travel safety to albania

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Exploring Albania Safely: A Guide for Adventurous Travelers

• Albania , Europe , Places

Introduction

Albania is an intriguing travel destination that offers adventurers a wealth of historic sites, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences. However, many visitors have questions about staying safe while exploring this unique country.

This comprehensive guide provides insider tips and resources to help you plan an exciting yet secure journey through Albania. You’ll discover how to safely navigate top attractions, connect with local communities, and craft customized itineraries. With safety measures and tailored recommendations, you can unleash your inner explorer with confidence.

Albania Travel Safety Considerations

While relatively safe, Albania does have some security issues that travelers should be aware of. Understanding the local climate will allow you to take appropriate precautions.

Navigating Security: Understanding the Local Landscape

Overall,  violent crime rates  in Albania are quite low compared to other European countries. Serious incidents involving foreign tourists are very rare. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams do occur in major cities and tourist sites.

Other safety factors to consider include:

• The presence of organized crime groups involved in drug and human trafficking.
• Sporadic domestic terrorism concerns related to religious extremists.
• Political protests that can potentially turn violent.
• Reckless driving habits and hazardous road conditions.

Law Enforcement and Traveler Assistance

If issues arise, Albania’s law enforcement professionals are well-trained. Key emergency numbers for travelers include:

• Police: 129
• Ambulance: 127
• Fire Department: 128

Contact your embassy for additional support. Report crimes to authorities quickly and request translated documents.

Targeted Violence and Crime Trends

According to Albania’s  crime and safety report , violent crimes like homicide and robbery have decreased in recent years. However, petty theft and domestic violence remain issues in urban areas.

Criminals tend to target locals rather than foreign tourists. But visitors should still exercise reasonable precautions, especially in crowded tourist sites and transportation hubs where pickpocketing occurs.

Official Travel Advisories: Insights from Reliable Sources

Consult official sources like the  U.S. Department of State  and  UK Foreign Office  for current travel warnings and advisories related to Albania. Monitor these resources for updated information prior to your trip.

Key details from recent advisories include:

• Terrorism remains a potential risk, especially from religious extremists.
• Political protests may occur, with the potential for violence. Avoid large gatherings.
• Use caution when driving due to hazardous road conditions and reckless driving habits.
• Petty crime occurs more frequently in major cities, especially toward nighttime.

Real Traveler Experiences: Voices from the Road

Reading firsthand accounts from travelers who have visited Albania recently provides insightful perspectives on navigating safety:

• Most visitors state Albania feels very  safe for solo female travelers , including at night within reason. Violent crime is rare and Albanians are generally welcoming.
• Use common sense precautions against petty theft, like avoiding deserted areas after dark and not leaving belongings unattended.
• Be cautious of  pickpockets and scams  around tourist sites, bus stations, and crowded public transport. Keep valuables secure.
• Reckless local driving  habits require defensive driving. Roads in rural areas can be hazardous.
• Monitor travel advisories and  avoid political demonstrations  that may turn unstable.

Tips for Staying Aware and Prepared

To travel smartly and safely in Albania, it’s wise to:

• Monitor government travel advisories and register with your embassy
• Research areas to avoid and latest security issues
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with emergency services
• Use authorized taxis and ride shares with vetted drivers
• Keep valuables concealed and avoid overt displays of wealth
• Remain vigilant in crowded tourist sites and transportation hubs
• Travel in small groups when possible and avoid isolated areas
• Steer clear of political rallies and protests during your trip

Embracing Albania’s Unique Charms

With appropriate vigilance, travelers can securely experience Albania’s abundance of cultural and natural attractions.

Destination Highlights: Unveiling Albania’s Treasures

From ancient sites to gorgeous beaches, learn why travelers eagerly flock to Albania:

• Historic cities  like lively Tirana, artistic Gjirokastër, and coastal Durrës intrigue history buffs.
• The  Albanian Riviera  delights sunseekers with its stunning beaches , mountains, and Mediterranean vistas.
• Outdoor adventurers  marvel at parks like Theth National Park, the “Accursed Mountains.”
• Cultural explorers  discover Albania’s unique folk music, cuisine, artisan traditions, and UNESCO sites.

Enchanting Cities and Historical Marvels

Walk in the footsteps of past civilizations that left their mark on Albanian cities:

• Tirana  – Wander vibrant capital plazas and the grand National History Museum.
• Durrës  – Explore ancient Roman amphitheaters and baths in this coastal hub.
• Berat  – Discover Ottoman-era architecture like hilltop mosques.
• Gjirokastër  – Marvel at the maze-like Old Bazaar and grand hilltop fortress.
• Apollonia  – Roam the ancient Greek ruins of a thriving civilization.

Breathtaking Natural Landscapes

Albania’s breathtaking mountains, parks, and coastlines entice outdoor enthusiasts:

• Albanian Alps  – Conquer rugged peaks on avid hikers’ bucket lists.
• Theth National Park  – Traverse undulating hills and stay in mountain guesthouses.
• Blue Eye Spring  – Dive into this natural pool’s crystal waters.
• Llogara Pass  – Journey along this stunning route between the mountains and sea.
• Albanian Riviera  – Relax on pristine beaches in Vlorë, Dhërmi, and Himarë.

The Allure of the Albanian Riviera

With its idyllic Mediterranean setting, the Albanian Riviera is a top draw for beach-goers and water sports lovers. Base yourself in:

• Vlorë  – A laid-back coastal town with ancient castles and promenades.
• Dhërmi  – An under-the-radar beach destination with olive groves.
• Jalë  – Home to a popular nudist beach.
• Himarë  – Mountains sweep down to the shimmering Ionian Sea.
• Qeparo  – Check out the Ali Pasha Castle ruins perched on a hill.
• Sarandë  – Gateway to the UNESCO Butrint ruins and Corfu island.

Cultural Immersion: Interacting Safely with Locals

Getting to know Albania’s people enhances your journey. Build connections while respecting customs:

• Accept hospitality including food and drink when offered in homes.
• Learn common phrases in Albanian like “mirëdita” (good day) to break the ice.
• Take cues for body language and conversation etiquette from locals.
• Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in rural areas.
• Allow extra time for appointments as a relaxed attitude toward time prevails.

Safety Measures for Travelers

While crime rates are low in Albania, exercising common sense helps maximize your security.

Practical Tips for a Secure Journey

Follow these best practices for safely navigating your trip:

• Only use  registered taxis  or ride shares and confirm driver identity.
• Keep  passports and valuables in hotel safes . Carry copies of documents.
• Use  anti-theft bags  with hidden pockets or money belts.
• Be cautious of  pickpockets  in crowded tourist sites and on public transport.
• Avoid flashing expensive items  like jewelry and electronics.
• Steer clear of abandoned buildings and  desolate areas  after dark.
• Monitor young children  closely near roads and bodies of water.
• Stay  vigilant of surroundings  and trust your instincts if a situation seems suspicious.

Safe Transportation Choices

Navigating Albania’s roads and public transit systems safely requires vigilance:

• Defensive driving  is crucial on hazardous roads. Get an international driver’s permit.
• Use  reputable ride sharing  services with licensed drivers. Check license plates match the app.
• On  intercity buses , keep valuables with you at all times and remain alert at stations.
• In cities, only hail  official taxis  with working meters rather than unlicensed drivers.

Protecting Valuables and Personal Belongings

Follow these tips to secure your money, documents, and belongings:

• Leave passports, surplus cash, and credit cards locked in hotel safes.
• Carry just the day’s cash in a concealed  anti-theft wallet or money belt .
• Consider a slash-proof crossbody bag or backpack with locking zippers.
• Keep smartphones and cameras stowed when not in use and avoid placing them on restaurant tables or public benches.
• Maintain photocopies and photos of key documents in case they are lost or stolen.

Staying Aware of Surroundings

Situational awareness assists in identifying and avoiding suspicious situations:

• Be alert in crowded areas prone to pickpocketing like markets and buses.
• Note the  location of police and embassies  in cities you visit.
• Avoid visibly displaying expensive valuables that could make you a target.
• Don’t accept food or drinks from strangers in bars or nightclubs.
• Learn some key Albanian phrases to understand conversations around you.
• Monitor news for any developing safety issues like protests or terrorist threats.

Health and Well-being: Navigating Medical Considerations

Address health and safety obligations to remain well in Albania:

• Arrange  travel insurance  covering emergency medical care, accidents, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more.
• Bring adequate  medications  in their original containers and a physician’s note when required.
• Carry health insurance cards and  vaccine certificates  for border crossings.
• Avoid  tap water  in rural areas. Drink bottled water and use filtration devices as needed.
• Follow food safety precautions by choosing fully cooked dishes and fresh produce you peel yourself.
• Protect against sun exposure and  heat illnesses  with hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hydration.

Crafting Tailored Adventures

With insight from local experts, build personalized Albania itineraries matching your interests and risk tolerance.

Designing Personalized Itineraries

Select destinations and activities aligned with your comfort level:

• Solo/female travelers  may opt for guided small group tours and stays at highly rated hotels.
• Families  can design child-friendly adventures focused on beaches, castle explorations, and hands-on cultural activities.
• Couples  may cherish a relaxing beach retreat or outdoor adventuring like sailing, hiking, and camping.
• History buffs  shouldn’t miss UNESCO sites and well-preserved ruins in ancient cities.

Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems

Venture beyond tourist hotspots to authentically experience Albania’s culture and landscapes:

• Wander  Shkodër’s Rozafa Castle  and tranquil parks along Lake Shkodër.
• See bunker relics from Albania’s communist era at the  Bunk’Art Museum .
• Hike through  Lura Lakes Park  for secluded woodland scenery.
• Relax in the budget-friendly beach town of  Velipojë  away from crowds.
• Sample raki and local cheese specialties in the mountain village of  Lepushe .

Collaborating with Local Experts

Connect with trusted local guides and operators to enhance both adventures and safety:

• Guided tours  provide insider access, transportation, and security for solo or group travelers.
• Local  accommodation owners  offer personalized recommendations tailored to your risk profile and interests.
• Reputable drivers  handle navigation so you can focus on sights while having door-to-door transport with vetted professionals.
• Specialty guides  like hiking, fishing, or archaeology experts help execute your dream Albanian experience safely.

Final Thoughts: Unleash Your Inner Explorer

For intrepid travelers seeking authentic culture beyond heavily trodden European routes, Albania promises rich rewards. By combining sensible precautions with an open mindset, you can safely traverse Albania’s imposing mountain trails, unwind on its sunny beaches, and soak up its fascinating history. Let Albania’s rugged beauty inspire you to chart your own course, create connections, and embark on the engaging adventure of a lifetime.

Additional Resources: Your Safety Toolkit

Use these resources to continue planning your secure, memorable trip:

Emergency Contacts

Packing Checklist

• Passport photocopies
• Travel insurance documentation
• Anti-theft bags/money belt
• Albanian phrasebook/dictionary
• Power adapters and chargers
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes

Travel Advisory Websites

• US Department of State Albania Travel Advisory
• UK Foreign Office Albania Travel Advice
• Government of Canada Albania Travel Advice

With vigilance and wisdom, you can confidently experience all that captivating Albania has to offer. Enjoy an unforgettable adventure!

I know what it's like to go from being a crazy backpacker without a care in the world, via being a vaguely sensible parent to being an adventurer once more. In other words, evolving into a Grown-up Traveller.

Like everyone else, I love to travel, have visited a lot of countries and all that but my big thing is Africa.

I also own and run The Grown-up Travel Company as a travel designer creating personalised African itineraries for experienced adventurers

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Albania travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: August 7, 2024 17:13 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, albania - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Albania.

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Petty crime

Crimes of opportunity and petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occur. Thieves could target foreigners, particularly in crowded public areas such as:

• airports and public transportation facilities
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés
• tourist sites and attractions

While travelling:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID in the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• avoid deserted streets at night
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur. Burglars may target rental accommodations or houses and apartments owned by foreigners.

• Choose well-secured accommodation
• Make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Car theft and break-ins occur. Rental and luxury vehicles are a target of choice.

• Familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
• Keep your windows and doors locked at all times
• Keep your belongings out of reach
• Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• Never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk

Violent crime

Organized crime-related violence occurs. Criminals may use firearms. In some instances, they have used improvised explosive devices.

While violent incidents don’t typically target foreigners or tourists, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime also occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Use sound judgment when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet
• Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance

Albania declared its landmine-free status in 2009. However, some areas remain clearly identified as dangerous zones or are surrounded by visible tape, especially along Albania’s northeastern border with Kosovo.

If you plan on visiting or hiking in these areas:

• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines
• stay on paved roads
• avoid open fields, road shoulders and unmarked trails
• report anything suspicious to local authorities

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Soccer matches and sports events

Sports events sometimes lead to rowdy behaviour and violent incidents.

Be vigilant if you attend soccer matches and sports rallies.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone in some rural areas may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

If you are a victim of sexual assault:

• seek medical assistance, even if you do not appear to have been physically harmed
• contact the local police immediately and ensure they file a report
• inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous.

In the fall and winter months, waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.

• Be cautious when walking on the shore
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Always consider warning flags at beaches
• Don’t dive into unknown water, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all water activities such as jet-skiing, water-skiing, diving, swimming or fishing
• don’t overload your boat capacity
• carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Water safety abroad

Mountain activities

Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if unprepared. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go hiking or climbing:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out
• do not venture off marked trails

Power outages

Power outages occur regularly, including in Tirana. They may affect the provision of essential services such as heating and water supply.

• Verify the schedule of power cuts with local authorities
• Make sure your phone is always charged
• Keep supplies of food, water and fuel on hand in case of lengthy disruptions
• Carry a flashlight

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Major roads are passable, but secondary roads lack maintenance.

Driving conditions may be hazardous during winter, particularly on mountainous roads in northern and southeastern Albania. Heavy rains and landslides can hamper overland travel. Roads, including major routes, may become impassable. Power outages can also affect street lighting and traffic signals. Low-speed farm equipment, horse-drawn carts and wandering livestock are also common hazards.

Drivers are aggressive and can be reckless. They don’t always respect traffic laws.

If you plan on driving in Albania:

• always drive defensively
• be vigilant for pedestrians walking along roadsides, including on major highways
• carefully plan any travel outside the capital
• use a four-wheel-drive vehicle if travelling outside of urban areas
• inspect rental vehicles thoroughly
• ensure the rental company provides assistance in case of mechanical problems
• pre-negotiate fares and schedules

Public transportation

Buses, minibuses and trains operate between most major cities, but are unreliable. Safety standards are generally poor and petty crime is common.

There are ferries connecting Albania with Italy and Greece. Weather conditions and strong winds may lead to cancellations or delays.

• Pay attention to pre-departure notices from your carrier
• Double-check the departure schedule before heading to the port

Official taxis are generally safe.

• Use only officially marked taxis
• Negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Albanian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Albania.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period

You may apply for certain types of visas through the online visa portal.

• Visa regime for foreign citizens - Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
• E-Visa application system - Albanian Government
• Children and travel

The Albanian government may consider children born to an Albanian parent to be Albanian citizens even if they were born in Canada and have a Canadian passport.

Children under the age of 18 are only allowed to leave Albania with both parents or with the consent of both parents. Upon exiting Albania, the absent parent must provide a statement of parental consent to travel, notarized by Albanian authorities.

If your children will be travelling to Albania alone or with one parent, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Albania in Canada before departure to ensure that they meet entry and exit requirements.

• Travelling with children
• Foreign representatives in Canada

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre

* It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers. Celebrations which include the slaughtering of animals and contact with their blood and/ or tissues may increase the risk of exposure to the virus.  

Protect yourself from tick bites and wear gloves or other protective clothing if you are in contact with the blood and tissues of  animals, particularly livestock. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Access to medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and specialists is limited. Government hospitals often lack basic drugs and equipment and have poor hygiene standards.

Ambulance services are very limited. In case of illness or injury, you may consider taking a taxi or private vehicle to go to the hospital rather than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Albania are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Albania to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Albania authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Authorities may request to see your ID at any time. You must also present a passport upon check-in at a hotel or to rent a car.

• Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Photography

Photography of military installations and critical infrastructure is regulated.

Request permission from local authorities before taking photographs of such installations.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Albania.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Albania, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Albania.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Albania, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Albanian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Albania to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Albanian law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an international driving permit.

The legal alcohol limit is 0.05 percent.

Police have taken drastic measures to decrease the number of accidents. They strictly enforced:

• laws against drinking and driving
• speed limits
• other traffic laws

Respect the rules of the road to avoid heavy fines and confiscation of your driver’s licence.

If you are involved in a road accident, even a minor one, wait for the police to arrive.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Albania is the lek (ALL).

Credit cards are accepted in major cities. Cash is required for small purchases and for purchases over 1000 lek. Carry cash in rural areas.

You must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have more than €10,000, or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum includes:

• money orders
• traveller’s cheques
• any other convertible assets

Cash declarations - Customs of Albania

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains, particularly during winter, can cause flooding and landslides including in Tirana. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Bulletin on natural hazards - Institute of Geosciences (in Albanian)

Earthquakes

Albania is located in an active seismic zone.

Earthquakes occur frequently and may disrupt communications, particularly the mobile telephone network.

Familiarize yourself with earthquake security measures in public and private buildings.

If you’re in or around an affected area:

• monitor local media for the latest developments
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Earthquakes - What to Do?

Forest fires are common during the summer. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a significant fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• follow the advice of local authorities

Air pollution

Smoke haze and other types of air pollution can be hazardous in Albania. Heavy construction in urban areas may contribute to poor air quality. Air pollution levels can change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

• limit your outdoor activities, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or have pre-existing medical conditions
• monitor local media

Air pollution in Tirana - World Air Quality Index

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 112:

Other emergency services:

• police: 129
• medical assistance: 127
• firefighters: 128

Consular assistance

Albania, Malta, San Marino

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada to Italy, in Rome, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Albania due to limited healthcare options. 

Albania (PDF 212.58 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 127 or go to the hospital.

Traffic police

Sea emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Albania.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Albania due to limited healthcare options.

• Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorists have targeted European cities, including transport hubs and tourist locations. Take official warnings seriously.
• Political protests could take place in central Tirana. Most demonstrations are peaceful, but they can turn violent. Monitor local media for the latest updates. 
• Theft from vehicles is common. Petty crime occurs. Take care of your belongings on public transport.
• Severe weather occurs from December to February and may cause flooding, particularly in northern Albania. Monitor the local media and stay in touch with friends and family.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Take care in forests and rural areas where ticks carry encephalitis. Ticks are active from spring to autumn. Check your body for ticks and remove them as soon as possible.
• Sandflies are active along the coast. They carry diseases. Use insect repellent and make sure your accommodation is insect-proof.
• Tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis, brucellosis and rabies are common. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Medical facilities don't always have access to equipment, medicine and specialist doctors, and ambulances are limited. Organising a medical evacuation can be expensive and difficult. Make sure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Always carry identification. It's the law.
• It's illegal to take photos of military sites and personnel.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties are severe and can include jail sentences and heavy fines.
• The Albanian Government considers you an Albanian citizen if you were born in Albania or have an Albanian parent. If you're a man, you may have to do military service.
• Same-sex relationships are legal in Albania but aren't widely accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You can visit Albania for 90 days without a visa. You'll need a visa for longer stays. 
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Albania for the latest details.
• Watch out for landmines in the north-east border areas, particularly near Kosovo. Look for and obey warning signs.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Albania. For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Rome, Italy.
• The British Embassy in Tirana can provide limited help but can't issue Australian passports.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension.

Political protests take place regularly in central Tirana.

Demonstrations can occur with little or no warning.

Most demonstrations are peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• monitor local media and other sources
• avoid areas where these events may happen
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Albania, they can still happen. 

Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Theft from vehicles is common.

Take care of your belongings on public transport. Petty crime happens.

More information

• theft and robbery

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

More information: 

• Kidnapping  

Climate and natural disasters

Severe weather.

Albania may experience  severe weather  from December to February.

Severe weather can cause flooding, particularly in northern Albania. It may also disrupt local travel and transport services.

Heavy snowfall in mountain areas can affect travel.

Monitor local media for updates.

Forest fires

Forest fires often occur during dry and hot weather, usually from April to October. Forest fires can be unpredictable and dangerous. Smoke from fires can reduce air quality and can be harmful to your health.

Causing a wildfire or a forest fire is a criminal offence in Albania. Penalties could result from fines to imprisonment.

Earthquakes

Earth tremors are common. Significant  earthquakes  can also occur.

Significant earthquakes can cause: 

• landslides or avalanches
• damage to infrastructure, homes and property

If a  natural disaster  or severe weather occurs:

• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• stay in contact with friends and family

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Albania. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
•   Medication

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Ticks in forests and country areas can carry encephalitis. Ticks are active from spring to autumn.

Diseases spread by sandflies are common in coastal regions. Sandflies can carry:

• sandfly fever
• leishmaniasis  (World Health Organisation)

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

During and after travelling in forested areas:

• check your body for ticks
• remove ticks from your body as soon as possible

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other  infectious diseases  are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• tuberculosis
• brucellosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• boil drinking water or drink bottled water
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't go near dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Standards of hygiene and medical facilities are lower than in Australia.

There's limited access to medical equipment, medicine and specialist doctors.

Medical facilities outside Tirana are limited.

Medical facilities can rarely handle serious trauma or major medical care cases.

Ambulances are limited. Patients often take taxis or other vehicles to the nearest major hospital.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be expensive and hard to organise.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They can include jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Carrying or using drugs

You must always carry identification.

It's illegal to photograph military installations and personnel.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual nationality

The Albanian Government considers you to be an Albanian national if:

• you were born in Albania, or
• you have an Albanian parent

You may be subject to compulsory military service if you're a male Australian-Albanian dual national. Contact the  embassy or consulate of Albania  for details before you leave Australia.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal in Albania but aren't widely accepted.

Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You can visit Albania for 90 days without a visa. You'll need a visa for longer stays.

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Albania  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply for transit or short stopovers.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with X gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL).

You must declare if you're carrying amounts equivalent to $US 20,000 when you arrive or leave. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

ATMs and credit card facilities are available in larger cities and in tourist areas.

Many shops and service providers prefer cash.

You can change major currencies at banks and authorised exchange bureaus.

Credit card fraud can happen. Take care not to expose your PIN. Check your bank statements often.

Local travel

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

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

To protect yourself from landmines:

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

Driving permit

To drive in Albania, you need both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted)

Get your IDP before leaving Australia. 

• Driving or riding

Road travel

Driving in Albania can be dangerous. Hazards include:

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

If you plan to drive in Albania:

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

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines.

Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you.

Avoid flagging down taxis in the street.

Sit in the back seat.

Public transport

Bus and rail travel is unreliable.

Safety standards on  public transport  can be poor. 

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

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

There are no commercial domestic flights within Albania.

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

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, you could contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Albania.

If you need consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Rome, Italy.

Australian Embassy, Rome

Via Antonio Bosio 5  00161 Rome, Italy Phone: +39 06 85 2721  Email:  [email protected] Website:  italy.embassy.gov.au   Facebook:  Australian Embassy, Italy   X:  @AusAmbRome

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

You can get limited consular assistance from the British Embassy in Tirana. However, they can't issue Australian passports.

British Embassy  Rruga Skenderbej 12  Tirana, Albania Phone: (+355) 42 34 973 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Is Albania Safe? 11 Tips to Stay Safe in Albania

For many travelers unfamiliar with Albania, there’s a lot of confusion about the current state of the country that might leave them wondering is Albania safe to travel to. While we love traveling to Albania (and we’ve both traveled here solo), there are some common-sense Albania safety tips that you need to follow while here.

We share our best safety tips for Albania, plus important information about Albania travel scams and crime statistics. In the 2021 context, it’s best to travel to Albania with COVID travel insurance so you can be protected for any contingency.

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

Is Albania Safe? 5 Things to Know about Safety & Crime in Albania

Here are five facts about the current state of crime in Albania that you should be aware of. I address how to protect yourself in the next section. So while these things exist, there are things you can do. Being aware of them is the first step.

There is a Small Risk for Domestic Terrorism

While there have been no major terrorist incidents in Albania in recent years, unlike in the UK, Spain, France, etc., there are still some issues with terrorism. According to the Albania 2019 Crime & Safety Report:

Returned Albanian fighters from Syria and Iraq continue to pose a problem for the country. The Albanian government has policies and procedures to document the travel of Albanians to and from Iraq and Syria. In 2018, there were 25 new terrorism-related cases in the judicial system, although no prosecutions were conducted.

Violent Crime is Decreasing

Although violent crime in Albania is usually targetted to locals and not travelers, nevertheless travelers should always be smart. According to the Albania 2019 Crime & Safety Report:  

Recent crime statistics indicate a decrease in numerous violent crime categories; this includes murder/attempted murder, robberies by force, and armed robberies. Street crime is fairly common in urban areas, predominantly at night. The most notable crimes are burglaries, theft, and domestic violence claims. If confronted by armed assailants, comply with demands.

Political Demonstrations Can Turn Violent

While most political protests are peaceful, there’s always a chance they can turn violent. In Albania, political demonstrations are frequent. Follow the US State Department’s advice :

Demonstrations and political protests are common in Albania. The protests are generally peaceful but have resulted in violence in the past. The demonstrations vary in size from several hundred to more than ten thousand participants and frequently disrupt traffic. Avoid demonstrations whenever possible. Alerts and Messages can be found on the  U.S. Embassy Tirana Website .

Sexual Assault is a Larger Issue in Rural Communities

Keep in mind that sexual assault is under-reported, but in aggregate sexual assault is more of an issue when in small towns and villages. According to the Albania 2019 Crime & Safety Report:  

Sexual assault and harassment is an issue mostly in the smaller towns. The victims tend to be females walking alone.

Lazarat is Still a Target for Local Organized Crime

While most of the country has no heightened travel warning, Lazaret is a special case. According to the US State Department , there is an elevated risk in Lazaret:

The security situation in Lazarat remains volatile due to crime and violence associated with marijuana cultivation. Local police have limited ability to protect and assist travelers. The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Lazarat as U.S government employees are prohibited from traveling there.

Of course, travel advisories change over time. Check the  US Travel Advisory for Albania  before your trip, just read them carefully to see what they actually reference. 

11 Albania Safety Tips

Here are our essential Albania safety tips.

Avoid political demonstrations

I know it’s tempting. It happened to me in Tunisia and Iceland. You see a large protest rally and you just have to know what’s going on. 

Well, in Albania, stay away. In 2018 a political protest resulted in injuries to thirteen police officers. You do not want to be in the middle of a political situation that you don’t understand, especially when you don’t speak the language. 

So just stay away from political demonstrations of any kind while in Albania.

Know what to do if something goes wrong

It’s a good idea to know what you would do in a country if something were to go wrong. Besides your embassy’s contact information, keep these numbers handy:

Ambulance : 127 Police : 129 Fire : 128 

Enroll in your government’s safety program

If you’re an American and you are concerned about the possibility of terrorism or political unrest while in Albania, you can enroll in the  State Department’s STEP Program . This lets the government know your travel plans, and they will also email you to alert you if anything happens on the ground.

To be honest, I don’t use it when I go to Albania (though I probably should) since I feel pretty safe there. I have used it while traveling in Tunisia during protests, and I appreciated the up-to-date emails with what to look out for and areas to stay away from.

There is a similar program for  Canadians . If you are a citizen of another country, check with your government to see if they provide these services. 

Do not drink and drive 

We love going to Albania for the wine and raki, but you cannot mix this with a night drive. Even a tiny bit of alcohol in your blood is illegal and will get you arrested (not to mention other Albanian drivers can make driving difficult even without alcohol).

Have your travel insurance information handy

Since you’re a smart, safety-first kind of traveler, you know it’s a good idea to get a travel insurance policy before you leave for your trip.

But what do you do with it once you have it? First, it’s a good idea to have easy access to your policy information so you can make a claim if needed. You can also give the policy info to an emergency contact who’s not traveling with you. In a worst-case scenario, they can access the benefits to help you if you’re unconscious.

Keep your money safe

Don’t every flash your cash. Use a mix of credit cards and cash in the city, and keep everything tucked away. 

I use a  Pacsafe Citysafe   backpack, which has a pocked inside with RFID technology. This helps to make sure my credit cards won’t get scanned from afar.

It also has interlocking zippers, which means if someone does see that I have extra cash on me, it will make it harder for them to pickpocket me.

If you don’t want to buy a new backpack with safety features, you can use a  money belt   instead. 

Have a hard copy of your card numbers, phone numbers, and passport information

If something does go wrong and your cards and passport get stolen, you need to be able to get them replaced. Have a hard copy in case your phone also gets stolen. This way you can call your banks, your embassy, and then your travel insurance company to get everything replaced without needing access to the internet.  

I like to have one copy in my backpack, one copy in my day bag, and email a copy to myself in case I literally get everything stolen. 

Never leave your stuff unattended

It’s tempting to leave your stuff unattended when you’re in a restaurant or cafe, especially if you’re traveling solo. How much easier would it be to just leave your backpack at the table while you go to the restroom?

Don’t! Never leave your stuff unattended. Don’t leave your cell phone out on the table. If you’re out in a public place that has a lot of tourists, sit with one of your chair legs through the loop of your backpack.

Be the hardest target, not the easiest. That starts with not letting your stuff be easily snatchable! 

Pay attention to your surroundings

Pay attention to your surroundings. The one time I thwarted a pickpocket (in Italy, of course) was because I saw him out of the corner of my eye. He caught me looking at him, and  he removed his hand from my backpack. 

If I hadn’t have been paying attention, he would have gotten my cell phone, my cash, and my passport! 

Make sure you can generally see and hear what’s going on around you so that if something is about to happen you’ll be aware. 

Don’t drink the tap water in rural areas and small towns on the Albanian Riviera

While you can generally drink the tap water in places like Tirana and Saranda, it’s not safe to drink in small towns. Instead, opt for bottled water or bring your own  Grayl Water Filter   so that you can filter the tap water yourself. 

Women need to use extra caution – just like everywhere in the world 

There are very low rates of reported crime against women in Albania, and it’s not a country where catcalling is a real problem.

However, that doesn’t mean women shouldn’t be just as vigilant in Albania as they would be in their home towns or big cities.

Don’t leave your drink unattended, don’t drink too much if you’re traveling alone, be wary of any men who try to get your attention, etc.

Another thing to consider is that while there are low levels of sexual assault reported in Tirana, you should be just as wary of other travelers you meet as any locals. 

So, How Safe is Albania?

Overall, Albania is a great place to travel, and I haven’t had any issues there as a solo female traveler. However, you want to use the same caution against pickpockets, sexual assault, etc. as you would anywhere in the world.

In addition, if political protests flare-up or there is a terrorist incident, it’s better to know ahead of time what you will do. Hopefully, you will have a safe, fantastic trip, but it’s better to be prepared just in case. 

5 Things to Pack to Stay Safe in Albania

We have a  complete packing list for Albania , but make sure you bring these five items with you!

Lonely Planet Western Balkans  is a great guidebook for your visit to Albania, and it’s great if you’re also visiting any combination of the following countries: North Macedonia, Kosovo, Bosnia, Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Slovenia. It can be really hard (sometimes impossible) to buy a physical guidebook in English once you’re in Albania, so if you like having your guidebook in your hands you will need to bring it with you from home.

Unlocked Cell Phone:  Allison and I both have unlocked cell phones that we bought in Europe (I use a  Samsung  and she uses and  iPhone ). This allows up to get sim cards when we travel so that we always have the internet. This has gotten us out of so many jams! 

If you don’t have an unlocked cell phone that can use an Albanian sim card, you can buy a cheaper  unlocked phone online  and bring it with you!

Pacsafe Citysafe  or Other Anti-Theft Bag:  This is the bag both Allison and I use (and they also make men’s versions). It has a pouch with RFID technology so our credit cards can’t get scanned from afar, interlocking zippers to make it harder to pickpocket, and it’s roomy enough to be a perfect sightseeing day bag. 

A Sturdy Moneybelt :  If you don’t want to get a new bag with anti-theft features as I use, you can use a money belt instead. I prefer to have these features built into my bag instead, but I know for a lot of people a money belt is a less expensive investment than a new bag. 

Grayl Water Filter :  While the water is safe to drink in the country’s larger cities, you need to avoid it in the small towns and villages inland and on the coast. If you don’t want to be buying millions of plastic water bottles, you can get a reusable water bottle that comes with a water filter so that you can stick to the tap water and reduce your plastic waste. 

Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, TP & other Balkan transit needs.  Bathrooms in the Balkans tend to be… how can we say it?… not so well-stocked. Save yourself the disappointment and bring a mini-rescue pack of  wet wipes  &  hand sanitizer .

Read next:  Essential Albania Packing List: What to Wear & Pack for Albania

Where to Stay in Albania

We are working on hotel guides for Albania’s major cities. When traveling to Albania, we recommend checking out  Booking.com  as early as possible. The country is gaining in popularity as a tourist destination, so some of the best spots do sell-out early (especially in summer and on the coast)!

More Albania Travel Resources

First, start by reading our post on  planning a trip to Albania . It covers everything from visas to vaccinations to what to pack, so it’s a great jumping-off point for your travel plans.

Next, check out our  Albania packing list  and our suggested  one, two, and three week Albania itineraries.

If you’re curious about the currency used in Albania and how tipping works, we recommend our  Balkan currency guide  to learn all about the Albanian lek and tipping culture. We also have a post on  Albanian cuisine !

If you’re looking for even more places to add to your Albania itinerary, we have a bunch of ideas for you from us and other bloggers in this collaborative post about the  15 best places to visit in Albania ! If you love UNESCO sites, make sure to check out  Gjirokastra , Berat, and Butrint!

We are working on all of our Tirana guides, but for now, we have posts on the  best restaurants in Tirana , the  best Tirana cafes , and  the best Instagram spots in Tirana,  plus how to visit the Tirana Christmas Market.

We add new content almost daily! We recommend you bookmark  our homepage , our  Albania page , or our general  Balkans page  to refer to when planning your trip.

Pin this Albania Travel Safety Guide for Your Trip

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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Is Albania Safe? A Comprehensive Guide for Adventurous Travelers

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Albania, with its unspoiled landscapes, complex history, and vibrant culture, has become an increasingly popular destination for adventurous travelers. However, safety is a common concern for many and it’s a question we often get asked by fellow travelers.

We spent over two months traveling to the four corners of Albania, from the Albanian Alps to the beaches of the Albanian Riviera via Lake Ochrid and the capital city of Tirana. We felt safe the entire time, but we were well prepared.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the safety aspects of traveling to Albania and provide valuable tips and travel advice to ensure your journey is secure and enjoyable.

Is Travel to Albania Safe?

Albania is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals who are often eager to help visitors. While there are some areas and activities that may require extra caution, most of the country is safe for tourists.

Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is more common in crowded areas. By taking basic precautions, you can enjoy a safe trip to Albania.

According to the World Population Review , Albania’s crime index is 45.4 crimes per 100,000 people annually. In comparison, the US crime index is 49.2, and the UK stands at 46.9. So, despite Albania’s sometimes poor safety reputation, statistically, it is actually safer than both America and the United Kingdom.

Albania Travel Safety Tips

• Stay Informed : Keep up to date with local news and travel advisories from your country’s government.
• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Like in any foreign country, it’s important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Stay away from political demonstrations or large gatherings where there is a risk of being caught up in events.
• Protecting yourself and your belongings: Take sensible precautions to protect yourself from street crime, particularly in larger cities and late at night. Watch out for pickpockets and bag thieves in tourist areas, on buses and trains, and in major public transport hubs, including airports.
• Stay Connected : To stay connected, organize a local SIM card, eSIM card, or international roaming plan. Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Albania.
• Travel with Friends : There’s safety in numbers, so try to travel with others when possible. Solo travelers, especially women, should avoid walking alone at night.
• Secure Your Belongings: Use anti-theft bags and keep your valuables secure. Avoid displaying expensive items like jewelry and electronics.
• Use Trusted Transportation: Use reputable taxi services, official  fourgons  (minibuses), or ride-hailing apps. Public transportation is generally safe, but it can be crowded.
• Book Secure Accommodation : Choose reputable accommodations with good reviews.
• Water Sports: If you are considering participating in water sports activities, do so through a licensed water sports center. Make sure paperwork is completed before starting the activity and that you have the safety equipment you need. Also, make sure that your travel insurance covers you for the correct level of activity.
• Health Precautions : Local authorities say tap water in Albania is safe (and we fill out fresh water tanks from taps on a regular basis), but you may prefer to drink bottled water and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.
• Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases in Albanian can help you communicate with locals and understand their culture.
• Respect Local Customs: Muslims make up 50.67% of the population, so be aware of this if visiting Islamic sites, and dress appropriately.
• Stay Sober : Excessive alcohol consumption can make you vulnerable.
• Don’t Use Illegal Drugs: Penalties for drug-related crimes in Albania are severe. Possession of illegal drugs could result in a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years. The penalty for supplying drugs is up to 15 years in prison.     
• Emergency Contacts : Know the local emergency numbers and the location of your country’s embassy.

What Do You Need to Travel to Albania?

Before traveling to Albania, ensure you have the following:

• Valid Passport : Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date.
• Visa Requirements : Check if you need a visa to enter Albania . Many nationalities can enter visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival.
• Travel Insurance : Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft, and cancellations is essential. We recommend True Traveller as having the best policies for Albania, with the most sports and activities included as standard.
• Local Currency : The currency in Albania is the Albanian LEK. Carry some local currency for small purchases, as not all places accept credit cards.

Medical Services in Albania

Albania offers a variety of medical services for travelers, with a healthcare system that includes both public and private options. Here’s an overview of what you can expect as a traveler in Albania:

Emergency Medical Services

The emergency number in Albania is 127 for medical emergencies. For general emergencies, including police and fire services, dial 112.

Ambulances are available in major cities, but response times can vary, especially in rural areas. Ambulance services are provided by both public and private operators.

Public Hospitals and Clinics

Public healthcare in Albania can be basic, especially outside the capital, Tirana. The quality of facilities and services may not match what travelers from Western countries are accustomed to.

English-speaking medical staff are not always available in public hospitals, though you may find some in larger cities like Tirana and Durres.

Public healthcare is generally low-cost, but travelers are usually expected to pay out-of-pocket for services. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that can cover these costs.

Private Hospitals & Clinics

Private healthcare facilities in Albania are generally of a higher standard compared to public hospitals. These facilities often have more modern equipment and better services.

Many private clinics and hospitals have English-speaking doctors, particularly in Tirana and other tourist areas.

Private healthcare is more expensive than public services, but still affordable compared to Western Europe or North America. Many private facilities accept international health insurance.

Pharmacies are widely available in cities and towns across Albania. Most medications can be purchased without a prescription, but it’s a good idea to bring any specific medications you need.

Some pharmacists speak English, especially in urban areas, and can provide basic medical advice.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Albania . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Common Scams in Albania

While Albania is a safe and welcoming country for travelers, it’s always wise to be aware of potential scams that could disrupt your trip. Here are some common scams to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them:

Fake Tour Guides

One of the most common scams in Albania involves fake tour guides. These individuals typically approach tourists at popular attractions, offering their services as guides.

They might seem knowledgeable and friendly at first but often provide poor-quality tours or demand higher fees than agreed upon.

Always use licensed tour guides or book tours through reputable agencies like Get Your Guide, and ask for identification or proof of certification from the guide.

Overpriced Services

Another frequent issue is being overcharged for services, particularly by taxi drivers and street vendors. Tourists might be quoted exorbitant prices for rides or goods, especially if they appear unfamiliar with the local currency or standard rates.

Agree on a fare before starting a taxi journey, or insist that the driver use the meter. A good alternative is a taxi app like VrapOn ,  SpeedTaxi, or UPsTaxi .

Use apps like Google Maps to estimate travel distances and expected fares and familiarize yourself with common prices for goods and services to avoid being overcharged.

Fake Currency Exchange

Tourists exchanging money at unofficial places might receive counterfeit currency or an unfair exchange rate. Some street exchangers might offer attractive rates but then trick you with a sleight of hand or give you fake money.

Only use official exchange bureaus, banks, or ATMs for currency exchange. Count your money carefully on receipt and check for any signs of counterfeit notes.

Restaurant Overcharging

In some cases, tourists have reported being overcharged at restaurants. This can happen when prices aren’t clearly listed or if items are added to the bill that weren’t ordered.

Check the menu and prices before ordering. Pay attention to what you ordered and verify that everything on the bill matches your order before you pay.

Bogus Charities and Beggars

While not unique to Albania, bogus charities and beggars are another scam to be aware of. Tourists may be approached by people claiming to represent a charity or by beggars with heart-wrenching stories, sometimes involving children.

If you want to help, donate to recognized charities rather than giving money directly to individuals on the street. If you are approached, politely decline and walk away if you feel uncomfortable or unsure about the situation.

Unofficial Parking Attendants

In some tourist areas, unofficial parking attendants might ask for a fee to ‘watch your car.’ These individuals may not have any official role and could disappear after taking your money.

Park in official, designated parking areas whenever possible. If you are asked to pay for parking, verify that the person is an official attendant and check for posted signs indicating parking fees and procedures.

Accommodation Scams

Tourists booking accommodations online may occasionally fall victim to fake listings or misleading descriptions.

Arriving at your destination only to find that your accommodation doesn’t exist or isn’t as advertised can ruin your trip. Only use reputable booking platforms with verified reviews and secure payment options.

Driving Scams

There is a fairly common scam in many Balkan countries where local drivers pull in front of you and then brake sharply, causing a collision for which you are technically at fault as the driver behind.

We know some people this happened to, but luckily, they had a dash cam mounted on their windscreen, and because of this, they were able to fight their case and prove the other party was at fault.

Albania Travel Inspiration

Is Tirana Worth Visiting? Top Reasons to Explore the Lively Albanian City

Driving in Albania: Essential Tips for an Amazing Trip

Blue Eye Albania: Visit Sarandë & Theth Natural Pools

Beautiful Albania: 16 Most Scenic Places to Visit

Things to Do in Albania: 18 Amazing Highlights

Albanian Road Trip: An Epic & Flexible 7-10 Day Itinerary

Traveling safely around albania.

Traveling around Albania can be an adventure in itself. Here are some tips to ensure you do so safely:

Renting a Car

When you hire a car to  drive in Albania , make sure you inspect the vehicle thoroughly (in daylight) on the collection and document any damage to the car that hasn’t been done previously, promptly sharing this information with the car hire company. Also, ensure the correct fuel levels have been marked on the paperwork and that the car is what you ordered.

You should take out coverage for the excess you’d be responsible for in case of an accident. This car hire excess insurance can typically be included during the booking process, upon car collection, or through a third-party provider like Insurance4CarHire , which often offers a more cost-effective option.

We recommend hiring your car with Localrent.com , an aggregator of local car rental companies. They work with small car rental companies that only operate in their location and closely monitor the quality of their service. This means you get the best service for the lowest price.

You may need a 1968 International Driving Permit to drive in Albania. We are UK/Irish citizens and were not asked for an IDP during our stay, but we understand that US citizens may need a permit to hire a car.

Road Conditions

The standard of roads in Albania varies across the country. Major highways and main roads are generally well-maintained, but rural roads and those in less-developed regions can be challenging.

Potholes and uneven surfaces can pose challenges, especially when venturing off the main routes. However, Albania’s road infrastructure has improved in recent years, and ongoing projects aim to enhance connectivity and safety throughout the country.

There are also natural hazards to be aware of, such as inclement weather (especially in the mountains), wild animals on the roads, rock falls, and landslides in remote areas. Don’t venture off the main roads unless you’re in a 4×4 or a competent and experienced driver.

Albanian Drivers

The main cause of road traffic accidents in Albania is the drivers! A bullying style of driving is common, and drivers can be erratic, drive way too fast, and are not great at indicating.

Albanian drivers aren’t necessarily rude, but they are impatient and lack consideration at times. Parking behavior can be haphazard, with drivers stopping wherever convenient. If you’re not quick off the mark at traffic lights, the horns will start within a few seconds.

Motorhomes & Campervans

We traveled through Albania in our overland truck, meeting many van lifers and motorhomers along the way. We camped off-grid and also used campsites in the country. If you’re at all concerned about safety, use an app like Park4Night or iOverlander to check out reviews.

You can also hire a motorhome or campervan in Albania , which is becoming a really popular way to see this diverse country. We recommend  Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site that pulls together all the best deals from several rental agencies with depots at Tirana Airport. 

Public Transport

While Albania’s public transport system is not as developed as in some other European countries, it provides a practical and often interesting way to explore the country.

While public transport is generally safe, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded buses and furgons. For longer journeys, consider carrying snacks and water.

Buses & Minibuses (Furgons)

Buses and minibuses (locally known as furgons ) are the most common forms of public transport in Albania. They connect major cities, towns, and even some rural areas.

In cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Shkodra, city buses operate on various routes, providing an affordable way to get around. Tickets are usually purchased directly from the driver or at designated kiosks.

Intercity buses connect major cities and towns. They are relatively comfortable and offer a reliable way to travel between destinations. Key bus station hubs include the Tirana International Bus Station and the Durrës Bus Station.

Minibuses (Furgons)

Furgons are privately operated minibuses that offer a more flexible and sometimes quicker option compared to regular buses. They typically leave when full and can be found at bus stations or main squares. Furgons are especially useful for reaching smaller towns and rural areas not served by larger buses.

Furgons often do not have fixed schedules and depart when they have enough passengers. It’s advisable to ask locals or your accommodation or check online forums for updated information on routes and departure times.

Albania’s railway network is limited but provides a unique and scenic way to see the country.

Key routes are between Tirana, Durrës, and Vlorë, connecting the capital city with the coastal region.

Hekurudha Shqiptare  (Albanian Railways) operates train services. While trains are inexpensive, they are often slow and less comfortable than buses and trains .

Taxis are readily available in most cities and towns and are a convenient option for short trips or when public transport is not available. Look for licensed taxis with a taxi sign and a meter. In Tirana, for example, official taxis are usually white or yellow.

If the taxi does not have a meter, always agree on the fare before starting your journey. This helps avoid misunderstandings or being overcharged. Alternatively, you can use a taxi app like  VrapOn ,  SpeedTaxi, or UPsTaxi .

Are you planning a road trip in Albania? Get our Albanian road trip tinerary for info and tips about things to see and do en route + maps and nearby attractions so you don’t miss a thing!

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About The Author

Izzy Nicholls

4 thoughts on “is albania safe a comprehensive guide for adventurous travelers”.

Hi SlickVic I think renting a car is worth it to get to some of the more out of the way places, especially if you want to see a more authentic side to Albania. Follow our tips about renting and you’ll be fine 🙂

I used public transport there last year, not bad at all & cheap. But if u rent, just be smart about it, check reviews n stuff.

SlickVic89, in my experience, renting a car gives you freedom to explore off the beaten path. But yeah, scams can be a concern. Always best to rent from reputable companies and double check everything. Still, public transportation in Albania is quite an adventure and relatively safe. Either way, you’ll have a great story!

Great stuff on Albania but I’ve got a quick q. for the part about driving scams. Do you think renting a car is still worth it? I always thought taking local transport gives you the real feel of a place but these scams sound tricky. Any tips on how to avoid them or is public transport the safer bet? Cheers.

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Wander-Lush

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Albania is quite unlike any of its neighbours.

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

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

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

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

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

Learn a bit about the history before you go

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

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

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

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

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

The man atop the horse is General Skanderbeg

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

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

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

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

Albania is overwhelmingly a safe country for tourists

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

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

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

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

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

Avoid visiting in July or August

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

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

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

Consider flying into a neighbouring country

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

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

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

Also read: My top tips for visiting Montenegro .

Lek is the official currency, but Euros are widely accepted

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

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

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

Always have cash on you

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

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

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

Albania is extremely affordable – even by Balkans standards

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

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

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

Buy a sim card when you arrive

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

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

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

Don’t put your faith in Google Maps

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

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

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

Furgons are your friends

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take extra care on the roads

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

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

Albanian cuisine is a revelation

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

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

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

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

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

Watch out for raki

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

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

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

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

Every day ends with a xhiro

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

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

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

Albanian people are incredibly hospitable

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

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

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

English is widely spoken, but not ubiquitous

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

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

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

Here are a few basic words:

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

There is a strong Italian and Greek influence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hiking in Albania is a must

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

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

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

The lakes are just as impressive as the beaches

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

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

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

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

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

Albania Travel Guide

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More from Albania

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

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Is Tirana Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Albania : Safety by City

Tirana is the capital of Albania.

Many people love Tirana and truly is a beautiful and charming city, where the sprawl of the big city and the charm of a small town meet with a vibrant nightlife.

It’s good to note, however, that Tirana suffers from severe pollution problems, mainly due to the rapid increase in car usage and continuous construction.

The summer is the best time to visit this gorgeous city, take a trip down the beach – or visit the many swimming pool complexes where you can get drinks food and have a nice, relaxing day.

• Warnings & Dangers in Tirana

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Tirana is a relatively safe city to travel to. There are mild threats, nothing that should stop you from traveling there. Since it's the capital of Albania, there are no major issues, and the only area you should avoid is Albania's border with Kosovo.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Means of transportation are various in Tirana but not very reliable. Just because there is a schedule, doesn't mean there is a schedule, so you can count on waiting for buses, trains, etc. However, it is mostly safe, but be careful of pickpockets on buses and trains.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Petty crime involving pickpockets is common, especially if you're using public transportation. Also, cell phone thefts and wallet thefts do happen, so keep your valuables in a safe place and take basic precaution measures.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Tirana lies in a seismically active zone, and minor earthquakes and tremors are common. Serious earthquakes are less frequent but do occur.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Mugging, cell phone thefts, and carjacking do happen, however, these cases are not too common. Tirana is not known for kidnapping, so you should be fine, but use common sense and be vigilant for any dangers at all times.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

There haven't been terrorist attacks in Tirana's recent history, but they shouldn't be ruled out.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

There's always the risk of getting scammed if you're a tourist, and this also applies to Tirana. Tourists have been overcharged for beers and street food, or given the wrong change, so try to avoid street vendors and negotiate everything in advance and check your change twice.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

It is safe for women to travel alone in Tirana, and most people will probably go out of their way to help in any way, but you should avoid walking in remote areas and alone at night.

• So... How Safe Is Tirana Really?

In general Tirana and Albania are very safe, Albanians are kind people and would go above and beyond to help other people, especially foreigners.

Albania’s bad reputation is hard to shake, although it is a relatively safe place to visit.

Like anywhere else in the world you have to take the everyday measures against instances of petty theft, pickpockets in public transportation and similar occurrences.

Violent crime is very rare in Tirana compared to other big cities in the world.

Most violent crimes that occur in Tirana come down to blood feuds between two or more families.

The usual crimes in Tirana are usually thefts.

Overall, it’s safe to walk around Tirana during the day and night.

Suggestions for safety neighborhoods are Elbasanit, Fortuzi, Mine Peza, and Qemal Stafa streets.

As for petty crime, pickpocketing and cell theft, as well as luggage theft are the most common forms of a crime you’ll find on the streets, and they are relatively common.

Carjacking is rare in Tirana but vehicle theft is common so be sure to lock your vehicle before leaving it, and do not leave any valuables in a visible place in the car.

• How Does Tirana Compare?
• Useful Information

As a tourist, you don't need a visa to enter Tirana. You may stay up to one year in Albania without applying for a residency permit, and your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your stay in Albania.

Albanian lek is the currency in Tirana. Some say that Tirana is a little more expensive than Skopje or Bucharest, but it is still cheaper than most European capitals. Use ATM's with caution and exchange your money in banks.

Tirana has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters in the lowlands. In the highlands, it is cold from November until March, and snow is a regular occurrence.

Tirana's main and busiest international airport is Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, commonly known as Rinas International Airport.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Tirana, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Tirana Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Albania - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

10 Reviews on Tirana

Very weird content.

Why you wrote ” the only area you should avoid is Albania’s border with Kosovo.” what’s going on up there? The country is perfectly safe to travel.

The border with Kosovo is bot dangerous, this is a complete bullshit!

Kosovo safety

When talking about safety, Albanian’s border with Kosovo is one of the safest places in Albania. Kosovo is a very safe place for tourists. Our well known hospitality for foreign people makes it even a better place to travel to. Kosovo has a lot of beautiful places to visit too. We have a very very rare nature wonder which is known as Bifurcation. That is a natural phenomenon when a river splits into two tributaries and flows into different marine catchments.There are only 2 nature wonders like this (one is in Brasil and one is in Kosovo). Despite that, we have other nature wonders too.

LETS SEE IF TRAVEL SAFE IS RIGHT!

UM TIRANA IS SAFE I THOUGHT. I WILL GOOGLE SEARCH TOO SEE IF YOU ARE RIGHT,OK.

Tirana is crap town

You should avoid travel to Tirana. Public transport is cheap but not reliable at all, no public transport maps, no time table, no any info on Google maps, even in buses there’s no public transport maps. Mans who selling tickets in the buses are rude and if they see a tourist they will try charging you twice and sell you another ticket. Lot’s of beggers, very polluted city, people are also not much nice, city is very dirty and river looks like sink with rubbish. Trains looks like be just going to scrap yard.

Tirana isn’t a place of wealth. You can’t go here expecting it is something that isn’t there. In terms of safety, I think it is fine. I don’t understand going somewhere without researching it or looking into it more. You would have likely not had a cultural shock that you did, just my opinion.

please everyone who wants to go to Tirana please don’t go

worst country in world

Worst country prob even from Sierra Leone, theft is very common, they stole wheels overnight from my car, also pick pocket my friend. We are foreigners, worst decision in my life to visit Tirana…Man actively flirt with my Wife…. HORRIBLE.

Not a must visit, but there are a lot of benefits

I’ve been living in Albania (Tirana and Durres) since I was born. I’ve visited a lot of cities in Europe and I can tell that there are a lot of differences. Tirana isn’t a well organized city (still the most organized city in Albania). It has a high pollution rate. Public transport is very bad (no timetables, usually very crowded and it can contain pick pocketers at times). Good things are low prices (still Tirana has the highest prices in Albania). Criminality is low. There are some beautiful beaches. The nature is amazing. There are a lot of mountains you can climb and the views are fantastic. The food is very good and cheap also. Night life in Tirana is good. Locals are friendly with foreigners and always willing to help (unless they own a business. They will usually have the tendency to charge more (not all of them)). In overall I think it is a good idea to visit Albania. Don’t expect much from a country where democracy didn’t exist until 90′. 10+ years ago it wouldn’t have been worth it to visit, but now I think it is worth it and probably it will get better with time. Peace

Albania is the hidden gem of Europe and Tirana is really safe. Me and my wife had a wonderful few days travelling around this beautiful country.

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Article Contents

• Tirana : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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7 Reasons You Should Visit Albania Instead Of Italy, From Someone Who Did It

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Italy is a beautiful country with glorious beaches, vast mountain ranges, stunning medieval towns, and incredible cuisine. Yet, its tourism numbers and prices can be off-putting compared to other quieter European countries that are also cheaper alternatives to the continent's most expensive destinations , like Albania, which is further south of the continent.

Italy saw more than 134 million tourists in 2023 , which is remarkable but daunting compared to Albania's 10.1 million. Albania is a Balkan country boasting unspoiled nature, great beaches, gorgeous towns, interesting history, affordability, and warm locals, and can easily give Italy a run for its money.

The hospitality in Albania cannot be compared to a place like Italy, as the intimacy and personality shared by local Albanians is outstanding. Expect to be asked questions in every shop and at every beach, as locals love getting to know tourists.

Wanting to share my love with the country meant spending more time there throughout my travels. Instead of choosing typical vacation spots in a country like Italy, I decided to venture to Albania's touristic and untouched areas to see what the beautiful country has to offer.

Finding incredible and affordable alternatives to Italy's Amalfi Coast and mountain ranges is refreshing, and Albania absolutely fits into that category; it's very much like an undiscovered, cheaper, yet equally stunning version of Italy (similar to how Croatia is the perfect Italy dupe as well). Here, I will share my travel experiences and explain why you should visit Albania instead of Italy.

10 Best Hotels In This Less-Crowded Cheap Vacay Spot In Europe

What are the best hotels to stay at in Albania? Here, we delve into some of the best accommodations in this hidden gem of a country.

7 The Beaches In Albania Are Much Quieter Than Italy's

Albania's beaches can be incredibly quiet when you know where to go, and they're just as stunning as those in italy.

Albania's south coast is one of my favorite areas to visit during the summer. Whenever I travel during the warmer months, I always choose Albania's Ksamil and Saranda beaches over Italy's Amalfi Coast.

I typically travel during off-peak times, allowing me to soak up the beach surroundings with fewer tourists. Plus, instead of always mingling with other tourists, I like to chat with the locals using my broken Albanian.

While Albania is seeing more tourists , the popular beaches still feel quiet if you visit them at the right time of day. Ksmail and Saranda are Albanian beaches resembling the Caribbean, with golden sands and crystal clear water.

Itan Kryeziu Beach is the quietest I've visited on the south coast. I love the views of Greece from the shoreline, too; you can see Corfu island on a clear day. Paired with the soft sands and aquatic waters, you couldn't ask for more. I recommend staying until sunset for the most stunning views in the south.

Dhermi Beach is another one of the quietest beaches I've been to in Europe . It might be a bit busier with locals, but snorkeling here cannot be beaten. Ditch the Amalfi Coast and head to the Albanian Riviera for quieter and more aquatic beach life.

6 Albania's Mountains Are More Scenic Than Italy's Alps

The albanian alps are epic and simply do not compare to any others in europe, italy included.

Italy offers stunning mountain hikes and views, including Mount Etna and Monte Baldo. However, they do not compare to the unspoiled nature of the northern Albanian mountains. Move over the Italian Alps; the Albanian Alps can offer more for tourists seeking quiet hikes and untouched scenery.

The Accursed Mountains are part of southeastern Europe and a significant feature of northern Albania. My first visit to Kukes County, where the Albanian Alps are nestled, was during the fall when the temperature was a comfortable 75 degrees Fahrenheit .

I could see the mountains around my accommodation in Valbona and decided to hike one Sunday morning when the weather was dry and mild. I took a car from the village and drove around for one hour before being greeted by the base of the mountains.

The bucolic alpine landscape you pass through on the way to the small hamlet of Kukaj feels like Switzerland or the Italian Alps, and you will unlikely pass by another tourist. Ultimately, you will be spoiled for choice by scenic mountain views and hikes when you visit northern Albania.

These Are The 10 Most Affordable Accommodations In Albania

Affordable accommodation in Albania is very cheap, and in this post, we'll explore the most affordable places to stay.

5 Albania Has Friendlier Locals

Albania offers some of europe's best hospitality, and smiley locals are around every corner.

If I had to say one thing about Albania, it would be that the country has some of the friendliest locals I've ever met. Locals will be keen to spark a conversation and get to know you wherever you go. Don't be surprised if they ask personal questions about family and home life. They aren't being rude; they are loving people who want to wish you and your loved ones the best in life.

I assumed that the locals in the capital of Tirana would be less friendly and have less time to chat. However, the staff in cafés and shops offered the same hospitality as the people in Albania's more rural small towns and villages.

On my first visit, I must have often looked lost since lots of locals offered help. Everyone wears a friendly smile, and whenever you need help, the local people will be glad to offer it. While I can speak a bit of Albanian, the locals who cannot speak any other language will still happily accommodate you and provide incredible hospitality. They don't usually mind the language barrier, so you shouldn't either.

4 Albania Is Significantly More Affordable Than Italy

Your jaw will drop when you compare albania's prices to italy's.

One huge difference between Italy and Albania is affordability. While tourism prices always increase due to demand and inflation, Albania is considerably cheaper than Italy in every way. Everything from accommodation and restaurants to coffee and souvenir shops offers low prices that will encourage you to return to Albania for your future vacations.

I find the north considerably cheaper than the south due to less tourism. For example, in the south, an espresso and a bottle of water (a tradition in Albanian culture) will cost around $3, whereas in the north, it will cost around $1.50. Compared to Italy, you will understand how affordable these prices are. In Italy, expect to pay around $6 for the same two drinks.

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3 The Lifestyle In Albania Is More Relaxed Than Italy's

The albanian lifestyle is incomparable; you will enjoy less stress and a relaxing travel experience everywhere you go.

Albania's lifestyle is different from anywhere else in Europe. It's more laid-back than Italy and has a unique cultural feel.

Sure, the beaches in Italy offer a slightly more laid-back atmosphere, but the cities are quite the opposite. Italian cities are busy and crowded, and people can quickly become irritable. I found the cities of Rome and Florence beautiful, but the lifestyle was chaotic, and I left feeling tired. In contrast, in Albania, I feel refreshed and relaxed everywhere I go.

Every time I have visited Albania, there is less traffic and noise than in Italy as well. While Tirana can get busy, it doesn't compare to Italian cities. The entire travel experience in Albania is more peaceful and stress-free, and you will want to adopt the same slow-paced lifestyle when you return home. It is remarkable how relaxing and calming Albania's culture is.

2 Off-The-Beaten Path Finds In Albania Are Unmatched

Don't be surprised if you are the only person at off-the-beaten-path spots in albania.

While Italy and Albania offer incredible off-the-beaten-path opportunities, I prefer Albania's hidden gems. The thinner crowds mean you can experience some places alone, and the lack of noise and tourism at these undiscovered locations will offer an experience you will likely not find anywhere in Italy.

A prime example of enjoying the off-the-beaten-path gems alone in Albania is my visit to the Osum Canyon in Berat, which was one of many interesting spots in Albania that the locals recommended I check out .

I visited Berat for a few days one summer, and a local person recommended that I head to the water and see the city from a boat. I kayaked for a few hours along the canyon, witnessing the city passing by before I reached the Bogove Waterfall. My friend and I were the only people at the waterfall for around an hour, which is something you wouldn't experience at nature spots in Italy.

Don't be shocked if you visit other places in Albania and are the only person there; it's a magical feeling. Other hidden gems I love in Albania include Valbona National Park, Theth National Park, and Syri i Kalter.

1 Albania's Landscapes Are More Diverse Than Italy's

Albania offers incredibly diverse landscapes, from golden beaches to towering mountains.

Albania is largely unspoiled. While Tirana might feel built up, most other places are untouched and offer unique scenery and varied landscapes and biomes.

Albania hosts incredibly diverse landscapes, from golden sand beaches to rugged mountains. The country is a hidden gem for nature lovers, and the landscapes feel so different from Italy because they are unexpected. Italy's landscapes are wonderful yet built up and touristy, whereas, in Albania, most of the landscapes are stunning yet also quiet and inviting.

Head to the south coast for unspoiled beaches along the Albanian Riviera. Those seeking unique gems along the coast should head to Gjipe Beach for its hidden coves among the towering limestone cliffs. My favorite time to visit this beach is at sunset. Locals gather, drink coffee or raki, and watch the sun go down.

You can also find rugged mountain tops in the north with very few tourists. Locals can guide you, or you can explore alone. The trails in the Albanian Alps from Valbona will always have my heart.

BEA ADVENTUROUS

Is Tirana Worth Visiting? Your Ultimate Guide to Albania’s Vibrant Capital

Tucked away in the heart of the Balkans, Tirana offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern-day charm, making it an intriguing destination for travel enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and solo travellers. But is Tirana worth visiting? Many people, who incidentally haven’t been, think not! Well, I’d like to prove all those people who questioned my destination choices wrong! Let’s explore this vibrant capital city and uncover why it should be on your travel list.

I can only describe Tirana as a collision of old and new. You can wander down one street and feel like you are in Old Town Hanoi , with tiny little shutter-door shops selling second-hand washing machines, or you can be staring at works of modern art plastered around the city!

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Fun Facts about Tirana

• Tirana became Albania’s capital city in 1920.
• The city is known for its colourful Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet-era architecture.
• It experiences over 300 sunny days a year, making it one of Europe’s sunniest capitals.

Where is Tirana?

Tirana, Albania’s bustling capital, is located in the western part of the country, near the Adriatic Sea. It’s the gateway to exploring the rich tapestry of Albanian culture and history, nestled among picturesque mountains and close to North Macedonia.

Tirana boasts a rich and diverse history that reflects its complex past. Established in the 17th century, it gained prominence when it was declared the capital of Albania in 1920. The influence of various cultures can be seen in its architecture, from Ottoman mosques to Italian fascist buildings. Additionally, the city played a significant role during World War II, as it was a centre for anti-fascist resistance. Today, Tirana stands as a testament to Albania’s resilience and cultural evolution, inviting visitors to explore its historical layers.

A little bit of Albanian history

If you are anything like me, you may know very little about Albania and even less about its history. But once I started learning about it, I became fascinated, especially with the communist rule and its impact on Albania’s development compared to other European countries.

I’m no history buff, so if you are reading this blog to prepare for an assignment, I suggest you find another source. However, if you want to get a flavour of what I learned during the various tours I did, then read on!

From the 15 th century on, Albania’s history can be divided into three periods: Ottoman rule, communism, and modern-day Albania. I’llI’ll try to explain each briefly below.

Ottoman Rule

Albania underwent significant socio-cultural changes during Ottoman rule, which lasted from the late 15th century until the early 20th century. The Ottoman Empire’s influence extended to various aspects of life, including the administrative system, culture, and religion.

The introduction of Islam marked a major religious transformation, resulting in a large portion of the population converting from Christianity to Islam. This period also heralded the integration of Albanian territories into the larger Ottoman economic system, facilitating trade and agricultural development.

Despite these changes, the Albanians maintained a strong sense of identity, often resisting Ottoman assimilation through uprisings and preserving their customs and language in rural and mountainous areas. This resilience contributed to a unique cultural tapestry that combined elements of Ottoman influence and Albanian traditions.

During the Ottoman rule, Albania was a country deeply rooted in its agrarian traditions, with a society largely organised around clan-based structures. The early 20th century was marked by a struggle for independence and sovereignty, culminating in the declaration of independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. During the interwar period, Albania experienced political instability and social transformation as it sought to establish itself as a sovereign nation. With the onset of World War II, Albania found itself caught in the crossfire, eventually leading to the rise of communist forces after the war.

The Communist Era

During the communist era, under the leadership of Enver Hoxha, Albania became increasingly isolated from the rest of the world, adopting a rigid Stalinist system. The government exerted tight control over all aspects of life, with policies that emphasised collectivisation in agriculture and rapid industrialisation. This period witnessed the suppression of religious practices and a strict curtailment of personal freedoms, such as car ownership!

Cars were considered a luxury, and owning one was a rare privilege, mostly reserved for high-ranking officials. This probably explains why driving standards are so poor in Albania ! None of the knowledge has been “passed down”. Add to that the fact that most people just “paid off” the

This era saw the ban of religious practices; churches, mosques, and other places of worship were repurposed or demolished, and Albania declared itself the world’s first atheist state in 1967. Despite these restrictions, Albanians often relied on creativity and resourcefulness to navigate the limitations imposed by the regime.

Though the regime succeeded in achieving some levels of industrial progress, it also led to severe economic challenges and stagnation. The communist government’s firm grip continued until the political shifts of the early 1990s prompted nationwide protests, eventually resulting in the collapse of the regime and paving the way for Albania’s transition towards a democratic society.

Despite the communist era ending in 1991, Enver Hoxha’s paranoia about the outside world can still be seen in the 175,000 bunkers that dot the countryside. Many of these have been repurposed and given a new lease of life.

Modern Albania

The end of communism in Albania marked a pivotal moment in the country’s history, with far-reaching impacts on its modern development. The fall of the communist regime began in the late 1980s, as Albania gradually felt the ripple effects of the broader Eastern European movements towards democratic reform. This transition accelerated with the death of the longtime communist leader Enver Hoxha in 1985, and it culminated in December 1990, when widespread protests and student demonstrations forced the government to initiate political pluralism. In 1991, Albania held its first multi-party elections, signalling the official end of nearly five decades of communist rule.

Today, the legacy of this transition continues to shape Albania’s socio-political landscape. The move from a strictly controlled, centrally planned economy to a market-oriented one required significant structural changes, many of which are still ongoing. Economic reform programs were implemented to stabilise the economy and encourage foreign investment, leading to gradual improvement in infrastructure and living standards. Politically, Albania has strived to strengthen its democratic institutions and build relationships with Western nations, successfully joining NATO in 2009 and pursuing ongoing EU membership talks. Despite progress, challenges such as corruption and economic disparity remain, underscoring the country’s complex journey from its communist past to its aspirations as a modern European state.

Why do I think it’s important to share a little bit of Albanian history? Because it’s the foundation of everything, and the reason why Albania, and specifically Tirana is worth visiting!  

20 Reasons why Tirana is worth visiting – The best things to do in Tirana

1. skanderbeg square.

To the uneducated eye, it is just a square, yet this famous landmark is the central hub of Tirana where history and modernity blend. Standing proudly in the middle is a statue of a man on a horse; the same man this square is named after!

Skanderbeg, whose full name was Gjergj Kastrioti, is celebrated as a national hero in Albania for resisting Ottoman expansion in the 15th century. Born into an influential Albanian noble family, he was taken hostage by the Ottomans at a young age and converted to Islam, serving in the Ottoman administration and military. However, he reclaimed his Christian faith and Albanian identity when he boldly rebelled against Ottoman rule.

In 1443, Skanderbeg deserted the Ottoman army and returned to Albania, where he successfully united several Albanian principalities. His strategic genius and adept military tactics allowed him to defend his homeland against the Ottoman forces for over two decades, a remarkable feat during an era of rampant Ottoman conquests. Skanderbeg’s legacy endures, embodying the spirit of Albanian defiance and unity, and his prowess remains a source of national pride even today.

There are several activities you can do in Skanderbeg Square:

• Visit the National Historical Museum : Delve into Albania’s rich history and culture by exploring the exhibits and artefacts housed in the country’s largest museum.
• Explore the Et’hem Bey Mosque : Marvel at the intricate frescoes and picturesque architecture of this historical mosque, which stands as a testament to Albania’s diverse religious heritage.
• Admire the Opera House : While visiting the square, check the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet schedule to catch a live performance or simply admire the modernist architecture of this cultural landmark.
• Relax in the Green Spaces : Take a stroll or enjoy a picnic in the beautifully landscaped areas surrounding the square, offering a tranquil escape amidst the urban bustle.
• Attend Public Events and Festivities : Keep an eye out for various events hosted at the square, such as concerts, exhibitions, and cultural celebrations, providing a lively glimpse into local traditions.
• Coffee Shops and Dining : Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café or savour local Albanian cuisine at one of the eateries around the square. Both are perfect for unwinding and people-watching.

2. Bunk’Art Museum

The Bunk’Art Museum blew my mind! It is worth noting that there are two Bunk’Art Museums. Bunk’Art 1 is located on the outskirts of Tirana and delves into the country’s socialist past. Set in a vast underground bunker built for Enver Hoxha, it explores Albania’s political climate and socialist regime through various exhibits, art installations, and historical displays.

On the other hand, Bunk’Art 2, situated in the heart of Tirana, focuses on the secret police and the overall security apparatus that operated during the communist era. Housed in a smaller bunker, it presents the narratives of surveillance, human rights abuses, and the impact on Albanian citizens through interactive displays and vivid storytelling.

Both attractions provide a thought-provoking glimpse into Albania’s past, but with distinct focal points that cater to various historical interests.

Bunk’Art 1

I only had the time to visit Bunk’Art 1 , built out of Enver Hoxha’s paranoia of a potential invasion of Albania. He ordered 210,000 bunkers to be built across the country. These should either be shelters or defence bunkers. They never finished them all, but about 175,000 were completed, including his presidential bunker, now known as Bunk’Art 1.

The bunker has 106 rooms and a large assembly room, now used for jazz concerts. The outer walls are 1-metre thick cement walls while the “roof” sits under 100 metres of ground. From the outer walls, there are 4 or 5 more walls and doors (about 1-2 meters apart) before you are properly inside the bunker. The first two doors were there to protect from blasts, while the other 3 were to protect from radioactive agents.

His ideas for all these bunkers came after he visited North Korea in the 60s! I now have questions about North Korea! Do they also have an insane number of bunkers?

Enver Hoxha was so paranoid that every citizen had to undergo mandatory defence training yearly. Our guide said they had to do 84 hours of training every year on safe evacuation procedures and processes, such as properly putting on a gas mask, etc. I can’t imagine what it must have been like to live under his regime!

It was a really interesting museum, and I couldn’t believe how big the bunker was! And we only got to see 2/3rds of it. The rest remains blocked to the public (but they didn’t say why, leaving me with many questions!!).

3. Sunsets from Enver Hoxha’s Pyramid

The Pyramid of Tirana is an intriguing architectural remnant and a controversial symbol of Albania’s communist legacy. Originally constructed in 1988 as a museum dedicated to Enver Hoxha, the former dictator of Albania, the pyramid was designed by a group of architects that included Hoxha’s daughter and son-in-law. Despite its original purpose, the structure has undergone numerous transitions over the decades, serving various roles, including a conference centre and broadcast facility.

Today, the pyramid’s future is the subject of much debate, with propositions of transforming it into a digital hub or cultural centre. Its distinctive, brutalist design, combined with its historical significance, continues to captivate visitors, embodying both the country’s past complexities and its aspirations for transformation.

The real draw of the pyramid, though, is its brilliant vantage point from which to watch the sunset. To get to the top, you will need to climb 107 steps, but believe me—it is worth it! The views are incredible!

4. Vibrant Nightlife

Tirana’s vibrant nightlife scene is a testament to its lively culture and youthful energy. The city boasts an impressive array of bustling bars and clubs catering to various tastes and preferences. From modern, chic lounges offering sophisticated cocktails to high-energy dance clubs pulsating with music, there’s something for everyone. Many venues showcase local talent alongside international DJs, providing an eclectic mix of music genres from pop and electronic to traditional Balkan beats.

The Blloku district, once an exclusive area for communist party members, has transformed into the heart of Tirana’s nightlife, brimming with trendy bars, gourmet restaurants, and lively cafés. This vibrant scene not only attracts locals but also travellers seeking to experience the city’s rejuvenated spirit. Whether you’re looking for a quiet night out or an electrifying party atmosphere, Tirana’s nightlife promises an unforgettable experience.

5. Authentic Albanian Cuisine

Authentic Albanian cuisine is a delightful combination of influences from various Mediterranean and Balkan traditions, highlighted by its use of fresh and seasonal ingredients. Central to Albanian gastronomy are its comforting and hearty dishes like “fërgesë,” a rich stew made with peppers, tomatoes, and cottage cheese, often enjoyed as a side or main meal.

Another staple is “tavë kosi,” a renowned national dish consisting of lamb baked in a yoghurt sauce. It embodies the rustic flavours typical of Albanian home cooking. Fresh seafood is also prevalent along the coast, with delicacies such as grilled octopus and calamari frequently gracing menus. Albania’s fertile landscape supports a bounty of fruits and vegetables, ensuring salads and side dishes are vibrant and flavoursome.

Completing the culinary experience are the sweet treats, with “baklava”—layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and sweetened with sugary syrup. Whether savouring these dishes in a bustling Tirana eatery or a quiet rural tavern, Albanian cuisine offers a memorable and authentic dining experience.

My favourite restaurant in Tirana was nestled right next to our hotel, less than a stone’s throw away. Mrizi Zanave Tirane focuses on traditional local regional dishes. The waiters were brilliant at helping us navigate the menu and recommended we try what is, without a doubt, the “strangest” pasta dish I’ve ever had: blueberry pasta!! Let me tell you, it was delicious!

6. Friendly Locals

Before coming to Albania, everyone warned me about the dangerous people. I am not pretty enough to warrant worrying about being trafficked, but I was undoubtedly going to be mugged!

The reality was very different. In fact, I’d go as far as saying that Albania has some of the loveliest people I have met on my travels , and definitely in Europe!

The anecdote I am about to share didn’t happen in Tirana, but I feel it epitomises the interactions I experienced throughout my stay in Albania.

My friend and I had gone on a mission to “get lost” and found ourselves driving down this pothole-riddled hairpin road in the middle of nowhere. We were hungry and decided to stop at the first bar or restaurant we spotted. As if in answer to our calling, we stumbled across a modest-looking restaurant overlooking a bright blue lake. Perfect!

We got out and walked towards the venue, only to notice that the entire restaurant was occupied by a single long table of men. We both felt instantly out of place and decided to turn around and walk back to our car in search of the next restaurant. But as we did this, one of the guys ran out and shouted a friendly “hello!” He asked if we wanted to eat and then explained that the restaurant was closed for a private function.

The generosity of strangers

But he quickly proceeded to ask, “We have BBQ. You want BBQ? I can set up table outside, and you can have BBQ?” – his big grin convinced us, and so we sat outside looking across the lake as he and his mate laid the table for us and brought us no end of delicious delicacies: more meat that we could possibly eat, fresh tomatoes, salad, local cheeses… it was quite the spread! We enjoyed a couple of drinks as we sat, enjoying the beautiful view.

When it was time to leave, we asked our new friend for the bill, only for him to look shocked at the audacity of our suggestion that we should pay for our food and drinks. “No!! You are my guest. Thank you for eating my food.” What?! We had never even considered the fact that we were being treated! We just thought they were kindly giving us the option to still be their customers, albeit with a set menu!

That was the most extreme act of kindness during our visit, but there were so many other smaller ones along the way. It’s a reminder never to listen to the people who have never visited a location!  

7. Affordable Prices

One of the most appealing aspects of travelling to Albania is its affordability compared to many other European destinations. You can enjoy a budget-friendly adventure without compromising on the quality of your experience. Accommodation ranges from charming, well-priced hostels to affordable boutique hotels, ensuring options for every type of traveller. We stayed in comfortable traditional hotels and paid no more than €45 a night (for two people!).

Dining out is also notably economical, with meals in local restaurants costing a fraction of the price found elsewhere in Europe. We paid no more than €10 each for our dinners and ate very well! We chose local restaurants serving local food.

Public transportation and domestic travel within the country are also meant to be budget-friendly. However, we opted to rent a car as it was super cheap! We only paid £70 for a week’s car hire , making it super affordable to explore Albania’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites without straining our wallet.

Can you think of any other European capital that offers such good value for money? Surely that alone makes Tirana worth visiting!

8. Cultural Diversity

Albania is a fascinating mosaic of cultural diversity, shaped by a rich history of varied influences. As a crossroads between East and West, the country has absorbed elements from a multitude of civilisations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Greeks. This confluence of cultures is beautifully reflected in its architecture, music, art, and festivals. Traditional Albanian music, for example, features a unique blend of styles and instruments, including the distinctive sounds of the “çifteli” and “lahuta,” which are often heard during festive occasions.

Visitors to Albania can also explore an array of religious heritage sites. The nation is home to beautiful churches and ornate mosques, symbolising centuries of coexistence among different faiths. Additionally, regional variations in customs and traditions enrich the Albanian cultural tapestry, from the vibrant costumes and dances of the southern regions to the distinctive culinary practices in the north. Together, these elements make Albania a captivating destination for those interested in experiencing a true melting pot of traditions and influences.

9. Walking Tours

In my opinion, the best way to explore Tirana is on foot! There are a number of tours available. If you are looking for a free walking tour of Tirana, then I’d recommend checking out GuruWalk . I’ve used them all over the world. The idea with free walking tours is that you pay however much you feel it is worth, as there is no set price.

I love joining walking tours. I also love exploring cities on my own, but when I explore on my own, I don’t really gain a deeper understanding of a destination. Exploring solo might mean I meet locals and see “real life,” but I don’t know what I’m looking at. Exploring a city on a walking tour is like getting swept into a story as the guides bring buildings and statues alive with funny anecdotes and some historical truths!

10. Bike Tours

If you don’t like walking, you could always join a bike tour , which gives you the chance to cover a greater area with minimal effort. Of course, every tour starts in Skanderbeg Square. You would also visit the Clock Tower (the tallest building until 1970), Bunk’Art 2, Enver Hoxha’s Pyramid, and Mother Teresa’s Square. The highlight of the tour is exploring the serene park of Parku i Madh (the Grand Park) before stopping for coffee at Ily Coffee.

As I mentioned, walking tours are often less about what you see and more about what you learn. Exploring a city with a local gives you insights you will never discover when exploring on your own! Plus, it has the added benefit of giving back to the local community!

11. Creative Arts Scene

The creative arts scene in Tirana is a vibrant and dynamic aspect of the city, offering a rich blend of contemporary and traditional artistic expressions. As Albania’s capital, Tirana boasts numerous art galleries that showcase the work of both established and emerging Albanian artists. The National Gallery of Arts is a must-visit, housing an extensive collection of visual arts, from classical pieces to modern installations.

In addition to gallery spaces, Tirana’s streets are adorned with captivating street art, with eye-catching murals and graffiti that add colour and life to the urban landscape. The city’s commitment to the arts is further highlighted by initiatives such as the annual Tirana Design Week and various temporary exhibitions that celebrate creative talents across different mediums. Exploring the creative arts scene in Tirana offers visitors an insightful glimpse into the country’s evolving cultural identity and provides a platform for artistic dialogues and discoveries.

12. Fun Street Markets

When exploring the fun street markets in Tirana, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and experience shopping like a true Tirana native. One of the most popular destinations is the Pazari i Ri, or New Bazaar, which is a bustling hub of activity and vibrant colours. Here, vendors sell an array of fresh produce, from ripe fruits and vegetables to regional delicacies like honey and olives. The market also features a variety of traditional Albanian crafts and handmade goods, making it an excellent place to pick up souvenirs. A stroll through this lively bazaar offers more than just shopping; it’s an opportunity to engage with friendly locals and better understand the rhythms of everyday life in Tirana.

Another noteworthy spot is the Zdrale neighbourhood market, known for its eclectic mix of products, ranging from vintage clothing to second-hand books. It provides a treasure trove for bargain hunters and collectors alike. These markets not only showcase Tirana’s rich culinary traditions and artisanal skills but also reflect the city’s diversity and community spirit.

13. Natural Beauty

Tirana’s geographical position offers incredible access to the natural beauty of both mountains and beaches, showcasing Albania’s diverse landscape. Nestled just a short drive from the city, the Dajti Mountain National Park provides an idyllic escape into nature, featuring lush greenery, hiking trails, and panoramic views over Tirana. The park is easily reachable and promises a refreshing retreat from the urban pace, allowing visitors to explore its flora and fauna or simply relax in its serene surroundings.

Meanwhile, the stunning Adriatic coastline is also within convenient reach, with beautiful sandy beaches that are perfect for sunbathing or enjoying the clear blue waters. The seaside towns, such as Durrës, offer picturesque beaches, a touch of history, and charming local culture. This unique proximity to both mountainous and coastal environments makes Tirana an exceptional base for nature lovers seeking varied outdoor adventures and is another reason why Tirana is worth visiting!

There are so many day trips available from Tirana, which makes it easy to explore the nearby area. I arranged a couple of tours with Albania My Tours , who were great!

14. Join a Food Tour

One of the tours we did with Albania My Tours was a Food Tour, and it was great! It is no secret that I love food, and I always recommend people join a food tour when they first arrive in a city or a country. It is one of the best ways to get a deeper understanding of the culture while trying food you otherwise might not think to try!

The tour we did with Andi was great. It was the right mix of culture and food. We were full but weren’t waddling, and he was such an interesting person to speak to. I particularly liked questioning him about corruption, after all, we all know Albania for its high levels of corruption.

Andi explained that it was a necessity of life to get around the red tape. If you wanted to do business, the only way to do it was to grease some hands; otherwise, you’d never get started. Want a driving license? Just pay to get it, and don’t bother learning how to drive (it explains a lot!!). Want a degree? Just buy one!

Although corruption still exists, it appears to be mainly reserved for politicians nowadays and does not impact the daily lives of locals as much anymore. Andi told us that some preferred the old ways as it was easier to get things done!

I really enjoyed our tour with Andi. It was more of a conversation, so we were able to ask lots of questions about all sorts. And of course, we ate lots of yummy food… and some “interesting” stuff too!  

We started off at a tiny little hole-in-the-wall joint. All the tables, bar one, were occupied by labourers enjoying the mourning soup. This very humble place is open 24 hours a day and gets particularly busy at night as a stop-off for drunks wanting to sober up. They only serve six dishes, and we were there for their sheep’s head soup. The taste was good, but the lumps of fat floating in the broth, not so much!

Our second stop was coffee. Tirana has a huge coffee scene ,with little independent coffee shops dotted in every corner. Similar to other Mediterranean countries, the little metal tables and chairs are set out on the pavement. It’s a great way to enjoy a brew al fresco while watching the world go by.

Our third food stop was a bakery, where we had a strange ice cream float. The liquid was a corn-based drink, which, if you ask me, is an unreasonable way to ruin otherwise good ice cream.

Our final food stop was a trendy bar. The walls were fully covered in rock memorabilia. We were the only tourists in there; everyone else was an office worker on their lunch break. The food was great (we had a mezze-style selection of meats, vegetables, and dips).

Cooking class

We didn’t have time for a cooking class, but it is another activity I love to do when I’m in a new country. If this sounds like your cup of tea then check out this cooking class in Tirana.

15. UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Albania boasts a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that make fascinating day trips from Tirana and offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. One such site is the ancient city of Butrint, located in the south of Albania. This archaeological site features remarkable ruins dating back to the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. Walking through Butrint is like travelling through time, with its impressive amphitheatre, grand basilica, and stunning mosaic floors.

Another notable UNESCO site is the Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra. Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” is renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and its picturesque setting on the Osum River. Gjirokastra, often called the “City of Stone,” also offers well-preserved buildings and an imposing castle that dominates the landscape. These sites provide a rich tapestry of Albania’s past and are easily accessible from Tirana, making them perfect for those wanting to delve deeper into the country’s unique historical and cultural legacy.

16. The Best Ice Cream EVER

I am not exaggerating. While in Tirana, I had the best ice cream I have ever had. It was so good that we went back for another one every day we were in the city!

We stumbled upon Cioccolatitaliani by mistake. I call it fate! They say you are always in the right place at the right time, and there was definitely a reason why we felt compelled to walk up that street!

The cone was filled with liquid hot chocolate, topped with two (OK, maybe I was greedy and had three!) scoops of ice cream, a squirt of Nutella-like chocolate, and a waffle biscuit. I realise that the way I describe it does not do it justice. You are just going to have to trust me on this one—it is worth going out of your way to eat Cioccolatitaliani ice cream!   

17. Tirana International Film Festival

The Tirana International Film Festival (TIFF) is one of the most prestigious cultural events held annually in Albania’s vibrant capital. As an important platform for filmmakers from across the globe, TIFF is dedicated to showcasing a wide range of films, from independent and experimental to mainstream cinema.

TIFF not only provides a stage for emerging talents but also highlights Tirana’s rich cultural diversity, drawing international attention and fostering a deeper appreciation for film as a universal language. The festival’s varied programme includes feature films, documentaries, short films, and animations, making it a dynamic and multifaceted event that holds a special place in Tirana’s cultural calendar.

18. Coffee Culture

Albania is becoming increasingly renowned for its coffee culture, with Tirana being at the heart of this thriving trend. The city boasts a plethora of cafés, each offering unique experiences, ranging from the traditional and cosy to the chic and contemporary. Coffee is more than just a beverage here; it’s a lifestyle and a social activity. Locals often gather at cafes to chat, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a moment of tranquillity in their busy day.

The quality of coffee is exceptional, made from carefully selected beans that are expertly roasted and brewed to perfection. European coffee culture’s influence has permeated through Albania, creating a delightful fusion that leaves visitors and residents savouring every sip. Exploring Tirana’s vibrant café scene is an unmissable experience for coffee aficionados, promising some of the finest brews in Europe.

19. Unique Architecture

Tirana’s unique architecture is a testimony to its rich and complex history, reflecting a blend of different styles that narrate the city’s development through various eras. Walking through the city, one can observe the contrasting influences ranging from Ottoman, Fascist, and Communist to more contemporary design elements. The iconic Et’hem Bey Mosque and the elegant Toptani Shopping Centre illustrate the seamless integration of historical and modern influences. The Pyramid of Tirana stands as a striking example of communist-era architecture, now a contested space in terms of its future role.

Meanwhile, colourful painted facades, a result of the early 2000s beautification project, add a vibrant touch to the urban landscape. This eclectic mix demonstrates how Tirana has transformed over the decades, embracing change while preserving aspects of its past and creating a distinctive architectural narrative that contributes to its dynamic character.

My favourite building was the “pop-out” building which we learned was the map of Albania!

20. Because It is Still Off-The-Beaten-Path

Tirana offers a unique allure to those seeking something beyond typical European tourist hotspots. This enchanting city provides an authentic experience where visitors can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle and explore cultural gems without the crowds. The streets and markets are bustling with local vendors offering handmade crafts, traditional foods, and vibrant textiles, providing an insight into the daily lives of its residents.

Unlike more well-trodden destinations, Tirana invites exploration with a sense of discovery and adventure. From charming neighbourhoods and local eateries to hidden courtyards and quiet parks, every corner holds a story waiting to be uncovered. As a relatively lesser-known spot, Tirana allows travellers to connect more deeply with its history, people, and culture while enjoying the city’s genuine hospitality.

Essential Things to Know Before You Visit Tirana

Before packing your bags, here are some essential travel tips:

• The local currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL).
• It is really expensive to withdraw money from ATMs, so try to take out all you need in a single transaction.
• Most restaurants accept cards in Tirana, but you will need cash if you are leaving the city.
• English is widely understood in tourist areas, but learning some of the local language is always polite. It will transform your interaction with locals.
• Albania uses F-type plugs, which have the two round pins that are the norm in the rest of Europe (apart from the UK, because we like to be awkward!).
• I would never travel without travel insurance. It isn’t there for when things go well, it is there for when things don’t go to plan!

Honest Pros and Cons of Tirana

• Friendly locals eager to share their culture
• Affordable accommodation and dining options
• Rich cultural history
• Felt safe at all times
• Easy to walk everywhere
• No mass tourism (yet!)
• Limited public transport options – but very cheap hire cars! If you are thinking of exploring beyond Tirana I’d recommend checking Rentalcars.com for the best offers on car hire.
• Driving standards are bad – want to know how bad? Read my blog !
• Everyone smokes! And I mean everyone! It’s the only thing I didn’t like about Tirana.

Best Time to Visit Tirana

The best time to visit Tirana largely depends on your personal preferences, but generally, the months of April to June and September to October are considered ideal. The weather is pleasantly warm during these periods, making it perfect for exploring the city’s many attractions and outdoor spaces without the intense summer heat or the cold winter chill. These months also coincide with fewer tourist crowds, offering a more relaxed and authentic experience of the city.

Springtime brings vibrant blossoms, enhancing Tirana’s picturesque parks and avenues, while the autumn months offer stunning foliage and a mild climate. Events and festivals, such as the Tirana Film Festival and various cultural exhibitions, also take place during these times, providing engaging opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture.

Is Tirana Safe?

I felt safe in Tirana and would not hesitate to travel there as a solo female traveller. On this ocasion I visited with a friend and we experienced nothing but kindness. We walked everywhere and we walked back to our hotel at night without any concerns.

However, like in any city, it is important to exercise caution. Opportunistic theft can happen anywhere, normally in the form of pickpockets and bag snatchers, so make sure to keep an eye on your belongings.

I always recommend checking your local government website for up-to-date information on your destination of choice. I normally call them the “doomsayers” as they highlight every potential eventuality, but they are also the most up-to-date when it comes to political unrest or similar threats.

For a change, the UK government website has very few concerns when it comes to Albania!  

Where to Stay in Tirana

To best enjoy the city, I recommend staying in the centre, where all the highlights are within easy walking distance. The choices are limitless depending on your budget and the type of accommodation you like.

We stayed at Hotel Villa 15 , right in the heart of the city, next to the old Tanners Bridge. It was comfortable, had a good shower, a quirky doorman, and strong Wi-Fi. What more can you ask for? It was a little haven of peace in the centre of the bustling city. It always amazes me just how much sound a garden absorbs!

The choices on Booking.com are endless! If you want to treat yourself to 5* luxury, Tirana is the place to do it. A stay at the Xheko Imperial Luxury Hotel and Spa will only set you back £150 a night! That alone must make Tirana worth visiting! 

Day Trips from Tirana

There is no doubt that Tirana is worth visiting, but so is the rest of Albania! I was in Albania for seven days, and it was nowhere near long enough! There was so much more I wanted to do! Here are some of the best day trips you can take from Tirana.

Krujë, a captivating town nestled in the north of Albania, is steeped in history and culture. Known primarily for its medieval bazaar and imposing castle, Krujë offers a glimpse into the nation’s rich past. The Krujë Castle, perched on a high hilltop, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and holds deep historical significance as the stronghold of  Skanderbeg, during the resistance against the Ottoman Empire. Within the castle’s walls, the Ethnographic Museum and the Skanderbeg Museum are must-visit attractions, offering insights into traditional Albanian life and the legend of Skanderbeg.

The medieval bazaar at the castle’s foot is a vibrant marketplace. Cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops invite you to discover handcrafted goods, from traditional textiles to intricate silverwork. You will feel like you have been transported back in time, captivated by its historic architecture and the enduring spirit of Albanian heritage.

The are a number of day tours from Tirana that include the castle the bazaar and plenty of stories about dragons!

A day trip to Berat, often called the “City of a Thousand and one Windows,” promises an enriching journey into Albania’s history and architecture. Nestled on the banks of the Osum River, Berat is renowned for its unique Ottoman-style houses, which seem to ascend the hill in tiers, each boasting large windows that have earned the city its nickname. However, “The City of a Thousand and One Windows” is actually a mistranslation! The correct translation would be “one over one”, as when you look at the city, it looks like the windows are all on top of each other.

We visited Berat with Albania My Tour and had the most enthusiastic guide I think I’ve ever come across. Hebert was great, although I would have preferred a slightly less “factual” tour and a few more stories. But I can’t fault Hebert’s personality, and he did take us to the best restaurant for lunch! He convinced us to book one of the restaurants inside the castle. I never would normally have opted for such a place as I would have assumed it would be touristy and overpriced. As it happened, the food was delicious, the views across the tiled rooftops were lovely, and the price was very reasonable for what turned out to be a feast!

Berat Castle

Talking of the castle. It is definitely worth visiting. It’s huge. It’s more of a fortress, really, with a village inside the walls. Three hundred people still live within the castle’s confines; however, in its heyday day, over 1500 called it home. The narrow cobblestone streets weave through the hilly landscape like a labyrinth. Perched high on the hill overlooking the town of Berat, it was a very hard castle to capture. It had 24 towers and 42 churches! Only 12 of the churches now remain, and sadly, many of the 14th and 16th paintings have been ruined due to the communist party turning them into storage.

Although now under the protection of UNESCO, I’m not sure the next stage of destruction isn’t going to happen at the hands of tourists. Eight hundred thousand visited the castle last year. I can imagine that in a few years, it will be a maze of souvenir shops. There are also no restrictions in place so people can walk everywhere and touch everything. It won’t be long until it is destroyed, which would be a real shame as it is a lovely gem!

Inside the castle walls, the Onufri National Museum offers a striking collection of icons and religious art.

Back in town, explore the historic Mangalem Quarter, where narrow cobbled streets lead to age-old homes and small, welcoming cafes. Don’t miss a visit to the stunning Gorica Bridge, one of the oldest in Albania, which connects the two sides of the city and offers a picturesque view.

Get a guide!

Personally, I would opt to explore Berat with a guide. You will of course enjoy it if you visit on your own, as it is beautiful. But there is so much more to be unearthed by visiting with a good guide. Here are some of the best-reviewed trips on Viator and GetYourGuide .

Gjirokastra

A day trip to Gjirokastra from Tirana offers an exploration of a city steeped in history and charm. Famously known as the “Stone City” for its distinctive slate-roofed buildings, Gjirokastra Fortress is an impressive structure dominating the city’s skyline. Within its walls, you can explore the fascinating National Museum of Armaments, which sheds light on Albania’s military history.

As you wander through the cobbled streets, take time to marvel at the well-preserved Ottoman-era houses, particularly the Zekate House and Skenduli House. These houses showcase traditional Albanian architecture and provide insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Be sure to visit the Ethnographic Museum, housed in the former residence of dictator Enver Hoxha, which contains intriguing exhibits depicting local traditions and way of life.

As the day concludes, enjoy a meal at one of Gjirokastra’s local taverns, sampling regional dishes like qifqi and kukurec, to truly savour the unique flavours of southern Albania. Whether you’re drawn by history, architecture, or gastronomy, Gjirokastra promises a memorable adventure filled with captivating discoveries.

A day trip to Shkodra , often considered the cultural capital of northern Albania, provides an enriching journey into a city where history and art intertwine seamlessly. Start your exploration with the magnificent Rozafa Castle, perched on a strategic hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the confluence of three rivers. Delve into storied legends and myths as you wander through the castle ruins.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Marubi National Museum of Photography. This museum showcases an extensive collection of photographs illustrating over 150 years of Albanian history and culture through the lens of the renowned Marubi family. As you stroll down the quaint pedestrian street of Shkodra, consider stopping by one of the city’s many bustling cafes to enjoy a traditional Albanian coffee experience.

Don’t forget to visit the legendary Lead Mosque, an architectural landmark from the Ottoman era, with its distinctive dome and minarets. As your day comes to an end, indulge in the local gastronomy at a traditional inn, savouring dishes such as tavë krapi and fëgesë—a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.

We used Shkodra as our base for exploring Northern Albania, Theth, and the mountainous region. Although it is possible to enjoy Shkodra as a day trip from Tirana, I would recommend spending a little longer there and exploring more of Northern Albania, which incidentally, was my favourite region!

North Macedonia

A day trip to North Macedonia , just a short journey from Albania, opens up a world of fascinating cultural and natural experiences. Start your exploration in Skopje, the vibrant capital known for its mix of old and new architecture. Wander through the Old Bazaar, one of the largest in the Balkans, offering a rich tapestry of history, commerce, and diverse cultures. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the iconic Stone Bridge, a symbol of the city that beautifully links the past with the present.

Head to the Matka Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonder, where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, or simply unwinding in a serene environment surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the ancient town of Ohrid is essential. Known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans,” Ohrid boasts a wealth of historic churches, monasteries, and the impressive Ohrid Fortress, providing stunning views of the glistening lake below.

Conclude your day by sampling local delicacies such as ajvar and tavče gravče, perfectly capturing the essence of Macedonian cuisine.

This cross-border adventure not only offers a taste of North Macedonia’s rich heritage and natural beauty but also highlights the deep cultural interconnections within the Balkans.

I know many people love “ticking countries off” and this day trip provides you with that opportunity. But North Macedonia has so much to offer that it isn’t worth rushing it. Why not make it a long weekend instead?

How to Get to Tirana

Tirana International Airport is the main gateway, with direct flights from several European cities. If you book in advance, you can get flights from London to Tirana with Ryanair for as little as £19.99! Those prices are certainly not doing much to reduce air travel and improve sustainable tourism, but I would lie if I didn’t admit to taking advantage of them!  

From the airport you can opt to take a taxi, the local bus or if you want a hassle free experience, book a transfer in advance !

Alternatively, several international bus services connect Tirana to major cities in neighbouring countries such as Greece, Montenegro, Kosovo, and North Macedonia. Buses are generally well-maintained and offer comfortable seating, making long-distance travel more pleasant. The main bus terminal in Tirana, located at the city centre, serves as a hub for numerous regional routes, making it convenient for travellers to reach their destination.

Alternatively, train travel to Tirana provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the Balkans. Although Albania’s train network is not as extensive or modernised as in some neighbouring countries, it’s an affordable way to witness the charm of the countryside. Trains typically connect Tirana with major cities such as Durrës and Shkodër, with limited international connections, often requiring changes at border-crossing stations. Nonetheless, this method of travel adds a touch of adventure to your journey to Tirana.

How Many Days Should You Stay in Tirana?

We spent three days in Tirana, and that was perfect. Although I mention day trips in this post, I would recommend doing a road trip through the rest of Albania and staying a little longer in each place. This would also mean that you would have three full days to truly immerse yourself in the culture of Tirana while having enough time to explore all the reasons why I think Tirana is worth visiting!

Where to Eat in Tirana

The culinary scene in Tirana is a vibrant fusion of traditional Albanian flavours and international influences, reflecting the city’s growing cosmopolitan nature. Traditional dishes like byrek, a savoury pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, and fërgesë, a hearty stew made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, are staples in many local restaurants. The city’s central market and numerous eateries also highlight locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and authenticity in each dish.

In recent years, new restaurants and cafes have introduced diverse cuisines, ranging from Italian to Middle Eastern, creating a dynamic dining landscape. Additionally, the burgeoning food scene has embraced the concept of farm-to-table, artisan bakeries, and ethically sourced coffees, making Tirana a delightful destination for food enthusiasts eager to explore both traditional and contemporary culinary delights.

These are the restaurants we most enjoyed eating at while in Tirana.

Oda Restaurant

Oda Restaurant in Tirana stands out as a quintessential destination for those seeking an authentic Albanian dining experience. Nestled in a traditional house, Oda offers a genuine atmosphere that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The restaurant is famed for its classic Albanian dishes, lovingly prepared using recipes passed down through generations. Menu highlights include “tavë kosi,” a savoury lamb and yoghurt dish, and “byrek,” a flaky pastry filled with various ingredients like cheese and spinach.

Guests are transported back in time as they dine amidst the rustic decor, characterised by wooden interiors and traditional textiles. Oda’s commitment to preserving Albanian culinary traditions makes it an essential stop for visitors looking to experience the warmth and flavours of Albanian hospitality.

Mrizi Zanave Tirane

I’ve already mentioned Mrizi Zanave Tirane above. It offers the perfect blend of locally sourced ingredients, traditional Albanian dishes and local hospitality. The waiters were brilliant and helped us choose some truly spectacular dishes, the highlight of which was the blueberry pasta!

For a modern twist, you may wish to add Mullixhiu to your list. Mullixhiu in Tirana offers an enticing dining experience that bridges the past and present of Albanian gastronomy. Helmed by Chef Bledar Kola, the restaurant is renowned for its commitment to using locally sourced and organic ingredients, often collaborating with local farmers and producers.

The menu at Mullixhiu showcases a modern reinterpretation of classic Albanian cuisine, blending traditional techniques with contemporary flair. Signature dishes often feature seasonal produce, artisanal cheese, and heirloom grains, celebrating Albania’s rich agricultural heritage. The interior exudes a rustic charm, with its warm wooden accents and welcoming ambience, ensuring guests experience a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Dining at Mullixhiu is a memorable journey for the palate, promising an authentic taste of Albania’s evolving culinary landscape.

Cioccolatinitaliani

The BEST ice cream I have ever had. Need I say any more?

Cioccolatitaliana in Tirana offers a delightful experience for chocolate lovers, seamlessly blending Italian craftsmanship with Albanian hospitality. This quaint café is renowned for its high-quality chocolates, desserts, and gelato, all crafted using traditional Italian techniques and premium ingredients. You can indulge in a wide range of treats, from rich, velvety hot chocolates to decadent cakes and pastries. But why would you bother with any of those when it has the best ice cream ever?

The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon break or a sweet treat after exploring the city’s sights. In addition to its extensive dessert menu, Cioccolatitaliana showcases a selection of artisanal coffee blends, making it a must-visit destination for those wanting to savour a taste of Italy in the heart of Tirana.

How to Get Around Tirana

Tirana is compact, which makes it really easy to get around on foot. We walked everywhere, which is good seeing as we ate a daily ice cream from Cioccolatinitaliani!

Public transportation is both affordable and reliable, with buses and minibuses serving various parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver or at designated kiosks. If you prefer more flexibility, taxis are widely available and reasonably priced. Ride-sharing apps like Uber do not operate in Tirana, but there are local apps that provide similar services: Speed Taxi app, Ups Taxi App or Taxi.al Taxi app.

Rentable bicycles and e-scooters are becoming increasingly popular, providing a more environmentally friendly way to explore the city’s attractions.

If you plan exploring beyond Tirana then I highly recommend renting a car. Please note that driving standard aren’t the best. Before you set off on your own I recommend you read my guide to driving in Albania . If you are a confident driver though, having your own car is not only very affordable but will give you a great degree of flexibility. I always use DiscoverCars.com to book my hire cars as they always manage to find me brilliant deals. On this occasion we only paid £70 for a week’s hire!

My final thoughts on whether Tirana is worth visiting

YES!! Hopefully, you have heard it loud and clear here. Tirana is an awesome city. It might be a little rough around the edges, but it is full of soul and kind, friendly people. There is plenty to do, and you can easily spend 2-3 days here without getting bored. But don’t just come to Tirana; rent a car and explore the rest of Albania too. I promise it will not disappoint!

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