups.

• Kulac – Firm and dense, also known as "soda bread"
• Bukë – Buns

Desserts and snacks [ edit ]

Don't forget to check out the many pastry shops (pastiçeri) offering a wide variety of tasty pastry including delicious cakes. Find a shop that is frequented regularly, not seldomly the pastry lies around several days in some shops and is often dry and not delicious anymore.

• Baklava – A popular dessert and is always made as a dessert during New Year's Eve.
• Petulla – Often included in traditional home's breakfast, fried dough balls usually dipped in fig jam, honey, or feta.
• Oshaf – A fig and sheep's milk pudding.
• Qumështor – Baked custard
• Hasude – Baked cornstarch pudding with nuts
• Shëndetli – Nut cake with honey
• Sultjash – A pudding of rice, milk, vanilla, cardamom and cinnamon.
• Kabuni – Similarily to the previous dish, sweet fried rice with raisins, ground clover and cinnamon.
• Ballokume Elbasani – A traditional biscuit originating from Elbasan and usually prepared on Dita e Verës, a pagan holiday. The roads along Elbasan are doted with sellers of this biscuit.

Fruits and vegetables [ edit ]

Albania is a perfect place to try fresh local produce from local farmers. You get cheaper and higher-quality produce when buying in green-groceries or farmers on the street, so don't even bother buying greenery in the supermarket.

Since Albania is a very mountainous country, these mountains have scattered olive trees that influence Albanian cuisine.

• Grilled corn – In many cities you may find portable grills, where a freshly grilled corn is sold for 50 lek.

Vegetables and greens:

• pepper ( piper , spec ) – 70 lek/kg
• tomato ( domatja ) – 50-100 lek/kg

• onion ( qepa )
• potato ( patatja , patate ) – 45 lek/kg
• aubergine ( patëllxhani ) – 70-100 lek/ kg
• cabbage ( lakër ) – 30 lek/kg
• figs – 200 lek/kg
• pomegranates ( shegët ) – 100 lek/kg
• watermelon ( shalqi ) – 15 lek/kg
• melon ( pjepër ) – 80-100 lek/kg
• grapes ( rrushi ) – 100-120 lek/kg
• persimmon ( hurmë ) – 70 lek/kg

Since many people grow fruits and vegetables around their houses, most popularly all kinds of grapes, (red, black, green), they use it to make Rakí from it.

Drink [ edit ]

Raki [ edit ]

The preferred alcoholic hard drink is rakí , which is locally produced in small towns as well as in many homes in the countryside. In some instances you may see men washing down breakfast with a few shots.

Raki is very common in Balkan countries, but also further apart in countries like Italy, Georgia and Turkey, while in Turkey the process is a little more complex and involves anis. Since each country got its specific fruit, raki is usually made from that fruit. In Georgia, raki ( chacha ) is won from the leftovers of the vine production, such as in Italy where it is called grappa . In Bosnia, raki ( slivovitz ) is won overwhelmingly from fruit fly infested barrels of plum mud at many local homes in Srpska. In Albania, different fruits are used, depending on the region, but rakí rushi (from grapes) is common. But you may try rakí mani (from mulberry), especially around Gjirokaster and Korça.

Authentic raki can be bought under the table from many shops and fruit and veggie markets. Served in 0.5L water bottles, for around 200-300 lek. They are safe, but tasting beforehand is accepted, and you should not buy it if it got a weird taste—this often means that the brewing process was not as clean as necessary. It doesn't mean though you will get blind, Albanians understand what they are doing, otherwise everyone would already be blind here. (Nevertheless, it doesn't hurt to prefer a shop which looks properly frequented by locals.)

Beer and wine [ edit ]

The number of homemade beers and wines is as varied as the population itself; the quality of these drinks is as varied as the quantity available.

Tea [ edit ]

Mountain tea (species: Sideritis scardica ), known under its local name çay mali , is a very popular and tasty herbal tea in the Balkans and especially Albania. The dried flowers and stems can be bought in most local markets. It is often prepared with honey and lemon, even though the smell and taste itself is already rewarding enough, with no caffeine.

Non-alcoholic [ edit ]

Non-alcoholic drinks range from the well-known international and regional soft drink brands to the locally produced ones. You can find any type of soft drink in Albania, as well as natural mineral water, energy drinks, etc. Qafshtama water is considered the best water and found in much of the country.

• Boza – A popular sweet drink made from maize (corn) and wheat is a traditional drink in the Balkans. The most famous of which is Pacara Boza , ☏ +355 69 2481122 . 1 bottle of 1.5 l ~ 100 lek .  
• Dhallë – A kefir-like drink closely related to ayran
• Kos – A yogurt-like drink very similar to matsoni in the Caucasus (100-160 lek/L)

Sleep [ edit ]

Inside the cities, hotels are abundant and prices per night start as low as €15. Hotels are usually clean and their staff in major cities generally speak English and/or Italian .

Outside the big cities, hotels are less common, but in places like Gjirokastra can be excellent value (e.g., 1000 lek). If, for any reason, you find nowhere to sleep, the Albanian people have always been known for their hospitality, and will treat you like royalty as you stay with them.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Albania is generally a safe place to visit but there are some safety precautions you have to take before visiting the country.

• In some Albanian cities like Berat there are no traffic lights and thus crossing on the road can be dangerous
• Avoid places that are deemed as slums and are sketchy, things like pickpocket can happen and also violence can occur, so avoid bringing valuables in those areas.
• Albania does have speed limits, but most people do not follow them. If you are driving on the highway, you have to pay extra attention to avoid car crashes . If you are not a good driver it is highly recommended that you take a bus.

Stray dogs [ edit ]

Albania is one of the countries where stray dogs can be a problem. This can be of particular concern when you go out hiking in remote areas, where dogs not always stick to their territory or you even have to walk through their territory.

In addition to stray dogs in the cities (especially in Shkoder), in rural areas many places and farms have dogs, but they generally do not tend to leave their premises. This can still happen and they might block your way. In either case, if you feel a dog is getting too close for any reason, even if it looks harmless, pick up one or two stones; most dogs will understand the gesture, back down and disappear into the distance. If this does not help and a dog is running towards you aggressively barking, use the stones for your defence.

See the Aggressive dogs article for more help regarding this topic.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

It's best to drink bottled water , but tap water is usually drinkable too. In summer, insect repellent should be used as mosquitos are very active especially near former swamps and along the Western lowland. Be careful at the beaches because shards of glass and sea urchins are common on the sea floor. Also, pharmacies and other stores are closed from about 12:00-16:00; so, bring all necessary medicine with you. Health clinics in small towns or village areas are not well equipped, so trips to nearby cities can be expected. Also, many Albanians smoke cigarettes. The government has banned smoking in restaurants but this is not really observed.

Respect [ edit ]

Albanians are very hospitable. Even more so than the rest of the Balkans, elder males expect to be shown respect on account of their age. Men of the family have to be respected in particular. Shake hands with them and do not argue about topics such as religion and politics. Certain topics are strictly taboo; homosexuality is one good example. Don't speak about gay rights, no matter what. The situation changes a lot according to the location (village or city) and the people with whom you speak as well. Of course, in the hidden north, avoid topics that go beyond local understanding, but be sure that in Tirana you will find very cosmopolitan people that are as open to new ideas as the citizens of Western Europe.

Sometimes, if you stay for a night or so at someone's house, don't be surprised if you see a AK-47 Kalashnikov hanging at the wall. It's pretty normal for Albanians to keep guns in the house.

Albania is mostly a secular country, although most of the population consider themselves Muslim (the majority) or Christian. Ramadan does not close down street life, at least in Tirana, but you may still not want to break Islamic taboos without checking that it is OK in your current company.

Traditions [ edit ]

In Albania it's common for men to kiss cheeks of males of their age or younger, even the first time they meet them. This is especially true for the regions of Fier, Tepelena, Vlora and Gjirokastra. In Northern Albania, they will simply touch each other's cheeks, but not kiss them. Women also kiss one another, sometimes from the first time they meet, but men and women do not kiss each other on the cheek unless they have been friends for a long time. Kissing cheeks between young people, 15–20 years old, is however very common. If you are a man, or a woman with a group of men, don't compliment females, unless they are under 10–12 years.

If a baby is in the family, always ask to see him or her, and don't forget to add a compliment (usually "Genka i shendetshem, me jete te gjate" or "What a sweet baby" works best).

If you speak a language where there are different formal and informal words for "you" in singular and "you" (like Italian, Greek, German, etc.), be aware that some Albanians do not use the formal form in their language. Sometimes, even the prime minister is addressed with "ti" (the informal word for "you", "tu" in Italian, "Du" in German or "Esi" in Greek), if the journalist is a friend of him. However, when meeting people for the first time, it's better if you address them with the formal word, although they will shortly after ask you to address them with the informal one.

Policemen in Albania are often polite. They usually never stop foreign cars, but if you rent a car, they may stop you. However, when they see you are a foreign tourist, they will immediately tell you to go on (usually with a "Ec, ec, rruge te mbare" which can be translated in "Go on. Have a nice trip"). When this happens, it's very polite if you respond with a "Faleminderit" ("thank you" in Albanian).

Albanians love dancing, especially during weddings. If you are attending a party, don't be afraid to dance. Maybe you don't know the traditional dances, but try to learn.

Cope [ edit ]

Electricity [ edit ].

Officially 220 V 50 Hz. Outlets are the European standard CEE-7/7 or the compatible, but non-grounded, CEE-7/16 "Europlug" types. Generally speaking, U.S. and Canadian visitors should pack an adapter for these outlets if they plan to use North American electrical equipment in Albania.

Unexpected power outages without prior warnings are common in Albania. This is largely dependent on the amount of rainfall the country receives in any given year, as virtually all of electricity is generated from hydro plants in Albania. However this is becoming more and more rare. In Tirana power outages are rare, but expect them in other towns and cities. Although all major cities and most of the towns have back-up generators, however it is best to err on the side of the caution and ask whether the place has a generator or not beforehand in order not to, say, get stuck in an elevator.

Connect [ edit ]

Mobile [ edit ].

As of Sept 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Tirana, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Tirana but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not rolled out in Albania.

Generally, Vodafone or One will be the first choice for travellers. You can buy a local prepaid SIM card from 800 lek including some MB of data—you will always have to buy a package initially with the SIM card. After that there are offers of 35 GB for 2,000 lek, or 6 GB for 600 lek (per month).

Note that Vodafone and One have special deals where when you install their app, you get an additional 10 GB for 1 month, or when you charge money onto your account, you get extra GB, like 3 GB for one month for a recharge of 600 lek with One. Also, it makes sense to drop by in one of their shops and ask for any specials they offer—they often have packages in-store which cannot be selected through their app but have a better price-value ratio, e.g. 32 GB for 1,000 lek with Vodafone. Hence, you don't really need an expensive package from the app every month, like mentioned before.

You need to provide a passport to purchase a prepaid SIM.

Many mobile providers in the Balkans provide free roaming across Balkan countries. So, in case you are planning to cross the border, ask on how to use the local SIM card in other Balkan countries. For instance, a One.al SIM card from Albania works flawlessly in North Macedonia and Kosovo with a regular Albanian package.

Internet [ edit ]

Many bars and restaurant have WiFi readily available, just ask.

Besides that, Digicom (a DSL provider) uses the same default password for all their routers, which is "20202020". So, whenever you see a WiFi named "Digicom.al 2.4GHz" or "Digicom.al 5GHz" just try this passphrase. Also, many places, guesthouses or restaurants seem to use the easy to remember "12345678" passphrase.

Go next [ edit ]

You can go from Shkoder in northern Albania to Ulcinj in Montenegro by taxi or vans. Fares can be negotiated between €15 and €20, it takes between 1 and 2 hours. There are buses leaving from Shkoder to other places in Montenegro ( Podgorica , Budva and Kotor ), departing at 10:00 or 13:20 From Ulcinj you can also take busses to other cities in Montenegro .

Crossing into North Macedonia at the border between Pogradec and Ohrid, North Macedonia is fairly straightforward. From Pogradec, one can take a taxi to the border - this will likely cost around €5 and take around 10 minutes. Once you get to the border, it is possible to walk into North Macedonia, but do not expect to find taxis on the other side of the border. Instead, hire a taxi on the Albanian side (€25, 40 minutes to Ohrid) or wait for the minibus that turns around at the border. This bus comes every few hours and is the same bus that services the Sveti Naum Monastery, which lies a few kilometers from the border. If the bus does not show up, your best option would be to head to monastery's parking lot a few kilometers distant to find the bus (check Google Earth first to get a fix on its location).

You can go to Kosovo from Kukes on the new highway.

You can go to Greece by Gjirokaster at the border crossing at Kavavi.

By boat, you can leave for Italy from Durres or Vlorë . From Saranda you can go to Corfu , Greece .

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10 Best Places to Visit in Albania

Still very much off the beaten path, year-on-year Albania is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination thanks to its stunning scenery, interesting historic sites, and welcoming people. Isolated and shut off from the world for so long, Albania emerged from communist rule in 1991. Nowadays, visitors are invariably surprised at all that it has to offer; beautiful beaches lying alongside breathtaking mountain ranges and glittering lakes.

Thanks to its long and interesting history, Albania’s cities and scenic countryside are full of amazing old castles, Roman ruins, and Ottoman-era mosques and buildings, which make the country fascinating to explore. With picturesque towns such as Gjirokaster and Berat for visitors to enjoy, there is always something new to see and do.

The now colorful capital, Tirana, is full of monuments and museums offering a look at the country’s communist past. A fascinating country, now is the time to visit the best places in Albania, as word is quickly spreading about what this hidden gem has to offer.

10. Dhermi [SEE MAP]

With its welcoming turquoise waters and beautiful beaches that stretch into the distance, the gorgeous scenery of Dhermi is where many young Albanians head to in the summer. It is also home to some pulsating nightlife.

Located on a mountain slope overlooking the sea, the town boasts some stunning sunsets. Grabbing a drink at one of its numerous bars and restaurants while watching the sun go down is a lovely way to spend an evening.

While there is a fun and festive atmosphere about the place, with lively beachside bars blaring out music, there is more than enough beach to go around; you can always find a peaceful spot to simply kick back and enjoy the scenery of the Albanian Riviera.

9. Durres [SEE MAP]

Once the capital of Albania, Durres is located not far from Tirana on the country’s coastline. It is a very popular destination, which means that it can get a bit crowded during the summer.

With one of the largest ports in the Adriatic, the city is a bit stuffy and over-developed, although there is a nice stretch of beach for visitors and locals alike to enjoy. Along the seafront, there are lots of restaurants selling delicious fresh seafood.

Fought over for millennia by the Bulgarians, Greeks, Venetians, and Ottomans, among others, its wealth of historic sites entices just as many people as its beaches. The spectacular Roman amphitheater and fantastic archaeological museum are the undoubted highlights.

8. Sarande [SEE MAP]

With its stunning location on the Ionian Sea, Sarande is blessed with year-round warm weather, sparkling waters, and a relaxed way of life.

While the seafront is a bit over-developed with its line of identity-less apartment blocks, there are lots of nice parts of Sarande to walk around, and loads of bars, restaurants and souvenir shops on offer.

In addition to the ancient ruins found in town, Sarande’s surroundings are full of historic sites and natural beauty, making it a great place to use as a base to explore the region.

7. Shkodra [SEE MAP]

Lying just a stone’s throw away from huge Lake Skadar that straddles the Montenegro-Albania border, Shkodra is a very pretty city to visit. The Buna River runs through town and the Albanian Alps can be seen off in the distance.

The undoubted highlight is Rozafa Castle. Over the course of its history, it has been ruled by the Illyrians, Venetians, and Ottomans, to name a few. The magnificent ramparts and ruins of the castle are fun to explore, and the views over Shkodra are breathtaking.

Although the center of the city has recently undergone extensive renovations, there are still plenty of lovely old buildings and historic sites to be found, such as the Ebu Beker Mosque and Orthodox Cathedral. The Historical Museum showcases just some of the region’s rich history and heritage.

With so much beautiful countryside surrounding Shkodra for visitors to explore, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

6. Berat [SEE MAP]

Widely regarded as one of the prettiest cities in the whole of the Balkans, Berat is known as ‘the Town of a Thousand Windows,’ as so many windows peer out at you from the front of its hillside buildings which are so tightly clustered together.

Located on a hillside, there are a number of Ottoman-era mosques and Byzantine churches scattered about town. One of the best views of Berat is from across the banks of the Osumi River which runs through it.

While simply wandering around Berat is a lovely way to spend the time, the town also has a great 13th-century hilltop castle, which is worth visiting for the outstanding views. There are also two interesting museums with some fascinating local costumes and artifacts on display and some splendid 16th-century icons.

5. Himare [SEE MAP]

With its beautiful setting on the Albanian Riviera, Himare’s sparkling turquoise waters and spectacular hilly coastline make it a great place to head if you’re after some sun, sea, and sand.

While its beaches and peaceful seaside promenade are what most people come for, the historic old town is lovely to wander around; its atmospheric tavernas are full of Mediterranean charm and delicious local seafood.

Perched atop a hill overlooking the old town is a delightful castle, which offers wonderful views over the sea. The nearby mountains also have some lovely trails and viewpoints for visitors to enjoy, while the surrounding countryside is home to spectacular churches and monasteries, such as the Monastery of the Cross and Athaliotissa.

4. Gjirokaster [SEE MAP]

Located in the south of the country, Gjirokaster is a delight to visit. Its beautiful old town is perched on the side of a hill overlooking a valley and its winding cobbled streets are full of quaint buildings and historic sites.

With over 500 homes and buildings protected and preserved as ‘cultural monuments’, Gjirokaster is full of wonderful architecture. It is often known as the ‘City of Stone’ due to the distinctive local rooves that can be seen everywhere you go.

Perched above the scenic Old Bazaar is Gjirokaster Castle, reputed to be the second largest in the whole of the Balkans. A fascinating place to visit, the castle has an underground Cold War-era bunker and an Armaments Museum for visitors to enjoy, alongside its impressive fortifications and ruins.

3. Kruje [SEE MAP]

Lying just to the north of Tirana, Kruje – or Kruja, as it is known in English – is famous for being the home city of Albania’s national hero Gjergj Skanderbeg. In the 15th century, Gjergj managed to hold out against the Ottomans for 25 years from his base in Kruje.

Known as the ‘Adriatic Balcony’ by locals, the craggy mountain that looks over the city is home to the majestic Kruje Castle, which was once Skanderbeg’s base. Nowadays, there is an interesting museum about the hero as well as a fantastic 15th-century church located within its walls. The panoramic views from the castle are simply spectacular.

The Old Bazaar in the center of town is just as fascinating to walk around. Nestled away amongst its atmospheric streets you’ll find some delightful little cafes and restaurants, alongside the plethora of shops selling anything from souvenirs and artisan goods to antiques and leather products.

A picturesque and peaceful place, Kruje is well worth visiting for its historic sites and beautiful natural setting. The surrounding area is equally enchanting to explore, with its lakes, canyons, and mountains.

2. Butrint National Park [SEE MAP]

Home to a number of diverse ecosystems and stunning archaeological sites, Butrint National Park is a popular tourist destination, in large part due to its proximity to the Greek island of Corfu . Many people come to see its majestic blend of history and nature.

Covering a peninsula that is bordered by the huge Lake Butrint on one side and the Vivari Channel on the other, the natural beauty is magnificent; over 1,200 different types of animals and plants reside amongst its scenic wetlands, hills, and islands.

The main attraction, however, is the amazing archaeological site which covers over 2,500 years of history; this includes ancient city walls, remnants of a Roman theater, a Byzantine Basilica and two castles. Wandering around the ruins with the beautiful scenery all around you is a delightful experience. This is undoubtedly one of the hidden gems of what Albania has to offer.

1. Tirana [SEE MAP]

Once full of grey, unwelcoming communist buildings, Tirana has transformed considerably since the early 90s. Albania’s capital is now a fun, friendly and festive place to visit.

Full of life, the now brightly colored pedestrian streets showcase some delightful Ottoman-era buildings and Italian architecture that highlights the country’s rich past. There are a number of great museums and art galleries worth checking out. Of particular interest is BUNK’ART, which was once a huge government bunker but now hosts art installations.

While it can be slightly chaotic in the traffic-filled center of town, the scenic Mount Dajti is just a short cable car ride away. With fantastic views of the city below and resplendent nature all around, it’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon.

With endless bars, cafes, and restaurants to be found around the trendy Blloku area, Tirana has a lively nightlife scene. Visitors to this under-visited capital invariably come away impressed at all that the city has to offer.

Map of Albania

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What You Should Know Before Travelling to Albania

Albania is one of the most interesting countries in Europe, and one of the friendliest – perhaps in part because it’s so small, with a population of just 2.8 million. It is also a top destination for foodies, with affordable fine dining and delicious local dishes such as fëgesë stew to try . Be pleasantly surprised by the world-class beaches of the Riviera, or find your inner adventurer by hiring a car and driving into the mountains. Here’s what to know before you go. Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

Albanians are incredibly friendly.

One of the best things about travelling to the Land of the Eagles is that wherever you go, from the capital city to the Riviera, from the mountains to the historical towns, you will be welcomed by the locals. Albania is one of the friendliest countries you’ll ever visit. So don’t be afraid to ask for directions or other information – there will always be someone who will help you find what you’re looking for, be it accommodation, a place to eat or transport advice. Many Albanians speak English, and tourism is developing within the country and is welcomed as a key part of the country’s economy.

It is a safe country

The country does lie in an earthquake zone, and a 6.4-magnitude quake in 2019 killed 51 people. The epicentre was in Mamurras, in the northwest of the country, with tremors felt in Tirana. Life has gone on since the quake, and the government has since tightened up construction regulations.

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Foreigners and locals generally stick to bottled water in Albania, as it’s not advised to drink the tap water – and make sure any meat you eat is well cooked.

The beaches along the Riviera are gorgeous

There is a good reason why most tourists visiting Albania come to its beaches: the Albanian Riviera has some of the finest stretches of coast in Europe. These pebbly and sandy shores line crystal waters that could stand toe-to-toe in a beauty contest with the beaches of Italy , Greece or Croatia . The best beaches on the Riviera are Drymades, with clear water, live music and beach bars, and Ksamil, which also has clear-blue water and is part of Butrint National Park. However, you will find sublime stretches of sand all along the coast. Palasa Beach, surrounded by rocky cliffs and green hills, is also a great place to relax, as is Dhermi beach, which has a party vibe.

Albania isn’t just about fantastic beaches

Although the Albanian Riviera and its stunning beaches are great reasons to visit, the country has so much more to offer. Mountains, including the Albanian Alps and the Sharr and Pindus ranges, run along the length of the country. Archaeological sites include prehistoric mounds, as well as ancient Greek and Roman temples and forts, and medieval bathhouses. The country is also rich with lakes and rivers, forests and ancient towns that will take your breath away. Albanian holidays should always be organised with plenty of time built in for exploring the country’s many natural and historical wonders.

Albania is very affordable

Compared to neighbouring nations, tourism in Albania is very affordable. You can spend a phenomenal week travelling through the country without breaking the bank. Tirana , the capital, is the most expensive city, but you still won’t spend too much compared to other Eastern European destinations.

When it comes to activities, parks are free, and while museums require tickets to enter, the fees are low. For shopping, bear in mind that many shops take only Albanian lekë (the local currency), but hotels take euros as well. Credit cards are not accepted everywhere, so be sure to have some cash on you.

Albanian food is delicious

Bring a pair of stretchy pants with you, because Albanian cuisine is fantastic. The best dishes are tasty and affordable. Make sure to try as many as you can while you’re here, but start your culinary experience with fëgesë (a slow-cooked stew made of peppers, onions, spices, tomatoes and cottage cheese); tavë kosi (lamb and rice baked with yoghurt and eggs); byrek (flaky filo stuffed with savoury fillings); speca me gjize (peppers in cottage cheese); baklava (a sweet layered pastry covered in syrup) and trilece (three-milk cake).

Raki is the answer to everything

Bad day? Drink raki. Good day? Drink raki. Don’t feel good? Drink raki. Have something to celebrate? Drink raki. For Albanians, raki is the answer to everything – but what is it? Raki is an intense aromatic liquor that’s very similar to grappa, as it is made from grape pomace. It is often flavoured with aniseed. You’ll find it throughout Albania and the Balkans, as well as Kazakhstan, and it is considered the national drink in Turkey .

It is thought raki was originally made by monks in Greece during the 14th century. Don’t forget to say gëzuar (cheers) before drinking it down.

The Albanian language is unique in Europe

Many European languages originate from Greek, Latin or Slavic families, but not Albanian. This ancient language has its own branch on the linguistic tree. Linguists are unsure exactly where Shqip (the Albanian word for the language) is from, and although a few words are similar to those in Italian, English and other languages, it is unique. Albanians are very proud of their language, so try to learn a few words – they will really appreciate it. Here are some basics: përshëndetje (hello), faleminderit (thank you), mirë (it’s OK), naten e mirë (good night) and mirupafshim (goodbye).

Travelling in Albania is an adventure

A trip to Albania is a real adventure. If you don’t like travelling off the beaten path, change your plans and go elsewhere. If you rent a car here, you’ll understand. People tend to cross the road when they want, drivers do whatever they want and animals love to relax and sleep in the middle of the streets. Needless to say, driving in the country can be quite a challenge. The other option, if you don’t want to rent a car, is to travel through the country by bus. Albanian travel can be a challenge – there are no official bus timetables, so be prepared to be patient and ask locals where the stops are. We strongly suggest renting a car, because buses will not necessarily get you where you want to go.

There are more Albanians outside the country than in it

Albania is a small country with around 3 million inhabitants, most of them in the capital city, Tirana. But outside Albania, mostly in the neighbouring countries of Italy, Greece, Kosovo, Macedonia and Montenegro, there are more than 10 million Albanians. Many people have settled in the US , Canada, Switzerland, Germany and Turkey as well.

Albania is tolerant of many religions

One of the most beautiful things about Albania is that it is a tolerant nation when it comes to religion. Christians, Muslims and Jews all feel safe and welcome here. In every town you’ll see an Orthodox church and a Catholic church within a few metres of a mosque. According to the 2011 census, just under 60 percent of the population is Sunni Muslim, 10 percent Roman Catholic and seven percent Eastern Orthodox, with Bektashi Muslims, other Christians and other religions also represented.

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Places to Stay

The best hotels in albania for every traveller.

Why Albania Is the Next Music Destination, According to DJs Ben Böhmer and Moon Boots

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The best places in albania to visit during the summer.

A Wine Lover’s Guide to Albania

11 Reasons Why Everyone Should Visit Gjirokastër, the UNESCO Town of Albania

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The best summer festivals in albania.

The Best Hotels in Tirana, Albania

How to Spend a Weekend in Vlora

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8 Reasons Why Everyone Should Visit the Albanian Riviera

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What to see in Albania – my favorite places and more!

In recent few years, Albania tourism has been blooming.

While it’s not so safe anymore to travel to some of the favorite holiday destinations on the south-east shore of Mediterranean Sea people were looking for a good alternative and many have decided to visit Albania. I’m definitely a big supporter of that idea!

Albanian coast is spectacular and Ksamil beach is already a world famous gem but the country has so much more to offer, some of the best Balkan highlights !

Beautiful stone towns, spectacular wonders of nature, breathtaking mountains and the funky capital – you can see it all if you decide to visit Albania !

I’ve been twice to the country (the first time when the Albania tourism was still just crawling) and even if slightly challenging I loved my time there!

I’m already thinking of the return as my list of what to see in Albania is getting longer and longer! I really hope the next year will see my visiting Albania again and seeing more of its beauty!

Albania essentials

Planning a trip to Albania? Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I either use Viator
• Get insured for your trip to Albania with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

How to get to Albania?

Traveling to Albania has always been the biggest issue.

Fortunately, it is changing slowly and now you can easily find charter flights to Tirana , also Wizzair started to operate on Budapest -Tirana route (hopefully it’s just the beginning and there will be even more options of direct flights to Albania soon!).

When I visited Albania twice it was more challenging to get there but not impossible.

Both times I flew to Thessaloniki, Greece and then I took the bus.

When I was going to Berat it was supposed to be a direct bus but we had to change somewhere at 5 am – overall it was a crazy and absurd journey that took me 50 hours from Poland but eventually I got exactly where I wanted to.

When I was going to Gijokastra I first took the bus from Thessaloniki to Ioannina (which was surprisingly beautiful and made a perfect stop along the way) and from there it’s only 2 hours by bus to Gijokastra (including crossing the border).

Since there’s a huge Albanian population living in Greece there are daily connections from Athens to Thessaloniki to probably every city in Albania.

Another option (that my friend did recently) is flying to Corfu island in Greece and then taking the ferry to nearby Saranda .

Albania makes a popular day trip destination among tourists from Corfu and there are few boats to choose from – the fast one takes only half an hour.

You can also reach Albania from North Macedonia and Kosovo – there are bus connections between those countries.

From Ohrid you might use the southern border crossing and you will find yourself in the town of Pogradec that already offers decent connections to Tirana or other places in Albania.

From Montenegro 360Monte agency offers direct transfers between Kotor , Budva, Shkoder and Tirana.

How to travel around Albania?

The best way to travel around is by car as getting to some of Albania highlights by public transport is simply impossible (and even if the public transport is available, sometimes it’s simply too challenging and confusing).

Fortunately, you can easily rent a car to enjoy exploring Albania hassle-free. To rent a car go to the Discover Cars website and choose from many available options. You can pick up the car already at the airport or in any other convenient location. Since Discover Cars compares rental deals from different companies you can expect to find the best prices and offer on their website, with no hidden fees, free cancellation and 24/7 support.

If you decide to use public transport it’s doable but prepare for a bit of a hassle. In most of the places, there are no bus stations and no schedules – you need to go to a certain place from where the minibus to your destination goes.

Sometimes it sounds scary (like “big tree on the left side of the roundabout”) but in reality, it’s not so bad – local people will direct you and the drivers will find you – that’s what happened to me in Elbasan or Tirana.

Just like in former USSR minibusses wait to fill up so sometimes it might take a while for the bus to depart.

Between some big cities like Saranda and Tirana, there are regular connections with a schedule which makes everything so much easier.

The road condition isn’t very good so sometimes the journey takes much longer than you’d expect from the distance but things are definitely improving. The Albanian drivers, just like in other Balkan countries, are a little bit crazy but it’s nothing too scary.

Is Albania safe?

For some reason, Albania doesn’t have the best reputation (but that’s also changing slowly). If you are wondering is Albania safe I can assure you there is nothing to worry about.

This is just a normal country (with more difficult language than anywhere else) so if only you use your common sense you will be fine.

During my both trips I always felt safe and there wasn’t even one situation when something was wrong.

Cities are always full of people, especially in the late afternoons and evening as walking around seems to be the favorite pastime activity of Albanians.

The fear of Albania comes from the unknown but it really is a safe country, like many others in the area.

Solo female travel in Albania

My first trip to Albania (to Berat only) was with a friend, the second time I’ve spent a week there traveling solo.

I felt really safe for all the time, no one bothered me or harassed me, people were really friendly, welcoming and helpful when needed.

Some of my friends have been traveling solo around Albania too and they say only good things about it!

Albania tourism – what to see in Albania

During my two trips to the country, I could see some of the best places Albania tourism has to offer. I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed them all and can recommend them!

Both times I went to visit Albania in autumn (beginning of October and mid-November) and I can definitely recommend this time of the year!

The weather is still really good but the summer crowds are gone and you can easily find cheap accommodation or travel between places.

I’ve heard so many people complaining about Albanian beaches being overcrowded in the summer but what I saw in early autumn at Ksamil beach was amazing – crystal clear blue waters, sand and hardly anyone around!

Autumn is the time to visit Albania!

And when you finally decide to go there here is a list of what to see in Albania

The infamous capital city, hated by many. On the contrary, I found it super cool and funky and really enjoyed my time there!

Tirana is not a beautiful city, you will not find many (or any at all) historical monuments there. But the vibe is one of the best I’ve ever encountered!

The main tourist attraction of Tirana is a big concrete pyramid – a rather intriguing structure that now serves as the broadcast center of the local TV station and the major hangout spot for youngsters.

And that’s how Tirana is – quirky yet fascinating. And super colorful!

Even if the paint slowly comes off the buildings and colors are fading the overall impression is still great!

Tirana, and especially its neighborhood Blloku, is home to one of the best cafe cultures I’ve ever encountered and that’s already a good reason to spend some time there!

Read more about Tirana in my articles:

• 27 Great Things to Do in Tirana, Albania
• Visit Tirana – the funkiest capital in Europe

Berat was the first place I’ve visited in Albania and I couldn’t ask for a better introduction, especially since it’s on the UNESCO list.

The city is often called “the town of thousand windows” and it has this title for a reason – numerous beautiful houses with big windows pile on top of each other making one of a kind view.

It’s especially beautiful from the promenade (where locals hang out) or from across the river.

It’s also worth climbing all the way to the castle as the views of Berat and the surroundings are really spectacular and this area itself is pretty charming too!

Read more about Berat in my article: Berat, the highlight of Albania, in pictures

Gjirokastra

While Berat is called the city of thousand windows Gjirokastra has a title of the town of thousand stairs.

Walking around might be a little exhausting as the streets can get pretty steep but then the views from the castle (and the abandoned plane that looks so random there) are the great reward for the effort.

Gjirokastra itself is a beautiful stone town that kind of looks like the time has stopped there. I really enjoyed wandering around as the place definitely lives up to its hype.

Together with Berat Gjirokastra is part of UNESCO World Heritage List.

Read more about Gjirokaster in my article: Gjirokaster, Albania – the stone gem of the Balkans

A real gem of Albanian seaside – Ksamil is considered to have one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania and I can see why everyone thinks so good of it.

Turquoise water, sandy beach, and nearby islands make Ksamil look like a paradise.

I was there at the very beginning of October and it was blissfully empty but I’ve heard many horror stories about visiting Ksamil beach in the summertime.

My advice – go there in the offseason and you will love it!

Only 5kms away from Ksamil you will find Butrint – another UNESCO listed place in Albania.

This ancient site, dating back to 8th century BC, is a truly fascinating place with so many remnants of the past that it will keep you occupied for few hours.

It can get busy with day trips from Corfu but it’s not too difficult to escape crowds here.

If you’re a fan of the history you will love it!

At first, it looks like an unattractive seaside resort with nothing but concrete but Saranda might be much more interesting than it seems.

If you’re looking for the lively holiday destination this is your Albanian answer.

But the town is more than just the place to have a good time in. You can find some monuments too in Saranda, including ancient ruins right in the middle of the city.

Saranda also makes a perfect base to explore the area (that includes Ksamil, Butrint, Gjirokaster or the Blue Eye).

Read more about Saranda in the article: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Saranda, Albania

Lake Ohrid is one of the most beautiful place I’ve seen in the Balkans .

But while everyone goes to the town of Ohrid in Macedonia (that I just adore!) Pogradec on the Albanian side of the border is also a great place to visit.

The lake looks just beautiful in here, with magnificent mountains in the background. The numerous restaurants’ jetties are a great opportunity for the lunch with the stunning view.

If you go for a walk along the beach (which is one of the main activities in Pogradec) you will for sure stumble across some bunkers around.

And now comes my bucket list part of what to see in Albania. But I will make it there soon, no doubts about that:

The journey across Lake Koman is on top of my Albanian bucket list.

Some call it the most beautiful in the world and while I’m usually a little bit skeptical about such titles this place really looks amazing on the pictures!

With all the twists, cliffs and waterfalls it must have looked similar to Norwegian fjords!

Read more about Lake Koman in my article: A Complete Guide to Visiting Lake Koman, Albania

Valbona and Theth

These are two of the most important and most beautiful mountain villages in Albania, located on both sides of Albanian Alps.

I’m just dreaming of visiting them as they look so untouched, so pure and so pretty!

Once I almost made it to Valbona but the weather turned out for worse and there was no point in going all the way there! Next time, Albanian Alps!

I’ve been to Lake Skadar only on the Montenegrin side b ut this biggest lake in the Balkans has stolen my heart. It was so peaceful and pristine I could have stayed there for weeks!

Now I’m more than tempted to see the Albanian side of the lake and Shkoder would be a perfect base for that. But the town itself is really interesting too, with Rozafa Castle (offering great views around the lake) and the revitalized center.

Read more about Shkoder in my article: 7 Perfect Things to Do in Shkoder, Albania

The Blue Eye

Hidden a few minutes away off the Saranda – Gjirokastra road, this pristine spring is a true paradise with clear blue waters and oak trees giving the shadow.

It must be especially pleasant in the hot, summer day – a perfect nature getaway.

Kruja makes a perfect day trip from Tirana (that I had in my plans but didn’t do because I enjoyed the capital way too much).

There’s the castle with a really impressive location, surrounded by mountains but the main reason why you might want to visit Kruja is the bazaar – it is considered to be the best one in Albania for souvenir shopping.

Kruja is also a birthplace of the national hero – Skandenberg.

Read more about Kruja in my article: Kruja, Albania – a Perfect Day Trip from Tirana

Further reading

I wrote many articles about Albania and the Balkans that you might find interesting and useful when planning your trip to the region:

• Berat, the highlight of Albania, in pictures
• Gjirokaster, Albania – the stone gem of the Balkans
• Your ultimate Balkan travel guide
• Balkan highlights – your ultimate list of what to see in the Balkans
• Solo female travel in the Balkans

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Albania

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Albania here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• If you don’t want to miss new posts and news from me click here to sign to my newsletter! You can also follow me on Bloglovin!
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Albania too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. If you like what you are reading and seeing here and would like to support me and my blog please consider using those links. It would be like getting me a virtual drink that you don’t have to pay for! Thanks!

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38 Comments

Iza Zawadzka

Ja jestem zakochana w Tiranie! Choć Albania jako taka dała nam nieźle w kość, głównie zdrowotnie, więc mój mąż póki co nie chce słyszeć o powrocie.

Kami and the rest of the world

oj, szkoda bo tam tak fajnie! A Tirana najlepsza!!! I tak bardzo niedoceniona!

Może kiedyś się przełamie, póki co namówiłaś mnie na Krusevo, jadę w przyszłym roku!

ooo!!! super!! Tam tak pięknie!! i ten hotel gdzie byłam Wam polecam, widoki na całe miasto rewelacyjne są!

Szkoda, że wcześniej nie powiedziałaś, w czasie wakacji wcale nie ma takiego dużego wyboru miejsc do spania. Znaleźliśmy prywatne mieszkanko, ale nie wiem, jak z widokami będzie, choć chyba też jest gdzieś pod górkę.

no to jednak małe maisteczko i tak naprawdę tylko ten hotel (Montana czy jakoś tak) jest z dużych obiektów, a i dobrze tam karmią :)

O, to będę miała na uwadze jak będziemy szukać, gdzie coś zjeść. Już się nie moge doczekać!

Na pewno Ci się tam spodoba! i to Makedonium jakiś odlot!

No przecie dla niego tam jadę!

Stephanie Pelser

No doubt, the people, who are so helpful, even if they don’t speak any foreign language, and excited to welcome visitors!

Tiffany Crystal Bowens

Great article with lots of places to see! As you know, I was there this summer, and hated everything about Albania! May have to check out some of those other places, Pogradec seems amazing, especially since I fell in love with Ohrid!

architecture-wise Pogradec is nothing like Ohrid but the views of the lake are incredible! I can see why you didn’t like Albania but maybe it’s worth giving it a second chance :) ?

You’ve really made me want to visit Albania there seems to be so many beautiful places there to visit!

thank you, that was the plan :)

I visited Albania this summer for the first time. I went to Tirana and Berat. I loved it and I really want to return and explore more! For Greek travellers it’s a really easy destination, because of the various bus companies that travel there and also because of the huge part of the population who speaks Greek! I felt like home! :)

both times I went to Albania I took the bus from Greece and it was super easy! You picked great places for your first visit, I loved both!

Mel Mewburn

Great article, thanks! Makes me want to go back. I absolutely adored the country. I got terribly ill on my trip and was exhausted a lot, so I missed out on a lot of these things. But I will definitely make plans to return, it was such an amazing place. I would love to spend more time in Tirana, what a fascinating city!

Thank you! I’m so sorry you had all those issues during your trip, hopefully everything will be much better next time! Tirana is so incredible, isn’t it? I loved the vibe!

Abdullah Asank

Did u get to lake ohrid?

yes, it’s so beautiful!

I’m planning a trip to the Balkans and your blog is very helpfull. Thank you!

Rui Quinta, Rui de Viagem

Thank you! If you have any questions feel free to ask!

Soo nice! I also visited Albania recently and loved it

I’m glad you enjoyed Albania! It’s such a great country, isn’t it?

Thanks! very usefull article that will help us for our trip this summer. On practical question about the more remote montainous regions: would you say hitchhiking is an option, or are buses the better option (we’re not afraid of unconfortable travel ;))?

I honestly don’t know what to recommend as I haven’t been there myself yet. But why don’t you ask on my FB group about traveling in the Balkans? I’m sure someone will be able to help you :) you can find the link in the sidebar on the right side

Witam w przyszlym roku mam zarezerwowane przez booking.Theth w Alpach Albanskich .Gdzie najlepiej bukowac lotnisko ? I czy wogole lataja w te rejony samoloty.prosze I podpowiedz .Z gory.dziekuje Lidia

Tak, latają samoloty do Tirany, stolicy Albanii. Pozdrawiam!

I have been to most of those places, but what stroke me really was the Albanian riviera. You should include on your list Borsh, Dhermi, Drymades, Palase, Gjipe, Llogara national park, etc. Amazing beaches with sparkling water surrounded by natural beauty and mysterious mountains.

Thank you for your tips! I’m hoping to visit Albania next year ago and would love to explore more of the seaside then. I will make sure to visit the places you’ve mentioned here!

Thank you for the very informative article it has given me some ideas. Do you have any tips or advice about bus routes going the other direction like from Gjirokaster or Sarande to Thessaloniki? I will be flying out from there.

Thanks for your kind words. Unfortunately, I don’t know about the transportation in the other direction, but you should ask on my Facebook group about traveling in the Balkans, I’m sure someone will have the answer. Here is the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/121053081614593/

I am not sure why so many people complain about traveling inside Albania with so cheap car hire.

Maybe because of crazy drivers? But yeah, I can’t understand it either, traveling around is definitely doable!

Thank you four the beautiful words you set about my country Albania is really beautiful and where you no more you going to love the holidays there .Thanks again Elida

I’m glad you enjoyed the article. I hope to return to Albania soon, this is such a beautiful country! All the best!

Mazhar Valjee

Thank you Kami, as always your write ups are a great source of information and motivation to visit.

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

• Share full article

By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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State venture capital.

Governments around the world are increasingly shifting economic development expenditures to the support of early-stage businesses. In the United States, state governments have also expanded their development agencies’ mandates from primarily serving as tourism-support operations to now working as engines of small business development. This Article challenges the conventional wisdom driving the creation of state venture capital programs and argues that the structure of state venture capital is deeply flawed. Rather than remedy inequities between states and within states—for instance, in the urban/rural divide that is a feature of most states’ political economies—state venture capital is more likely to perpetuate and even exacerbate inequality. Furthermore, it introduces the potential for waste and corruption that jeopardize governmental legitimacy. From a legal perspective, state venture capital makes use of existing private financing and its accompanying legal infrastructure to channel financing and fill funding gaps, particularly for marginalized entrepreneurs. However, by co-opting private entity forms, it often impairs the administrative mechanisms designed to safeguard public funds. State venture capital also faces daunting market headwinds that make it difficult for venture financing to thrive outside of Silicon Valley and a few other venture capital hubs. Despite these challenges, state venture capital can be structured to give it better odds of success. This Article proposes reforms that can help governments create economic environments in which entrepreneurship is more likely to thrive, governance mechanisms that can foster accountability, and investment selection and contract design features that make it more likely that state venture capital programs will succeed.

Supreme Court tackles Jan. 6 obstruction charge with Trump case looming

WASHINGTON — In the weeks before the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, Joseph Fischer wrote a text message talking about his desire to take Democratic members of Congress “to the gallows” and predicted politicians would be dragged out of the Capitol and hung after a mob trial, according to the government.

“Can’t vote if they can’t breathe..lol,” Fischer, then a police officer in Pennsylvania, wrote in a message on Dec. 16, 2020, authorities say.

Fischer subsequently joined the mob on Jan. 6 in a bid to block former President Donald Trump’s electoral defeat. He now faces seven criminal charges, one of which is the focus of a Supreme Court case being argued on Tuesday.

Fischer is asking the court to throw out one charge he’s facing: obstruction of an official proceeding.

But it’s not just Fischer’s charge that hangs in the balance.

Trump has been charged with violating the same law, and a conspiracy provision. As such, the Supreme Court ruling could affect his prosecution too.

Authorities say on Jan. 6, Fischer joined the crowd breaching the Capitol from the east side. “Charge!” he yelled again and again, the government says, before pushing forward toward a police line while yelling, “Motherf-----s!” He and other rioters then fell to the ground. After other rioters lifted him up, video disclosed as evidence in other Jan. 6 trials shows that he tried to appeal to officers protecting the Capitol, telling them that he was an officer too.

“It’s our f------ house, brother!” the video appears to show Fischer saying that day. After an officer tells Fischer to turn around and leave, he appears to appeal to the officer to stand with them “as a patriot.”

“Take a knee! Take a knee!” members of the mob chanted as Fischer recorded on his cellphone.

Fischer, who is yet to go to trial, also faces charges for assaulting a police officer and entering a restricted building, among others. Those charges will not be affected by how the court rules on the obstruction count.

Trump has cited the Fischer case, including in his most recent filing at the Supreme Court concerning his bid to obtain presidential immunity for his actions seeking to overturn the election results. Oral arguments in that case take place on April 25.

‘Paying attention’

In Fischer’s case, the law at issue is Title 18, Section 1512(c)(2) , of the U.S. Code, which criminalizes any effort to “corruptly” obstruct, influence or impede any official proceeding. Conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years.

The government says about 330 Jan. 6 defendants have been charged with violating that law.

Republican lawmakers including Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., and Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, filed a brief in Fischer’s case saying the Justice Department is using the law as an “all-purpose weapon against perceived political opponents.”

The provision was enacted in 2002 as part of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, a bill passed in the aftermath of the Enron accounting scandal. As such, defendants say it was written to address evidence tampering and was never intended to apply to an incident such as Jan. 6.

Fischer’s lawyers argue that the provision is limited in scope to evidence tampering, pointing to language in another part of the statute referring to records and documents. It therefore should not apply to Fischer’s actions, such as the alleged assault of a police officer.

Trump’s lawyers have made similar arguments that his alleged conduct is not covered by the obstruction law, saying in their brief in the immunity case that the statute “is stretched far beyond its natural meaning” when applied to Trump, who faces four charges in total.

In describing Trump’s alleged criminal acts, the election interference indictment focuses on his broad scheme to stay in power by urging Congress to reject election certifications that confirmed Biden’s victory. Trump and his allies instead sought to submit substitute certifications crafted by what have been dubbed “fake electors.”

Prosecutors argue Trump’s actions fit within the statute because he made false statements to members of Congress and others and submitted false documents.

Special counsel Jack Smith, who is prosecuting Trump, said in his latest brief in that case that no matter how the court rules in the Fischer case, “the Section 1512 charges in this case are valid.”

That is because unlike in Fischer’s case, Trump’s prosecution does involve an alleged conspiracy to tamper with documents, namely the effort to use “fraudulent electoral certifications rather than genuine ones” during the congressional proceeding to certify the outcome, Smith said.

Smith also referenced the brief filed by Fischer’s lawyers in the case being argued on Tuesday. They seek a narrow reading of the law that would ensure the charge against their client would be dismissed but appear to leave open the option of someone being prosecuted for “making false claims” or offering “false testimony.”

If the Supreme Court were to embrace that approach, Fischer could win, but Trump’s own charges could remain unaffected, said Richard Bernstein, a lawyer who filed a friend-of-the-court brief backing the government.

“All the parties in the Fischer case agree that the statute applies to submitting false statements and false documents. If the court agrees with that it doesn’t matter for Mr. Trump how they rule on Fischer’s particular case,” he added.

Fritz Ulrich, a federal public defender who is one of Fischer’s lawyers, said the language cited by Smith was merely aimed at buttressing their argument limiting the scope of the statute.

“We have not been paying attention to the prosecution of the former president,” he added.

Broad application of the statute

The incident at the heart of Fischer’s case happened around 3:25 p.m. on Jan. 6, at a point when police were beginning to regain some control of the building. Fischer, the government says, later bragged about his effort to push past the police line.

“Police line was 4 deep. I made it to level two,” Fischer allegedly wrote. The government also said Fischer “was enflamed and defiant” when he was arrested weeks after the attack and “had to be physically restrained” by his son after an FBI special agent showed up to a hearing Fischer attended.

Fischer’s lawyers claimed that Fischer was only inside the Capitol for a short period of time, and that he was mostly interested in getting cellphone footage.

“Mr. Fischer did not ‘attack’ anyone on January 6. He was inside the Capitol for a total of four minutes,” his attorneys wrote in a court filing last year.

In lower courts, various Jan. 6 defendants have echoed Trump and Fischer in saying the obstruction law has been applied too broadly.

U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, who is overseeing Fischer’s case, initially dismissed the charge.

But the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled for the government last year, prompting Fischer to appeal to the Supreme Court. Two other Jan. 6 defendants, Edward Lang and Garret Miller , brought similar appeals, the outcome of which will be dictated by the ruling in Fischer’s case.

The Supreme Court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, has often pushed back on the Justice Department’s broad application of criminal statutes.

One beneficiary of that approach was a Florida fisherman whose conviction under another provision of the Sarbanes-Oxley law was thrown out in a 2015 ruling.

Lawrence Hurley covers the Supreme Court for NBC News.

Ryan J. Reilly is a justice reporter for NBC News.