Albania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 January: New Year's Day

14 March: Summer Festival

22 March :Nevruz Day

Easter (moveable)

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (Islamic high holidays)

5 September: Mother Teresa Day

22 November: Alphabet Day

28 November: Independence Day

29 November: Liberation Day

8 December: Youth Day

25 December: Christmas

Albania National Tourism Agency

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

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, nationals of the following countries and territories can enter Albania without a visa:

Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Australia*, Austria*, Azerbaijan, Belgium *, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria*, Canada*, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus*, Czech Republic*, Denmark*, Estonia*, Finland*, France*, Germany*, Greece*, Holy See, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary*, Ireland*, Iceland*, Israel, Italy*, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Latvia*, Liechtenstein, Lithuania*, Luxembourg*, Malaysia, Malta*, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands*, New Zealand*, North Macedonia, Norway*, Poland*, Portugal*, Romania*, San Marino*, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia*, Slovenia*, South Korea, Spain*, Sweden*, Switzerland*, Taiwan (Republic of China), Turkey, United Kingdom, United States* and Ukraine.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can reach Tirana by coach from

Istanbul, Turkey – 20 hr, €35 one-way

Athens, Greece – 12 hr, €30-35

Tetovo, North Macedonia – 7 hr, €15

Prishtina, Kosovo – 4½ hr, €10

Sofia, Bulgaria – 12 hr, €35

Germany – 22-26 hr, €80-120

Italy - 14-30 hours, €75-110

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

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

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

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

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

Deva Tours (☏ +355 673835770, ☏ +383 44128770 (Kosovo)) has buses every 2–3 days or so, and costs €90 between Munich and Tirana. The buses are actually to and from Northrhine-Westphalia.

Zagoria Travel (☏ +355 674542627, (☏ +355 699386358) also has buses every 2–3 days or so, and costs €80 between Munich and Tirana. Likewise, buses are actually to and from Northrhine-Westphalia.

Ferries to Durrës arrive from Bari (9 hr, daily, €50), Ancona (19 hr, triweekly, €70) and Trieste (14 hr, weekly, only during high season). Full price information

A high-speed service operates from Bari (3 hr, €60).[1]

There is also a reliable overnight ferry service operated by European Seaways from Brindisi to Vlore.

Ferries from Corfu to Saranda every day.[2]

Ferry between Brindisi and Shengjin by A-Ships operating year round.

1 Orikum Marina. Private boats can be anchored at Albania's only marina in Orikum, south of Vlorë. (updated Oct 2021)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buses and furgons (minibuses) are the most reliable ways to travel around Albania. While the network is generally well-regulated and follows a fixed timetable, navigating the stations can be confusing. You will find numerous companies competing for business; however, many of these are merely ticket agents for the same service, which is often operated by an independent driver.

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

Since August 2024, Google Maps has most intercity bus connections and times available and can be used for quite reliable trip planning. Also, you can use the trip planner of the official website. However, don't rely on the very last bus to go anywhere especially for destinations further away like Saranda. Bus cancellations are not unheard off. In the shoulder seasons there appear to be significantly fewer daily buses to some locations than the official website lists. However, if you click on the provider name on any given route, it will often give you a contact number for the driver or company through which you can contact them directly over WhatsApp or phone; they are usually quite helpful and with the furgons will even let you know if there are pickup points closer to you. Before, a good website to find the latest bus times, even for cross border transport, was gjirafa.com. Prices are indicative and each bus driver should have a proper stack of tickets with him where you can identify the right price. Note that city names of other countries might be spelled differently in Albanian when searching. So, not finding a city does not mean that there is no connection.

All passenger trains seem to have been suspended since COVID and due to budget issues. In any case the rail network is limited, carriages dilapidated, and services very slow.

The roads between the important destinations have been repaved and fixed, and offer most of the security measures one would expect on a highway. However be aware that some highways are not fully completed, and contain uncontrolled entry-exit points. There are no fees for using the highways - with the exception of the Rruga e Kombit highway (A1) which has a toll point near Tirana International Airport, and one near Morinë, the border with Kosovo.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rental cars are available at Tirana International Airport (Rinas) from both international chains and local platforms such as RidePrise. Local operators typically charge a small online deposit (around 10% of the total) with the remainder paid at pickup, while international chains require a full credit card hold of €1,000–1,500.

A practical warning: some rental contracts in Albania include a GPS road-restriction clause that fines drivers €300–500 for driving on unpaved roads. If you plan to visit northern destinations such as Theth or Valbonë, confirm in writing before signing that your intended roads are permitted under the contract.

For northern Albania and mountain routes, an SUV or 4×4 is essential — the final 15–20 km to Theth is steep, rocky, and unpaved. Economy cars risk undercarriage damage on these tracks.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Like anywhere, exercise normal caution and don't hitchhike at night or in the 'wrong part of town'.

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

Taxis are plentiful throughout Albania. In addition to official services, you will encounter unlicensed (unofficial) taxis. These can be a cost-effective way to travel at night or for long-distance trips, such as journeys to and from the airport or even from Shkodër. However, caution is essential when using them.

Advice for using unlicensed taxis - If you choose to use an unofficial taxi, particularly at night or for remote destinations, please keep the following safety tips in mind to avoid being overcharged:

Agree on the fare upfront: Explicitly confirm the total price before getting into the vehicle. Ensure you specify that the rate is per person rather than for the whole group.

Pay only upon arrival: Never pay for the journey in advance.

Carry exact change: To avoid disputes, have the correct amount of cash ready. Never hand over a large note with the expectation that the driver will provide the correct change later.

Hold your ground on the price: It is common for some drivers to claim the price has increased mid-journey or to "forget" the original agreement. Do not be intimidated by these tactics; stick to the price you initially negotiated.

Involve others if necessary: If a disagreement escalates, seek assistance from nearby locals. However, avoid asking other taxi drivers for help, as they may side with their colleague.

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

Half of the coastline stretching to the north of Vlore and up to the Montenegrin border (at the Buna River delta) is washed by Adriatic Sea. It contains fine-grained sandy beaches, sloping gently into the water, which makes them ideal for families with children. But the water is murky green and not suited for snorkeling. There are almost no algae or jellyfish near the coast. Due to the shallow depth, the water warms up well, so the beach season in local resorts starts early, in the first weeks of May.

While the Albanian Riviera stretching south of Vlore washed by Ionian sea up to the Albanian-Greek border with Stillo Cape. It is made up of rocky beaches and steep sea bottom, but the water is crystal clear and has turquoise color.

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

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

Meanwhile many official hiking trails exist in Albania. The most popular region for hiking is Thethi with many accommodation options, but you can also find excellent trails around 10 Peshkopi (Mount Korab), Përmet (Zagoria Valley), Dhërmi (Lloraga National Park), and 11 Golem (Golem Pass). For reliable maps, GPS navigation, comprehensive trails and map information, consult OpenStreetMap, also used by this travel guide and by many mobile Apps like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz. Or just download the according GPX or KML files through Waymarked Trails for such trails on OpenStreetMap. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID to download the GPX or KML files through the same link.)

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

The spa towns Llixhat and Tregan near Elbasan with numerous spa hotels.

The thermal river pools of Benjë near Përmet.

The thermal baths of Kozani-8 well south of Tirana.

The spa facilities in Peshkopi.

The many natural hot springs all around the country like Holta, Postenan and Sarandoporo (also interesting nature destination) as well as Shupali and Mamurras (less popular/known).

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

A great read on the topic, if you want to discover more, is the Chapter "Thermal and Mineral Waters of Albania" by Romeo Eftimi and Alfred Frashëri (ISBN: 978-99943-2-346-3) in the book "Mineral and Thermal Waters of Southeastern Europe". You can read the summary here [3].

The national currency is the lek (plural lekë, symbol L, ISO code: ALL). During the communist regime, the government redenominated the old lek into the new lek at a ratio of 1 to 10 (replaced previous Lek banknotes with new ones, 1,000 old lek became 100 new lek). According to a 2021 survey, despite the change taking place in 1965, the majority (80%) of citizens still use the logic of “old lek” in their language and when doing business, leading to a great confusion for both locals and tourists. For instance, for "200 lek" they would say dy mijë lek, literally meaning 2000 lek — the word 'mijë' is similar to the Latin 'mil'. The survey also revealed that almost 30% of financial institutions workers use the term, and 40% of public administration. Nevertheless, most prices are displayed in "new lek" nowadays.

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

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

Decline any offer of dynamic currency conversion (DCC), unless you cannot, or you can verify that the conversion is indeed in your favour – it rarely is. It is often off the market rate by 7% or more, whereas your bank's rate is typically only off 1–3%. While your bank may also charge a fixed fee for its conversion, the exchange rate dominates in typical withdrawals.

All ATMs in Albania charge a withdrawal fee. The fee charged can vary depending on your card type, where your bank is and sometimes even the specific ATM you're using. Check fees when using an ATM you haven't used before, or the same ATM with a different card.

All ATMs in Albania charge a withdrawal fee for lek withdrawals of at least 500 lek.

Check this table to help find a favourable ATM nearby:

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases, especially at supermarket chains. However, many smaller shops and stalls accept cash only. You may find that the acceptance of cards is quite "random": some restaurants in a chain may accept cards while others do not. Many coffee shops and restaurants even in the most central areas of Tirana do not accept cards, and even if cards are accepted in a store and it has Visa/MasterCard signs, they might not accept them at certain hours or if their payments processor is out of service. It is therefore wise to always have cash on hand.

Exchanging money in Albania is quite easy and competitive, especially in Tirana. Most exchange places in Tirana will give rates for euros, US dollars or pounds that are comparable to major banks. All major currencies are accepted, although Bosnian convertible mark is seldom accepted.

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

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

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

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

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

If you have worn-out shoes or ripped clothes, or even if your backpack is falling apart, such things can be repaired very cheaply in Albania. For example, fixing a hole in a shoe can cost 200-300 lek.

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

Tasqebap – A traditional Albanian stew made of lamb fricassee, tomatoes and onions. Some sort of hearty stew is generally included in Albanian dinners. These stews are easy to make, and flexible with ingredients, like potatoes, onion, rice, etc., so there are vegetarian versions of the dish (without lamb).

Paçe Koke – A stew made from the head (kokë) of a lamb or a goat.

Paçe këmbe - is a traditional Albanian dish that is especially popular in rural regions and is often served during festive occasions or as a hearty comfort food. The name "paçe" refers to a stew made from the head and feet of a lamb, and "këmbë" means "feet" in Albanian, specifically lamb’s feet, which are the main ingredients in this flavorful and filling dish.

Paçe Plënci – Same as before but made from intestines. However, the smell of cooking it can be off-putting.

Fërgesë – Baked cheese, vegetables and eggs; originating from the capital of Albania, Tirana.

Tavë dheu – Fërgesë with the addition of liver. Sometimes referred to as Fërgesë me melçi.

(Mish) Tavë kosi – A baked dish of lamb and rice, together with a yogurt sauce. It is sometimes referred to as a national dish in Albania. Similarly, further such baked dishes exist; like Burani me Spinaq dhe Mish or just Mish Burani Spinaq with meat and spinach.

Mish me bizele – Peas and meat stew.

Mish me bamje – Okra and meat, made in the late summer and fall when Ocra is harvested. Vegetarians can instead enjoy Bamje pa Mish.

Byrek is a beloved and versatile dish in Albania, known for its flaky, golden crust and savory filling. It can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish and is a staple of Albanian cuisine. Byrek is made by layering thin sheets of dough and filling them with a variety of ingredients. The fillings vary depending on the region, season, and local preferences. Here are some of the most popular types of byrek you can find in Albania:

Byrek me Spinaq (Spinach Pie) One of the most common and beloved types of byrek in Albania, byrek me spinaq is made with spinach as the main filling, often combined with cheese, particularly feta or ricotta. The spinach gives the pie a fresh, slightly earthy taste, balanced by the creamy cheese. It is commonly served as a light meal or appetizer.

Byrek me Mish (Meat Pie) Byrek me mish is a heartier version of byrek, filled with minced meat, usually beef or lamb, along with onions and spices. This type of byrek can also include vegetables like peppers or tomatoes. It’s a filling, savory dish that's popular for lunch or dinner and is often enjoyed with a side of yogurt or salad.

Byrek me Djathë (Cheese Pie) Cheese is a key ingredient in many types of Albanian byrek, and byrek me djathë is one of the most popular varieties. The filling consists of local cheeses such as feta or a soft cow’s cheese, providing a creamy, rich flavor. This type of byrek is simple yet satisfying, often eaten as a breakfast dish or snack.

Byrek me Patate (Potato Pie) Byrek me patate is a vegetarian version of the dish, filled with mashed or sliced potatoes. The potatoes are often seasoned with herbs like dill, parsley, or oregano, and sometimes combined with cheese or onions. This type of byrek is perfect for those seeking a meatless option and is commonly served as a side dish or snack.

Byrek me qepë me domate(Onion and tomatoes Pie) Byrek me qepë dhe domate is a flavorful variation of the traditional Albanian byrek, filled with a mixture of onions and tomatoes, often accompanied by herbs and seasonings. This savory pie is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, with the richness of the dough complementing the freshness of the vegetables.

Byrek me Mish Pule (Chicken Pie) A variation of the meat-filled byrek is byrek me mish pule, made with minced or shredded chicken, often combined with vegetables like carrots, onions, and sometimes peas. This version is particularly popular in rural areas and is enjoyed for its lighter, yet still savory, flavor.

Byrek me Ton (Tuna Pie) In coastal regions of Albania, especially near the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, byrek me ton is a favorite. The filling typically includes fish such as sardines/tuna or other local varieties, along with onions, herbs, and sometimes tomatoes. This fish-filled byrek brings the flavors of the sea to the table and is a unique regional variant.

Byrek me Kukurec (Intestine Pie) A more adventurous and regional variation, byrek me kukurec is filled with kukurec, a dish made from lamb intestines, often seasoned and grilled. While not for everyone, it is a traditional specialty in some rural areas and a delicacy for those who appreciate offal dishes.

Byrek me Qumësht (Milk Pie) Byrek me qumësht is a sweet version of the classic savory byrek. It is filled with a mixture of milk, sugar, and sometimes rice or semolina, creating a creamy and slightly sweet filling. This type of byrek is popular in some regions of Albania for breakfast or as a dessert.

Byrek me Gjizë (Cheese Pie) Byrek me gjizë is a beloved Albanian byrek filled with gjizë, a type of fresh, soft cheese commonly made from cow’s or sheep’s milk. The cheese has a mild, slightly tangy flavor and a creamy texture, making it the perfect filling for byrek.

The dish is prepared by layering thin sheets of dough with the cheese filling, often mixing the gjizë with herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor. It is then baked until golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a warm, cheesy interior. This byrek is popular as a light lunch, snack, or breakfast item and can be enjoyed hot or cold. It’s especially common in rural areas and is a favorite for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Byrek me Fasule (Bean Pie) Byrek me fasule is a vegetarian version of the traditional byrek, filled with fasule (beans), typically white or kidney beans. The beans are cooked and seasoned with garlic, onions, and olive oil, and sometimes combined with herbs like dill or parsley. The result is a rich and hearty filling that balances the crispy dough. This type of byrek is especially popular during fasting periods or as a wholesome, meatless meal. The combination of beans and dough makes it filling and nutritious, while the seasoning gives it a delicious flavor. Byrek me fasule is a comforting and satisfying dish often served with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.

Different regions of Albania have their own takes on byrek, influenced by local ingredients and traditions. For instance:

Tirana and Central Albania: You’ll find byrek with a variety of fillings, often including meat, spinach, and cheese.

Southern Albania: This region is known for its use of local cheeses and vegetables, making byrek me djathë and byrek me perime especially popular.

Coastal Areas: Fish and seafood variations, such as byrek me peshk, are more commonly found near the coast.

How to enjoy byrek

Byrek is a versatile dish that can be eaten any time of day, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s commonly enjoyed with a glass of yogurt, a side salad, or a refreshing drink. In some places, it’s even eaten as a snack on the go. Whether hot or cold, byrek offers a satisfying and delicious taste of Albanian culinary tradition.

Where to try

Byrek is available throughout Albania, from small bakeries to traditional restaurants and street food vendors. It’s especially popular in cities like Tirana, Elbasan, and Vlorë, as well as in rural areas where it’s often made fresh daily.

Qifqi – Served predominately around Gjirokastër, a vegetarian dish of fried rice balls.

Fli(ja) – A stack of layered hearty pancakes, brushed with cream and served together with sour cream. Also, a famous dish in Kosovo.

Shapkat – A traditional corn pie casserole originally from Gjirokastër, filled with feta cheese, dill, and spinach, but many variations exist.

Pastiçe – Like a quiche, spaghetti cooked in milk, butter and white cheese.

Imam Bajalldi – Baked eggplants with a mix of vegetables and sometimes cheese on top.

Japrak – Wrapped vine leaves with minced lamb, rice and herbs, cooked until tender. The vegetarian version (dolma, without lamb) is also highly recommended.

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

Fileto, biftek and bërxollë (chopped) are different ways to prepare the meat, besides zgare (grilled) or pjekur (baked).

Qofte – Meatballs, comes in different versions and is traditionally served as lunch or dinner together with salad, bread or rice. Sometimes they are declared to be homemade (shtëpie).

Qofte (të) fërguara – Fried meatballs but with feta cheese inside. Again, traditionally served with fried potatoes or rice.

Fileto pule me panna dhe kerpudha – Grilled chicken breast served with mushrooms and cream sauce. Similar or even the same dish pule me qull, just written in short.

Paidhaqe giçi – Pork ribs

(Mikse) mish zgare – Literally (mixed) grill meat.

Shishqebap - is a popular dish in Albania as well, especially in traditional and home-style cooking, grilled meat dish consisting of small pieces of marinated meat skewered and cooked over an open flame.

Kukurec – Strongly inspired by Turkey, these are grilled intestines and liver, sometimes served inside a bread like shawarma.

Të brendshme – More intestines

Mëlçi - Liver

(Pulë me) përshesh – Originally from Elbasan, chicken with bread and walnuts. But you will barely find it on restaurant menus, it is mostly cooked at home.

(Pulë me) rosnica – Similar to the one before, chicken boiled, onion and tomatoes added, and then baked together with small and fried dough or bread pieces. Also seldom found in restaurants.

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

Perime zgare/në scarë – Grilled vegetables: eggplants, zucchini, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and/or mushrooms.

Perime të ziera – Boiled vegetables

Perime furre – Baked vegetables

Fshati – Village salad

Rukola – Rocket/arugula

Mikse – Mixed (salad)

Turshi – Pickles

Lakër – Cabbage

Karrotë – Carrot

Ullinj – Olives

Djathë i bardhë – White cheese

Djathë Kaçkavall – Hard cheese

As add-on to salads and meat:

Kos – Just yoghurt as an add-on to salads (baked), stews or meat.

Salce kosi – Like the Greek tzatziki, best as a dip for grilled meat.

More:

Speca me gjizë / Speca me djathë – Peppers with (cottage) cheese as casserole

Speca te mbushura – Peppers stuffed with cheese

Djathë i bardhë – Baked cheese

Tarator – A cold cucumber "soup" made with (lots of) yoghurt, cucumber and dill.

Supë (soup):

Perime – Vegetables

Krem pule – Chicken cream

Pasha qofte – Meatballs

Krem brokoli – Brokkoli cream

(Jani me) fasule – White bean soup, varying from clear to creamy, sometimes served with meat.

Fish and seafood – Can be found everywhere around the coast and lakes, but there are also many restaurants in Tirana serving such dishes. You will find all the usual, and Ohrid trout around the lakes.

Omletë (me djathë dhe proshutë) or Vezë syze – Omelets (with cheese and ham) or fried eggs

Djathë i bardhë (young cheese) – There are lots of different types but mostly young cheese (white and soft feta-like). In village shops, cheese may be kept at a lower standard of hygiene than in supermarkets, but it's worth a try as it's usually fresh and delicious. Such cheese is sold for a very good price (600-800 lek/kg; try the higher-priced ones first), which in the rest of Europe can't be bought for less than €15/kg.

djathë lope (cow cheese) – 700 lek/kg

djathë dele (sheep cheese) – 1200 lek/kg

djathë dhie (goat cheese) – 1200 lek/kg

The "Gjirofarm" feta cheese is similar to Greek feta cheese, although a bit more expensive. However, most of the restaurants, especially in Tirana and the southern part of the country, use this cheese. It's very delicious, and it's one of the few cheeses that is exported from Albania.

Kaçkavalli (hard cheese) – It's of good quality is not easy to find. It is advised to look for products imported from Italy.

Gjizë (cottage cheese) – A type of dry curded cheese, made from yogurt and citric acid (200 lek/kg).

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

Kulaç – Firm and dense, also known as "soda bread"

Bukë – Bread

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

Bakllava – A popular dessert and is always made as a dessert during New Year's Eve.

Petulla – Often included in traditional home's breakfast, fried dough balls usually dipped in fig jam, honey, or feta.

Oshaf – Dried figs and plums boiled in water.

Qumështor – Baked custard

Hasude – Baked cornstarch pudding with nuts

Sultjash – A pudding of rice, milk, vanilla, cardamom and cinnamon.

Kabuni – Similarily to the previous dish, sweet fried rice with raisins, ground clover and cinnamon.

Ballakume Elbasani – A traditional biscuit originating from Elbasan and usually prepared on Dita e Verës, a pagan holiday. The roads along Elbasan are doted with sellers of this biscuit.

Fuli-is a traditional Albanian dessert known for its simplicity, rustic charm, and rich flavor. This dessert is prepared on the occasion of a child's birth or for someone's birthday.

Shëndetlie - (pronounced shuhn-DET-lee-eh) is a traditional Albanian dessert that is similar in texture and flavor to a dense walnut cake or a chewy brownie, often served during holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions.

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

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

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

Vegetables and greens:

pepper (piper, spec) – 70 lekë/kg

tomato (domatja) – 100 lekë/kg

okra or bamia (bamje) – 200–300 lekë/kg * onion (qepa)

potato (patatja, patate) – 70 lekë/kg

aubergine (patëllxhani) – 100 lekë/ kg

cabbage (lakër) – 70 lekë/kg

zucchini( kungull i njomë) - 100 lekë/kg

carrots (karrota) - 100-120 lekë/kg

onions (qepë)- 100kg

hudhra (garlic)- 120kg

cucumbers (trangull/kastravec) – 100kg

Fruits:

figs – 200 lek/kg

pomegranates (shegët) – 100-150 lek/kg

watermelon (shalqi) – 20 lek/kg

melon (pjepër) – 80–100 lek/kg

grapes (rrushi) – 100–150 lek/kg

persimmon (hurmë) – 70 lek/kg

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wild herbs are part of traditional foraging, other types of tea that you can drink...

Oregano (rigoni) – wild and very aromatic

Thyme (trumëz) – grows in rocky and mountainous terrain

Sage (sherebelë) – used in tea and medicine

Rozmary (rozmarinë) – often found wild along the coast

Mountain tea (çaj mali) – a national herbal tea but widely foraged

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

Boza – A popular sweet drink made from maize (corn) and wheat is a traditional drink in the Balkans. The most famous of which is Pacara Boza, ☏ +355 69 2481122. 1 bottle of 1.5 l ~ 100 lek.

Dhallë – A kefir-like drink closely related to ayran

Kos – A yogurt-like drink very similar to matsoni in the Caucasus (100-160 lek/L)

Hirrë ( whey)-is the liquid byproduct that remains after milk has been curdled and strained during cheese or yogurt production. It's rich in proteins, minerals, and lactose, and is often used in cooking, baking, or as a nutritional supplement.

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

In addition to stray dogs in the cities (especially in Shkoder), in rural areas many places and farms have dogs, but they generally do not tend to leave their premises. This can still happen and they might block your way.

Note, as of 2026 the only place maybe providing rabies vaccinations seems to be Instituti i Shëndetit Publik in Tirana. Otherwise, the options are grim. Usually, vaccines are imported from Italy on demand. If you get bitten, your only alternatives are to get to Montenegro, Kosovo or Greece as quickly as possible (within 24 hr) to get vaccinated there.

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

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

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

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

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

Still rampant in Albania, corruption is generally not a problem for tourists. Police is well paid and most of the time very helpful if you need them, just avoid traffic offenses. Restaurants or cafés sometimes overcharge tourists — if this bothers you, just demand a receipt.

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

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

As of Sept 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Tirana, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Tirana but less coverage elsewhere.

Generally, Vodafone or One will be the first choice for travellers. You can buy a local prepaid SIM card from 800 lek including some MB of data. After that, top up credits are 35 GB for 2,000 lek, or 6 GB for 600 lek (per month). As of October 2025, the cheapest Vodafone tourist pack is 2400 lek for 40 GB.

Note that Vodafone and One have special deals where when you install their app, you get an additional 10 GB for 1 month, or when you charge money onto your account, you get extra GB, like 3 GB for one month for a recharge of 600 lek with One. Also, it makes sense to ask in their shops for any specials as they often have packages which cannot be selected through their app but have a better price-value ratio, e.g. 32 GB for 1,000 lek with Vodafone.

You must provide a passport to purchase a prepaid SIM.

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

Many bars and restaurant have Wi-Fi readily available, just ask.

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