tirana city trip

Wander-Lush

How to Spend One Day in Tirana, Albania’s Colourful Capital

Only have one day in Tirana ? My Tirana itinerary covers the best city sights plus a few hidden gems to give you a perfect introduction to Albania’s capital.

Tirana is fast gaining a reputation as one of the coolest cities in the Balkans.

Having visited every Balkan country , and having spent a good chunk of time – typically 7-10 days – in each capital, Tirana certainly stands out as one of the most dynamic, creative and interesting cities in the region.

Albania , as you probably know, has a rather dark past. For me, the contrast between its shadowy history and absolutely vibrant modern profile makes Tirana all the more enthralling. It’s definitely a city on the up and up – I expect it will only gain popularity as an alternative European city break in the years to come.

One of the best things about Tirana is how compact and walkable it is. With one day in Tirana, you can cover a lot of ground. In a morning, you can learn a bit about Albanian history and visit the city’s key historical and cultural landmarks. And in an afternoon, you can explore some of the lesser-visited gems.

With more time, you can ride the gondola to Dajti Mountain and explore the hills above Tirana, or maybe take a day trip to the historic city of Kruje.

The real test is seeing how many cool cafes, communism-themed bars and contemporary restaurants you can squeeze in between!

Essential reading: 22 practical Albania tips for first-time visitors .

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Tirana quick links

• Where to stay in Tirana: Arté Boutique Hotel (luxury); Bujtina Shqiptare (mid-range); or Tirana Backpacker Hostel (budget). Or, try an Airbnb. View my list of the best Tirana Airbnbs .
• Tirana airport transfer: Hit the ground running, book a private transfer (from $34 per group) from Tirana airport to your accommodation. Book here on Viator .
• Top-rated city tour: City and Food Tour of Tirana (5-6 hours with a local guide). Prices start from $64. Check availability here on Viator .
• Renting a car in Tirana? Use Discover Cars to find the best prices on a rental car for Albania – then check out my Balkan road trip itinerary post for route inspiration!

Is 1 day in Tirana enough?

How many days in Tirana is the perfect amount of time? Well, the answer really depends on your travel style.

As you’ll soon see, one day is just enough time to see the major highlights provided you’re travelling in summer when the days are nice and long. If you prefer to travel at a slower pace and really feel the soul of each city you visit, then I recommend spending a bit longer in Tirana.

You can easily draw this one day in Tirana itinerary out into a multi-day itinerary by adding a few extra spots. There is no shortage of things to do in Tirana to keep you occupied for 2 or 3 full days.

The perfect one day in Tirana itinerary: What to see in Tirana in one day

We spent the better part of a week in Tirana, but I know most travellers don’t have 5 nights to dedicate just to the city (you could plausibly see a good chunk of Albania in that time).

To make things easy for you, I’ve condensed all the best bits of our Albania experience into an ideal one day itinerary for first-time visitors. It doesn’t cover everything, but it does provide a good overview and, I think, a good balance between must-sees and hidden gems.

8.30am: Start your one day in Tirana with a coffee

Did you know that Albania and Italy have a tight-knit friendship? Your first evidence of this is the prolific coffee scene in Tirana. Yes, that Italian influence has definitely rubbed off, but like Kosovo , Albania has its own unique brand of coffee that it does incredibly well.

The best place to grab your morning brew is at a locally owned cafe chain. My top pick is Mulliri I Vjetër , which serves excellent espresso coffee and an array of pastries.

You can find branches all across town. My favourite is the one on the edge of Park Rinia, a 5-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square. It opens early at 7am so you can squeeze in a few shots before you start your first day in Tirana.

9.30am–12.30pm: Discover central Tirana on a walking tour

A walking tour is the best way to go if you have limited time in the city. Having an expert guide to illuminate Albania’s complex and nuanced history is pretty much essential if you want to understand anything about anything.

Tirana is one place where I don’t hesitate to recommend a paid tour over the free city tour . We joined the free tour and found it disappointing. It was a huge group (more than 25 people), and we didn’t get any question time with the guide. (When we went to tip, he asked us who we were – the group was so big, he didn’t even recognise us!)

I think it’s much better to go with a small group and to start early in the morning. This top-rated City and Food Tour of Tirana runs for 5-6 hours and gives you a great overview of the city centre and what makes Tirana tick. Prices start from $64. Check availability here on Viator .

If you’re hesitant to have your first hours in Tirana controlled by a tour itinerary, just remember you’ll have the whole afternoon to yourself for free-ranging.

The 5 Tirana must-sees mentioned below are all included on the city tour.

Skanderbeg Square

Skanderbeg Square is Tirana’s biggest public plaza and the city’s nerve centre. Newly built in 2018, it covers more than 10 hectares in total, including a huge 40,000-square-metre esplanade in the centre.

As you walk across the massive plateau, you’ll notice slight variations in the hues underfoot. That’s because the paving has been pieced together with regional stone sourced from every corner of Albania.

Rather than being flat, the Square is pitched at a slight decline. On hot days, recycled water is pumped from openings on one side, covering the paving with a thin film of water to cool things off. Everything you see, from the stone to the soil, has been sourced locally in Albania. The Square is a beautiful piece of architecture and a source of pride for Tirana.

Some of Tirana’s most important buildings and historical landmarks are dotted around the Square. At the southern end, you’ll see a large Skanderbeg Statue (striking the same pose as in Prishtina and Skopje ), the perfect prompt to learn about Albania’s national hero.

Palace of Culture

The Palace of Culture sits on the Square’s eastern flank and includes Tirana’s Opera and Ballet Theatre as well as the National Library. Sadly, some of the city’s most revered landmarks, including one of the oldest mosques and the Old Bazaar, were bulldozed to make way for the stark, communist-style Palace in the 1960s.

National History Museum

Recognisable by the stunning facade mosaic that faces into the Square, Albania’s National History Museum is the largest cultural institution in the country. It houses a huge collection of artefacts from Illyrian history through to post-communist Albania. Some of the didactics are in English but other displays lack information – so it’s a good idea to do some basic reading on Albanian history before you go.

One of the highlights is the collection of icons by the renowned 16th-century Albanian master painter, Onufri (I highly recommend visiting the wonderful Onufri Museum in Berat ).

The National Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am-4pm and from 10am-3pm on Sunday (closed Mondays). Entrance costs 200 LEK. Before you leave, walk around the back to view the small collection of toppled leaders – damaged statues that once decorated Tirana during communist times.

Et’hem Bey Mosque

The 18th-century Et’hem Bey Mosque is unusual for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it managed to survive Albania’s communist dictatorship (no small feat for a house of worship). Another thing that makes it unique is the exterior frescoes that depict trees, waterfalls and bridges. These kinds of motifs are rarely seen in Islamic art, which makes Tirana’s most important mosque all the more special.

Inside, the painted dome looks absolutely beautiful. The mosque was undergoing maintenance at the time of our visit so we didn’t get to see it, but it has since re-opened. Visitors are welcome inside outside of prayer hours. Don’t miss seeing the burial sites of Et’hem Bey and his wife, located near the entrance.

Pyramid of Tirana

After crossing the narrow Lana River – perhaps by way of the stout stone Tanner’s Bridge – you’ll come to Tirana’s south side. This part of the city is denser and known for its high-rise apartments, so it immediately feels very different to the old part of town on the river’s northern bank.

The quirky Pyramid of Tirana has become the city’s unofficial symbol in recent years. Built in 1988, it was supposed to serve as a museum for Enver Hoxha , the despotic dictator who was born in nearby Gjirokaster . It served its original purpose for a mere three years before being converted into a conference centre. During the Kosovo War , it was used by NATO, then it went on to become a radio station and later a popular nightclub.

Today the Pyramid is abandoned and derelict. There are rumours circulating that it will eventually be torn down – that, or completely remodelled to create a new civic space (personally I would prefer the latter).

It’s currently a construction site, so don’t necessarily expect to see it as it’s pictured above. When we visited, it was surrounded by a high fence to stop people from getting too close (let alone climbing up the sides, which is now strictly prohibited).

12.30pm: Wander the colourful Blloku neighbourhood

The walking tour ends in the Blloku neighbourhood with a stop off to see Enver Hoxha’s former villa . Stay on for an hour or so to wander the backstreets and take in Tirana’s most colourful neighbourhood .

During the communist years, Blloku was a restricted area purpose-built to house the members of Albania’s politburo. Ordinary people were prohibited from walking the streets or frequenting any of the businesses within Blloku’s boundaries.

When communism fell, there was a kind of cultural rebellion and a mad rush to reclaim Blloku as part of the city. A huge number of cafes, bars, boutiques and nightclubs moved in, transforming the once tightly controlled area into one of Tirana’s most lively (and affluent) precincts. How’s that for comeuppance!

A lot of the buildings and old ‘Commieblocks’ around Blloku have been decorated with vibrant murals. As you wander, make sure you visit the Wilson Square Apartment , where you’ll find the famous rainbow painting (a backdrop to a statue of former US President Thomas Woodrow Wilson, for whom the housing estate and park are named).

There’s also some great street art around Rruga Abdyl Frasheri . Both these points are marked on the Tirana map at the end of the itinerary.

1.30pm: Eat Lunch at Mullixhiu

Named among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants , Slow Food certified Mullixhiu is fine dining on a budget. The chef did his apprenticeship at Noma, so you know it’s going to be good!

The menu is all about authentic Albanian fare made with organic veg, wild-caught fish and local game. Choose from small sharing plates (from 4 Euros) or an 8-course tasting menu (from just 20 Euros a head – dinner only). The offerings are seasonal so the menu is constantly changing, but expect dishes such as home-cured meats, burek of the day, and Albanian gnocchi with Elbasan saffron.

Mullixhiu is located just south of Blloku on the edge of the Grand Park . If you come this way for lunch, there’s an added bonus of taking a short walk through the city’s largest green space. Lunch is served from 12pm (a-la-carte and set lunch options), and reservations are essential.

2.30pm: Ascend the Sky Tower for a city view

After lunch, walk back up through Blloku and prepare to cross the river back to the main part of Tirana.

But before you do, take a 20-minute detour to ride the elevator to the top of the Sky Tower . It’s by no means the tallest building in the city, but because of its location in colourful Blloku, it offers one of the nicest aspects.

You’d think it would be best to go at sunset , but I strongly recommend doing the Sky Tower during the day. Why? So you can better see all the wonderful colours. From up high, Tirana is a kaleidoscope of pink, mauve and mandarin apartment blocks. You also get a feel for how green the city really is.

The viewing deck at Sky Tower is attached to a bar. You can buy a drink while you’re there, but I don’t think anyone will care if you don’t. Note that there is a second balcony on the far side of the bar – make sure you visit both to see the city from different angles.

The Sky Tower is open daily until late. Entrance is free.

3pm: Take a coffee break at Komiteti

For a quick pick-me-up, Komiteti Kafe Muzeum is perfectly positioned at the bottom of the Sky Tower. This little cafe is a cornucopia of antiques, knickknacks and memorabilia from Albania’s communist era (a bit like Cong Ca Phe in Hanoi , which pays a similar nostalgia-tinged tribute to Vietnamese communism). Find a table between the curiosity cabinets or a spot on the sofa and let your eyes rove around the many thousands of curated objects.

Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer and raki , Albania’s national spirit) are the specialty at Komiteti, but they also serve coffee, tea and soft drinks.

4pm: Go underground at Bunk’Art 2

Another thing I love (and respect) about Tirana is the fact that it doesn’t shy away from its past. Bunk’Art 2 is proof of this.

Constructed in the 1980s to shelter elite police and ministry staff in case of a nuclear attack, this 1,000-square-metre subterranean bunker lay dormant for years before the city elected to turn it into a museum in 2016. It now houses a vast collection of photographs, written testimonies and other relics from Albania’s communist past.

Exhibits focus on the secret police force, which was active up until 1991 and responsible for persecuting more than 100,000 Albanians. The museum names 6,027 people who were executed, and illuminates some very difficult-to-swallow realities about the regime. Exhibits are thoughtfully composed and interactive – it’s gripping, it’s emotional, and the heavy nature of the material does make it very tiring.

Bunk’Art 2 is a smaller sister museum to the flagship Bunk Art on Tirana’s outskirts. If you only have one day in Tirana, I recommend sticking to Bunk’Art 2 because it’s conveniently located in the heart of the city, and takes less time to see.

The museum is open every day from 9am-6pm. Budget 2 hours for moving through the exhibits at a steady pace. Tickets cost 500 LEK (1000 LEK if you want to visit with a guide).

6pm: Enjoy a sunset xhiro on Toptani Street

Once you emerge from the depths of the bunker, reinvigorate yourself with a sunset stroll. The xhiro is an Albanian tradition – it basically involves walking (and probably gossiping) your way up and down a pedestrian street at dusk. The whole city gets in on it, making it a golden opportunity for people-watching and street photography.

Toptani Street is Tirana’s main pedestrian mall and appears to have been designed specifically for xhiro -ing. The wide, paved street has juice bars and ice cream parlors at regular intervals lest you need to refuel.

As you walk, take in anything you missed in the morning or wanted to revisit from the tour. Make sure you stop to see Reja – The Cloud , a public art installation at the western end of Toptani Street.

7.30pm: Eat dinner inside the Fortress of Justinian

Albania is dotted with old fortresses and castles. In Tirana, they’ve decided to turn theirs into a dining precinct. Genius!

The newly renovated Fortress of Justinian had only just opened when we visited Tirana. It’s a bit stark by day, but trust me, it’s absolutely pumping in the evenings. A wander around here is one of the best things to do in Tirana at night.

Enter through one of the historic gates in the lofty fortress wall to the inner sanctum – a paved street of wine bars, classy restaurants, and gift boutiques that stay open until late. Porcelain Studio Seferi is my top pick for souvenirs – they sell beautiful plates and tableware hand-painted with traditional Albanian motifs.

For dinner, try La Gioia for seafood or Shendeverë Wine Bar for local plop and a light bite. If nothing takes your fancy (or you’re after something more budget-friendly), Oda – Traditional Albanian Cuisine , my favourite restaurant in Tirana for Albanian fare, is just a few blocks away.

9pm: Drinks at Radio Bar

If you have the energy, there’s no better way to finish your one day in Tirana than by heading back to the city’s premier nightlife district, Blloku. Radio Bar Tirana and Bunker1944 Lounge are both themed bars (similar to Komiteti) that serve local wine, raki and cocktails.

Radio Bar is particularly well-known for its 70s-inspired decor, which is reminiscent of a family room in middle America.

One day in Tirana map

• Where to stay in Tirana

Luxury: Arté Boutique Hotel . Old-world opulence (think parquet floors, emperor-sized beds and velvet drapes) behind a historic facade in the Blloku neighbourhood. Check prices and availability on Booking.com .

Boutique: La Suite Boutique Hotel . Modern luxury (white marble bathrooms; generous timber-floored suites) on the river near the Pyramid of Tirana. Check prices and availability on Booking.com .

Mid-range: Bujtina Shqiptare . Homely self-contained apartments with full kitchens and private balconies 700m north from Skanderbeg Square. Check prices and availability on Booking.com .

Budget: Tirana Backpacker Hostel . Mixed dorms and private singles in a friendly hostel with outdoor gardens and communal lounge spaces. Conveniently located 10 minutes’ walk west from Skanderbeg Square. Check prices and availability on Booking.com .

7 things to pack for Tirana

• A good quality backpack. The easiest way to get around Albania is with an anti-theft day pack and a large pack for your main luggage. Here are a few of my favourite minimalist backpack designs for inspiration.
• A scarf (women). A lightweight cotton scarf is my number one travel item. In Albania, it will come in extra handy for covering your hair when entering a mosque or Orthodox Cathedral. This neutral travel scarf goes with anything, and it even has a hidden pocket.
• Walking shoes. From cobbled streets to rocky peaks, comfy walking shoes are absolutely essential for Albania. I love these comfy sandals , and my partner lives in these waterproof shoes .
• A reusable water bottle. Avoid single-use plastics whenever you can. I love my S’Well water bottle for warm climates because it doesn’t sweat.
• Wine Wings. Should you decide to buy a drinkable souvenir in Albania, these handy custom-made bottle protectors will keep your vino safe and sound in your luggage. A travel corkscrew and a wine stopper are bound to come in handy, too.
• Entertainment for long bus/furgon journeys. If you don’t suffer motion sickness, an e-reader is great for passing the time on long road journeys. If you have a travel buddy , pick up a headphone splitter – probably my favourite travel gadget of all time – so you can share a screen or a podcast. Check out my full list of essential items to make a long train or bus journey more comfortable .
• Biodegradable wet wipes. Try this convenient travel pack .

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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

Welcome to Albania!

I am a tour guide in albania.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania .

Book your free  Albania Planning Session via Skype now, by using my online scheduler to find a time that’s convenient for you.

1-2 days Tirana Itinerary: The Best Things to do in Tirana

Plan one or two days in Tirana  with my suggested itinerary which includes 21 awesome things to do in Albania’s colorful capital. This list of the best things to do in Tirana  covers the most important city sights and must-sees as well as a few quirky attractions you don’t want to miss. 

Due to time constraints, I skipped the capital Tirana on my first trip to Albania. However, I made sure to spend full two days in Tirana  on my 2-week road trip in Albania and explore as much of this unique city as possible. 

The up-and-coming capital of Albania, Tirana has built the name of the hippiest city in the Balkans. After being suppressed under the communist regime for many years, today’s Tirana has literally transformed its neighborhoods of grey facades into eye-catching rainbow-colored apartment blocks decorated with murals.

The city is filled with street art, funky coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, meanwhile, green spaces and parks offer a quick retrieve from the busy streets and traffic noise.

Although still struggling and rough around the edges, Tirana, the lively capital of cool, is destined to become soon one of the top South Eastern European cities to visit. Plus, it is one of the most affordable capitals in Europe! 

From art spaces and creatively transformed bunker-based museums, elevated city views, and vibrant coffee shop scenes to bizarre communist-era buildings and scenic funicular rides above the green peaks, this guide isn’t short of interesting attractions in Tirana. 

The great news is that Albania’s capital is so compact that most of the main attractions in Tirana are within walking distance or just a short bus ride away. Therefore, in one or two days you will be able to tick off the most important places to visit in Tirana . 

Read on to plan your sightseeing with my detailed Tirana itinerary for one and two days . As usual, I also share the best places to stay in Tirana as well as where to eat. 

I have marked all the places of interest in Tirana  on my map, so you know where exactly to look for them. 

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). This helps to keep my blog running and growing by creating more awesome free content for you.

How to spend 1-2 days in Tirana: the best things to see in Tirana , Albania

Tirana travel essentials.

• Where to stay in Tirana: Maritim Plaza Hotel (high-end); Galeria Apartment (mid-range); Tirana Backpaker Hostel (budget).
• Renting a car in Tirana : Use Localrent or Discover Cars to find the best deals for renting a car in Albania.
• Cheap flights: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Albania from your location.
• Visa: 90-day tourist visa is free for most nationalities; if not apply for an Albania visa easily at iVisa .
• Travel insurance : for safe traveling in Albania. Get a quote at SafetyWing .
• Guided tours in Tirana: look for the best-rated Tirana tours on Viator .
• Local SIM Card: Get a sim at the Tirana airport arrivals hall. The best coverage is provided by Vodafone. A tourist pack with 70 GB of data and free local calls costs 2000 LEK (17 EUR).

Frequently asked questions about visiting Tirana

Is tirana worth visiting and why .

I’ll be brutally honest here, Tirana is not the prettiest city in the world. 

When planning my Albania road trip, I had second thoughts if Tirana is worth a visit or better to be skipped. Why bother blistering your feet walking the gritty streets of an ex-communist city when I can better sweat while hiking the breath-taking Albanian Alps, swim in the turquoise sea in the Riviera, or wander small historical UNESCO-listed towns of Berat and Gjirokaster ? 

The truth is, if you skip Tirana, you will miss that one particle to complete the puzzle. 

Tirana might not be for everyone- either you will love it or hate it. However, in my humble opinion,  Tirana is absolutely worth visiting not only for its colorful districts and 70s nostalgia-infused coffee shops, “hole in the wall” type of shops selling cheap crunchy byreks , but also to better understand why Albania is what it is today. 

Definitely not a polished city compared to enchanting Italian or Portuguese towns, but its vivid roughness is what makes Tirana special. The capital city of Albania was nothing I expected and nothing I have ever seen before.

A cacophony of old low-rise buildings, brutalist communist blocks, and modern skyscrapers doesn’t make any sense from the perspective of the architectural style of the city. However, at the same time, this chaotic mix seems to also be balanced and unique. It is as if Tirana’s turbulent and dark past is opposing a continuously reinventing modern self-image of a vibrant and forward-looking European city. 

Thus, give it a shot and visit Tirana at least for a day. 

How many days should you spend in Tirana? 

Most of the travelers stop in Tirana only for one day. However, I would recommend spending at least 2 full days in Tirana  if you want to slowly see all the main attractions and get the vibe of the city. 

Having two full days would even allow you to get a little bit off the beaten path and add some nature attractions in the nearby Dajti mountains or a half-day trip to Krujë -the old capital of Albania. 

Having one day to spend in Tirana would only give you enough time to cover the city center. If you plan to visit the outskirts where Bunkart 1 and the Dajti cable car are located, I would definitely recommend budgeting an extra day. 

What is the best time to visit Tirana? 

Tirana is an all-year-round destination. Autumn, winter, spring, and early June are definitely good times for visiting Tirana.

I would suggest avoiding Tirana in the summer (July and August) when it gets really hot. I experienced 40 degrees of heat in Tirana on my 2-week Albania trip . The heat made sightseeing in the city exhausting. 

ALSO READ: Everything you need to know before renting a car and driving in Albania.

Looking for car hire in Albania? Check Localrent or Discovercars where you can find the best deals for renting a car in Albania!

Rent a Car in Albania

Look for the best rates for your rental car at Localrent.

Things to do in Tirana Itinerary: Day 1

If you have only one day in Tirana, I suggest the following activities and sites. It is definitely going to be a jam-packed itinerary in Albania’s capital. Nonetheless, all points of interest are located within the perimeter of the city center and are accessible on foot.

MORNING IN TIRANA: DAY 1

1. Start your day in Tirana with a great cup of coffee

Albania’s capital has a flourishing coffee culture. Thus, coffee shop jumping is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Tirana . Inherited whilst under Italian occupation, espresso coffee is phenomenal, and so is corruption, as our Tirana guide joked. 

Indeed, you can find fantastic coffee in hundreds of places sprinkled all over Tirana. Coffee shops are serving everything from sharp espresso shots to fancier coffee cocktails.

You can spend a whole week just trying out countless funky, chic, and artistic coffee spots. To save you some time, here are a few suggestions for the cafes that I loved in Tirana:

• Coin cafe – art deco old school movie-themed coffee shop. The decor of the place caught my attention, and the coffee pleasantly surprised me. I randomly ordered something called guarana and it was the best coffee discovery in my whole Albania trip. The cinnamon-infused sweet macchiato is so addictive I could have 5 shots in a row.

Location: Coin Cafè, Bulevardi Gjergj Fishta, Tirana, Albania (exact pin on the map at the end of this article).

• Komiteti cafe – the most famous cafe on the web. The coffee shop/bar is known as a museum cafe where the decor is all about 70s nostalgia. Hundreds of communist time relicts from small analog tv sets, 3-liter kompot jars (sweet drinks made from preserves), Enver Hoxha’s books, cabinets filled with dining sets like at your grandma’s house, and other memorabilia fill the space.

Location: Komiteti – Kafe Muzeum, Rruga Fatmir Haxhiu, Tirana, Albania, behind the famous Pyramid of Tirana (exact pin on the map at the end of this article).

• Coffee at Mulliri I Vjetër is a local coffeeshops chain (aka Albanian Starbucks but better). You can find it everywhere around Tirana. I liked their cold Mochaccino and hot cocoa drink. The lively yet cozy branch is in Wilsons Square. Meanwhile, next to Rinia park, they have a large outdoor garden-type of space. Interestingly, they also sell Lithuanian chocolate Pergale – yet one more thing in common between our countries (life during communism is the other). 

Location: Wilsons Square and Rinia Park (exact pin on the map at the end of this article).

2. Go on a free Tirana city walking tour-one of the best things to do in Tirana

I rarely join tours but having read so many great reviews and recommendations about Tirana’s free walking tour, I decided to try it out. This walking tour is a fun, memorable, and educational experience.

It is a great way to get acquainted with Albania’s capital and definitely one of the best things to do in Tirana, and here is why.

The 2-2.5 hours walk is led by young and enthusiastic English-speaking guides who present the most important historical facts and insights into Albania’s culture in a fun and engaging way. You will be walked around Tirana’s city center and main neighborhoods. The tour will give you a good intro and orientation around the city. It also covers brief stops at the main points of interest around the town (like the Pyramid, Blloku area, Bunk Art2, and others). It also includes a couple of main churches and the largest in the Balkans Grand Mosque ( Namazgâh Mosque ) so you don’t have to look for them later. 

I did a quick research about Albania’s history on Wikipedia before landing in Tirana, but reading historical facts can put you to sleep very quickly. On the contrary, joining this Tirana walking tour was an eye-opener and just the right amount of the most important information to get an idea about the past and present life in Albania.

You will also get to know some quirky and fun things about everyday Albanian life. Finally, guides are open to questions and you can ask them anything Albania-related that comes to your mind. 

The walking tour is called a free tour; however, donations of your chosen amount are very welcome. In fact, those guided free tours are led by professional tour guides who actually do it every single day 365 days a year! Therefore, it is a full-time job for them. Not sure if they are getting a fixed salary, but surely donations from travelers count up to a significant part of their income.

• Starting time of the tour is at 10 AM daily. The meet-up point is at the staircases on the left side of the Opera house in Skanderbeg square (the main plaza in town).
• How to recognize your tour guide – they have a badge that says “free tour”. 
• Group size: at my time of visit there were 2 groups split between two guides, each of the groups had around 15 people. 

If you prefer smaller guided tours, there are some great options to join a paid Tirana Walking Tour with Food Tasting  (5/5 Viator).

The following nr. 3 to nr. 9 things to do in Tirana on this list are briefly covered during the walking tour.

3. Skenderberg Square- the heart of Tirana

Named by the country’s national hero, Skanderbeg Square is the heart of Tirana . All roads in the city lead to the massive plaza paved with various shades of stone sourced from different parts of Albania. On a hot day, you may also see a thin layer of water stripes running through the pavement of the plaza.

As our walking tour guide explained, recycled water is being pumped from the sides of the square to cool down the stone.

I was in Tirana when the sun heated up the air to 40 degrees Celcius. This cooling system comes in handy otherwise the 40000 square meter size Skanderbeg square would turn into an open-air stove. 

On the southern side of the square, you will definitely notice a statue of Skanderbeg himself. Meanwhile, many governments, historical, and other important buildings are situated around the square. 

If you pass by the late afternoon or at sunset time you will see Skanderbeg Square come to life. Locals love to hang out around the main city plaza, especially on warm summer evenings. 

4. Peak into Et’hem Bey mosque

Et’hem Bey mosque is one of the surviving places of worship (many churches and mosques were destroyed during Enver Hoxha’s rule). Part of the historical complex (together with Tirana’s clock tower), the mosque holds significant importance in Islamic Art.

Mosques’ facades and the portico are decorated with frescoes depicting trees, waterfalls, and bridges. In Islam, it is usually frowned upon to portray real-life objects. The decorations, if any, seen in most of the mosques, are usually abstract mosaics and arabesques. 

Before visiting, I have read about Et’hem Bey mosque and I was expecting something grand. Meanwhile, the Et’hem Bey mosque is very modest compared to what I am used to seeing in the Middle East ( UAE and Oman ).

Although Et’hem Bey Mosque is strategically located in the southern corner of Skanderbeg square, you can almost walk past it without realizing it is one of the most important historical buildings in the capital. The petite mosque is best appreciated up close. Non-Muslims can also visit it outside prayer times. Make sure to remove your shoes before entering and wear modest attire, including a head cover. Although Albanians are quite relaxed when it comes to religious guidelines, and nobody would probably request you to wear a scarf (if you are a female), it is still advisable to do so out of respect for the culture. 

  5. Climb the Clock Tower to get an elevated view over the Skanderbeg Square

The Clock Tower is located behind Et’hem Bey Mosque was also built by Etëhem Bey Mollaj in 1822 and was originally designed in Islamic style with a Venetian bell to be rung every hour. 

Today it is one of the most important historical structures which used to be the tallest building in the city before skyscrapers overtook it in height. If you have time, you can climb a 35-meter-tall tower via 90 spiral steps for elevated views of Skanderbeg square. 

6. Pyramid of Tirana

The Pyramid of Tirana is sort of a symbol of the city and at the same time, the most bizarre building constructed in 1988 and originally intended to be used as Enver Hoxha’s museum. Enver Hoxha was a despotic dictator, considered one of the most dangerous tyrants in history, who ruled Albania for over 4 decades. 

The 4 million US dollars pyramid served its purpose for 3 years and then it was closed flowing the collapse of the communist regime. The building was converted into a conference center, then used by NATO during the Kosovo war, then as a radio station and finally, it turned into a nightclub until it got completely abandoned. 

Today Pyramid, after long debates about whether it should be demolished or renovated, is under construction. Gladly the symbol of Tirana will stay and will be transformed into a youth-focused cultural hub.

Our Tirana tour guide told us that the government has been promising since 2015 that it will take 2 years to complete the Pyramid. Yet the 2 years deadline has passed a while ago.

AFTERNOON IN TIRANA: DAY 1

  7. Bunk Art 2- the most unique museum in Tirana you must visit

The walking tour ends midday at Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral- a massive dome-shaped modern place of worship. It is just a few steps away from Skanderbeg Square and Bunk Art 2, the location of which you already know as the tour stops at its entrance for a brief overview. 

Bunk Art 2 is one of the 180 000 bunkers built under Enver Hohsa’s rule (mad number). The tyrant was paranoid about the nuclear attack and thus decided to be prepared once it starts. Luckily, the nuclear war never commenced, and thousands of those bunkers dotting the whole country were left abandoned. 

Originally constructed to serve as a shelter for the top politicians and elite police, the Bunk Art 2 was also abandoned for many years until it was transformed into a unique museum in 2016.

Bunk Art 2 is not an art museum, but an exhibition disclosing the dark realities of terrifying Albania’s communist regime.  

Tens of thousands of Albanians were terrorized and tortured by the so-called secret police. Names of over 6000 executed civilians are displayed to commemorate the victims of the communist regime.

It is hard to understand and process with a clear mind how one crazy dictator managed to lock the whole country from the rest of the world for more than 40 years and kill everyone who tried to escape Albanian borders. 

In Bunk Art 2 exhibit you will find installations, old photographs, and relics. ln depth information explaining different stages of life in Albania during the communist regime is displayed in chronological order. Short interview recordings with the survivors talking about the tortures they had to go through are nothing less than shocking. 

Also, you can see rooms left as they were originally set up to be used by the biggest shots in the government in case of nuclear war. Decontamination, isolation, prison cells, and lots of creepy underground corridors accompanied by disturbing sound effects will not leave you indifferent. 

The exhibition may feel heavy and even depressing, but it is something you shouldn’t miss when in Tirana. 

Bunk Art2 is a smaller version of the main Bunk Art1 museum which is a massive bunker located on the outskirts of Tirana. If you are spending 2 days in Tirana, I would recommend visiting Bunk Art1 on the second day. You can combine the visit together with the cable car ride mentioned later in this itinerary.

• Opening hours: Mon-Thu 9:30 AM – 6 PM, Fri-Sun 9:30 AM – 7 PM.
• Entrance fee: 500 LEK (~4.5 EUR).

8. Head to the Blloku area for another cup of coffee or a light lunch at one of its funky cafes

If you join a walking tour of Tirana, you will touch a corner of the Blloku area. It is Tirana’s trendiest neighborhood filled with colorful apartment blocks and beautiful murals.

Interestingly, Blloku used to have a completely different face during the days of communism. It was a gated and heavily patrolled compound built for the selected few.

Communist leaders including Enver Hoxha himself used to reside in the area. As our guide joked, everyone is equal under communism but some are more equal than others. Indeed, the communist leaders and their most loyal defenders lived in a secured neighborhood of Blloku and had a very different lifestyle than the rest of the hard-working and, let’s face it, struggling nation. 

A random mortal person wouldn’t be allowed to enter and hang out in Blloku back in the day. However, after communism collapsed, people reclaimed Tirana’s district back and rebelliously transformed it into one of the coolest buzzing spots in town.

Today Blloku is filled with funky cafes, hip bars, and stylish boutiques. This is also the place where “golden youth” is hanging out at night.

Make sure to stop by Wilsons square with its internet-famous rainbow buildings. The roundabout with US Presidents Woodrow Wilson’s statue at the center marks a significant historical event when during WWI America’s leader stood against European leaders’ plans to divide Albania’s territory amongst its neighbors. 

9. Stop by Enever Hoxha’s villa in Blloku

Blloku area retains some important historical attributes. Enver Hoxha’s villa, although only available to see from the outside, is one of them. Ironically, Albania’s first international fast-food restaurant KFC was opened in front of the dictator’s villa. Locals joke that, it is capitalism smiling at defeated communism through the face of the KFC founder. 

Note: stopping at Enver Hoxha’s villa is part of the Tirana walking tour.

• As recommended by locals, have lunch in the nearby Terracotta restaurant. This is a small solo chef-run place serving delicious pasta. Also, has vegetarian options. The exact location is on the map above.

10. Check out Tirana’s views from above from the Sky Bar 

When in the Blloku area, stop by Sky Tower Bar. As the name suggests, this bar is elevated up high above the city and it offers some pretty cool views of Tirana. 

It is free to enter and you can also have a drink while observing the birds-eye view of the Albanian Capital. At my time of visit, the Sky Bar was temporarily closed for renovation. However, you might be lucky to find it open. 

11. Spot more of Tirana’s colorful buildings and murals

Tirana by no means was always called a colorful capital. The town started changing its appearance in the 90s as a result of the former mayor’s and painter Edi Rama’s initiative to boost some life into the dull communist buildings. 

Many apartment blocks and even government buildings in the city center were re-painted using the brightest and boldest colors available-purples, blues, greens, yellows, pinks, you name it.

Today some of the buildings still retain their vivid shade while some are slowly fading. Yet, the municipality of Tirana continues to add a touch of color to the newly constructed buildings. 

Although Tirana’s colorful buildings are spread all over the city, if you want to spot some of the coolest-looking ones, there are a few spots you can walk to:

• Rainbow Building at Wilsons Square which I have already mentioned above. 
• Bajram Curri Boulevard runs parallel to Lana River on the south side of the city. Start walking from the Blloku area eastwards, pass the Pyramid, and in around 10 minutes you will come across the super vivid pink apartment block. Continue further as much as you feel like to see differently decorated walls of old communist-era apartment blocks.

• Rruga e Kavajës and Rruga Arkitekt Kasemi are other two bigger streets where you can find more colorful Tirana facades. 
• Murals at Rruga e Dibrës and Rruga Barrikadave intersecrion . Walking the North side of the Skanderbeg square, behind the Opera House can find amazing massive murals located at an intersection of Rruga e Dibrës and Rruga Barrikadave streets. 
• Superman’s mural. One of the nights I stayed immediately next to this cool Superman mural located on Rruga Muhamet Gjollesha street, the north side of the Lana River. This mural is also very close to my favorite Coin café in town.
• Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar) is enclosed between vivid freshly repainted buildings decorated with geometric forms resembling traditional patterns seen in Albanian textiles.

Apart from looking up to the colorful walls, spot many electric boxes on the streets painted in different cartoon characters. There are literally hundreds of them. 

12. Pass by Tanner’s Bridge- the shy monument for Tirana’s Ottoman days

Tanner’s bridge is a fragment of Tirana’s Ottoman-era history. Formerly used by farmers for the daily livestock commute, today it is a shy pedestrian bridge. This mini-attraction reminisces on what Tirana used to be back in the 18th century before communist buildings took over the surrounding space. You can pass the bridge on your way to the colorful buildings along the Lana River.

EVENING IN TIRANA : DAY 1

13. Go for xhiro on Toptani street

Toptani street in Tirana is a pedestrian avenue dotted with bars, coffee shops, and ice cream parlors. It is also the main spot for xhiro – a traditional evening stroll that starts at dusk. Xhiro is similar to Italian passeggiata a leisurely walk along the main street, chitchatting and simply showing yourself. 

It is indeed a unique sight to witness. Toptani street, completely dead during the day, becomes a buzzing promenade as soon as the sun starts setting. 

14. Have a well-deserved Albanian dinner at Justinian Fortress or Oda

At the east end of Toptani street, the revamped ancient Justinian Fortress is a buzzing avenue to have a glass of wine or a classy dinner. It is indeed a unique solution to utilize historical space. In Justian Fortress you will find lots of restaurants to choose from, including vegetarian options. Restaurants inside the fortress walls are a bit pricier than the ones just a few steps away next to Pazari i Ri (the New Bazaar), yet still very affordable. 

A more budget-friendly option which was recommended all over the internet, and I could see why after trying their stuffed eggplant, is Oda serving classic Albanian dishes. This restaurant is set inside a traditional house and features a cozy garden with wooden dining tables.

The menu isn’t huge but the food is absolutely delicious. Reservations for dinner are recommended-we were lucky to get a table when showed up on our first night without having one.

15. A night out in Blloku to finish off the day in Tirana

If you still have some energy left after a busy sightseeing day and have not been knocked out by the hearty Albanian dinner, check out the night scene of Tirana. The best way to do so is to head to Blloku’s trendy bars. Some of the coolest in the area are themed Radio Bar and Bunker1944 Lounge .

On the day of my visit, our Tirana walking tour guide was organizing a night out together with the travelers. If you really want to experience the best of Tirana’s nightlife the way the locals do, make sure not to miss it.

Things to see in Tirana Itinerary: Day 2

Start your day with a morning coffee and get ready for an action-packed second day in Tirana. I recommend budgeting half a day (afternoon onwards) for the below-mentioned BunkArt1 and Dajti Cable car. I purposely added those two attractions for the second day in Tirana because they are located on the outskirts of the town. 

MORNING IN TIRANA: DAY 2

16. Shop at Pazari i Ri- the new market of Tirana

No city trip is complete without checking out a local market. Pazari i Ri is one of the main tourist and local attractions and a must-visit place in Tirana. Enclosed between colorful apartment blocks, Pazari i Ri is a new bazaar- a marketplace where you can find fresh produce, homemade jams, honey, and various souvenirs. We bought a kilo of the best fresh figs I ever had in my life for just over 1 euro! 

Even if you aren’t planning on shopping, the buildings decorated in geometric patterns resembling Albanian textiles are well worth snapping a photo of. 

17. Explore Albanian history at the National History Museum in Tirana

National History Museum is the building opposite of Skanderbeg statue in Skanderbeg Square. Museum’s facade has a huge and beautiful socialist realism style mosaic depicting Albanian history from antiquity all the way to 1944 when partisans liberated the nation and marked the start of Enver Hoxha’s reign. 

At the time of my visit, sadly, the mosaic was under renovation and covered with a reproduction canvas. This is the second time the mosaic is being under renovation in 10 years. Our guide explained that this time it is European Union funding being applied which raises a question of the necessity to actually reconstruct the mosaic. 

Meanwhile, the National History Museum is the largest in the country and holds the richest archaeological collection. If you are history savvy, definitely do not miss this museum.

• Opening hours: Tue-Sat 9 AM- 4 PM, Sun 10 AM – 3 PM, closed on Mondays.
• The entrance fee is 200 LEK (~1.7 EUR).

18. House of Leaves or/and coffee at Opera House

If you have curiosity for conspiracy theories and what was behind the closed doors of the notorious National Intelligence Services, then you should definitely visit one of the most unusual museums in Albania- The House of Leaves. It is said to be an equivalent to the Stasi headquarters of former East Germany. Transformed into a museum and opened to the public in 2015, House of Leaves in Tirana will walk you through the worst side of the dictatorial regime in Albania, telling the story of thousands of prosecuted people who were against the regime. 

• Opening hours: daily 9 AM- 7 PM.
• Entrance fee: 700 LEK (~6 EUR).

Alternatively, you can grab a coffee at Opera House cafe in Skanderbeg Square.

If you are not keen on visiting the above-mentioned museums, instead spend your time in the capital’s green space.

19. Get some fresh oxygen at Tirana’s Grand Park

Grand Park of Tirana is the largest green space in the city with a huge artificial lake at its heart. Located in the southern part of the city, bordering the Blloku area, Tirana’s grand park is a space to respite from chaotic city traffic and noise. You will see locals getting their workout done while jogging the network of the park’s paved pathways or just relaxing and having a picnic and a dose of fresh air. If you are tired of concrete blocks, you will definitely find relief in Tirana’s largest park. Spare an hour or two, as the park is huge. As expected, you definitely will find coffee shops to sip more espresso to keep your energy going. 

• A few words about Mullixhiu restaurant.

At the edge of Grand Park, you will come across Mullixhiu- a Micheline-star rated restaurant heavily advertised online as one of the best places to eat in Tirana. I got excited to try it out after reading so many good words about this place. As advised, I made a reservation for lunch far in advance (which actually wasn’t necessary as the restaurant was empty). Sadly, we did not have a good experience. Since the menu is constantly changing, maybe it was not the best selection (we tried 4 different vegetarian dishes), or maybe the chef was not in the mood, but all food we ordered for some reason had a bitter taste. The dishes were presented as one of those artsy plates you see in fancy restaurants, but the look did not match the taste. Service was far from great too. Thus, if you decide to go, keep your expectations low, and maybe you will have a better experience than we did. 

AFTERNOON IN TIRANA: DAY 2

20. Visit the largest bunker museum in the country BunkArt1

BankArt1 is the big brother to BunkArt2. BunkArt1 is based in a massive multi-floor bunker. Even the entrance leading to the museum is thrilling. You have to pass a tunnel- a real mood-setter with scary sound effects.

Budget at least 2 hours to slowly visit all the spaces and read the information displayed at the exhibition. I recommend getting an audio guide downloadable as an app on your phone (must have your own headphones though), as it will walk you through the main historical facts and stories of life during communist Albania. 

BunkArt1 is definitely more impressive than BunkArt2, but I only suggest visiting it if you have 2 days in Tirana because Bunk Art 1 is located on the outskirts of the city. 

To get to Bunk Art1 you can take a blue line bus L1 from the bus stop behind the Opera house. The exact location is on the map above. The bus ticket price is 40 LEK, and the journey takes around 30 minutes, or longer if the driver stops for a coffee break (yes it is pretty normal in Albania).

Alternatively, you can catch a taxi from Tirana’s city center. You should pay an average of 7 EUR for the taxi. Use  merrtaxi.com  to organize a pick-up from your location. 

• Opening hours: Mon-Thu 9:30 AM – 4 PM, Fri-Sun: 9:30 – 5 PM.
• Entrance fee: 500 LEK (700 LEK with an audio guide).

21. Ride a cable car to the verdant Dajti mountains for elevated city views at sunset

After leaving the claustrophobic corridors of BunkArt1, take a 10 minutes steep walk uphill to yet another exciting attraction in Tirana-a Dajti Express cable car that will take you 1600 meters up to the verdant mountain peaks. 

The ride is much longer than I expected (at least 15 minutes), slowly ascending above timeworn apartment blocks and opening up panoramic views of Tirana and the beautiful surrounding mountains. 

Tirana is often sinking in smog, but if you are lucky to come on a clear day, the views stretch as far as the sparkling Adriatic Sea. 

Once at the top of Dajti mountain balcony, you can dine at the restaurant overlooking the city. To me, however, the dining space behind the glass didn’t feel as atmospheric as when you are gazing at the city over the open balcony.

Outside the upper cable station you can also play mini golf, or if you feel like deserting civilization- go on light hiking into Dajti mountains. 

The best time to take Dajti cable car is either around before sunset or early morning. Mornings will be less busy than evenings. Also, mind national holidays when the queues line up for the cable car. 

The Dajti cable car roundtrip ticket costs 1200 LEK (10 EUR) for adults. The cable car operating hours are from 9 AM to 7 PM only. This means that in the summer you won’t be able to catch the sunset which sets around 8 PM, however in autumn and winter, when the days are shorter, it is perfectly doable. 

TIRANA DAY TRIPS

If you are based in the capital of Albania for longer than 2 days, I recommend going on some fantastic day trips from Tirana.

Visit Krujë – the old capital of Albania

Krujë (Kruje) is a medieval hilltop town, sitting on the slopes of the misty peaks. You already heard about Albania’s one and only national hero Scanderbeg. Kruje was not only the first capital of Albania but also a base for Scanderbeg’s operations while fighting against the Ottoman empire. The hero, initially taken as a hostage and trained to serve in the enemies’ armies, acquired the knowledge that he used against Ottomans years later. 

Things to do in Kruje:

• Kruje Castle and Old Bazaar are the main attractions. Wander the complex of old castle ruins and make sure to stop by Skanderbeg’s museum to get further aquatinted with the story of the nobleman.
• Walk the cobbled lanes of countries oldest Bazaar dotted with souvenir stalls, have yet another cup of coffee, and finally, have lunch or dinner at one of the restaurants within castle walls. Few of them offer tables with fantastic panoramic views stretching as far as the Adriatic sea.

Getting to Kruje from Tirana by bus

Frequent buses and minibusses (every 30-60 minutes) are available from the South and North Tirana Bus Terminal  ( Terminali i Autobusave të Jugut dhe Veriut ), to Kruje the exact location pin is on the map at the end of this article. Ticket price 100-150 LEK.

Visiting Kruje on an organized tour

You can also join an organized tour offering pick-up from your hotel in Tirana. This 8 hours tour visits Kruje and Mount Sarisalltik with traditional lunch and hotel pick up in Tirana. Click here for prices and availability.

Go off-the-beaten-path to the turquoise lake of Bovilla

Bovilla lake lies 10 kilometers northwest side of Tirana between two mountain ranges and is part of Dajti National Park. Bovilla is actually a reservoir providing most of the drinking water to Tirana.

Bovilla views can be admired by either doing a light trek to the viewing balcony or hiking Gamti Mountain. The latter is slightly more challenging yet still a relatively short 40-minute hike through the rocky terrain leading to the impressive viewpoint.

Although in close proximity to the capital, Bovilla lake stays an off-the-beaten-path destination due to its accessibility. The mountain road leading to the lake is off-road and requires a 4WD. Also, there is no public transport going to Lake Bovilla.

The easiest way, if you do not have 4WD, is to join a day tour from Tirana which offers convenient pick-up from your hotel, and a guided hike.

Head for a swim in Durrës

If you are visiting Tirana on a hot summer and want to take a quick dip into the cooling Adriatic sea waters, the closest beach town to head to is Durrës . It only takes 30 minutes by public bus to reach the sandy shores of over 10 kilometers long Durrës beach.

Summertime is naturally the busiest, attracting holidaymakers from the capital. Nonetheless, it can be a fun local experience if you just want a quick city break by the water.

Frequent buses and minibusses (every 30 minutes) are available from the above mentioend South and North Tirana Bus Terminal  ( Terminali i Autobusave të Jugut dhe Veriut ), to Durres, the exact location pin is on the map at the end of this article. Ticket price 100-150 LEK.

Where to stay in Tirana: accommodation options

Tirana city center is small and walkable. There are plenty of accommodation options to fit any budget and taste. Here are my recommended places to stay in Tirana for different types of budgets:

• High-end:   Maritim Plaza Hotel – one of the newest hotels in the heart of Tirana, offers a luxury 5-star hotel experience, sauna, and baths overlooking the city.  Click here for prices and availability.
• Boutique:  La Suite Boutique Hotel -modern and chic boutique hotel close to Blloku, Pyramid of Tirana, and Lana River.  Click here for prices and availability.
• Mid-range:   Hotel Restaurant Bujtina e Gjelit – featuring a courtyard with a pool, an in-house restaurant serving local and international dishes, an art gallery, and traditionally decorated rooms, this hotel will make you feel like you left the city. Yet it is in close proximity to the center.  Click here to check prices and availability.
• Apartments:  Galeria Apartment – an airy self-contained apartment that can host up to 6 people, with private free parking, a beautiful terrace overlooking central Tirana, and walking distance from all main attractions in town, including a modern shopping mall.  Click here for prices and availability.
• Apartments:   Bujtina Shqiptare – I stayed here and loved the huge size of the self-contained apartment that has everything you need-fully equipped kitchen and washing machine, and also a balcony overlooking Tirana and the mountains. Only 700 meters from Skanderbeg square, with shops and restaurants around, it is a perfect place to stay in Tirana for a few days.  Click here for prices and availability.
• Budget:  Tirana Backpaker Hostel -laid back and cozy hostel offering mixed dorms and private rooms, a 10-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square.  Click here for prices and availability.

Places to eat in Tirana

Here is a list of some great places to eat in Tirana- from quick byrek snacks to lunch and evening dining options. All of them are pinpointed on my map at the end of this article..

• Byrek Te Castit – a local pastry shop selling fresh baked cheap byrek (like 40 LEK per piece) with various fillings (classic cheese, tomato onion, meat, spinach, etc.).
• Oda -Traditional Albanian Cuisine . Located next to Pazari I Ri this traditional Albanian restaurant is beloved by locals and travelers for great Albanian food and low prices.
• Era Vila – recommended by a local, a little fancier yet still very reasonably priced restaurant next to Air Albanian Stadium.
• Terracotta Restorant- located close to Blloku area and run by one enthusiastic chef, this restaurant serves fantastic pasta dishes and is known for its fantastic service.
• Te Dhuri – it is a small casual place to eat traditional Albanian food. Very low-key, cheap, a little out of the way at the northeastern edge of Grand Park of Tirana, yet still easily reachable on foot.
• Golosa Pizzeria Restorante – located inside Galeria Mall, this pizzeria has some great Italian pizza made in the traditional oven, take away, or dine-in.
• Justinian Fort – the historical castle transformed into a lively hangout place compactly filled with many restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as souvenir shops.

Tirana Itinerary Map

* Click on this map to open it and locate all the places mentioned in my Tirana travel guide. Click the tab in the top left-hand corner to open the layers (points of interest, accommodation, driving routes, etc.). You can save this map on your Google Maps account by clicking on the small star icon next to the name of the map. To open the saved map on your phone or laptop, open Google Maps, then click the menu button, go to “Your Places”, and click maps where you will see this map saved on your list.

Tirana, Albania Travel Essentials

More albania travel resources.

• Plan an amazing trip to Albania with my suggested  Albania road trip itinerary.
• Thinking of renting a car in Albania? Read about Driving in Albania: everything you need to know before renting a car .
• Explore Albanian Alps with my detailed guide to Valbona to Theth hike.

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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Home > 31 Fun Things To Do In Tirana – Albania Travel Guide

31 Fun Things To Do In Tirana – Albania Travel Guide

Written by our local expert Drita

Drita is a shy Albanian girl. Her Mom is from Kosovo, her Dad from Serbia. She loves to travel & share travel trips to help first-time travelers exploring Albania & the Balkans.

Welcome to a journey through Tirana, the capital of Albania, where I’m excited to delve into my family’s heritage and share valuable insider tips with you. In this blog post, we’ll unveil the incredible range of activities available in Tirana, a city that vividly illustrates the transition from a past era of communist formality to a vibrant and contemporary urban center.

As someone deeply connected to this remarkable country, I’m eager to acquaint you with Tirana, a city that not only serves as Albania’s gateway but also embodies the ongoing transformation of its unique spirit. Come with me as we explore the fascinating blend of tradition and modernity that characterizes this Southern European treasure.

Since shaking off its communist cloak in the early 1990s, Tirana has become an entirely different city.

It transformed from gray, functional architecture and other unexciting urban characteristics into a city filled with lively pedestrian streets, lively festivals , colorful buildings, excellent museums , and beautiful green parks. It finally became alive, if you will, and discovered its potential and personality.

• Where To Stay In Tirana

Now, let’s get to it and answer your question on what to do in Tirana and help you find the best places to visit in Tirana.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

What To Do In Tirana – Tirana Tourist Attractions

Nowadays, Tirana is a mesmerizing city nestled in the heart of the Balkans. With a rich history and a vibrant contemporary scene, the capital of Albania beckons travelers with its unique blend of Ottoman and communist relics, world-class museums, and an incredible café culture.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, there are numerous not-to-miss places to visit in Tirana. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through some of the best attractions in Tiran and provide answers to your frequently asked questions.

1. Go To The Enver Hoxha Pyramid

A Tirana sightseeing journey should include visiting the Pyramid of Tirana, also known as the Enver Hoxa Pyramid or, locally, simply as the Piramida. Although this might not be the most spectacular architectural landmark in Tirana, its historical significance is enormous.

Located in the heart of the city, on the main road between the Presidential Palace and Skanderbeg Square, the building was opened in 1988 as the Enver Hoxha Museum. Originally meant to be dedicated to Enver Hoxha, the communist leader who ruled Albania from the end of World War II to 1985, the fall of communism in 1991 resulted in a logical repurposing and rebranding.

Since then, the Pyramid has served as an exhibition and conference center, a base of humanitarian aid during the 1999 Kosovo War, and even a media broadcasting center.

It remains a topic of fierce debate about what to do with it in the future. Some people want to make it a historical monument, while others want to see it demolished. In the meantime, it is unused, except by graffiti artists and skaters.

2. Walk Across The Tanners’ Bridge

When deciding what to see in Tirana, we suggest a fun little landmark in central Tirana – Tanners’ Bridge, which dates from the 18 th -century Ottoman time. It’s one of the few remaining Ottoman structures in Tirana. Constructed near the Tanners’ Mosque, it used to be part of the much-used St. George Road, the link between the city and the highlands to the east.

Originally spanning the Lanë River, the bridge was kept as a monument after the river was redirected. Plus, you can still walk across it! It’s a beautiful historic highlight in a city modernizing at a lightning pace.

3. Explore Skanderbeg Square

Skanderbeg Square’s central plaza in the city center is a large open space home to many of Tirana’s best places to see. It’s a vibrant meeting place, a major tourist attraction, and an important historical landmark.

The square is the main celebration venue in Tirana and Albania, featuring a large lawn, rows of stately trees, and colorful flowerbeds. Named after national hero Georg Kastriot Skanderbeg, who helped stop the advance of the Ottoman Empire into Eastern Europe, the square is dominated by the Skanderbeg Monument. That monument symbolically occupies the very spot where a Josef Stalin statue once stood.

Around Skanderbeg Square, you’ll find major Tirana attractions like the National Historical Museum, the Palace of Culture, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the Clock Tower, the National Library, and various ministries.

4. Eat At An International Chain Across From The Former Headquarters Of Communism’s Reign

Enver Hoxha is perhaps one of the most famous communist leaders — a man who has isolated the whole country of Albania for over 41 years.

From 1944 to 1985, Albania was probably the most isolated country in Europe and one of the scariest to live in the world. Citizens had strict restrictions against them, such as Albanians could not travel abroad. At its peak, 75% of the population thought the authorities were spying on them, and Hoxha was eventually declared an enemy of capitalism.

Ironically, the only international fast-food chain in Albania, Kentucky Fried Chicken, opened its doors directly across from Hoxha’s former residence.

Unfortunately, the house is now closed to the public, but at least you can put it to Hoxha, who is probably cringing at the thought of the KFC in his grave.

5. Have A Local Food Experience

6. learn some things at the national history museum.

Opened to the public in 1981, the Albanian National Historical Museum is the largest museum in Albania, housing over 4,750 works and artifacts from various historical periods, including the Paleolithic era and the communist era.

This massive institution provides a comprehensive exploration of Albania’s entire history, spanning Antiquity, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, Independence, the National Liberation Fascist War, and the Communist Terror.

Even before stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a sizable recognizable mosaic on the museum’s facade, depicting the different periods of Albania’s history. A visit here offers invaluable historical context, enabling you to view other landmarks in Tirana and throughout Albania with a deeper understanding.

It’s an essential stop to gain insight into the best places to visit in Tirana and the top attractions in Albania.

7. Spend Time In The Last Indie Library Of Tirana

Tirana exploded after the fall of communism with the introduction of Western shopping malls . Still, Adrion bookstore in Skanderbeg Square and across the street from the National Opera is one of the most famous old establishments to have survived these changes.

Adrion, which currently has several offices in the city center and international airport , is the most famous and well-equipped store in the city and offers translations of a long list of Albanian dramas and documentaries and tourist guides and maps to help you plan your trip.

8. Try The Local Beer In The Old Warehouse

City Art is a modern and lively bar and restaurant full of young people who come for happy hour after a long day at work. But it’s also great to have a coffee and meet the locals.

The walls are decorated colorfully and chic with concrete floors and expansive windows looking out to the terrace overlooking the street.

There are D.J.s, big-screen T.V.s for football matches, and an extensive menu including sushi, delicacies, and local beer. Don’t be shy; you will always be welcomed with smiling faces.

9. Ride The Dajti Ekspres

Without question, one of the best things to do in Tirana is riding the Dajti Ekspres. The ride takes about 15 minutes and is a kilometer long, making this the longest cable car ride in the Balkans. You’ll rise over 800 meters from the city center to Mount Dajti in that time.

A tourism complex with restaurants and hotels awaits at the top of this iconic mountain. This is called the “Balcony of Tirana” for a good reason. It doesn’t need to be mentioned that the views are nothing short of sensational.

If you’re afraid of heights or don’t want to ride the cable car for whatever reason, you can drive up to the top by car. That journey takes an hour or more.

10. Admire The Et’hem Bey Mosque’s Design And Décor

Located on one side of Skanderbeg Square, the iconic Et’hem Bey Mosque dates from the 18 th century and is one of the top things to see in Tirana. It was closed under communist rule as it prohibited all religious practices but reopened as a place of worship in 1991.

This mosque is particularly noteworthy for its elaborate frescoes depicting waterfalls , bridges, and trees, which are a rarity in Islamic art.

11. Shop Local 

In Tirana, you can find a diverse mix of handmade jewelry, cloth bags, tapestries, and other items representing fantastic gifts as souvenirs for loved ones back home . You’ll have no trouble finding trinkets that are small and fit in your travel luggage .

• Best Souvenirs To Buy In Tirana

12. Climb The Clock Tower

Skanderbeg Square boasts another iconic structure, the magnificent 35-meter-high Clock Tower, a testament to Tirana’s rich history.

This architectural gem, constructed in 1822, bears the creative mark of Etëhem Bey Mollaj, a renowned poet who also lent his artistic talents to the neighboring Et’hem Bey Mosque.

Visitors have the unique opportunity to ascend the tower’s narrow spiral staircase, and the best part is it’s absolutely free! As you make your way to the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Tirana’s vibrant city center.

Whether you visit during the day to appreciate the city’s urban landscape or at night when the Clock Tower is beautifully illuminated, it’s a memorable experience that promises fantastic photo opportunities.

Don’t miss the chance to capture the magic of Tirana from this historical vantage point

13. Go For A Hike In Mount Dajti National Park

However, traveling up Mount Dajti—whether by cable car, driving, or even hiking —will bring you to Mount Dajti National Park . This is one of the most accessible national parks in the Balkans, if not in all of Europe.

Spend a day wandering out into the mountain range just beyond Tirana’s eastern edge. Various hiking trails meander out into the forests and along ridges, offering phenomenal vistas, excellent wildlife watching, and a great escape from the busy city life below.

14. Stroll Along Rruga Murat Toptani

Strolling along Rruga Murat Toptani in Tirana is a delightful experience that immerses you in the heart of the city’s urban charm. This bustling street, named after the Albanian hero Murat Toptani, offers a captivating blend of old and new.

As you walk its tree-lined sidewalks, you’ll encounter a diverse array of sights and sounds – from traditional shops and open-air cafes to modern boutiques and cultural landmarks. It’s a perfect spot to savor Tirana’s unique atmosphere, meet locals, and admire the beautiful architecture that reflects the city’s history and evolution.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely daytime stroll or a vibrant evening adventure, Rruga Murat Toptani has something to offer every traveler exploring the vibrant streets of Tirana.

15. Experience Bunk’Art – Art In A Military Bunker

In the 1980s, fewer than 170,000 bunkers dotted the Albanian countryside and towns . Nowadays, most of the remaining ones are Albania attractions , monuments, and historic landmarks, but one particular one has become a museum.

The Bunk’Art Museum is one of the top things to do in Tirana. Located near the Deshmoret, a Kombit Boulevard, at the base of Mount Dajti, this mixed art and history museum showcases the troubling communist past of Albania. Exhibits show the daily life of Albanians under the communist regime, while other displays combine the country’s more recent history with contemporary works of art.

16. Try Ziplining in Petrele Village

Just outside Tirana itself, you’ll find the beautiful Petrele Village. This is a stunning natural area with walking and cycling opportunities on offer.

However, the most famous thing to do is ziplining, and if you have a taste for adrenaline, it’s a great thing to try. The zipline course sits more than 4,000 feet high, so you’re going to get amazing views as you zip past at high speed.

17. Experience Cosmopolitan Tirana In The Ish-Blloku District

A restricted residential area for elitist Albanians in southwest Tirana during communism, the Ish-Blloku District underwent an epic transformation in recent decades. Also known simply as the Block, this small-ish area is now one of Tirana’s trendiest, hippest, and most vibrant neighborhoods.

If you’re wondering what to visit in Tirana, the Block should make it onto your sightseeing list. Easily accessible from other parts of the city, the Block is where you’ll find countless bars, nightclubs, pubs, restaurants, cafés, and boutiques. It’s where ex-pats living in Tirana and Tirana’s youth mingle, creating a cosmopolitan vibe unlike anywhere else in the city.

18. Wander Through Grand Park

Grand Park lies in southern Tirana, just south of the Block. Also called the Park on the Artificial Lake , it’s one of the best places in Tirana to escape the crowds. This 289-hectare park features a large artificial lake and landmarks like the Presidential Palace, the St. Procopius Church, the Botanical Garden, and the Zoo.

Additionally, you’ll see several memorials to not Albanian citizens, including writers and politicians.

It’s a beautiful area for a stroll and a few hours of reading in the shade of a tree. Swimming in the lake is popular in summer, while the amphitheater hosts various cultural events.

19. Buy Groceries At Pazari I Ri

The Pazari i Ri, known in English as the New Bazaar, is one of the best places in Tirana for grocery shopping. Its name comes from the grocery market that has been held in this area for decades. It’s one of the oldest parts of the city. Even if you’re not looking to stock up the fridge in your Tirana apartment, it’s still worth coming here simply for the lively atmosphere or to grab a cheap lunch.

After the 2016 reconstruction, visiting the New Bazaar is one of the most incredible things to do in Tirana at the moment. The market buildings boast substantial glass windows and roofs, allowing as much light as possible and making the various stands more vibrant than ever. This also means that the market is open on rainy days, too, now.

Go here for fresh fruit, veggies, fish, meats, raki , and regional Albanian wine. Around the market, you’ll find bakeries, coffee shops, and restaurants where you can sample delicious, traditional Albanian cuisine .

20. Explore Art At The Cloud

Close to the National Art Gallery, you’ll find The Cloud, an art display that is totally unique to anything else you’ve seen before.

Sou Fujimoto, a famous architect from Japan, designed this installation, and it’s a beautiful place to visit. If you visit during the evening hours, the entire thing lights up, which is a wonderful sight. There are also live events from time to time, with performances and concerts during the summer months.

21. Enjoy Panoramic Views From Sky Hotel Panoramic Bar & Restaurant

One of the best hotels in Tirana , Sky Hotel Tirana, also houses one of the absolute best restaurants in Tirana. The Sky Restaurant is on the 16 th floor of Sky Tower, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, accompanied by incredible views.

On the level above the restaurant is the Sky Panoramic Bar, a fantastic 360-degree bar offering epic sunset and nighttime views of Tirana. On top of that, the bar slowly rotates, so you don’t have to walk around to see the entire city . Just grab a drink and a seat and watch until the bar spins you around.

If your time in Tirana has almost ended, is there a better way to say goodbye to the city (for now, of course) than spending a leisurely evening in one of the best bars in Tirana? That’s right; we didn’t think so either!

22. Visit Krujë Castle

If you like epic tales of war, a visit to Krujë Castle should definitely make its way into your itinerary. Constructed as early as the 5 th or 6 th century, it was the headquarters of Georg Kastriot during the Ottoman sieges, which began in 1444.

From this small elliptical castle with no more than 3,000 men, Kastriot effectively repelled multiple attacks and severely dented the Ottoman Empire’s expansion into Central Europe. His enemies, the Ottomans, called him Iskender Bey. This means as much as Lord or Leader Alexander and is considered a comparison to Alexander the Great himself. The English translation of his name is Skanderbeg.

He justifiably became a national hero in Albania, nicknamed the “Dragon of Albania.” Nowadays, a monument dedicated to Georg Kastriot Skanderbeg dominates Skanderbeg Square in central Tirana.

Krujë Castle lies a short drive north of Tirana and makes for a great day trip . The castle complex now houses the Skanderbeg Museum and the Ethnographic Museum. Additionally, the hills around the castle are home to several wineries—if you like wine, stopping by one is mandatory.

23. Go For A Day Trip To Dürres

Another fantastic day trip from Albania is to the coast. Rent a car or take a bus to the Adriatic port city of Dürres. One of Albania’s largest and oldest cities, it’s also a hugely popular destination for sun-soaked Albania holidays .

Don’t miss the Roman amphitheater, the largest surviving one in the Balkans, with a former capacity of 20,000 spectators. Founded by Greek colonists in the 7th century B.C., it is now home to tons of Roman and Byzantine heritage. Other major attractions include the Byzantine city walls and the Dürres Archaeological Museum, Albania’s largest of its kind.

A day trip to Dürres should also involve some downtime on one of the beaches on the Albanian  southern Adriatic coast. Dürres Beach, for example, lies just south of the city center and is no less than 10 kilometers long. Countless hotels and other tourist facilities line this beach, the most visited beach and one of Albania’s most popular tourist attractions.

24. Drink Rakija At Komiteti

In a city full of hipster coffee cafes, Komiteti was one of our favorites. Fully equipped with objects and furniture from Albania’s long and complex history, it serves as a place where people meet, discover artifacts from the past, and wonder what it means to be Albanian.

Komiteti, whose owner, Arber Zepani, combined his extensive collection of more than 17,000 antiques with a bar to create a hybrid coffee museum, is a unique space full of educational antiques and vintage furniture timeless treasures, and clothing from all eras and parts of Albania .

25. Join A Jazzy Evening At Tirana Ekspress

The owners o f Tirana Ekspress have created a community where people can create and experience art together, and you can also bring a glass of some local drink (of course, Rakija – what else?) .

Tirana Ekspress operates as a cafe, bar, and alternative art space near Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar). It hosts exhibitions, live music, film screenings, jazz evenings, theater performances, D.J.s, and political debates.

Sit back, relax, have an espresso or alcoholic drink , and meet new artists and musicians from Tirana and elsewhere. Whether you are a tourist or local, Tirana Ekspress invites anyone who wants to support the arts and be a part of a supportive community.

26. Find The Most Unusual Reflexology Massage

This one is a unique thing to do in Tirana, for sure.

A traditional Chinese reflexology massage is probably the last thing you should consider getting in Albania. But there’s a well-known master of reflexology who owns a massage studio tucked away in a back alley of Tirana. How he ended up in Albania – we have no idea. Unless you can speak Mandarin or Albanian, you probably won’t learn much about him. But he gives one hell of a massage, and you will leave happy. That is guaranteed.

Reflexology massages start with a warm foot bath and an hour-long relaxing and refreshing full-body massage. Interestingly, traditional Chinese reflexology believes that all the energy passages of the body are in your legs and correspond to your body’s different systems and organs.

27. Don’t Miss The Albanian Wine Region

We know, we know. This one sounds weird .

While Albania is not very well known as an important wine region , the product might surprise you. Visit the Uka Winery on the outskirts of Tirana, where you can try Merlot and Kallmet – of course, made of local Balkan grapes). The outdoor restaurant also serves excellent traditional grilled meats, which pair perfectly with their surprisingly tasty wines.

28. Enjoy The Slow Train Out Of Town

The beauty of the Albanian railways is in their tranquil pace and challenges for adventurers. You can forget the new-age fast trains and turbo trains and whatever other adjectives you want to use for it.

The wagons are simple, with little comfort and seating, and the slow train, but adventurous travelers enjoy beautiful countryside views, including farmland with livestock, fruit trees, and small villages. There is no food or drink onboard, so take yours with you.

Albania’s railway network is ancient and now considered inconvenient, but it used to be a primary mode of transport for all locals in the capital city . Few people today travel by train and prefer their own car or minibus, which are ultimately faster, and if you are on a schedule, it is no wonder why. To catch a train , find a timetable and get to the Kashar station on the outskirts of Tirana.

29. Shopping At The Medieval Market

Kruja Castle is located an hour’s drive from Tirana and is known as the residence of Skanderbeg, known for his leadership in the country’s resistance to the Ottoman Empire. The castle saw many of the most critical battles in the country’s history and is now a place for Albanians to pay tribute to their national hero.

After visiting, head to the 15th-century medieval bazaar at the foot of the castle.

Local artisans have brought this market to life, selling trinkets, traditional clothes, carpets, paintings, and souvenirs for those you care about back home. However, the best experience for us was to walk along the old streets, where an original wall that has stood the test of time remains.

30. Visit Berat For The Day

Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and it’s the ideal place for a day trip, at just 120km away from Tirana. This spot is referred to as the “City of a Thousand Windows” because it’s packed with old houses made of stone that come down the hillside, and each has large windows.

When you look directly at it, you just see endless windows. The castle is also a must-visit, which dates back to the 13th century, along with the Christian Quarter and several museums dotted around the town.

31. Visit Et’hem Bej Mosque

This beautiful mosque was built early in the 19th century but was closed as communists ruled the land. However, it reopened back in 1991, and it’s a wonderful place to visit.

Remember mosque etiquette when you visit, and you can take a guided tour of the mosque when it’s not prayer time. The frescoes on the walls are stunningly beautiful, with pictures of rivers, waterfalls, and trees, keeping with a natural design.

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Weather in tirana.

After deciding what to see in Tirana, you must know what to pack. With just enough precipitation in summer to fall outside the Mediterranean climate category, Tirana officially has a humid subtropical climate.

The city generally has wet and cool winters, while summers are hot, relatively dry, and humid. You can expect to see snow every winter , which typically melts quickly.

Regarding sunshine, few cities in Europe are more blessed than Tirana. In fact, its 2,544 hours of sunlight per year make it Europe’s 8 th sunniest city.

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Best Time To Go To Tirana

Every time of the year, it has plenty in store for visitors to Tirana. Each month has fun festivals and live events, so you’ll never get bored, no matter when you go there.

In terms of weather, as noted above, winters can get rather wet, even snowy. However, the latter may allow fun winter sports activities in the surrounding mountains and perfect Christmas market conditions.

Generally speaking, though, it’s summer when you’ll want to visit Tirana. Many of the best things to do in Tirana are most fun from June through September . We recommend June and September, with much smaller tourist crowds, comfy temps, and low precipitation.

How To Get To Tirana

As the rest of Europe and the world slowly become aware of its fantastic tourist potential, finding cheap flights to Albania gets easier every year.

There are, for example, cheap flights to Albania from London, one of the largest air travel hubs on Earth, provided by low-cost airlines. The Mother Teresa Airport lies only 17 kilometers from the city center, offering convenient connections to the rest of the world.

Greece is the most convenient starting point if you travel to Tirana by bus. There are daily international bus services from cities like Thessaloniki and Athens, from which it’s also possible to get to other cities in Albania.

Additionally, you can get to Tirana by bus from Skopje, Macedonia , and a couple from all other major towns in the country.

Alternatively, you can also get to Albania via ferry from Bari, Italy, Corfu, Greece, to Dürres and Saranda . From those cities, it’s a short bus ride to the capital.

If you’d like to drive to Tirana, you can do that, too, but you should expect long queues at the border crossings no matter which country you’re entering from. If you have a rental car , you should check with the rental agency if you can legally take the vehicle across international borders.

Tirana FAQs

What are the must-visit attractions in tirana.

Some of the must-visit attractions in Tirana include Skanderbeg Square, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Pyramid of Tirana.

How can I get to Tirana from Tirana International Airport?

You can easily reach Tirana from Tirana International Airport by taking a taxi, bus, or airport shuttle. Taxis and shuttles are available outside the airport terminal.

What is the best time to visit Tirana?

The best time to visit Tirana is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be hot, while winters can be chilly.

What are the best day trips from Tirana?

Plan day trips to nearby destinations such as Kruja, Durrës, or Mount Dajti, accessible by car or public transportation.

How safe is Tirana for tourists?

Tirana is generally a safe city for tourists. However, exercise standard safety precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Are there any hiking or outdoor activities near Tirana?

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the beautiful Dajti Mountain, accessible by the Dajti Ekspres cable car. Hiking and biking trails are available for nature lovers.

What is the currency used in Tirana, and where can I exchange money?

The currency used in Tirana is the Albanian Lek (ALL). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs throughout the city.

What are some cultural etiquette tips for visitors to Tirana?

Respect local customs and traditions, and greet people with a friendly “Përshëndetje” (Hello). When entering religious sites, dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.

Is there a public transportation system in Tirana, and how does it work?

Tirana has a public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Buses are an affordable way to get around the city, and taxis are readily available.

What languages are spoken in Tirana, and is English widely understood?

Albanian is the primary language spoken in Tirana, but you’ll find that many people in the city, especially in tourist areas, understand and speak English.

Can I use credit cards in Tirana, or should I carry cash?

Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Tirana accept credit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case you visit places that do not accept cards.

Is it common to tip in restaurants and for services in Tirana?

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Tirana. A 10% tip for good service in restaurants is customary, and you can also leave small tips for taxi drivers and tour guides if you wish.

What are some family-friendly activities in Tirana for travelers with children?

Family-friendly activities in Tirana include visiting the Grand Park of Tirana, exploring the National Archaeological Museum, and enjoying a ride on the Dajti Ekspres cable car.

Now that you have a list of things to see in Albania’s capital, Tirana, we hope you enjoy all the Tirana attractions you choose.

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Must-see attractions in Tirana

Bunk'Art

This fantastic conversion – from a massive Cold War bunker on the outskirts of Tirana into a history and contemporary art museum – is Albania's most…

National History Museum

The largest museum in Albania holds many of the country's archaeological treasures and a replica of Skanderbeg's massive sword (how he held it, rode his…

National Gallery of Arts

Tracing the relatively brief history of Albanian painting from the early 19th century to the present day, this beautiful space also holds temporary…

Bunk'Art 2

The little cousin to the main Bunk'Art, this museum, which is within a communist-era bunker and underground tunnel system below the Ministry of Internal…

House of Leaves

This grand old 1930s building started life as Albania's first maternity hospital, but within a few years the focus turned from creating new life to ending…

Mt Dajti National Park

Just 25km east of Tirana is Mt Dajti National Park. It is the most accessible mountain in the country, and many locals go there to escape the city rush…

Sheshi Skënderbej

Sheshi Skënderbej is the best place to start witnessing Tirana's daily goings-on. Until it was pulled down by an angry mob in 1991, a 10m-high bronze…

Former Residence of Enver Hoxha

This simple three-storey villa was the home of Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha for decades, and his wife continued to live here for years after his death in…

Petrela Castle

This dramatically set 15th-century hilltop castle, just a short distance outside Tirana, is worth a trip if you're not visiting one of the other better…

National Archaeological Museum

The collection here is comprehensive and impressive in parts, but there's only minimal labelling in Albanian and none at all in English (nor are tours in…

Clock Tower

Tirana's 35m-tall clock tower was completed by Ottoman architects in 1822, and it was for years the tallest building in the capital, sounding a bell every…

Equestrian Statue of Skanderbeg

An impressive monument to the Albanian national hero stands in the middle of this eponymous square/traffic roundabout.

Designed by Enver Hoxha's daughter and son-in-law and completed in 1988, this monstrously unattractive building was formerly the Enver Hoxha Museum and…

Et'hem Bey Mosque

To one side of Sheshi Skënderbej, the 1789–1823 Et'hem Bey Mosque was spared destruction during the atheism campaign of the late 1960s because of its…

Martyrs' Cemetery

At the top of Rr Elbasanit is the Martyrs' Cemetery, where some 900 partisans who died in WWII are buried. The views over the city and surrounding…

Statue of the Unknown Partisan

The socialist realist Statue of the Unknown Partisan, just off Sheshi Skënderbej, seems to be aiming his weapons at the Parliament building (1924) down…

Fortress of Justinian

If you turn up Rr Murat Toptani, behind the National Gallery of Arts, you'll pass the 6m-high walls of the Fortress of Justinian, the last remnants of a…

Tanners' Bridge

A rather incongruous 19th-century stone bridge remains remarkably well preserved in Tirana's modern centre and is one of just a few remnants of Ottoman…

Palace of Culture

To the east of Sheshi Skënderbej is the white stone Palace of Culture, which has a theatre, shops and art galleries. Construction of the palace began as a…

Palace of Congress

An architectural creation by Enver Hoxha's daughter and son-in-law, the square Palace of Congress is on Tirana's main ceremonial avenue. It no longer…

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26 Incredible Things to do in Tirana, Albania

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Last Updated on July 27, 2021

The lively capital city of Tirana is one not to be missed on your Balkan trip. The city has had a major overhaul in the last few years and now it’s a haven for travellers who are looking for a city that’s different from every other European city out there.  

Tirana has a lot to offer. From learning about communist history to checking out the many nature sites, it’s a great idea to come here for at least a few days!

Let’s get into the best things to do in Tirana!

1. Visit bunk art 1 and 2

Both bunk art 1 and 2 are a great start to any trip to Tirana. Bunk art 1 is located just outside of the centre and is the bunker of the former communist leader Enver Hoxha. You will see rooms upon rooms built for the war that never happened!  

Bunk art 2 is right in the centre on Skanderbeg square and was the underground bunker for the ministry of internal affairs. They are both eerie and very interesting to see and learn about Albania’s dark communist past.  

2. People watch at Skanderbeg square

A must-do in Tirana is to check out Skanderbeg square and do a good ol’ dose of people watching.   There are plenty of chairs and loungers to relax whilst you people watch. In the winter around Christmas time, you will find some nice Christmas markets. It’s very beautiful!

  3. Hang out in Blloku

Blloku is the ‘cool’ area of the city. You will find many restaurants and hip cafes. It’s where the rich and famous live and hang out but it can also be chilled too. One of my favourite places is the Duff Bar (yes, a rip off from The Simpsons). It’s an American bar that does the best burgers which can sometimes be hard to come by.

You will find many colourful cafes too so be sure to check out this neighbourhood if you aren’t already staying in this part! There are some great Airbnb’s in this area.  Click here to get your $29 free travel credit when signing up.

4. Walk around the artificial lake

The lake of Tirana is a great place to chill, go for a run or just simply people watch. The artificial lake was created in the 20th century and is a popular spot for locals to do their daily exercise.  

  Within the park, there is also an open-air theatre, various courts, a swimming pool and Tirana zoo. 

5. Visit the house of leaves

  The house of leaves is another one of Albania’s best museums and investigates communism Albania from the angle of the spies. You can look at various equipment that was used in the years of communism to spy on the locals and which made many political prisoners over the years. It’s a unique museum and must-do in Tirana.

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6. Eat at salt

Salt is arguably one of the best restaurants in Tirana and Albania. It’s set in a beautiful building and there’s so much variety on the menu. From vegan options to delicious seafood and even sushi, this restaurant is a must!

Every Monday they also have all you can eat sushi. For 2000lek per person, you can eat as much sushi as possible!

7. Have a drink at Komiteti

Komiteti is by far my favourite bar in Tirana! It’s unique because it’s a museum bar so it has so many old treasures around the place.  

They also have many flavours of Rakia here so if you would like to taste some of the strong Albanian rakia, this is the place to do it!

8. Take the cable car up to Mt Dajti

One of the best things to do to get an epic view from above and get out of the bustling city is to take a cable car up Mt Dajti. This is by far one of the best things to do in Tirana! The cable car is open 6 days a week (Tuesday is closed for maintenance) and takes 15 minutes to reach the heart of the national park.  

When you have arrived, you can opt to go to the restaurant, stay at the hotel or check out the number of adventure activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, rock climbing and even paragliding.

9. Check out the mosque

The Et’hem Bej Mosque was built in the 18th century and is one of the most beautiful historical monuments within Tirana. With its beautiful architecture and frescoes, it’s a unique mosque but it’s currently being restored so you are not able to go inside. But you can marvel the mosque from the outside.

10. Take a day trip to Kruja

One of my favourite places within Albania is the city of Kruja. Kruja is an important city in Albania’s history as this is where the national hero Skanderbeg fought against the Ottoman Empire and helped overturn their rule. But this city is not only a favourite for history buffs but also people looking for a unique city break.

Kruja is situated on top of a mountain and has the most beautiful bazaar in all of Albania which is over 400 years old. Here you can find unique and very beautiful souvenirs which you won’t find elsewhere in Albania. Here’s a great day trip tour from Tirana to Kruja.

11. Do a food tour

One of the best ways to learn about a country and culture is through food. You can experience that through a food tour with Albanian food tours. They will take you to the best places within Tirana, many you may not have heard of if you hadn’t of done the tour.

They also have lots of different options like a walking tour, nightlife tour and food and wine tours. Each tour is customizable depending on what you’re wanting to see and do!

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12. Check out the street art

Amazing street art is popping up throughout Tirana! Just walking through the city, you will see many beautiful pieces of art. If you would like to see some specific art pieces of just know what areas to look in, then check out this google map with all the murals recorded. 

13. Visit the pyramid

  The pyramid of Tirana was originally built by Enver Hoxha and was a museum of Enver Hoxha, the former communist leader but after the fall of communism, the museum closed. After that, it became a conference centre and then in 1999 NATO used it as their headquarters during the Kosovo war. Once the war had ended it was used for various events but then the officials were confused as to what to use it for. 

It was going to be demolished but many citizens protested it so it’s still standing today but derelict. But lately, there have plans to turn it into a museum of culture, art and technology which is super exciting!  

14. See the bunker/piece of the berlin wall

  Right opposite Enver Hoxha’s house is a small park with a bunker, remains from a communist camp, a sign of Tirana and a piece of the berlin wall. It’s possibly the most random park of all time but worth a look! You can go inside the bunker too although, prepare for the stench of urine.

  15. Walk down Toptani street

Toptani street is a beautiful pedestrian-only road covered with overlapping trees and many cute cafes and houses. Have a stroll down the street and enjoy the serenity away from noisy cars and traffic.

16. Visit the national history museum

The national museum is well worth a look if you want to learn more about Albania and it’s turbulent past. There’s also an upsetting gallery which displays images of people who suffered prosecution under Enver Hoxha’s regime.  

There are lots of important pieces on display here so it’s worth a look if you have the time.

17. Do a walking tour

A walking tour is a great introduction to any city. There is a good walking tour run by a local in Tirana. This can be a great thing to do in Tirana when you first arrive so you can learn a little bit more about the city, the best local recommendations and to get your bearings around the city.

18. Find Enver Hoxha’s house

You can see Enver Hoxha’s house which is in the Blloku district. Unfortunately, you cannot go inside but there are talks about setting his house up as a museum so look out for that in the future. Enver Hoxha was the old communist leader in Albania. 

19. Visit new market – pazari i ri

  The new market is a great place to buy your fruit and vegetables. It’s set within a courtyard which has some great cafes and restaurants. There’s an amazing American restaurant nearby. The market is a newer style and it is a little more expensive than if you went to a local market. It’s set up more for tourists than for locals but it’s worth the look.

20. Radio bar

This retro-style bar is inspired on the communist period and is filled with…you guessed it, radios! Radio bar is such a fun little hangout to have a cocktail or two! It’s located with the cool neighbourhood of Blloku. 

21. Climb the clock tower

To get another great view of the city, you climb the 60+ steps to the top of the clock tower. It’s open from Monday to Friday and it’s 100lek to climb. The clock tower was built in 1822 and it has been repaired and extended a few times since then.

22. Get a 360 view of Tirana

Another great view spot and place to enjoy views of the city is from the Sky restaurant. From there you get a 360-degree view of the city and surroundings. The restaurant and bar have good food and is of great value. The Sky restaurant and bar is located just out of the centre and is just one of the many great things to do in Tirana!

23. Tanner bridge

Tanner bridge is remains of the Ottoman empire and a reminder of the history of Tirana. This small stone bridge was built in the 19th century and can be found at the end of Rruga Presidenti George W Bush.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2JSzAyAhEo/

24. Take a cooking class

Remember how I said that learning about a culture and country through food is a great way to learn? Well go one step further and take a cooking class to learn how to make some popular Albanian dishes! 

Go as Local have an incredible cooking class which is in Tirana. You will learn how to make Tave Kosi as well as for Albanian desserts, Rakia and taste some other Albanian food!

The tour costs only €30-40 and goes for around 4 hours.

25. Have a traditional meal at Oda

If you want to taste traditional Albanian food instead of learning to cook it then why not eat at Oda?! It’s a traditional-style restaurant with lots on the menu to try. The decor is even set up like a traditional house, so you get the real experience of a traditional meal here in Tirana!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2sE2kmhllW/

26. Have a cocktail at Hemingway bar

  This bar is a Hemingway/Cuba themed bar with lots of homely decor options. It’s a unique bar and has over 100 types of rum! On Fridays, you can come to enjoy live music and on the other days, you will hear a constant stream of jazz! The bar is located just off Skanderbeg square.

  So, there’s a big list of things to do in Tirana, tell me below which ones you would like to enjoy first!

Other articles you will love:

• 18 Things to do in Saranda, Albania
• The Best Places to visit in Albania

The Most Delicious Balkan Food You Must Try

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Author: Anita Hendrieka

Anita Hendrieka is the blogger behind this website and another popular website called 'Anita Hendrieka'. She has been named the top travel blogger in New Zealand and has been to over 50 countries in the world. Now, based in the Balkans she gives you the best advice on the region through this website.

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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Tirana Itinerary

Last Updated on October 25, 2023

by Michael Rozenblit

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Albania’s vibrant capital of Tirana is quickly becoming one of the most up-and-coming cities in the Balkans, finding its way onto everyone’s list of must-see spots in this area of Europe. To make your travel planning as stress-free as possible, this Tirana itinerary is perfect for your visit.

Depending on whether you have 1, 2, or 3 days in Tirana, you can easily alter this itinerary to suit your preferences.

Tirana is packed with things to see and do, and it’s also an excellent base for day trips to other Albanian hotspots.

Table of Contents

How Many Days In Tirana?

I recommend spending at least 2 days in Tirana to see the best of what this charming city offers. This will give you enough time to check out some of the museums, admire the colourful architecture, and explore the city at a relaxed pace.

If you’re short on time and are happy to move around a little quicker, one day in Tirana will get you to all of the must-see spots. The Albanian capital city is quite compact and walkable, so getting from place to place shouldn’t take you too long.

Anyone with time on their hands should definitely consider spending 3 days in Tirana. This timeframe gives you enough days to get an in-depth feel for the city, and you can also squeeze in a day trip to the likes of the historic city of Berat or picturesque Mount Gamti if you fancy a hike.

Getting To & Around Tirana

You’ll likely start your visit by flying into Tirana International Airport, which is only a 30-minute journey from the city centre. Buses now run on the hour, every hour, making it super convenient to get to the city even if your flight gets in late.

The shuttles are the most affordable way to get into town, costing only a few Lek. However, you’ll also be able to grab a taxi or book a private transfer , which will be a bit more expensive, though still affordable.

If you’re travelling overland throughout the Balkans, there are also connections to Tirana from nearby cities in neighbouring countries. For instance, you can get buses from cities like Kotor in Montenegro or Ohrid in North Macedonia.

When it comes to travelling to other cities in Albania , you’ll either have to catch a minibus or rent a car. Most of the buses depart from the Regional Bus Terminal and are usually the cheapest way to travel.

However, these buses are definitely not glamorous and tend to be quite packed and hot, so this is something to keep in mind. Renting a car is another option, but driving in Albania can be chaotic at the best of times, so this isn’t an option for the faint-hearted. You can view car rental options here.

In terms of getting around Tirana, you’ll find most of the city can be explored on foot. Whenever you’re travelling further afield, or the heat’s becoming too much, opt for a taxi or hop on a city bus.

Tirana Itinerary

Whether you’re seeing Tirana in 3 days or you only have 1, this itinerary is a great way to get to know the capital of Albania.

If you want to see some of the top sites with more historical context, then consider taking a free walking tour (ensure you bring cash to tip your guide at the end!) or a paid walking tour of the city.

Day 1 – Central Tirana Highlights

Skanderbeg square.

We’re going to kick things off at the focal point in the centre of Tirana and the heart of all the action, Skanderbeg Square.

This is the perfect place to begin your Tirana travels, as many of the top things to do in the city are within a short walk of the square. Named after a national hero, you’ll find the Skanderbeg Statue here, as well as the Venetian-style clock tower.

National History Museum

You can’t miss the National History Museum when you’re in Skanderbeg Square, as it’s one of the most impressive buildings in the area and is built in Communist-style architecture.

This is the place to go for a deep dive into Albania’s history, with artefacts dating back to prehistoric times on display, right up to exhibitions about the country’s turbulent 20th century.

It’s best to allocate around one and a half to two hours to make your way around this museum, though you could easily spend three if you had plenty of time on your hands.

Et’hem Bej Mosque

Just a few minutes across the square from the history museum is the Et’hem Bej Mosque, a place of worship that has been around for 200 years despite being forced to close during the Communist era.

Reopening in the 1990s, the Et’hem Bej Mosque is not only culturally significant but is also incredibly beautiful, as the interior is filled with intricate frescoes and the building itself is Ottoman-styled.

Check Out The House of Leaves Museum

Among the most unique places to see in Tirana is the Museum of Secret Surveillance, more commonly known as the House of Leaves, due to the towering tree covering one side of the building.

Anyone with an interest in the history of communism in Albania and what life was like under the dictatorship of Enver Hoxha will be fascinated by the displays here. They detail the spying tactics of Communist dictators, who used this very building as their surveillance headquarters during the second half of the 20th century.

You’ll also gain a better understanding of the oppressive conditions Albanians once lived through. This is one of the best things to do in Tirana if you want to gain an understanding of the country’s more modern history.

Rruga Murat Toptani

Next, head over to Rruga Murat Toptani, a pedestrianised street that’s lined with lovely restaurants and coffee shops if you’re in need of a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

One of the best spots to grab a bite to eat here is Royal Pizza, a very reasonably priced Italian haunt, while Tartuf Restaurant is a great choice for somewhere a little more upmarket.

Rruga Murat Toptani is also well worth visiting in the evening, too, as bars like Oping’s Cocktails & Beer and Nçarshi serve tasty drinks until late.

Some other cool spots to look out for along this lively street include the Residence of the Albanian Royal family and Reja, also called The Cloud, which is a modern art installation.

Fortress of Justinian (Tirana Castle)

While you’re in the area, you have to stop by the Tirana Castle.

Though it’s not quite what you picture when you imagine what a castle should look like, as only part of the fortress remains intact today, the area where it once stood is among the most enchanting in all of Tirana.

Also called the Fortress of Justinian, this castle dates back to the Byzantine era and was originally the meeting point of streets coming from the north, south, east, and west of Tirana.

Nowadays, this part of town is filled with narrow streets made up of hole-in-the-wall eateries, souvenir shops, and cosy bars.

Day 2 – Blloku Neighbourhood & Mount Dajti

Bunk’art 2.

If you’re on limited time in Tirana, one thing you can’t skip is the Bunk’Art Museum. There are actually two Bunk’Art Museums, but Bunk’Art 2 is located right by Skanderbeg Square and is super simple to find.

Albania became home to thousands of bunkers during the ’70s and ’80s, one of which is where Bunk’Art 2 now stands.

Formerly belonging to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, this nuclear pit has been transformed into a huge museum that tells the story of the persecutions that took place during the Communist regime and the hardships faced by Albanians for decades.

Tanner’s Bridge & Blloku Neighbourhood

After taking the time to explore the museum, it’s time to head toward the Lana Rive and direct yourself to the famous Tanner’s Bridge.

You’ll be transported back to Ottoman times when you stumble upon this quaint footbridge, which has most definitely stood the test of time, considering it’s been around since the 1700s.

Although it lies in a pretty peaceful part of the city known as the Blloku neighbourhood, you’ll be surrounded by a mix of brightly-coloured modern buildings and Soviet-esque structures.

One such structure is the Pyramid of Tirana – which was built in the late 1980s to be a museum dedicated to the former dictator Enver Hoxha. The communist regime collapsed only a couple of years after its opening. In the neighbourhood, you can also find Mother Teresa Square, the second-largest city square in Tirana.

If you wander a little bit further south, you will also find the lovely Grand Park of Tirana, which is a delightful city park that’s worth strolling through.

Dajti Express Cable Car

Another unmissable Tirana experience is to climb aboard the Dajti Express, a cable car that takes you up to the top of Mount Dajti.

The best way to get to the gondola station is to get the public bus from the Clock Tower at Skanderbeg Square, which takes around 30 minutes and departs every 10-20 minutes. You can find information about the bus on their official website .

Once you arrive, you’ll make a five-minute walk to the station or opt for the Dajti Express minibus, which will take you uphill right to the ticket desk.

Running every day except Tuesdays, you’ll be treated to the finest views in all of Tirana as you make the journey to the summit. No doubt this is one of the best places to visit in Tirana.

Enjoy Mount Dajti

There are heaps of fun things to do when you arrive at Mount Dajti, but one of the top points of interest has to be the 18-hole mini golf course, which might just be one of the most scenic spots for a game of golf I’ve ever come across!

For those of you with good balance or who want to try something different, stop by the rollerblading rink and rent skates as you try to impress your family and friends.

Adrenaline junkies will also find zip lines, climbing frames, and paragliding opportunities up here.

If you’re hungry, it’s just a short stroll to Ballkoni Dajtit Restaurant , a stunning eatery overlooking the city and the lush mountains.

This restaurant feels like a lavish ski lodge and has both indoor and outdoor dining areas, where you can sample traditional local dishes like veal ribs and Albanian meatballs alongside classics like pasta and pizza.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Durrës, Shkodër, Berat or Mount Gamti

For your third day in Tirana, you’ll want to take advantage of one of the many day trips you can make from the capital.

One of the easiest and best day trips from Tirana is to the lovely coastal town of Durrës located on the Adriatic coast. Situated due west of the Albanian capital, this is a great option if you’re planning to visit Tirana in the warmer months are are keen for a seaside escape.

There is a vast beach to lounge on in Durrës and a laid-back vibe to enjoy. You can stroll along the seaside promenade and enjoy the views of the Adriatic, as well. It’s also perfect for those who want to go for a swim.

You can reach Durrës by car in just over half an hour. Alternatively, there are plenty of public buses that leave frequently and the journey takes about 45 minutes.

Nicknamed the ‘town of a thousand windows,’ Berat is a hillside town just an hour and a half south of Tirana. This alluring part of Albania is filled with gorgeous white houses and fascinating sites like Berat Castle, the Onufri Iconographic Art Museum, the Gorica Bridge, and numerous wineries.

Stop for lunch at Homemade Food Lili to try some of the best Albanian food in town, from baked eggplant to burek, a delicious meat-filled pastry. If you’re brave enough, try a shot of raki, a pungent, homemade Albanian spirit.

A day trip to Berat is best done if you want to hire a car, as you can reach the town in about 1.5 hours driving from Tirana.

You can also opt for the bus, however, the bus journey takes about 2.5 hours each way, meaning that you will be in for a long day if you’re going by public transport. It is also possible to take an organised tour.

Lake Bovilla & Mount Gamti

In addition to its historic cities, Albania has some jaw-dropping landscapes just a short drive from Tirana. Drive an hour north, and you’ll come across Lake Bovilla, a spectacular turquoise reservoir surrounded by rugged mountains. This day trip is best done if you’re renting a car or on an organised tour.

Make the one-hour hike up to Mount Gamti, and you’ll be treated to unbeatable views. There’s a road you can take which will shorten the trek, though it makes for some pretty challenging driving conditions, so I’d suggest hiking up to avoid damaging both the car and your nerves.

Located on the banks of Lake Shkodër in the north of Albania not far from the Montenegrin border lies the lovely town of Shkodër. This historic city has been continuously inhabited by people since the Bronze Age and it is absolutely fascinating to visit.

There are plenty of interesting museums within the city, along with a range of historic monuments and landmarks such as Rozafa Castle and the Monument to Mother Teresa to take in. There are also some local wineries in the region that, if you’re travelling by your own car, you could opt to stop off at and tour if that interests you.

You can reach Shkodër in about 1.5 hours driving from Tirana. It can be worth it to have a car as the beautiful Lake Shkodër isn’t accessible on foot from the city centre. However, you can also reach the city via bus in about 1 hour and 45 minutes or take an organised tour.

Where to Stay in Tirana

Hotel Antigone – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Tirana is a great mid-range choice. They offer breakfast, free parking, room service and there are plenty of rooms to choose from.

Hotel Boutique Vila 135 – Luxury visitors will love this boutique hotel within walking distance of Tirana’s top attractions. They have beautiful rooms and amenities like an airport shuttle, room service and a delightful breakfast.

Trip’n Hostel   — Budget visitors will love this locally-run hostel. They have both dorms and private rooms along with good common areas and a friendly staff.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tirana hotels!

Regardless of how long your trip to Tirana is, you’ll have an abundance of fantastic things to do. From scenic cable car rides to thought-provoking museums, this Tirana itinerary will provide you with the perfect overview of this intriguing and lively Balkan city.

Are you planning to visit Tirana? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Tirana

Tirana is the underrated and under-visited capital of Albania, a city on the edge of Europe that’s sure to charm any traveller adventurous enough to stroll through its historic streets and squares.

The intriguing city was for many decades under the rule of communist dictator Enver Hoxha, a pariah who turned Albania into a country more isolated even than North Korea.

The fact that this period of socialist rule was followed by civil war and gang violence, ensured that for many years Albania hasn’t exactly screamed out as a ‘Holiday Destination’ for tourists.

But times have changed and slowly but surely travellers are beginning to revel in the Ottoman architecture, the quirky cafes and all too cheap bars, and the unique culture that’s distinctly Albanian.

The capital is the gateway to the rest of unexplored Albania too, so to inspire your next adventure, here’s our ultimate travel guide to Tirana.

In a hurry and need help quick?

Making last-minute plans for your Tirana itinerary. We’ve got you covered. Our recommended hotels and tours for a getaway are listed below.

Recommended hotels:

• Hostel:  Milingona City Center Hostel
• Budget: Hotel 3A
• Mid range:  Boutique Hotel Whisky
• Family:  Moncafe BoutiqueHotel Spa
• Luxury:  Arté Boutique Hotel

Recommended tours:

• Hike Gamti Mountain with Bovilla lake view-daily tour from Tirana
• Tour of North Macedonia; Ohrid & Struga from Tirana
• City & Food Tour of Tirana in One Day
• Walking Tour of Tirana

Other Helpful Links

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Wise Card : hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Table of Contents

How to get to Tirana

Of all the Balkan nations, Albania is the most difficult to travel to, and even the capital city, Tirana, can be tricky to reach.

Decades of under development and strife have caused the country to have limited infrastructure and transport facilities while there are only limited flight connections to the rest of the world.

It’s well worth the effort though, and if you do need to fly then there are irregular flights to many major European cities such as London or Frankfurt, from where you can then catch another connection further afield. You’ll just need to be flexible with your schedule.

Tirana has no train station in the city itself, although there is one on the outskirts which has limited services to nearby cities.

The bus is usually the best option when travelling around Albania or the Balkans, but again, with no centralised bus station then actually finding the right departure point is a challenge in itself.

Albanian transport services are notoriously inefficient, and you’ll need to schedule a whole day just to travel from Tirana to Shkoder, even given the short distance involved. The roads are bad, and the bus – if you can find where it leaves from – won’t leave until it’s full.

Travelling to Tirana can be a challenge, but that’s part of any adventure in Albania.

What to expect in Tirana

Tirana is a unique blend of different historical eras, and there are few other cities like it in Europe. You have Ottoman and Islamic influences, communist and socialist influences, and Italian and Mediterranean influences too.

Tirana is really where east meets west and that’s reflected in the food, the culture and the language. The Albanian language itself is very unique, and very unlike any other language in the Balkans.

You will find though that due to the large Albanian diaspora across Europe that a multitude of languages will be spoken in the city.

English is becoming more commonplace, but due to cultural influences, many locals might speak Italian or Greek or even German to a high level.

The local currency is the relatively inflated Albanian Lek which you will be able to withdraw from ATMs or find at money changers. If you are desperate then you might find that Euros are also accepted.

By western standards, Albania is an fairly poor country, and tourists will find that their money can go exceptionally far in the country.

How to get around Tirana

The main sights in Tirana’s city centre are close enough that you can walk between them, and indeed, a walking tour might be the best way for you to get around the most popular attractions.

Navigating further afield though can be a challenge, but you will need to if you are looking to take public transport out of the city and to anywhere else in Albania or the Balkans.

There are public buses in Tirana that run set routes and are very cheap, but also very slow and inefficient.

The easiest way to get somewhere fast is to take a local taxi. Again, costs are relatively inexpensive, but just be sure to either haggle your fare beforehand or be adamant that the meter is turned on for the journey.

The best time to visit Tirana  

Tirana has a wonderfully pleasant climate, and the city can be visited all year round. Because the capital is set inland and away from the Mediterranean coast, it’s never too hot here in summer, but given the southern location in Europe, the winters are never too cold either.

The hottest months of the year are between June and September, but temperatures only infrequently rise above 30 degrees Celsius.

You can even escape to the nearby mountain tops if that gets too hot for you.

Temperatures drop drastically over winter but rarely go below freezing, and in the city itself you’re unlikely to see snowfall.

Winter can be a good time to enjoy a quieter side of the city, while spring and autumn will have the most pleasant temperatures.

Things to do in Tirana 

Skanderbeg square.

Named for the fierce warrior hero of Albania, Skanderbeg Square is the main, central square in Tirana.

It’s an impressive place to visit , and home to a towering statue of Skanderbeg himself, a medieval general who fought for Albania’s independence.

National Museum of History

The huge, undeniably communist looking building on the edge of Skanderbeg Square is home to Albania’s National Museum of History.

This enormous museum will take up several hours of your day, and you’ll find exhibits collected from Roman times, through to the dark days of the Hoxha regime. 

Pyramid of Tirana

The city is full of bizarre, communist architecture, but the strangest of them all is the Pyramid of Tirana .

This crumbling, pyramid-shaped building now lies derelict, because it was originally designed to hold a museum dedicated to the dictator Enver Hoxha.

While the Pyramid of Tirana has been slated for demolition several times since the fall of communism, it somehow keeps managing to escape destruction and has evolved into a unique symbol of the city, that attracts many foreign tourists in its own right.

Next to the Pyramid, you can find several other unique sights, such as a Peace Bell made from old bullet shells, and a piece of the Berlin Wall.

One of the best examples in Albania of repurposed communist infrastructure can be found with a visit to Bunk Art . This modern art exhibition and history museum is located deep within the depths of an old nuclear bunker.

The bunker was originally designed to shelter Enver Hoxha and his cronies in the event of war, but after the fall of communism, the abandoned fallout shelter became an art space, and now tells the story of the regime’s terrors through the 20th century.

House of Leaves

To learn more about the dark days of the 20th century, then you can also head to the House of Leaves.

It might sound rather pleasant given the name, but actually, this nondescript building in Tirana was for many decades the home of the secret police.

It was originally used by the Gestapo during the German occupation in World War II, but as soon as the Nazis were ousted, the communists came straight in and turned it into their own secret police headquarters.

Today, the building has been developed into an exhibition detailing the stories of those who suffered under the paranoia of both fascism and the communist dictatorship, and it’s a unique if sobering insight into the not too recent past of Albania.   

Mount Dajti

To escape the bustle and chaos of Tirana, then take a trip outside the city to Mount Dajti . In fact, you can be out of the city in just 15 minutes flat, as the excellent Dajti Express cable car takes you to the mountain summit from the outskirts of Tirana in no time at all.

The views from the top are sweeping, and the fresh air in the middle of this national park is wonderfully rejuvenating, especially in the heat of summer.

Tanners Bridge

The Tanners Bridge is a small but important attraction in the centre of Tirana. Dating back to at least the 17th century, this old stone bridge is one of the best examples of an Ottoman-era river crossing that you can still find in the capital city.

What to eat in Tirana 

Tirana has a surprisingly eclectic culinary scene and the number of restaurants, bars and cafes always seem to be increasing each year.

The foodie scene here represents a whole smorgasbord of European cuisines, from Turkish and Greek to Italian and Mediterranean, but of course, with a lot of Albanian flavours and delicacies thrown in as well.

Due to the low cost of living in the capital, you can generally eat out for a fraction of the costs of neighbouring countries, and you can dine in five-star elegance for very little.

There are many excellent Italian restaurants, while the revolving Sky Restaurant on top of the TV Tower is always a favourite with tourists and a great way to kick off the Tirana nightlife on the weekend.

Of course, you will want to make sure that you try the local dishes too while you are in Tirana, and the national dish is often considered to be Tave Kosi, a baked dish that consists of lamb, eggs, yoghurt and plenty of spices.

You’ll also find kebabs everywhere, and the meat, veg or cheese pies called Bureks, which are two of the most enduring Turkish culinary legacies in the Balkan region. A weekend in Tirana is never complete without tasting the local Rakija either, a fierce spirit that’s drunk everywhere.

Where to stay in Tirana

Budget – as with the food, accommodation in Tirana is also comparatively cheap by western standards, and budget travellers can rejoice in the budget options on offer.

Hostels are a relatively new concept here, but more and more are springing up across the city each season. Tirana Backpacker Hostel is a classic choice for travellers, claiming to be the first-ever hostel in the capital.

Midrange – Apartments and homely guesthouses in Tirana can be just as cheap, if not better value, than the hostels in the city.

The Grand Hotel Colosseo is a great mid-range choice if you are looking for a more traditional hotel choice, however.

Luxury – Travellers looking for a bit of luxury and modern comforts will want to book into the Plaza Tirana , a great hotel offering excellent amenities and spacious rooms right next to Skanderbeg Square.

The Mak Albania , found next to the Presidential Palace and complete with swimming pools and fitness centres, is another luxurious favourite.

Tours to do in Tirana

Walking tour.

The best way to explore Tirana when you first arrive is to join a walking tour of the city. Be guided through the Albanian capital by local guides as you learn about the history of the city, from the Ottoman era through to the modern-day.

Communist Tour

Tirana is a city that still has a distinctively socialist feel when it comes to the culture and the architecture because the legacy of Enver Hoxha and his communist regime is still keenly felt.

Join this communist tour which shows the Albanian capital to learn more about the dark days of isolationism and to hear and see the mad-cap schemes and plans of one of history’s most paranoid dictators.

Food Tours and Cooking Classes  

Join this food tour of Tirana to see where the best local bites to eat can be found across the city. Explore the bustling marketplaces and hole in the wall eateries, or better yet, factor in a cooking class to your travel plans to learn how to actually make your favourite Albanian dishes.

Day trips from Tirana

One of the best day trips from Tirana can be found to the south of the capital. Berat is a small city surrounded by superb landscapes, including mountains and river valleys.

It’s also one of the best-preserved examples of an Ottoman-era settlement in Albania, and you can marvel at the array of white stone houses that have somehow stood the test of time.

Shkoder is one of Albania’s premier tourist destinations , because the northern city is found on the edge of the enormous Lake Shkoder.

Split between Albania and Montenegro, this is one of the largest lakes in Europe and a beautiful place to visit.

Head to the coast, and visit the city of Durres to see a different side of Albania. Albania’s second city is a bustling metropolis in its own right, but the highlights also include ancient Roman ruins, medieval castles and Mediterranean beaches.

Recommended tours in Tirana

• Berat Full Day Trip from Tirana
• Shkoder Day Trip from Tirana
• Tirana and Kruja Full Day Tour
• Exclusive Pottery making experience in Tirana
• Communist History Tour Tirana & Street Food
• Rural Tirana: caves and canyons
• Grand Wine Tasting & Food Tour of Berat
• Fly Tandem Paragliding Experience

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Things to do in Tirana – A Complete Guide to the Most Underrated City in Europe

• Last Updated: April 24, 2024

Whether you are visiting Tirana just a couple of days before seeing the rest of Albania, or you have decided to stay a little longer, this guide to the best things to do in Tirana is for you.

Here you will find all the information you need to visit Tirana, a truly underrated city in Europe. What to do in a day, in 2 days, in a week or in a month, how to get around, where to eat and where to stay. I wrote this post with a lot of love. Enjoy!

I am one of the few travellers who have spent extended time in Tirana. I also returned for a few days near the end of my 10-week-long travel in Albania. I wanted to end my time in this amazing country on a high note, and Tirana is truly one of my favourite cities in Europe .

I am not a city girl anymore. I like lakes, mountains, beaches and small-town living. But few cities in the world have captured my heart and I didn’t mind the traffic, tall buildings, noise, and even the lack of any body of water (which is absolutely essential to my happiness).

Tirana is one of those cities.

Top Things to Do in Tirana!

• Skanderbeg Square with the Et’hem Bej Mosque and a Clock Tower
• Dajti Ekspres “Cable Car” 
• Bunk’Art Museum 1 and 2
• The Pyramid of Tirana 
• Pazar i Ri Bazaar with Oda Restaurant
• Blloku Neighbourhood with Enver Hoxha residency

For a capital city, Tirana is quite small and compact, but I have found that there are endless attractions, and there are just so many things to do in Tirana!

I was also fascinated by the crazy architectural mishmash, and what others found strange, I found enduring. The colours, the strange buildings, the greenery, the cafes, and the cool vibe of Tirana stole my heart from day one.

And I appreciated it even more when I returned for the second time after escaping the gloomy Elbasan.

So what will you find in this Tirana travel guide?

If you are only staying in Tirana for one or a couple of nights, in the first chapter I will list the top 5 things to do in Tirana – basically the Tirana must-dos! Just so you don’t miss out on any of the best stuff. I have got your back!

But if, like me, you decide to spend more time in this awesome city, further along the post, I will list all the other incredible things you can do in Tirana, including a few off-the-beaten-path places.

So without further ado, let me take you on a grand tour of Tirana!

Table of Contents

Few Important bits to know before Visiting Tirana

Tirana is a relatively young capital of Albania. Before Tirana, Korca was the capital of Albania. Although founded in the 17th century, Tirana was not officially declared the capital until 1925. During the communist regime of Enver Hoxha, many historical buildings and monuments were destroyed. The Old Bazaar or the Orthodox Cathedral were demolished and replaced by communist-style buildings.

Today Tirana is a curious architectural concoction that some find disturbing, but I love it! Nothing seems to fit together, and yet somehow everything does. You will probably notice how colourfully some of the buildings are painted, and wonder why . After the fall of the regime, the buildings around Tirana were painted in all colours to breathe life back into the grey city that Tirana was before 1991. But there were also not enough funds to repair the city’s dilapidated infrastructure. So the colourful paint had to do.

Tirana is a super safe city, as is the rest of Albania. It is a city that almost never sleeps and is always packed full of travellers. Even in the darker streets of Tirana, walking back to my hostel outside the centre in the evening, I never felt unsafe.

Tirana is very walkable and most of the sights are within walking distance. I strongly discourage you from driving in Tirana. You will see why when you arrive!

Unfortunately, you can no longer withdraw cash for free in Albania. Most ATMs charge between 500 and 800 Lek withdrawal fees. The 2 banks I found the cheapest were the green OTP and the red BKT.

How to get to Tirana

How to get to tirana from the airport.

To get from Tirana Airport to the centre of Tirana, you can take a shuttle bus, a cab or a rental car.

The cheapest way to get from Tirana Airport to Tirana is to take the bus operated by the Luna company. It is a shuttle service operating 24 hours a day and leaves once an hour. A one-way ticket costs 400Lek. From Tirana airport, there are also direct bus connections to Durres and Vlore. The bus stop is next to the parking lot and the final stop in Tirana is behind the palace of OPERA. This is also where you can catch a bus if you want to go from Tirana to the airport.

The taxi from Tirana airport to Tirana costs about 30€/3000Lek.

How to get to Tirana from Regional bus station

If you are travelling to Tirana from the majority of the main cities in Albania (like Durres, Vlore, Berat or Gjirokaster) you will be dropped at the Regional bus station in Tirana. 

From there you can take a taxi (expensive) or hop on a city bus for 40Lek.

Getting from Tirana Regional bus station to the center of Tirana so somewhat adventurous yet pretty easy. The bus stop towards Tirana centre is located on the opposite side of the street from the station (here is the location). It runs pretty frequently, so just make your way there and you should be on a bus in a few minutes. The ticket costs 40lek and you will pay with the guy that walks around the bus selling the tickets.

How to get to Tirana from Shkoder

If you started your Albanian adventure in Shkoder , you might be wondering how to get to Tirana from Shkoder.

It is very easy to get to Tirana from Shkoder. There is a direct bus departing from the centre of Shkoder near the Neptune store, right here.

The ticket costs 400Lek and the journey takes around 3 hours although officially should be under 2 hours. You will arrive at the regional bus station in Tirana from where you can take a city bus to the centre for 40Lek.

How many days for Visiting Tirana

Although most travellers stay only one or two nights in Tirana before exploring the rest of Albania, I recommend you spend at least 3 full days in this interesting city. In those 3 days, you’ll have enough time to do a super cool free walking tour, visit a museum or two, take the cable car up Mount Dajti, eat and drink at some pretty awesome establishments and even take a day trip to Kruje!

Of course, if you’re short on time, you can see Tirana in a day or two, and I will help you with that too!

Did you get your travel insurance yet? Travel Insurance will let you travel with the peace of mind knowing that no matter what, your unexpected medical or travel emergencies are covered. I use Heymondo for a few reasons. They have clear policies with no deductibles, the price is excellent for what they offer and the price doesn’t go up when you are over 30 years old. They have a dedicated, easy-to-use app and free assistance calls.

I can get a cover for a month or three months and I know I can travel with peace of mind and get the best product for my money.

Heymondo offers my readers 5% off so go ahead, and click on this link and get your quote.

How to Get Around Tirana

The best way to get around Tirana is on foot. Tirana is a very walkable city and most of the important landmarks are located within walking distance.

I walked all over the city and found nothing too far away.

There are also city buses in Tirana if you really don’t like walking. For example, you can take a bus to the Dajti cable car or to the International Bus Station. You buy the bus ticket on the bus. Ticket prices vary between 30 and 40 Lek.

Heading to the North of Albania next?

If you are visiting Shkoder, be sure to read my complete guide to all the wonderful things to do in Shkoder . And if you are planning a visit to Theth and hiking the Albanian Alps I have you covered too !

Are you dreaming of visiting the Shala River and Komani Lake? In this post, you will find all the information you need!

5 Must Do Things to do Tirana

If you are only visiting Tirana for a day or two, here is the list of the most important and iconic things to do in Tirana you should not skip.

Take a Tirana Free Walking Tour

The best way to see all the most important landmarks of Tirana and learn about the city’s interesting history but also get some local insights is by taking the Tirana Free Walking Tour. 

The Tirana walking Tour is especially great as there is just so much to learn about the country and the city! It starts every day at 10 am and 2 pm from Skanderbeg Square.

Visit Skanderbeg Square and explore its landmarks

Skanderbeg Square is Tirana’s most iconic landmark and the image most often associated with Albania’s capital.

This large and vibrant centre square of Tirana is definitely the beating heart of the city. Here you will find some great sights such as the monument of Skanderbeg on the Horse monument, the Clock Tower, the Et’hem Bej Mosque and the magnificent Opera House. You can visit the mosque outside of the prayer times and climb the clock tower for great views over the city. It is slightly obstructed by the surrounding constructions these days, but this might change by the time you visit.

It’s a great place to hang out and people-watch, and you’ll often come across an event, street performers and other random happenings. There is even a small playground for children.

I loved coming to Skanderbeg Square just before sunset. It becomes even more colourful in the light of the setting sun. Skanderbeg Square is a must-visit place in Tirana!

Oh, and be sure to take a photo in front of the I Love Tirana sign!

Visit One of Bunk’Art Museums

Bunk’Art1 and 2 are museums housed in famous converted Cold War bunkers that tell the story of Albania from the German occupation to the communist regime of Enver Hoxha.

Bunk’Art1 was built first, but is located just outside the city. Bunk’Art2 is located right in the city centre, just a 5-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square. So if you don’t have much time, you should visit thit one!

For those unfamiliar with the tragic history of Albania and the regime of Enver Hoxha, this is a must-do in Tirana. I wouldn’t call it an attraction because the history is pretty grim, but to really understand the country and its people, it’s almost mandatory.

If you prefer to see the original Bunk’Art1, you can combine it with a ride on the Dajti Cable Car as both are only 10 minutes apart.

Explore Blokku District

Blloku is one of the most vibrant and dynamic neighbourhoods in Tirana, full of great bars, restaurants, funky cafés and important Tirana landmarks.

It also has a fascinating history. During the communist era under Enver Hoxha, Blloku was a restricted area where only high-ranking party officials and their families were allowed to live . Enver Hoxha’s former residence is also located here!

Ordinary citizens were denied access to this neighbourhood. Since then, it has changed a lot and is now one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Tirana.

In Blokku you will find some of Tirana’s best restaurants, great bars and cool café. Visit N’dashni or the iconic Radio Bar for a cocktail in the evening and don’t miss Salt Restaurant, a very popular and excellent restaurant  Piceri Era and my favourite The Rooms Restaurant . For vegan and vegetarian options head over to Gjelber !

But there is more to Blloku than just its restaurant and bar scene.

You’ll also discover great street art in this neighbourhood and you should definitely stop by the Enver Hoxha Villa.

Funnily enough, when the first KFC was built in Tirana, it was placed in front of Enver Hoxha’s residence, and the KFC face smiled directly into its gate. It represents the opposite of the control regime that once banned independent business and despiteed everything Western.

Climb the The New Pyramid of Tirana

The Pyramid of Tirana has long been a relic of the communist era and a real curiosity of the city.

It has a complex history though. Originally built as a museum in honour of Enver Hoxha, it has witnessed various uses over the years. From a conference centre to a NATO base during the Kosovan War, and finally becoming somewhat of a ruin, the Pyramid has seen it all.

For a while, there were proposals to demolish the 17,000 square metre complex and repurpose the land. Some advocated demolition, while others, like historian Ardian Klosi, collected thousands of signatures against it. A 2013 survey found that most of Tirana’s citizens were against the demolition.

You’ve probably seen some older blog posts, articles and photos showing the sheer state of the building.

In 2017, it was finally decided not to demolish the Pyramid but to convert the building into an IT centre for youth known as TUMO Tirana. This centre will focus on computer programming, robotics and start-ups.

On my visit to Tirana, I was lucky enough to see the new face of the Piramide and it was a pretty cool sight. Although I didn’t go inside, I climbed the illuminated stairs (best done in the evening) and admired the great view of Tirana.

The pyramid will house cafés, studios, workshops and classrooms where Albanian youth can learn technical subjects for free.

Ultimately, the Tirana Pyramid will symbolise Tirana’s aspiration to become a high-tech centre in the Balkans, transforming itself from a reminder of a brutal regime into a symbol of progress and innovation. That’s a pretty awesome transformation I say!

Where to Stay in Tirana

Tirana, as well as the whole of Albania, has several excellent hostels catering for budget travellers with the most popular being Trip’n Hostel , Red Goat and Tirana Backapackers .

Midrange/Affordable private rooms:

There is plenty of affordable accommodation in Tirana from budget guesthouses to hotel rooms. Check out the super affordable Sonce guesthouse or Friends Terrace . Or you can rent a one-bedroom apartment like this one .

Comfortable:

Moncafe Boutique Hotel Spa offers beautiful rooms, a spa, a fitness centre and a garden. Ambassador Skyline Apartments would be a great choice if you are looking for sleek and modern accommodation in Tirana.

Remaining Awesome Things to do Tirana

Take a dajti cable car.

The Dajti Express is one of the most famous attractions in Tirana and one of the best things to do in Tirana if you have half a day.

With a lenth of 4,670 metres and a journey time of 15 minutes, it is one of the longest cable car rides in Europe.

Take the Dajti Express cable car up Mount Dajti and enjoy a breathtaking view of Tirana and the surrounding area. You can hike, play mini golf, dine in a revolving restaurant or just enjoy the natural beauty of the mountain.

The cable car station is located a 15-minute bus ride from the centre of Tirana. You can catch the bus near the new bazaar. It is a blue bus and the ticket costs only 30Lek.

Dajti Express runs between 9 am and 7 pm and it closes on Tuesdays. The return Dajti Express ticket costs €14 which I found pretty steep so I skipped this activity. But if the price is right for you, go for it! It’s a great thing to do in Tirana!

Visit a Museum in Tirana (or more then one!)

There are some pretty great museums in Tirana and I recommend you visit at least one of them. And that’s excluding the BunkArt, which is a Tirana attraction in its own right.

Here are some of the most interesting museums in Tirana I recommend:

National Historical Museum – Located on Skanderberg Square, the building of this museum is impossible to miss. With its imposing structure and a fresco reminiscent of communist propaganda, it’s interesting to look at from the outside.  With its imposing structure and a fresco reminiscing communist propaganda, it is interesting to look at from the outside. Inside, however, you’ll find a collection that offers a comprehensive overview of the country’s history from ancient Illyria to the post-communist era, with each room and object labelled in English and arranged in chronological order.

The House of Leaves – Housed in the former Sigurimi building (Albania’s secret police), the museum offers insights into surveillance and espionage activities during the communist regime and is considered one of the most fascinating museums in Tirana.

Featuring spy equipment, real embassy and home camera footage, even from unexpected places like kitchens, along with recorded conversations and testimonies from those who lived through communism, this museum is a must-see attraction in Tirana.

Tirana National Archaeological Museum – Founded in 1948 and is one of the oldest museums in Albania. It was established to preserve and showcase the rich archaeological heritage of the country and its collections span thousands of years of Albanian history, from ancient Illyrian and Roman times to the Middle Ages. 

Head to Toptani for shopping and to discover more of Tirana

I really like this part of Tirana. Tirana seems to have so many faces that when I first found myself here I was truly surprised. It’s a bright and colourful part of Tirana boasting wonderful pedestrian-only parts, a shopping mall and a nearby Tirana Castle.

Around here you will come across the stunning building of the Namazgah Mosque, pedestrian Murat Toptani Steet and Friendship Monument. Dont miss this part of Tirana!

I also found a few cool vintage and second-hand shops here too!

Tirana Castle

No its not what you expect. 

The original Tirana Castle ( Fortress of Justinian) Dating back to the 14th century is a Byzantine-period fortress, which served as a crossroads of the main streets in the heart of Tirana.

Today, all that remains of it is a 6-metre high wall covered with vines from the Ottoman period. It was rebuilt and the remains of the castle were incorporated into the modern version of the traditional bazaar and pedestrian Murat Toptani Street.

Here you can find stores with handicrafts and restaurants with traditional cuisine. Although it can be a very atmospheric place to visit, I was very much underwhelmed by this place and although it is nice to walk around, I would not put it on the list of top things to do in Tirana

Ponder over Namazgah Mosque (with a crazy modern building right behind it!)

Namazgjah Mosque is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable landmarks in Tirana. It was finally completed in 2023 and now holds space for 4500 worshippers and is the largest mosque in Albania. It is truly magnificent to look at and in the regular Tirana fashion, you will notice a modern building right behind it.

Pazar Ir Ri

This is another of my favourite parts of Tirana and an area that I ventured to more than once.

Pazar Ir Ri means a new bazaar but it doesn’t come across as a modern one and the whole area has a great local feel. I loved out around there, checking out the fruit and species, enjoying very affordable restaurants and the colours of Tirana.

At Pazar Ir Ri you will also find the most iconic Tirana restaurant – Oda Garden. It did not disappoint, I will tell you that!

Take a rest at Parku Rinia - so called Taiwan Park

Parku Rinia is a small park in the heart of Tirana, only a 5-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square.

You will undoubtedly pass this park on your way to the square or BunkArt2 museum but spend some time there as it’s a great spot for people watching. The fountain illuminates in different colours in the evening, there is a nice cafe/bar with a terrace and even a casino if you are inclined.

Chill at the Grand Park of Tirana and the Lake

If you are looking to spend some time surrounded by greenery and just have a chilled day in the city, one of the best things to do in Tirana is to head over to the Grand Park of Tirana. I was truly surprised as I arrived at the park by its vastness and beauty!

There are endless paths and walks, and the artificial lake is pretty beautiful too, and closer the the ‘bridge’ you will find some cafes, restaurants and food stalls. 

If you are travelling with kids you will find few playgrounds and endless picnic spots by the lake.

It’s also an awesome spot for a run (there is even a running track) or you use the outdoor exercise park too. In the summer there is even an Open Air Cinema

Go Vintage and second-hand shopping

Vintage and second-hand shopping in Albania is just awesome! I bought more pieces of clothing that I should for as little as 100 or 200 Lek. Tirana is no different!

For the super cheap second-hand pieces (you will have to sift through it though) head to Bajram Curri Blvd where you will find sellers set up on the street but also a few second-hand shops where you will find some cool gems too!

Around Toptani you will find a few vintage shops as well. The one I really liked is located somewhere around here.

The best vintage shops in Tirana include awesome Hey Jude Vintage , The Vintage God and Vintage&More .

Spot Tirana's Street Art

Tirana is indeed a very colourful city and to top it up you will find some excellent murals and street art randomly spread around the town.

Who knows, maybe strolling the city’s streets and spotting all those great murals is in fact one of the best things to do in Tirana!

And Tirana's Crazy Architecture and Colours

On my first day in Tirana, I was just walking around with my eyes wide open and a smile on my face. I just loved this concoction of random buildings, not matching anything yet somehow fitting in. There is a pretty good amount of brutalist architecture in Tirana if this is what you are interested in. 

Take a Day Trip from Tirana

If you are staying in Tirana for a little longer or perhaps you are a digital nomad basing yourself in the city, you should definitely take a day trip or two from Tirana.

The best day trip from Tirana is one to Kruja. Located only 20 minutes away from Tirana, Kruja is an ancient town and was home to the national hero Skanderbeg. It features a beautiful castle and citadelle, ottoman Ottoman-style bazaar and excellent restaurants serving traditional Albanian dishes.

Another one on the list of the best things to do in Tirana is a trip to Bovilla Lake. Bovilla Lake is one of the most impressive hidden gems of Albania. Unless you drive the best way to visit the lake is by taking an organised hiking trip to Bovilla Lake like this one. 

If you fancy a beach that you can enjoy on a day trip from Tirana then head to Durres. A part of me regrets skipping Durres. I was told it is a very touristy town filled with resorts for vacationers and it really put me off. Yet, then I read that it is in fact the oldest city in Albania and has a lot of history and culture to offer apart from its not the most glorious beaches. Visit Durres and let me know what you think!

Considering renting a car in Albania? If you are travelling in high season, book early. Prices increase the later you book a car. Of course, you can also rent a car at the airport. There are several car rental agencies outside the arrival terminal. You can also negotiate the price.

You can also search for the best prices and pre-book online on Expedia or Discover Cars website. 

Have a coffee, a cocktail or a meal in Tirana's most Iconic cafes

One of the best things to do in Tirana is enjoy its vibrant cafe and bar scene. Some are great to visit just for the interior and atmosphere but you can of course enjoy excellent coffee. Many cafes will turn into cocktail bars in the evening and often serve delicious food too. The full package.

Some of the most iconic cafes and bars in Tirana include the Radio Bar (excellent cocktails), Komiteti Cafe Muzeum (my favourite!) or Small (very cute and serves the best coffee in Tirana!).

City Art is a great spot if you need to get some work done. Nouvelle Vague is definitely worth checking out too and so is  Coko Bar & Bistro if you are hungry!

Finally, if you are looking for a cafe in Tirana where you can work for a very long time without being kicked out, head to Mon Chery in this location. It has a whole table dedicated to work (like many other Mon Cheri’s around Albania) and many other spots around the cafe floor. I noticed that probably around 80% of the people in there were on their laptops. 

Venture to Tirana's Less Touristy Parts

One of my favourite things to do in Tirana was getting lost around the city and discovering places where not many tourists venture. I really liked the neighbourhood of Brylli , surprisingly vibrant yet very local. 

Liqeni i Thate is located not far from Tirana Park and is also a great neighbourhood to discover. It is also worth getting lost around Komuna e Parisitan d and once there have a traditional meal at the excellent Lakrone ‘Ane restaurant.

I hope you found this guide to the best things to do in Tirana helpful and I really hope you will enjoy Tirana as much as I did. Give it more than just a couple of days and let it surprise you!

Please let me know in the comments what are your thoughts and ask questions if you think I missed something.

Until then,

Happy travels!

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you purchase the product or make a booking via one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Please know that I will never recommend or promote a product I don’t believe in or haven’t used. This way, you are supporting this blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Exploring more of Albania?

Heading to the beach? Great idea! Here is the list of all the most beautiful beaches near Himare ! Wondering if Vlore is worth visiting? In this post, you will find my honest opinion about Vlore.

There are two towns you just need to add to your Albania itinerary – both Berat and Gjirocaster are wonderful UNESCO sites equally worth visiting!

Finally, if you are wondering where to stay, here is the list of the most iconic hostels in Albania!

2 thoughts on “Things to do in Tirana – A Complete Guide to the Most Underrated City in Europe”

I love your Tirana article thank you. We are going for New Years Eve for 7 days and I will explore on foot. I love new places, brutalist buildings and small cafes do i cant wait.

You will love Tirana! So many great cafes and so much to discover! I am happy you found my article useful 🙂 Have an amazing time and Happy New Year!

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Hi, I’m Pati. A traveller, photographer (aspiring), dreamer and hopeless believer in magic. I caught the travel bug in my forties – and not planning to look back any time soon. I travel solo and on a budget and I try to spend as much time and effort as possible to truly immerse myself in the country I am visiting.

Whether you are like me and decided to change your life around a new dream or just wandering (because not all who wander are lost) – I am here to tell you that everything is possible. 

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Best things to do in Tirana

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updated 13.12.2022

Albania ’s capital used to regularly top lists for Europe's worst city. Decades of Stalinist rule left Tirana grey and grim, lacking in both infrastructure and services. Today Tirana is – while still often chaotic – a very pleasant little city, and the cultural, entertainment and political centre of Albania. Here's our pick of the best things to do in Tirana, Albania.

1. Feel the Albanian hospitality

2. see the local colour, 3. enjoy the café and food culture, 4. take a history lesson in skanderbeg square, 5. visit a not-so-ancient pyramid, 6. observe albania’s elite at play, 7. immerse yourself in the nightlife, 8. relax in parku i madh (grand park), 9. visit mount dajti national park, 10. take a day-trip to the seaside, 11. enjoy the view of the et’hem bey mosque, 12. climb to the top of the clock tower, 13. walk through bunk’art, 14. pay tribute to history in the house of leaves museum, 15. get some fresh produce in new bazaar (pazari i ri), 16. taking a walking tour - one of the best things to do in tirana.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget , your essential guide for visiting Europe.

Being invited for a coffee or a rakija (a plum brandy) is a local custom and you’ll find Albanians friendly towards foreign visitors. Having been isolated from the rest of the world for the latter half of the twentieth century, many are curious about the influx of travellers.

Albania is not the most obvious destination for travel. Find out things you didn't know you could do in Albania and make sure this country is a must-visit.

As it’s a small city, you can easily cover Tirana's central area in a day. But as well as a leisurely exploration of the handful of museums, monuments, historic buildings and parks, make some time to marvel at the city's concrete housing estates. Yes, really. Painted in rainbow colours, they add brightness to what was once a rather monochrome cityscape.

Apart from visiting Tirana, discover some of the best travel experiences in Albania .

Brightly painted apartment buildings in Tirana © Ligak/Shutterstock

Albania might not be famed for its cuisine, but that’s no reason not to make food a focus. Look out for the excellent coffee and beer (Islam is the predominant religion but it is practised in a very tolerant way), as well as decent pastries and good gelato.

Cafés are the perfect place for people-watching — set to a soundtrack of Albanian and Euro pop. If you want to make sure that you get a chance to try all the tasty traditional food that Tirana has to offer, make sure to book one of the food tours , so you don't miss a thing.

Visiting Skanderbeg Square , named after the national hero who briefly ensured Albania was independent of the Ottoman Empire in the fifteenth century, is undoubtedly one of the things to do in Tirana.

There is a large bronze statue of Skanderbeg on horseback (imagine Alexander The Great meets Thor) in the middle of the square, and the Et'hem Bey Mosque, one of the nation's most treasured buildings that dates back to the late eighteenth century, sits in the southeast corner. Also situated here are the nation's major museums, including The National Historic Museum adorned with a huge socialist mural of victorious partisans.

The National Museum in Skanderbeg Square © RossHelen/Shutterstock

It's no secret that a trip to Albania won't cost you a fortune. Read our guide and find out what other places in Europe you can travel to on a budget

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You’ll find Tirana’s concrete pyramid, Piramida, a short walk from Skanderbeg Square. Built in 1987 by the daughter of Albania’s dictator Enver Hoxha (who tyrannically ruled Albania from 1944–85) as a museum to her father, it now sits derelict, stripped of the tiles that once covered it and splattered with graffiti. There is talk of demolishing it, but some argue that it should be kept intact as an apt monument to Stalinism's ugly spirit.

The controversial concrete pyramid in Tirana © Jody/Shutterstock

Blloku, The Block, is where Enver Hoxha lived and was once off limits to all but the Communist party’s inner circle. Now it's the epicentre for Tirana’s beautiful people. Today you’ll find expensive hotels, designer cafés, restaurants and shops. Take in the contemporary glitz from Sky Club, a rotating bar high in the air offering 360-degree views across the city.

Tirana’s nightlife scene moves up a notch each year and the city’s clubs, largely situated around Blloku, vary greatly in theme and atmosphere. They are best visited with a local who knows which ones to attend (and which to avoid). Be mindful, however, that Albania is still a traditional society.

Tirana's waterfront © Edvin Rushitaj/Shutterstock

This large, wooded park is where many of Tirana's citizens head for a bit of time out, whether it’s fishing in the artificial lake, picnicking on the lawns or kicking-back in one of the many café-bars. Considering how oppressive Tirana's traffic can get, this park allows the city's Mediterranean ambience to shine.

Walking through the Parku i Madh among refreshing things to do in Tirana © By Alla Simacheva/Shutterstock

If you are wondering what to do in Tirana away from the city centre, head to Mount Dajti National Park, popular with Tirana's residents for fresh air and countryside walks. You can either take an Austrian-built cable car (expensive) or the city bus (cheap) and once there you’ll find hotels, guest-houses and restaurants if you feel like staying overnight.

Among best things to do in Tirana outside the city is visiting the historic city of Durrësi on the Adriatic Sea. These days it’s largely Kosovar tourists who make use of the plentiful cheap hotels and restaurants along the seafront. Things are rough and ready, but Durrësi is lively, inexpensive and easily accessible.

Picturesque drone view of seaside cityscape of Durresi in Albania on Adriatic coast © AdobeStock

The Et'hem Bey Mosque is one of the few mosques to have escaped destruction by the Communists, which had resulted in any kind of religious institution being either closed, demolished or converted into warehouses or schools by the end of 1967.

Despite resistance from the communist authorities, around 10,000 people entered the mosque on 18 January 1991. This event was one of the important milestones in the revival of religious freedom and the fall of communism in the country.

Today, visitors can enjoy the mosque's beautiful architecture and its delicate decorations of wall and ceiling paintings in the oriental traditions. The mosque's frescoes depict trees, waterfalls and bridges, and still lifes, which are rare in the Islamic arts.

The clock tower is a symbol of the municipality of Tirana and, in an ensemble with the Et'hem Bey Mosque, is a unique architectural landmark.

The Clock tower was built by the same man who built the Et'hem Bey Mosque. It is a cultural monument that shows the time in Tirana since 1822. You have a great chance to see the main square of Tirana and beyond it by climbing the steps and reaching the top of the tower.

Skanderbeg square with flag, Skanderbeg monument, The Et'hem Bey Mosque and Clock Tower in the center of Tirana city, Albania © AdobeStock

Bunk’Art is a massive bunker built by the communist dictator is now a museum. It was built on the orders of Enver Halil Hoxha, the dictator who ruled Albania for some 50 years, as a hideout in the event of war.

Today the bunker is open to visitors and is a monument to Albania's communist past. A walk through the bunker's dark, spooky corridors is one of the best things you can do in Tirana.

Bunk'art 2 in the Center of Tirana, Albania © AdobeStock

One of the most unusual museums in Albania, the House of Leaves is the look-alike equivalent of the Stasi headquarters in the former East Germany. Visiting this landmark should be on your list of things to do in Tirana.

Once inside the headquarters of the infamous National Intelligence Service, also known as the House of Spies, there's a good chance you'll be speechless. Inside the House of Leaves you will learn the monstrous side of the dictatorial regime in Albania and the stories of the persecuted people who were not afraid to speak out against the regime.

New bazaar is one of the most historic and oldest neighbourhoods in the Albanian capital, which takes its name from the food market that is located in the area.

Here you'll find a huge variety of fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, seafood and spices, and the farmers of the New Bazaar will not only help you find the best products but also tell you about the history of this bustling market.

One of the best things about Tiara is its compactness, which makes it a great place to walk around. However, although it's not the biggest city, there are plenty of places to walk around:

• Skanderbeg Square
• National History Museum
• Skanderbeg Monument
• Et'hem Bey Mosque
• Clock Tower of Tirana
• Murat Toptani Road
• Tirana Castle

You can also book a guided walking tour around Tirana and make sure you don't miss anything.

The Palace of Culture, Skanderbeg Square in Tirana © AdobeStock

Where to stay in Tirana:

• Best for backpackers: Tirana Backpacker Hostel . Featuring a bar, shared lounge, garden and free WiFi, Tirana Backpacker Hostel is located in Tirana, 1 km from Skanderbeg Square and 6.4 km from Dajti Ekspres Cable Car. Boasting a sun terrace, this property is set a short distance from Clock Tower Tirana, Et'hem Bey Mosque and National Museum of History Albania.
• Best for atmosphere: Trip'n'Hostel is set in the old part of Tirana, 500 m from the central square. It features a spacious yard with a barbecue, a bar and a rooftop terrace that overlooks the town. A shared living room with a fireplace and free Wi-Fi is available.
• Best for comfort stay: Green House Hotel & Restaurant is set in Tirana, only a 15-minute walk from the centre and Skanderbeg Square. Featuring free Wi-Fi, free parking and air-conditioned rooms, it offers a bar and a restaurant serving Albanian and international dishes.
• Best for central location: Freddy's Hotel . Centrally located in Tirana, Freddy's Hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and satellite TV. Various shopping streets and bars can be found within walking distance from the property.

Find more accommodation options in Tirana

Albania is ideal for backpacking trips, in our guide we have compiled information about travelling with a backpack in Eastern Europe that is best learned before you hit the road.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the Albania without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Visiting Albania is a truly unforgettable experience. For more inspirational travel tips check our Rough Guide books .

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Header photo: Tirana, Albania © RussieseO/Shutterstock

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12 Best Things to Do in Tirana, Albania for a Memorable Trip

Last updated on April 10, 2024

We were initially going to visit Albania back in 2021, before we’d decided to head to Bosnia instead. After that trip sparked my love for the Balkans, I just knew we had to explore more of the region soon. When we started putting together our 3-week Balkan trip itinerary last year, Tirana was a no-brainer. I’d say 3 days were more than enough to see most of the highlights, especially now that many of them were under construction.

Here’s how to make the most of your time in the Albanian capital, including the top things to do in Tirana, best restaurants to visit, and the most brilliant hotel with a whole lotta pink to make all Instagrammers wink 😉 Let’s go!

AD – This post contains affiliate links (marked with *) | Read my full disclaimer

How to get from Ohrid to Tirana

If you’re going to be travelling to Tirana from Ohrid, I’d like to touch upon our experience as a word of warning. We read online that it was possible to arrange a private transfer, but when we turned up at the specified address, the travel office was no longer there. So, at the end of August 2022, our only option was to get a morning bus, which cost 1,200 MKD (around £17.20 / €19.50) per person and took around 3 hours. If you’re travelling outside of the summer months, be aware that it might be even more challenging to find a transportation option that isn’t a taxi.

Travelling from Ohrid to Tirana by bus

The route was operated by a bus company called EuroBus. When we got to the station, we had to deal with the rudest bus driver we’ve ever encountered. He told everyone we couldn’t board the bus until we left all rucksacks in the luggage compartment. Naturally, people started protesting. Some (like Mac) had their camera equipment there, others had their meds and documents, and we didn’t feel safe leaving it all down there.

What made matters worse was that the driver let some people with rucksacks in. He let me board the bus with my tote bag too. When people started politely asking the driver for an explanation as to why they had to leave their belongings in the luggage compartment, he suddenly got all riled up and started hurling abuse at them. He must have had some personal vendetta against German tourists, as a lot of the swear words he used were in German, regardless of people’s nationalities. He even went so far as to call Mac a pig for no apparent reason.

Now, as much as I love travelling to Balkan countries, the one thing I don’t like is that customer service is often poor or nonexistent there. A lot of people found this behaviour appalling, so we wrote official complaints to EuroBus. I personally didn’t even get a generic email like “thank you for contacting us, we’ll look into the matter”. Nothing. Complete radio silence. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t expect this outcome, but it was still disappointing. I realise it was probably just one rude driver, but if I had a choice, I’d probably go with a different company anyway because of how they approached (or rather failed to approach) the problem.

Where to stay in Tirana

Now, on to more pleasant things… The moment Mac spotted the Rosa Blu hotel * on Booking.com, we knew that it was – to quote All Time Low – so wrong it’s right 😉 The amount of kitsch was on a whole another level and we just had to see it with our own eyes. At the same time, the hotel was within walking distance from the main square and really reasonably priced – 3 nights including breakfast only cost us €149.

There were so many photos of different rooms online, each tacky in its own unique way, and we didn’t know which one we were gonna get until the last moment. When we checked in, the receptionist gave us 2 keys and told us to check out both rooms and pick the one we wanted. The first one looked rather shoddy, with cigarette burns on the table, but when we opened the door to the second one, it felt like we hit the jackpot.

With pink fluffy carpet to match the bright pink walls, leather and gold dripping from every corner, it was absolute perfection. And the best part? We had our own blooming jacuzzi in our room! All jokes aside, getting a 60-square-metre room overlooking Tirana for that price was a total steal. You also get free 2-hour access to the gym and swimming pool area, complete with lion and crocodile statues, although it was a bit much for us 😉 The breakfast was average at best, but you can always stop by for some brunch later – stay tuned for recommendations…

Best things to do in Tirana

1. walk around skanderbeg square.

If you read my Pristina guide , you might remember that Skanderbeg was a 15th-century military leader who’s celebrated as a national hero in Albania for his successful rebellion against and defeat of the Ottoman Turks. That’s why you can find Skanderbeg statues in the three Balkan capitals of Pristina, Skopje, and Tirana.

As Tirana’s main plaza, Skanderbeg Square is where you can find many of the city’s most popular buildings, including the National Opera, the Ethem Bey Mosque, the Clock Tower, and the National History Museum. We wanted to check out the latter, but its famous mural mosaic above the entrance showing different figures from Albania’s history was under renovation.

As a matter of fact, you can see that the entire area is changing very rapidly. When I did my research, the square I’d seen in the photos looked nothing like what I saw in person. There were plenty of new buildings around the square, as well as several other skyscrapers under construction.

When we were there, they were also setting up for a free Rita Ora concert taking place the day after we were leaving. If we’d known before, we would have considered altering our travel plans. Oh well, maybe next time…

2. See Enver Hoxha’s former residence

One thing you should know about Albania is that from the 1940s until his death in 1985, Enver Hoxha ruled the country with an iron fist, creating a one-party state that was among the most repressive in the world. Under his leadership, Albania became increasingly isolated from the rest of the world, with strict restrictions on travel and communication with other countries.

The government kept a surveillance file on virtually every citizen and controlled all aspects of life, from the economy to education and the media. Any dissent was met with harsh punishment, including imprisonment, torture, and even execution. You could even get in trouble for saying you didn’t like the potatoes you had for dinner, as that was seen as equal to criticising what the Albanian soil provided for you.

Today, the country continues to grapple with the trauma and scars of this dark period in its history as it works to build a more open and democratic society. To get a sense of the disparities that existed in Albania, you can see Enver Hoxha’s former residence in the Blloku district – currently only from the outside. However, there are rumours that it may one day reopen as a museum.

For decades, the Blloku district used to be closed off to ordinary citizens and served as a heavily guarded centre of power for Hoxha’s regime. Recently, it has been transformed into a bustling neighbourhood where you can find some of the trendiest restaurants and cafés in Tirana.

Right across the street, you can also visit the country’s first KFC branch. The location doesn’t seem completely random, as it’s exactly the kind of thing Hoxha would’ve hated. We hardly ever eat at popular fast food branches, but this time we just couldn’t resist a little snack 😉

3. Dive deep into Albania’s history at Bunk’Art 2

One of the most striking symbols of Enver Hoxha’s regime is more than 750,000 concrete bunkers that were reportedly built throughout the country, although the government claims that number is 4 times lower. They were meant as a defence against potential invaders, but they also served as a reminder of the constant fear and paranoia that permeated Albanian society during that period.

You can now explore two of the most famous bunkers during your time in Tirana. If you have more time, I’d highly recommend visiting both to get a fuller picture of Albania’s past. But, if you can’t, Bunk’Art 2 is definitely more accessible, as it’s located right in the city centre, within walking distance from Skanderbeg Square. The entrance costs 500 LEK (around £3.90 / €4.40) and you should allocate a minimum of 2 hours to explore it in detail.

As the former top-secret nuclear bunker for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Bunk’Art 2 focuses on telling the story of how the state persecuted the regime’s opponents. Through a number of multimedia installations and personal testimonies, you can learn about the brutal surveillance methods used by the secret police force to maintain control over the Albanian citizens.

One thing to bear in mind, though, is that you go REALLY deep down. We went on a hot summer’s day and it was extremely humid and packed with tourists, so we didn’t explore as long as we wanted to. After a little over an hour, we had to return to the surface for some fresh air. If you’re sensitive to these things, it’s worth dressing light and bringing some water with you.

4. Visit a former nuclear bunker – Bunk’Art 1

Bunk’Art 1 is located on the outskirts of Tirana, close to the entrance to the Mount Dajti cable car. The entrance costs 500 LEK too, but you can save some money if you buy a combined ticket in advance.

The bunker was constructed in the 1970s as a refuge for the country’s political elite in case of a nuclear attack. Enver Hoxha suffered from paranoia and strongly believed that a nuclear war was imminent. The massive, concrete structure was built to withstand an atomic bomb and was equipped with everything the leaders would need to survive underground for months.

If you thought Bunk’Art 2 was an impressive feat of engineering, wait until you see this one with tunnels and chambers that stretch for over 2,600 square meters across 5 levels. The inspiration for it came from none other than the country of North Korea, which can give you an idea of what it feels like.

Due to its location, it’s understandably less popular with tourists. So, if you don’t like to beat the crowds, it might be a more suitable place for you. You need to prepare yourself to ward off mosquitoes, though – in my almost 3 decades on this planet, I’ve never been attacked as badly as I was there. It’s also way colder than the other bunker, so it’s better to layer up, even during the summer months.

As compared to Bunk’Art 2, Bunk’Art 1 offers a more conceptual experience. The rooms have been meticulously restored to show their original intended use. In one of them, you can even pretend to speak to Enver Hoxha on the phone. There’s also another one that allows you to simulate a chemical attack, but it wasn’t working when we visited.

5. Learn about the country’s dark past at the House of Leaves

If you’d like to learn more about the country’s surveillance apparatus, the House of Leaves is a great place to visit. Originally built as a medical clinic, it was then turned into the Gestapo headquarters, only to later become the headquarters of the Sigurimi, the Albanian secret police. Aside from being their listening post, the House of Leaves was also where they interrogated and tortured countless Albanians who were suspected of being enemies of the state.

For decades, the building was shrouded in secrecy, with no one allowed inside except for the secret police and their prisoners. It was in operation until 1991, and reopened as a museum back in 2017 with the aim of shedding light on Albania’s dark past. Entrance costs 700 LEK, which is around £5.30 or €6.10.

The museum houses a collection of artefacts and documents that reveal the horrors that took place inside its walls. What I personally found most fascinating was learning how the Sigurimi used various devices to spy on the locals.

There were also some rooms where you could try your hand at finding the hidden bugs. We failed miserably, which was very telling in how easily they could manipulate you!

6. Admire Reja – The Cloud sculpture

If you like modernist art, you might want to check out the Cloud sculpture designed by a Japanese artist, Sou Fujimoto. You can even go inside and admire it from different angles. In the summer, it turns into an open-air cinema and hosts various workshops in front of the National Gallery of Arts.

If you’re in the area, you can also check out the famous pyramid of Tirana, but it’s currently undergoing renovation.

7. Take the Dajti Ekspres to see Tirana from above

If you want to see the city from above, you can take the cable car up to Mount Dajti. To get there, you can take a Porcelan bus from a stop near the Skanderbeg Square. There are also several other options, depending on your location and budget. We personally followed the instructions from the official website . They even have a short video guide to show you how to get there step by step!

If you read my Pristina guide , you’ll already know how to navigate public buses in Tirana too. Once you board the bus, you just have to wait for the person selling tickets to approach you. Single tickets are only 40 LEK (~ £0.30 or €0.35) . We told the man where we wanted to go, and he kindly made sure we got off at the right stop. You can also combine your visit with Bunk’Art 1, as they’re within walking distance from each other.

A round trip costs 1,200 LEK (~ £9.20 or €10.50) , or you can use the cable car for free if you’re a guest of the Dajti Tower Hotel. After our Sarajevo trip , we had high hopes for this place. As the panoramic bar in downtown Tirana was closed for renovation, we were particularly excited to check out the rotating bar on the 7th floor of the hotel. But, once we got there, we found out it was – yep, you may have guessed it – currently unavailable.

Other than that, if you’re not a hiking enthusiast, there’s not that much to do. You can either grab something to eat, but the restaurant was full when we came, play mini golf, or visit an adventure park. It’s worth coming for the views alone, though – and we also came across this utterly adorable heart:

8. Have brunch at Çoko

The first place we checked out once we arrived in Tirana was Çoko. Unfortunately, we were a little late for their breakfast menu, which I was particularly excited for. On weekdays, they serve it until 12:30 pm, while on weekends they extend brunch until 3 pm.

As their main courses are mostly meat or fish fillets, neither of which I’m particularly crazy about, we decided to try out their pasta instead. The one thing I didn’t like was the fact that we didn’t get a physical menu and had to scan a QR code to access it on our phones. I’m not a fan of this solution, as you don’t always have Internet access, especially when travelling between different countries. It also irks me when waiters ask if you’d like some water and then charge you for it, even if it’s just a small amount of money.

Other than that, I have to say the food was really tasty, even if the portions were rather small. I really liked the atmosphere and design of this place, with an entire wall covered in plants and all windows thrown open to give you that semi-outdoor dining experience. Next time, we’ll have to come back for brunch, especially their croque madame (my all-time favourite breakfast item) and Albanian petulla, aka fried dough balls!

9. Have cocktails at the retro-styled Radio Bar

Located in the trendy Blloku neighbourhood, Radio Bar is the perfect place for retro lovers to unwind with a cocktail or two… Although I wish you the best of luck stopping at that after seeing their cocktail menu!

Radio Bar draws inspiration from Albania’s heritage and communist past to deliver a unique nightlife experience. The place is filled with various vintage pieces, including furniture, posters, kitchenware, and – of course – radios.

Aside from the laid-back vibe, what I liked most about this place was the almost overwhelming variety of cocktails. The menu is divided into categories based on the main ingredient ( gin-based, sparkling cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks etc.) . You can find classics such as Negroni, Bellini, or Old fashioned. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can try some more unique options like Monkey’s coffee or Grasshopper.

There’s also an entire section dedicated to traditional Albanian drinks, with quirky names like Balkan Collins or Tirana Mule. You can tell they use high-quality alcohol and fresh seasonal ingredients to make their cocktails. If I lived in Tirana, this would definitely be my go-to spot!

10. Step back in time at Komiteti – Kafe Muzeum

Another place where you can explore Albania’s Communist past is Komiteti. Aside from serving coffee, it’s also a museum housing various relics from the decades past. As a Polish person, I didn’t find it as striking as others, purely because I’m more than familiar with the reality of that era even if I didn’t live through it myself. Still, if you’re a Western tourist, I imagine you’ll find it fascinating to be able to step back in time.

We got to try some traditional Shëndetlie cake made of walnuts and honey with our coffee, but it sadly wasn’t to my liking. Another thing that Komiteti is known for is their wide selection of raki, which is a famous alcoholic drink across the Balkans. If you read my post about the 10 main things you need to know before visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina , you’ll know I’m not really a fan. But, if you drink alcohol, you should definitely try it at least once, and Komiteti is just the place to do that in Tirana.

11. Treat yourself to fine dining at Salt

If you’re looking for a fancy restaurant in Tirana, whether it’s for a romantic dinner, lunch with friends, or solo date, it honestly doesn’t get much better than Salt.

We made a booking for 5 pm, but once we got there, it was actually rather empty. It looked like they had just started setting up for dinner, so perhaps Albanians just prefer late dining.

Before we even got to try the food, the restaurant’s decor already stole my heart. The floor-to-ceiling bar that the mixologists accessed with a rolling ladder was absolutely dreamy. I also appreciate an open kitchen, as it’s a great testament to the quality and freshness of the dishes.

When it comes to the food, we tried the avocado crispy rice for a starter, followed by a Salt burger each for our main. It’s a rarity for me to have a full three-course meal, but I simply couldn’t resist their dessert options. Mac went for a pistachio baklava, while I opted for their Salt lava cake. When the waiter brought out our desserts, he also showed Mac how to properly cut a baklava, which was a really nice touch.

Everything we tried was absolutely scrumptious, and I can safely say Salt is now one of my top 3 restaurants. Some fine dining places can feel rather stiff and uncomfortable, and make you nervous about accidentally doing the wrong thing. I truly appreciate any restaurant that serves top-notch food and knows how to put you at ease with excellent service.

For a three-course meal with drinks, we paid 5,932 LEK (~ £46 or €52) between the two of us, which I’d say wasn’t too bad. Again, if I lived in Tirana, I would definitely be a regular visitor here!

12. Try local Albanian dishes at Oda Restaurant

For our final meal in Tirana, we chose something more traditional. Oda is a restaurant specialising in authentic Albanian dishes, with its name meaning an Ottoman-era guest room. The restaurant can be a little difficult to find at first, as it’s in an inner courtyard, but I promise it’s worth the effort.

One thing you need to know about travelling to Albania is that a lot of places don’t accept cards, so you need to carry cash on you. As this was our last full day in the city, the amount of the money we had left dictated our menu choices, but it was still a great dining experience.

I settled on the meatball soup (Supë me Pasha Qofte) and a piece of lakror, which is a traditional Albanian pie dish with various fillings. I absolutely love anything with spinach, so that’s the filling I chose for my pie. The portion size was really generous, as they ended up giving me 2 big pieces for the price of 1.

Mac skipped the starter and ordered a main course, which was grilled veal with potatoes. I especially liked the soup, and would definitely consider going back for it alone. All that, including 2 beers, only cost us 2,200 LEK (~ £17 or €19.30) . Next time, I’d happily try more menu options – the waiter spoke perfect English, so I’m sure it’d be great to ask for recommendations too.

Which of these things would you like to enjoy first? Would you add anything to this list?

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The 15 Best Things to do in Tirana, Albania

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One of Europe’s best-kept secrets, Tirana is a place that rarely makes travel bucket lists. But when you start looking into all the diverse and captivating attractions Albania ’s capital city has to offer, you’ll be planning your itinerary before you’ve even booked your flight!

Tirana offers a huge range of activities that are guaranteed to charm you, whatever you’re into. From hiking through blissful national parks and exploring history museums that unveil the city’s turbulent past to checking out tempting food markets brimming with local goodies and admiring iconic landmarks that have stood the test of time, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Tirana.

Visit during summer for the chance to enjoy lazy days in parks and be enchanted by open-air music festivals. Or plan your trip for winter and spend your time exploring rustic Christmas markets and magical walks in the snow-covered national park.

With such a fantastic choice of things to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to begin. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Tirana. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Tirana bucket list, and you’ll have an incredible time exploring one of Europe’s hidden gems! 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Tirana, Albania

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Tirana

1. get back to nature at mount dajti national park.

You’ll find some of the very best sights in Tirana inside Mount Dajti National Park. A fantastic place to escape the hustle and bustle of central Tirana, this park can easily be reached from the city by car, on foot, or via cable car.

This dazzling mountain range is a wonderful place to visit at any time of year. In summer, it’s lush and green, with wildflowers blooming all over the place. In winter, it’s covered in a thick layer of snow and looks like something out of a Christmas movie.

Whichever time of year you visit, you can follow the numerous hiking trails to discover the most beautiful parts of the park. Almost all the routes take you deep into the forest and along rocky ridges where you can see for miles. 

There are plenty of fantastic places where you can enjoy a picnic under the shade of tall trees. But if you don’t want the extra work, you can stop by the restaurant at the cable car station instead. Here you’ll find a great range of local dishes that you can enjoy 3,280 feet above sea level!

Book a Dajti Mountain Hiking Trip

2. Gaze At The Modern Orthodox Autocephalous Church

The one-of-a-kind Orthodox Autocephalous Church is one of the most popular Tirana attractions. Set in the center of the city, this church is the exact opposite of what you expect typical churches to look like.

Tirana’s Orthodox Autocephalous Church has a really modern design, despite its long history. It was built in an Orthodox and Byzantine style and features huge curved arches, dazzling gold doors, and navy blue details. Although it was built decades ago, the church looks like something from the future! 

The façade is really interesting, but if you step through the entrance, you’ll find the inside just as fascinating. A wide-open space, the interior of the church is bright and airy, with simple wooden chairs and traditional religious murals contrasting against modern golden accents and sparkling candlestick chandeliers.

The church is free to enter, and visitors are always welcome, even during services. 

3. Go Up The Clock Tower In Skanderbeg Square

Visiting Skanderbeg Square is one of the must-do things in Tirana, and you’ll find the very best views of it from the top of the Clock Tower of Tirana. It was built in 1822 by Etëhem Bey Mollaj, a Bejtexhinj poet who also completed the nearby Et’hem Bey Mosque. At the time, it was the tallest building in Tirana.

The tower stretches 115 feet into the sky, and you can reach the top by climbing the 90 stairs of the spiral staircase. From the viewing platform, you’ve got an amazing view of Skanderbeg Square. You can also see the colorful buildings which surround the square and even the stunning mountain range in the distance.

When it was first built, the Clock Tower of Tirana didn’t actually have a clock face. You had to listen to the number of times the brass bell tolled to find out what time it was. In 1928, the clock face was added, making it much easier to tell the time!

Book a City Highlights Walking Tour

4. Eat Byrek For Every Meal

When you’re feeling hungry, one of the best things to do in Tirana is to eat byrek . A hugely popular Albanian food, byrek is versatile, delicious, and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, or a snack!

Similar to the börek that you get in Turkey, byrek is a type of pie made of layers of really thin filo pastry stuffed with a rich filling. A combination of feta cheese and spinach is the traditional byrek filling, but you’ll also find them stuffed with mushrooms and Greek yogurt, beef ragout, cottage cheese, and onions and tomatoes.

Byrek is so loved that you’ll find it available from street food stalls, grocery stores, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants throughout Tirana. One of our favorite places for this dish is Te Eda . This small bakery is known for its fantastic byrek stuffed with shredded chicken. It’s served warm and is the perfect thing to eat at any time of day.

Book a Byrek Cooking Class

5. Ponder Albania’s Dark Past At Piramida

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Tirana, you’ve got to check out Piramida. This incredibly culturally important building was constructed in 1987 in honor of dictator Enver Hoxha. Although he died some years earlier, his family wanted to commemorate his memory with a major landmark.

After the fall of communism, the family lost control of the building and it was abandoned. Since 1991, discussions have been going on about what to do with it. Some people want it completely torn down, while others want it restored to become an important monument or fun place to hang out.

Until a decision can be made, Piramida remains a hauntingly brutal reminder of a time gone by. Although you can’t go inside the building, you can see it from the outside. The smashed windows and graffiti tell a story of an angry community that’s taking back power.

Book a City Walking Tour

6. Celebrate The New Season At The Spring Festival

Celebrate the end of cold, dark days and the beginning of warm, sunshine-filled days at the Spring Festival. Held between April and May each year around Skanderbeg Square, the festival takes place over 11 days and boasts a jam-packed event program.

Iconic films from around the world are screened outdoors, and live music concerts with local and international artists are held. Musical and theatrical shows for adults and kids are performed, and you can shop for trinkets at quirky bring-and-buy sales.

A great festival for foodies, a number of food trucks visit the event each year, giving you the chance to sample all kinds of local and international street food. Wine tasting and beer tasting are also available.

If you’re on the lookout for something to brighten up your home, check out the art market, which is full of established and up-and-coming talented artists selling their best pieces.

7. Eat Your Way Through Tirana’s New Bazaar

When you need a break from all the Tirana sightseeing, take it easy for a little while and wander around Tirana’s New Bazaar . If you’re staying in self-catering accommodation and want to whip up your own meals, you’ll find some amazing organic produce here!

Even if you’re not planning on cooking anything yourself, the New Bazaar is still definitely worth a visit. Here you’ll find stalls selling artisan handicrafts, the latest tech, freshly-baked goods, local cheeses and other dairy products, jewelry, souvenirs, and loads more. 

Before the New Bazaar was built, this spot used to house an old bazaar back during the Ottoman Empire. In 2017, it was totally revamped and transformed into the bustling market you can see today.

If you’re not interested in any of the food spots inside the bazaar, you’ll find a great selection of cafes, bars, and restaurants surrounding the market.

8. Test Your Taste Buds With Tavë Kosi

Tavë kosi is something you’ve absolutely got to try if you want to embrace Albanian cuisine. This classic dish is made from tender, juicy lamb chunks mixed with white rice and smothered in a rather unusual sauce before being baked in the oven.

The sauce is made from a combination of Greek yogurt, egg, garlic, and oregano. It sounds like a strange combination, but after it’s baked, it has a deliciously creamy, rich, and almost cheese-like taste and consistency. 

When tavë kosi is done just right, the top is crispy and golden brown, the sauce is velvet-smooth, and the lamb is so delicate you don’t need a knife to cut it. It’s pure comfort food!

You’ll find tavë kosi available from practically every local restaurant throughout Tirana. The Rooms Restaurant is where we had some of the very best tavë kosi in the city. This restaurant adds its own secret spices to the sauce and it tastes amazing.

9. Uncover Albania’s Rocky Past At The National Historical Museum

If you want to learn more about Albania’s past, one of the best things to do in Tirana is to visit the National Historical Museum . This is the most important museum in the country and takes you on a journey through the centuries of Albania’s history.

Albania’s National Historical Museum is clearly set out into eight different zones: Antiquity, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Independence, Iconography, National Liberation Anti-Fascism War, Community Terror, and Mother Teresa. 

Most people find the Communist Terror section the most intriguing and captivating. Here you can discover all the videos, images, and documents that cover the horrible persecution the Albanians had to go through during the communist regime. It really opens your eyes to a terrible period of time.

Like most things in Tirana, the museum tickets are super affordable. But if you visit on 04/18, 05/15, 05/21, or 09/29, you can get in for free!

10. Find The Best Views In Tirana From The Dajti Ekspres

You’ll find some of the best things to see in Tirana from the Dajti Ekspres. This is the cable car that connects the city to the top of Mount Dajti.

This cable car route is one of the most beautiful in Europe. It covers 0.6 miles over the glorious Albanian countryside. If you ride in summer, you’ll get to see lush green grass, full leafy trees, and a rainbow of wildflowers. Ride in winter, and you’ll get to look down on a snowy winter wonderland right below you.

It takes around 15 minutes to get from the bottom to the top, making it the Balkans’ longest cable car ride. At the highest point, you’ll reach 3,280 feet above sea level, from which you can enjoy even more spectacular views.

There’s a number of local restaurants where you can dig into Albanian eats as you soak up the gorgeous views at the top.

11. NYou Festival

For one of the coolest things to do in Tirana, plan your trip for the beginning of June. At this time each year, the city celebrates NYou Festival, a lively music event that aims to prove to people the wonderful things they can achieve through music and art.

During the festival, you can discover a whole world of music, some of which you never even knew existed. Here you can watch concerts and find out about everything from regular jazz and alternative jazz to Balkan beats and Afro beats. 

There are live music performances by local bands and artists throughout the day and night, as well as innovative art exhibitions, fascinating lectures, and intriguing workshops.

The NYou Festival does a great job of encouraging local people to get involved and build a better society. For the few days the festival takes place, the city really bursts into life, with music, art, and culture surprising you around every corner.

12. Get Tipsy On Raki

Raki is an unusual drink that looks more like a cool science experiment than a basic cocktail. One of the most fun things to do in Tirana is to order the drink for the first time and watch the show your server puts on for you.

When you order raki, it will be presented to you in a clear liquid in a tall shot glass. Raki is never enjoyed on its own – it’s always mixed with equal parts icy water. As your server pours the water into your raki glass, the transparent liquid will transform into a milky white shade. 

Although raki actually comes from Turkey, it made its way over to Albania and became hugely popular. It contains 40% alcohol (that makes it 80-proof), and it’s best enjoyed as part of a meal, so you’ve got something to soak up the alcohol!

13. Visit The House Of Leaves Museum

One of the top Tirana activities if you want to discover what made Albania what it is today is to spend some time at the House of Leaves Museum . This museum dives into what the country looked like during the communist era and how local people had to live.

There are deposits and exhibits that explain how the state would control the Albanians, including the equipment they used to gain information and the techniques they used to listen to their private conversations.

The House of Leaves Museum got its name because it’s purposely hidden from public view behind a dense layer of leaves and trees. This was a method commonly used during warfare to conceal the activities that the groups occupying the building were up to.

These groups include the Gestapo, who occupied the house during WWII, as well as the Albanian secret service.

Book a Communism History Tour

14. Take A Break At Parki I Madh

Parki I Madh is the place to go when you need a break from all the Tirana sightseeing. Also known as the Grand Park, this green space is one of the most tranquil and beautiful parts of the city. 

The park covers a massive 714 acres and is the perfect place to take a relaxed stroll in the sunshine. As you wander, you’ll come across a giant glistening lake, a number of shaded picnic tables ideally positioned under trees, and several cafes where you can cool off with an icy drink.

You’ll find several of Tirana’s major attractions and landmarks inside Parki I Madh. If you want to see more beautiful landscapes, plants, and walking trails, check out the city’s botanical garden in the northeastern part of the park. Here you can discover more than 1,400 species of plants which represent around one-third of Albania’s flora.

15. Get A History Lesson Inside An Abandoned Bunker

When you’re in the mood for something cultural, one of the top things to do in Tirana is to visit BUNK’ART. This unique attraction is a combined museum and art gallery with two different locations. Our favorite is BUNK’ART1 because it’s hidden away inside an abandoned bunker that was originally constructed under dictator Hoxha’s rule. 

BUNK’ART features loads of exhibits that convey what everyday life was like for dictator Hoxha and his government under the communist regime. You can take a walk around the dictator’s office and hear his voice on a tape, see a movie of his state funeral from 1985, and see the military liaison room. All the rooms have been arranged as if a nuclear attack could happen at any time.

The five underground tunnels that form the gallery-museum really give the place a creepy edge. Thankfully, the colorful contemporary artwork that lines the walls brightens the place up a little!

Book a History Tour with Street Food

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Tirana. What’s your favorite thing to do in Tirana? 

Planning a trip to Albania? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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Pay to enter: Venice becomes the first city to implement a tourist ticket system

Venice became the first city in the world on Thursday to introduce a payment system for visitors in an experiment aimed at dissuading tourists from arriving during peak periods.

However, it isn't the only place in Italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at slowing tourist flows.

Here are some of the initiatives currently in force.

Venice tourist tax

The lagoon city has introduced 5 euros (about $5.35) tickets for day trippers, valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The experiment came into force on April 25, a national holiday in Italy. Tickets will be needed for the following 10 days and thereafter for most weekends until mid-July.

Venice residents, students, workers, and homeowners are exempt from paying or booking a slot. Visitors aged under 14 and tourists with hotel reservations will need to register, but access for them will be free of charge.

Other cities, such as Como, have said they are considering introducing a similar measure but are waiting to see how the Venice initiative works before deciding.

In addition, Venice has said that from June, it will limit the size of tourist groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.

Florence tourist measure

Florence announced in October that it was banning new short-term residential lets on platforms such as Airbnb in its historic center. It also offered three years of tax breaks to landlords of short-term holiday lets who start offering ordinary leases for residents.

The city's famous museum, the Uffizi, offers discounts to people who arrive before 8.55 a.m. and lower prices off-season. To spread out crowds, it also closes at 10 p.m. once a week.

Cinque Terrer overtourism

The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera regularly get swamped with visitors.

To try to reduce the overcrowding at peak periods, the authority which oversees the area said this week it would charge visitors 15 euros (about $16) to walk the most celebrated coastal path. In addition, the path can only be walked in one direction.

Capri tourism measure

The picturesque small island that lies across the bay from the southern city of Naples has doubled its entry fee, which is automatically added to ferry tickets, to 5 euros. The fee will be charged from April 1 to October 1.

Capri, Ischia, Procida, Lampedusa and Linosa changes

These islands have introduced limits, or outright bans, on cars for non-residents during the main tourist season.

County Road 26 to open Monday for local, critical trips

Limited travel for commuters using the lake city cutoff opens after state and county collaboration as bridge closure continues.

Montrose and Gunnison Counties — This weekend, CDOT and Gunnison County are working together to accelerate improvements to County Road 26 (Lake City Cutoff) so it can open Monday for local commuter travel between Montrose and Gunnison.  At the same time, engineers continue to conduct safety inspections of the US Highway 50 bridge crossing the Blue Mesa Reservoir at Dillon Pinnacles. This bridge, located west of Gunnison at Mile Point 136.3, closed Thursday in the interest of public safety after an inspection revealed a crack in one of the girders. The technical structure name for the bridge is K-07-B. 

Recognizing the US 50 closure creates a significant detour for commuters traveling between Montrose and Gunnison, CDOT and Gunnison County officials this weekend prioritized getting a shorter access route in place for local travel between the two communities. That collaboration will continue as officials work to further fortify the road with gravel and manage traffic to a level that the road can safely carry.

“We are starting slow in order to increase the chances we can go faster later. The impact on western Colorado cannot be understated and we are exhausting all opportunities and partnerships to mitigate the impacts of the bridge closure,” said Martin Schmidt, Assistant Gunnison County Manager for Public Works.

On Monday, April 22, pilot cars will lead  passenger vehicles through the access route two times a day in each direction. Because CR 26 is a high-mountain, unpaved road that is not intended to accommodate the traffic volumes of US 50, travel times will be limited and commercial vehicles exceeding a 16,001 gross vehicle weight rating are prohibited. The schedule for piloted travel is:

• 6 to 6:30 a.m. and 6 to 6:30 p.m. for westbound travel 
• 7 to 7:30 a.m. and 7 to 7:30 p.m. for eastbound travel 

The queue for westbound pilot car operations will start near the intersection of CO 149 and CR 26 and the queue for eastbound travel will start near the intersection of US 50 and CR 26. The travel time on the access route is expected to be 30 minutes or more.

County Road 26 will only be open for local, essential travel during these timeframes. The road will remain closed at all other times for the ongoing restoration work needed to ensure the road remains safe for travel.

A hotline and email continue to be in place to assist customers with questions about the closure. Anyone with questions can reach out via 970-648-4423 or [email protected] . Calls will be closely monitored and will receive a prompt reply. Information is also available on the project website at bit.ly/us50bridge . Travelers should refer to COtrip.org or the smartphone COtrip Planner app to plan an alternate route.

“CDOT appreciates Gunnison county’s dedication and hard work as we cooperate to offer more options to help the western slope manage this safety closure.  CDOT will continue to support the county as we focus on the opening of County Road 26 to serve the critical needs of residents,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “County Road 26 is an important local route that is up to five hours more efficient than detouring via state highways. However, this road currently has a natural roadbed and can only accommodate limited traffic - so it is important that we help Gunnison County focus this capacity on the needs of local communities most impacted by the closure.”

There are two recommended detours for through travel via Interstate 70 to the north or US 160 to the south and these detours add six to eight hours of travel time. CDOT is coordinating with emergency service providers to ensure emergency response is unaffected.

Travel Impacts  

• US 50 is closed between Montrose and Gunnison
• Recommended alternate routes are I-70 to the north or US 160 to the south
• A limited, local detour is in place for travel at specific times

Project Contact Information 

For additional information about this project, contact the project team.  

• Webpage: bit.ly/us50bridge
• Information hotline: 970-648-4423 
• Email: [email protected]  
• Fact Sheet: County 26 Local Access
• Hoja informativa del proyecto:  Ruta de acceso local en la County Road 26

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Venice’s Tourist Fee Is Now in Effect — What to Know

The fee is in place for day-visitors over 14 years old from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stacey Wreathall/Travel + Leisure

Day visitors to Venice on Thursday had to pay to get in as the famous city started implementing the much-talked about day trip fee.

Travelers hoping to explore the Italian city had to pony up €5 ($5.36) per person at the train station. The fee, which was first floated as an idea in 2019 but postponed several times , will initially be in effect for 29 days and cover most weekends through mid-July.

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,’’ Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official, told The Associated Press . “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

The dates the fee is in effect were displayed on large signs at Venice’s main train station on Thursday, the wire service reported, with separate entrances available for tourists, and residents, students, and workers.

The fee, which is in effect for travelers over 14 years old from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m., can be paid online . Day visitors who pay in advance receive a QR code, which they must then show to officials at Venice's main access points.

On Thursday, the AP noted there were stewards available to help travelers unaware of the new rules to download the QR code and pay.

Tourists who are staying overnight will not have to pay the new day fee, but must apply online for an exemption . Overnight guests who book a hotel stay are already subject to a different tax.

This fee is the city’s latest effort to address overtourism. In January, Venice built on that goal by announcing plans to limit the number of travelers allowed on tour groups to no more than 25 people. That rule will apply to Venice’s historic center as well as the popular islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

These efforts come months after UNESCO spared Venice from its list of world heritage sites in danger once again despite recommendations to add it.

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How to watch premier league: brighton vs. manchester city, tv channel, free live stream, share this article.

The race for the Premier League title heats up on Thursday night as reigning champions Manchester City travel to the south coast to take on Brighton & Hove Albion at the American Express Stadium. Brighton will look to cause an upset and dent City’s title aspirations with a win today and they have been a tough team on their home turf.

Meanwhile, Man City will be eager to bounce back after their recent stumble against Newcastle United over the weekend as they look to get back to their winning ways on Thursday.

This will be a great match, here is everything you need to know to watch and stream the Premier League on Thursday:

Brighton vs. Manchester City

• When: Saturday, April 13
• Time: 3:00 p .m. ET
• Channel/Stream: USA Network (4K)
• Live Stream: fuboTV ( watch for FREE )

Premier League Lineups

Brighton & Hove Albion possible starting lineup: Verbruggen; Veltman, Van Hecke, Dunk, Igor; Gross, Baleba; Adingra, Lallana, Pedro; Welbeck

Manchester City possible starting lineup: Ederson; Walker, Stones, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic; Foden, De Bruyne, Doku; Alvarez

Soccer Odds and Betting Lines

Soccer odds courtesy of Tipico Sportsbook. Odds were last updated Thursday at 1:00 p.m. ET.

Brighton (+650) vs. Manchester City (-275)

Want some action on Soccer? Place your legal sports bets on this game or others in CO and NJ.

We recommend interesting sports viewing/streaming and betting opportunities. If you sign up for a service by clicking one of the links, we may earn a referral fee. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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