Albania

Albania is one of Europe’s last true frontiers, a land where rugged mountain peaks meet the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. You will find a country that beautifully blends Ottoman heritage with vibrant modern energy, especially in the colorful and chaotic capital of Tirana. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Riviera to the ancient stone houses of Berat, the landscape is as diverse as its complex history. Travelers are often surprised by the genuine warmth of the locals and the remarkable value for money found throughout the regions. It is a place where adventure still feels authentic and the heavy crowds of Western Europe have yet to fully arrive.

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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

1 city

3 guides

$60 Daily Budget

Quick Facts

Capital

Tirana

Languages

Albanian

Currency

Lek (ALL)

1 $ ≈ 82 L

Plug Type

Type C/F (230V, 50Hz)

Driving Side

Right

Dial Code

+355

Entry Requirements

Check requirements →

Time Zone

CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2, DST; Europe/Tirane)

Emergency

112 (general); Ambulance 127; Fire 128; Police 129

Why Visit Albania

The Albanian Riviera

Stretching along the Ionian coast, this region offers crystal-clear turquoise waters and hidden pebbled coves that rival the Mediterranean's best. You can enjoy upscale beach clubs in Ksamil or find secluded serenity in the village of Dhërmi.

Accursed Mountains Hiking

The Albanian Alps in the north provide some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Balkans. Treks between the remote villages of Theth and Valbona take you through jagged peaks and alpine meadows that feel frozen in time.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Cities like Berat and Gjirokastër showcase stunning Ottoman-era architecture with their signature white-washed houses and cobblestone streets. These 'museum cities' offer a deep dive into the country's historical layers and architectural ingenuity.

Unbeatable Value

With an average daily budget of ~$60 / 4,911 L, your money goes significantly further here than in neighboring Greece or Montenegro. You can enjoy fresh seafood dinners for $12–$18 / 963 L–1,445 L and stay in charming guesthouses for a fraction of European prices.

Heartfelt Hospitality

The local code of honor known as Besa means that looking after a guest is a sacred duty for many Albanians. You will frequently find yourself invited for a coffee or guided by locals who go out of their way to ensure you feel welcome.

Top Experiences

Top-rated tours and activities in Albania

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Cities & Destinations

Best in Apr

Albania

Tirana

Warm

From $60 /day

Cost Guide Where to Stay

Regions

The Albanian Riviera

Located in the south, this coastline features the country's most famous beaches, including Ksamil and Himarë. It is the go-to spot for summer sun, boat tours, and vibrant nightlife overlooking the Ionian Sea.

The Accursed Mountains

Also known as the Albanian Alps, this northern region is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. It is home to the Valbona Valley National Park and the iconic stone-built village of Theth, offering rugged peaks and traditional highland culture.

Tirana and Central Albania

The capital is a whirlwind of pastel-colored buildings, Ottoman landmarks, and Bunk'Art museums housed in former nuclear bunkers. It serves as the country's cultural hub, where traditional grill houses sit alongside trendy rooftop bars.

The UNESCO Stone Cities

This southern interior region includes Berat, known as the 'City of a Thousand Windows,' and Gjirokastër, the 'City of Stone.' Both are essential for travelers interested in Ottoman history, massive hilltop fortresses, and traditional crafts.

Best Time to Visit

Albania is a year-round destination promoting '4-Season Tourism,' but most travelers visit for the Mediterranean coast or alpine hiking. The best balance of weather and value is found during the spring and early autumn shoulder seasons.

Peak Season

Jul, Aug

July and August see hot temperatures often exceeding 30°C and the highest tourist density, particularly on the Riviera. Prices for accommodation and services peak during this period, and coastal roads can become congested.

Shoulder Season

May, Jun, Sep, Oct

These months offer pleasant temperatures between 20–25°C (68–77°F), ideal for exploring UNESCO sites like Berat and Gjirokastër. September is particularly recommended for swimming as the sea remains warm while crowds thin out.

Off-Peak

Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr

Winter is quiet and affordable, though many seasonal resorts on the coast close down. It is a great time for snowy mountain views in the Alps or visiting thermal spas in Përmet, though air pollution in Tirana is more noticeable.

Getting Around

Public transportation is limited and primarily relies on a network of minibuses and intercity coaches. While there are no domestic commercial flights and the rail system is unreliable, the road infrastructure is steadily improving.

Furgon

These privately-operated minibuses are the most common way to travel between towns; they often depart only when full and usually require cash payment of ~$4.71–$18 / 385 L–1,445 L directly to the driver.

Bus

Larger intercity buses connect major hubs like Tirana, Shkodër, and Sarandë from dedicated terminals, with city buses in Tirana costing approximately ~$0.47 / 39 L per trip.

Car

Renting a car offers the most flexibility for remote areas; however, drivers must adhere to a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and be prepared for 'enthusiastic' local driving styles in mountain passes.

Taxi

Plentiful in urban areas and at Tirana International Airport, taxis are convenient but should be negotiated upfront if a meter is not used; a trip from Tirana to Sarandë can cost ~$224 / 18,297 L.

Food & Drink

Albanian cuisine is a flavorful fusion of Mediterranean and Balkan influences, characterized by fresh mountain produce and coastal seafood. Meals are social events, often starting with a selection of appetizers and ending with a strong local spirit or sweet pastry.

Must Try

Tavë Kosi

The national dish of lamb and rice baked with a thick, creamy topping of yogurt and eggs, resulting in a quiche-like texture.

Byrek

A versatile flaky pastry filled with spinach and cheese, minced meat, or pumpkin, often enjoyed as a quick street food breakfast for ~$1.18 / 96 L.

Fërgesë

A savory summer stew made from bell peppers, tomatoes, and salted curd cheese (gjizë), usually served hot in a clay pot with crusty bread.

Speca me Glizë

Yellow, orange, or green peppers stuffed with a mixture of rice, spices, and local cottage cheese, then baked until tender.

Trilece

A popular dessert consisting of a light sponge cake soaked in three types of milk and topped with a layer of caramel.

Raki

A potent traditional spirit distilled from grapes or plums; it is a staple of Albanian social life and often served alongside coffee.

Money & Costs

Albania is primarily a cash economy and offers excellent value, with an average daily budget of ~$60 / 4,911 L covering modest accommodation and meals. The Lek (ALL) is the official currency, though some larger businesses may accept Euro at varying rates.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory but highly appreciated; a 10% tip in restaurants for good service is standard, while rounding up the bill for taxi drivers and café staff is common practice.

Cards

Most businesses do not accept credit cards, making it essential to carry cash for daily expenses, especially outside of major hotels and upscale restaurants in Tirana.

ATMs

ATMs are widely available in cities and at the airport, though some may charge significant transaction fees; using bank-affiliated machines like BKT or Credins is generally recommended.

Culture & Etiquette

Albanian culture is deeply rooted in ancient traditions of honor and hospitality, yet it is rapidly modernizing in its urban centers. Visitors will find a society that values family, community, and a slow-paced coffee culture above all else.

✓

Accept an invitation for coffee, as it is the primary way Albanians socialize and build trust with visitors.

✓

Carry cash in smaller denominations, as many shops and furgons do not accept cards.

Do not drink the tap water; always buy bottled water to avoid stomach issues during your trip.

✓

Tip around 10% in restaurants for good service, or round up the bill in smaller cafes and for taxi drivers.

Don't be surprised by direct questions about your marital status or age, as these are common icebreakers in local conversation.

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Be aware that some older locals may nod their head for 'no' and shake it for 'yes', though this is less common in Tirana.

Don't expect public transport to follow a strict digital timetable; furgons often depart only when they are full.

✓

Dress modestly when entering mosques or Orthodox churches, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.

Safety & Health

The country is generally safe for tourists, though visitors should exercise increased caution due to crime, particularly organized crime-related violence which rarely targets foreigners. Air pollution is a notable concern in Tirana.

Tap Water

Not safe to drink

Vaccinations

CDC: Hepatitis A recommended for unvaccinated travelers; Hepatitis B recommended for unvaccinated travelers; Rabies pre-exposure depends on risk (animal contact/remote access).

Common Scams

⚠ Unlicensed currency exchangers offering 'better' rates on the street to pass counterfeit bills.
⚠ Taxis without functioning meters charging inflated flat rates to unsuspecting tourists.
⚠ Social media 'giveaway' scams (like fake Zara gift boxes) targeting personal information.
⚠ Phishing texts claiming a package is held at the post office due to missing delivery info.
⚠ Dishonest vendors in heavy tourist areas inflating prices for goods when quoted in foreign currency.

Healthcare facilities are limited and poor outside Tirana; most hospitals require upfront payment regardless of insurance, so maintaining accessible funds for emergencies is vital.

Language

English is widely spoken by the younger generation and staff in the tourism sector, particularly in Tirana and coastal resorts. In rural and mountainous regions, communication may require basic Albanian or Italian, which is also widely understood.

English Spoken: Moderately spoken

Key Phrases

Key Phrases
Meaning	Local	Pronunciation
Hello	Përshëndetje	per-shen-det-ye
Thank you	Faleminderit	fa-le-min-der-it
Please	Ju lutem	yu lu-tem
Yes / No	Po / Jo	po / yo
How much is this?	Sa kushton kjo?	sa kush-ton kyo
Goodbye	Mirupafshim	mi-ru-paf-shim
I don't understand	Nuk kuptoj	nook koop-toy
Cheers!	Gëzuar!	geh-zu-ar

Visa & Entry

Albania has a traveler-friendly policy, mirroring the Schengen Annex II list. Holders of valid multiple-entry US, UK, or Schengen visas (or residence permits) can often enter visa-free if they have previously used the visa in the issuing country.

Max Stay

Varies by nationality (many: 90 days in 180 days; U.S. citizens: up to 1 year)

Passport Validity

At least 3 months beyond planned departure (and issued within last 10 years) — verify per nationality/airline

Visa-free for

USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, UAE, Israel

Check requirements →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Albania safe for solo travelers?

Albania is generally safe for tourists, with low rates of violent crime against foreigners. However, you should exercise increased caution regarding organized crime-related incidents, though these rarely impact visitors. In Tirana, air pollution can be quite high, so travelers with respiratory sensitivities should plan accordingly and monitor local conditions.

How expensive is a trip to Albania?

Albania is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, with an average daily budget of approximately $60 / 4,911 L. This typically covers mid-range accommodation, three hearty meals, and local transport. A coffee in a local café usually costs around $1.18 / 96 L, while a multi-course dinner with drinks might range between $18–$24 / 1,445 L–1,926 L per person.

When is the best time to visit Albania?

The peak season occurs in July and August when temperatures reach 30–35°C (86–95°F), making it perfect for the beaches but crowded. For hiking in the Accursed Mountains, the best window is June to September. Shoulder seasons like May and October offer pleasant weather around 20–25°C (68–77°F) and lower prices without the summer throngs.

Do I need a visa for Albania?

Most western travelers, including those from the EU, USA, and UK, can enter Albania without a visa for tourism purposes. You are typically allowed a maximum stay of 90 days within any 180-day period. Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure to avoid entry issues.

Is English widely spoken in Albania?

English proficiency is moderate across the country but varies significantly by age and location. In Tirana and major tourist hubs like Saranda, many young people and hospitality staff speak excellent English. In rural mountain villages, you may need to rely on basic gestures, a few Albanian phrases, or Italian, which is widely understood by older generations.

What is the food like in Albania?

Albanian food is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Balkan traditions, featuring plenty of fresh vegetables, olive oil, and grilled meats. You must try Tavë Kosi (lamb with yogurt) and the ubiquitous Byrek pastries. Coastal areas offer exceptional seafood, while the mountains are famous for slow-roasted lamb and honey-based desserts like Baklava.

How do you get around Albania?

Public transportation primarily relies on a network of minibuses known as 'furgons' and intercity coaches, as the rail system is currently unreliable and there are no domestic flights. While road infrastructure is steadily improving, driving can be challenging due to local habits. Hiring a car provides the most flexibility, but using furgons is a more authentic and affordable experience.

Can you drink tap water in Albania?

It is strongly advised not to drink the tap water in Albania, as the infrastructure in many areas is outdated and can lead to illness. Bottled water is readily available and very cheap in supermarkets and kiosks. When dining out, specify that you would like bottled water, and avoid ice cubes in drinks if you have a sensitive stomach.

What are the best beaches in the Albanian Riviera?

The most famous spots include Ksamil, known for its small islands and turquoise water, and Dhërmi, which offers a mix of lively beach bars and quiet pebbles. For those seeking something more rugged, Gjipe Beach is a hidden gem accessible only by boat or a 30-minute hike through a canyon, providing one of the most scenic swimming spots in the country.

Why you can trust this guide

Jan Křenek

35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

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