Tirana.
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Overview

Tirana (Albanian: Tiranë) is the bustling and relatively modernised capital of Albania. It is the most important economic, financial, political and trade centre in the country. Tourists often find the city charming, with both cosmopolitan and small town feelings, and a lively nightlife.

Understand

Sulejman Pasha Bargjini, a native feudal lord from Mullet, established the city in 1614. His first constructions were a mosque, a bakery and a hamam or Turkish bath. On 8 February 1920, Tirana was made the temporary capital by the Congress of Lushnje, and it was proclaimed the permanent capital on 31 December 1925.

Today, Tirana suffers from pollution problems mainly due to the rapid increase in cars in the city and continuous construction, compounded by its position in a valley and air pollution blown in from heavy industry in Serbia. Long gone are the days when Tirana used to be subject to power outages almost daily and this made Tirana a noisy city as the lack of power and lack of traffic lights had cars navigating by honking their horns. The situation has dramatically improved regarding power outages. Tirana is undergoing a major renovation from its totalitarian days. Many of the ugly dull buildings have been repainted (including many crossings), but a lot of work outside of center is still to be done. English is the second language of many younger population, with many older residents speaking Italian.

The main business and entertainment area (not by coincidence) has become "The Block" (Blloku), which is the area where in the past, the communist leaders used to live under strict protection. Tirana is a youthful and lively city of 528,000 people (2024) resonating constant energy. The city was the European Youth Capital for 2022. Locals prefer to hang out at the many cafes and main parks. A popular retreat is by cable car to Mount Dajti where one can get a panoramic view of the city from above.

Albanians are very hospitable towards foreigners, despite media frequently portraying them unfairly as thieves and mobsters. Tirana is very approachable if you're the adventurous type. The worst experience you may have is with the erratic driving style of Albanians.

Tourist information office. The English-speaking staff are very helpful and can provide city and public transport maps and directions to hostels and hotels. Also free copies of "Tirana in your Pocket" guide, which includes vital information about bus and furgon schedules.

Get in

Buses connect the airport to Tirana, Durres, Shkoder and Fier.

By bus Buses and furgons (minibuses) are a good method for travelling within Albania, but they are not in the best of shape. There are few bus companies; many are operated by individual drivers. Bus lines have schedules and drivers are supposed to leave when it's time, but sometimes they may leave earlier or later, depending on how full they are. So, arrive sufficiently ahead of time.

Google Maps has most intercity bus connections and times available and can be used for quite reliable trip planning. Also, you can you 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. A good website to find the latest bus times was gjirafa.com, prices are indicative.

Tirana has two main terminals, depending on where their buses go or come from:

In the following the times to leave Tirana from this terminal (as of Oct 2021). Return frequencies will be similar, but times will be different.

Northbound connections (left side of the terminal):

Southbound connections (right side of the terminal):

Bus times (to) as of October 2021 include: Thessaloniki – 04:00 (Liko & Kosta Tours), 05:00, 08.30 (Alpar, Alvavel), 07:00 (Start Travel, uneven days) ...

International Buses can be used to reach Tirana from other cities in Albania and internationally. Schedules change frequently so check the latest info in your place of departure.

From North Macedonia, buses come from Skopje, Ohrid and Struga. Definite departure times from Skopje Bus Terminal are 09:00 and 21:00 (as of Oct 2021), ден600.

From Montenegro, take a bus or taxi to Ulcinj, then take a bus or taxi to Shkodër in Albania, crossing the border at Muriqan. Buses leave Shkodër frequently for Tirana.

Daily buses also leave from Kotor to Tirana directly at 08:00 and every other day in summer at 10:40 (via Budva, Podgarica, Shkodër but without changing buses).

By taxi To calculate and book your journey you can use the Taxi Trip Calculator by MerrTaxi Tirana, which is the biggest taxi company in Albania, operates 24/7 in the capital city and they always use meter.

Your hotel can also arrange a taxi to the border but it is usually more expensive. The trip takes 15 min to Struga and 25 min to Ohrid (July 2018). Passport control will take about 30 min.

Another alternative is by a mobile app. Speed Taxi, Patoko, Clust, and VrapOn Taxi Albania are Uber-like apps.

Get around

There are no metros available in Tirana. Feet, buses and taxis are the only options to get around in the city if you do not have private transportation.

On foot The city centre is small enough to be explored through walking. Walking is a rewarding experience, but beware that there is no continuity in sidewalk width, construction material or condition. Sidewalks frequently end abruptly, have large holes or are very narrow. Pay attention while walking or you may end up spraining your ankle or falling in a hole. Street names are subject to change, so locals rarely know them. It is advised to learn to navigate via landmarks instead of addresses or street names. You can orient yourself using the Lana River and "Dëshmorët e Kombit" street, which roughly bisects the central part of Tirana into four sections. At this intersection of the Lana River and Dëshmorët e Kombit is very recognizable "Pyramid" and "Taiwan Center".

By bus Public transportation in Tirana consists of a number of intra-city bus lines. Buses marked Green Line - Unaze number 16B are for the ring road and travel in a loop around the city centre. Though, not all Green Line buses are for Unaze. It stops near Emerald Mall with Hamleys and Jumbo. The bus continues onto Tirana Ring Center (mall) note the ice rink has closed down now.

There are also lines serving suburban shopping centres.

Since April 2024, all city bus connections and times are available on Google Maps with quite reliable routing. Suburban buses are supposed to be included by the end of 2024 as well.

Also OpenStreetMap, which is used by this travel guide and by many mobile Apps like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz, has the routes available, but might be outdated.

Furthermore, bus lines are available on the webpage of the city.

By bicycle There are combined bus and bike lanes on some main streets. However, cycling in the street can be quite dangerous as lanes are narrow or occupied by parked vehicles (but car drivers have become more careful during the last years). There are bike-only lanes however on Skanderbeg Square, Deshmoret e Kombit Boulevard and on sidewalks along Lana River and Kavaja Street.

For all other bike equipment or repair, Rruga Qemal Stafa is Tirana's unofficial "bike street" with lots of little, inexpensive bike shops.

Several bike tour operators provide an interactive way for foreign visitors to explore the main landmarks of Tirana.

Sometimes they might even give you a discount on the running meter, just so you take this taxi instead of the next. Still be a little cautious to not get overcharged or not given the proper change; having a 5,000-lek note can be an invitation to scam.

By car Parking is a major problem. The city centre is divided into paid parking zones A, B and C, charged on weekdays from 07:30 to 20:00 and free outside those hours. Payment is by SMS to 50500 in the format PLATE ZONE (e.g. TR123AR A), which only works from an Albanian SIM card. Avoid yellow-marked spaces, which are reserved for residents, as illegally parked cars are towed quickly. If you don't have a local SIM, the underground car park beneath Skanderbeg Square is the simplest option. Driving offers a unique experience in Tirana for those willing to brave it. Driving aggressively and seizing opportunities will help you get around at normal pace. Timid and passive drivers should avoid driving in Tirana as they will likely be frustrated.

The city still misses road signs with directions (for example how to get out of the city). In case you have troubles just ask people (don't show them a map because Albanians are not used to seeing maps and even policemen don't know how to handle a street map.) Also, keep in mind that the word "car" sounds identical to the Albanian word for "penis" so do not be surprised if you get stared at if you say it. "Auto" or the Albanian word "makina" are suitable stand-ins.

Car rentals in Albania are available from multi-national firms such as Hertz, Avis and Europcar, and can be booked online. It is best to always verify their ratings with Google Maps before deciding.

See

Et'hem Bey Mosque. Construction of this mosque took about 28 years and finished in 1821. It is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Albania with very interesting decorations and artwork within it. Reopened in 2021 after full restoration.

Mosque 'Kokonozit'. Finished in 1750 during Ottoman rule and one of the few that survived the Communist rule intact. During that time the building functioned as a storehouse and a tobacco shop, then in 1991 it was returned to its original use.

Saint Paul Catholic Cathedral. This modern cathedral features fascinating window murals.

Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral. This cathedral features fascinating architecture and rich interior iconography. The church covered with a 23-m-high dome

Kapllan Pasha Tomb. Built in 1820, originally next to a mosque which was destroyed during WWII. Kapllan Pasha was an Ottoman ruler of Tirana who was buried here, but his remains were later moved to Istanbul.

The Sheh Dyrri Teqe. This is a teqe (teqe or cemevi is a Turkish meeting house for communal worship service) in Tirana. Back in the day it was also the home of a local sheikh. It's listed as a cultural monument of Albania, however it's private property and can likely only be seen from the outside.

Tanners' Mosque. Built in the 17th century in a part of the city where leather workers lived. It was largely destroyed by a lightning strike in 1927, but quickly rebuilt. Functioning as a storehouse during the Communist rule, in 1990 it was renovated and reopened, and a new minaret was built. Nearby there is also a bridge named the Tanners' Bridge (Ura e Tabakëve).

National History Museum. The largest museum in Albania holds many of the country's archaeological treasures and a replica of Skanderbeg's massive sword (how he held it, rode his horse and fought at the same time, is a mystery). The lighting might be poor but the excellent collection is almost entirely signed in English and takes you chronologically from ancient Illyria to the post-communist era. The collection of statues, mosaics and columns from Greek and Roman times is breathtaking.

National Gallery of Arts. Tracing the relatively brief history of Albanian painting from the early 19th century to the present day, this beautiful space also has temporary exhibitions. The interesting collection includes 19th-century paintings depicting scenes from daily Albanian life and others with a far more political dimension including some truly fabulous examples of Albanian socialist realism. The ground-floor part of the gallery is given over to temporary exhibitions of a far more modern and challenging kind.

National Archaeological Museum. Features ancient artifacts from Illyrian to Roman and Hellenic times: wonderful mosaics, Roman statues and illustrative maps. The collection here is comprehensive and impressive in parts, but there's only minimal labelling in Albanian and none at all in English (nor are tours in English offered), so you may find yourself a little at a loss unless this is your field.

Natural Sciences Museum of Albania. This museum features the fauna and geological composition of Albania.

Tirana Mosaic. The mosaic was discovered following excavations for an apartment complex. Various artifacts point to the presence of a village in the area thousands of years ago. This is the only archaeological site in Tirana.

Bunk'Art. This fantastic conversion, from a massive cold war bunker on the outskirts of Tirana into a history and contemporary art museum, is easily a Tirana highlight. With almost 3,000 m² of space underground spread over several floors, the bunker was built for Albania's political elite in the 1970s and remained a secret for much of its existence. Now it hosts exhibits that combine the modern history of Albania with pieces of contemporary art.

Bunk'Art 2. The little cousin to the main Bunk'art, this museum, which is within a communist-era bunker and underground tunnel system below the ministry of Interior Affairs, focuses on the role of the police and security services in Albania through the turbulent 20th century. While the bunker itself might not be especially interesting, the story on the dictatorial regime and internal anti-dissident security forces has been very well executed and makes for a fascinating journey behind police lines.

House of Leaves. This grand old 1930s building started life as Albania's first maternity hospital, but within a few years the focus turned from creating new lives to ending lives as the hospital was converted to an interrogation and surveillance centre (read: torture house). It remained as such until the fall of the communist regime. Today, the House of Leaves is a museum dedicated to surveillance and interrogation in Albania.

ZETA Center for Contemporary Art. As non-profit exhibition space founded in 2007. With its 150 m² area on the second floor of a mixed residential and commercial building at Abdyl Frashëri Street No.7 in the Blloku area of Tirana (zona Libri Universitar: between Santa Margherita Wine Shop and LC Waikiki Store), ZETA functions as an autonomous cultural venue for contemporary visual arts, including painting, sculpture, photography, video, installation, sound, and performance. Besides exhibitions, ZETA also hosts educational programs, workshops and discursive events, in cooperation with local and international partners.

The Museum of the Bank of Albania. The museum lies on two floors, each of which is conceived as an independent space from the other. On the first floor is presented the rich numismatic collection of the Bank of Albania from antiquity to the present day. Visitors can learn more about all aspects of money and economy, as well as better understand the function of Central Bank. Enter the building from Ibrahim Rugova street. To enter the museum, you must book your visit online and be provided with an identification document.

Bektashism Museum. The museum presents, through documents, photos and original objects, the history of Bektashism (an Islamic Sufistic movement) on a world scale and in particular of Albanian Bektashism. It is organized in 12 stands of 12 showcases, observing the 12 Imams. A very important angle is the one devoted to religious tolerance and harmony, which has contributed and contributes greatly to the Bektashi World Bishopric. Part of the Bektashi Museum are three environments: Chimney - Coffee, Ashurja and Pilgrimage. An important place is the close connection of Bektashism in Albania with the Albanian National Renaissance. Along with the activity of patriotic clerics, a special stand is dedicated to Frasheri brothers, where Naim Frasheri's contribution is distinguished.

Historical Museum of the Armed Forces. This museum contains more than a thousand objects, from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, decorated with gold and silver, a range of display cases with rifles of various types of Medieval, Renaissance, Skanderbeg's swords, of Ali Pasha Tepelena, aircraft, helicopters, tanks, four silhouettes, ground artillery, anti-aircraft of various calibres, as well as transport vehicles of different types. The two main pavilions are: the historic era pavilion 1470-1945 and the pavilion of 1945-1990. On the second floor are part of the uniforms used during the years by the Armed Forces to the newest uniforms. The first pavilion, besides the historical values, is also a testimony of the Albanian artisanship in this area.

Studio House "Kadare". This apartment was the residence of Kadare, an important writer, from 1974 to 1989, and his work place. It was designed by architect Maks Velo in 1972, was declared category II Culture Monument in 2015. The modernist and cubist building was called at that time "the palace with cubes", and represents the aspiration of Albanian architecture to be in step with time and in particular with the West. The Kadare Studio House will foster a deeper understanding of Albanian history during the dictatorship. It shows original documents, objects, books and furniture.

Fortress of Justinian (Tirana Castle remains). The history of this castle in dates back before 1300 and is a remnant from the Byzantine-era. The fortress is the place where the main east-west and north-south roads crossed, and formed the heart of Tirana. About all that's left of the fortress above ground is a 6-m-high Ottoman-era wall, covered in vines. In the 21st century, uncovered wall foundations were uncovered and incorporated into the pedestrianised Murat Toptani Street, while a mosaic commemorating the 100th Anniversary of Albania's Independence was unveiled near the Albanian Parliament. In December 2018, a new traditional bazaar was opened inside Tirana Castle with various traditional handicraft shops and traditional cuisine restaurants.

Bush Street. This street was named after US President George W. Bush in honour of his 2007 visit.

Piramid. Completely renovated and reopened in May 2023, the pyramid was built in 1987 according to the design of Enver Hoxha's daughter and was opened as a museum dedicated to her father. In 2007 US President George W. Bush gave a speech in front of this building. The building was the most expensive erected under communism, but by 2017 it had been empty and derelict for some time and threatened with demolition, instead it was saved and rebuilt. It is possible to walk up the stairs to its peak and get a nice view of the city.

Blloku or Ish-Blloku. Among the apartment blocks, one can find some of Tirana's trendiest cafés, shops, and restaurants. Here is also located the villa of the former dictator, Enver Hoxha. During communism, the area was reserved solely for government officials and was not allowed to be entered by the commoner. It was opened to the public in 1991 and since became the number one spot for Tirana's youth. At night the area gets full of people especially on weekends when most night clubs are full. The streets, especially in summer afternoons, are filled with Tirana's citizens and expensive cars cruising around. From the Block you can go almost anywhere for less than 10-15 minutes. If you need to have a coffee or relax while taking a look at the parade of trendy and elegant people, the block is a perfect place for you. In the Block you can buy trendy clothing items and French delicacies. You can also get taxis.

Tanners' Bridge. This is an 18th-century Ottoman period stone footbridge. The bridge was once part of the Shëngjergj Road that linked Tirana with the eastern highlands. The Shëngjergj Road furnished the city with agricultural produce and livestock. The bridge went across the Lanë stream and was adjacent to the area of butchers and leather workers. The Lanë was rerouted in the 1930s and the bridge was neglected. In the 1990s the bridge was restored to its former glory and is now used by pedestrians only. The Tanners' Bridge is composed by a main arch, on which the bridge raises in a back shape. This arch has the light span of 8 m and is built with two ranks of sideway arches which are 1 meter thick. The height from the water was 3.5 m. The pavement of the bridge with 2.5 m in width, constructed with river stones and placed without any apparent order. In the two sides of the main arch, there are two arches in the shape of circular segments with a small space

National Library of Albania. The library holds over a million books and is known for its ancient collections.

Clock Tower. This tower has become a symbol of Tirana. It is one of the oldest constructions in Tirana, built in the 1820s. Don't forget to visit the nearby Clock Towers of Albania Museum featuring Clock Towers from around Albania, and traditional costumes from Tirana region. The stairs have 90 steps that go in a spiral fashion. It is 35 m (115 ft) tall and was the tallest building in Tirana at the time.

Sali Shijaku's Traditional House. This well-preserved traditional house owned by painter Sali Shijaku features art displays, traditional house emnities, and a restaurant.

Tirana Zoo. Visiting this zoo is an odd experience; there are few animals but you will see them at remarkably close range. Nearby is the Botanical Garden featuring the best of Albania's fauna.

Martyrs' Cemetery. This is the cemetery where the remains of 900 partisans that fought for Tirana are buried. Here one can also find the 12-m statue of Mother Albania built in 1972 (Monumenti Nëna Shqipëri). Hoxha was buried here in 1985 but exhumed in 1992 and moved to the other side of the city.

Petrela Castle. This is one of Albania's best-preserved castles. It is known as an ancient settlement 2000 years old and was commanded by princess Mamica, the sister of the national hero, Skanderbeg.

Preze Castle. This 15th-century castle is on the picturesque hills of Preze village west of Rinas airport.

Dajti Castle ruins. An archaeological site comprising the remains of a Roman fortification (built over an earlier Illyrian castle) on a mountainside of Mount Dajti.

Ndroqi Castle ruins. Located on a pyramid-shaped hill. A cobblestone paved pass lead to the castle.

Persqopi Archeological Site. Persqopi was an ancient city. It's on the Viles Hillside (malin e Vilës). The outer wall was 7 m high, the bastion 12 m high. The city is built using more than 2 m long and 1 m high stone elements. Take a stroll around the hill.

Do

Go for a walk in the evening along the main streets or at one of the several parks and sit for a coffee or drink. Take part in the vibrant nightlife by visiting one of the numerous nightclubs. If you are adventurous and brave enough, try the peculiar experience of driving in the city's streets by renting a car, or rent a bicycle from a bike renting station. You can also cruise the city with a limousine or venture out in the picturesque suburbs either south or northeast/west of Tirana.

A "free" walking tour starting daily at 10:00 (10:00 and 18:00 during the summer period) in front of Tirana's Opera house is a good start to discover the city and learn more about its history, art and daily life.

Murat Toptani Street. Murat Toptani Street is a pedestrian-only street east of Rinia Park constructed with stone near the Tirana Castle walls. Traditional houses, cafes, and a local park are found here.

Sheshi Skënderbej. Tirana's city centre. A statue of Albanian hero Skanderbeg stands in the square with the Albanian flag on the side. Renovations have made the square pedestrians and public transportation friendly. Government buildings featuring Italian architecture and some structures outlined below are all right off this square.

Stroll along Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit. A panoramic boulevard built by the Italians in the 1930s similar to the Champs de Elysee extending south from Skanderberg Square. The boulevard features Fascist, Communist, and modern architecture of government buildings, business centres and hotels. Many local parks are found here. This street runs from the south end of Skenderbeg Square, across the Lana River, to Mother Teresa Square. The sidewalks and crosswalks on this street are wider and more walkable than most in the city. If you walk southbound, the Polytechnic University of Tirana building is beautifully framed in the centre of the street. It's nice at night when all of the buildings, including the Polytechnic building, are lit up (and especially nice in December and early January when the trees and the buildings along the street are decorated with lights for the Holidays). The street passes by several Tirana landmarks, including the Park Rinia, the Pyramid, the Rogner Hotel, the President's Office, and the Palace of Congresses (event centre).

Taiwan Complex. This beautiful place in the heart of downtown Tirana. It includes restaurants, casinos, bars, a club, etc. It is surrounded by a huge lit water fountain with a glowing bridge that reaches to the restaurant, and is an ideal place for all ages. Children enjoy gourmet ice cream and iced European soft drinks, whilst adults and teens can enjoy fun casinos. This is an excellent tourist attraction, and many Albanian celebrities can be found in the area.

Mother Teresa Square. Located at the southern side of Deshmoret e Kombit Boulevard, this square features typical fascist architecture. Buildings include the University of Tirana, Archaeological Institute, Academy of Arts and the National Stadium.

Grand Park along the Artificial Lake. People have picnics and have fun, and the natural beauty allows it because of the huge trees, open spaces, and mountains surrounding them. An artificial lake lies in the middle of the Park. It is popular with locals and tourists as a place to walk around and enjoy a lunch or coffee at one of the restaurants or cafés. Over 120 types of plants. A popular swimming pool complex is nearby.

Ali Demi Skate Park. The Ali-Demi skate park is a great place to go with your family because there is a nice park on one of the sides next to the skate park, there are markets, and a beautiful café shop with a playground for small children with typical swings and benches and soccer fields in the back. The skate park is full of people on bikes, roller skates, and skate boarders. The Skate Park is very good for beginners, the ramps are all cement (there is coping on the ramps). The ramps have a good variety—there are small ramps along with big ones. Almost all the ramps are shaped like a plateau they are good for caching air. There are many places to do ollies and 180s off of and other places to grind if you are an experienced skate boarder. The skate park is slightly below the rest of the park so you shouldn’t go when it’s raining because it fills up with water. There are quarter pipes along the sides of the skate park. This skate park is very fun for skaters, bikers, and rollerskaters.

Mount Dajti National Park & Cable Car. The most accessible mountain in the country, and many locals go there to escape the city rush and have a spit-roast lamb lunch. A sky-high, Austrian-made cable car, Dajti Express, takes 15 minutes to make the scenic trip (almost) to the top (1,611 m). Visit the new Visitor's Centre near the radio&TV towers in Fushe Dajt, opened in 2019.From the center (across the street from Luna airport bus) you can go to the Dajti Express by the blue bus line (11, direction Porcelani). From the stop Bunk'Art 1 it's 5-10 minutes walk. Alternatively you can take the bus (lines Porcelani or Kinostudio) to bus stop IKV and use a minibus shuttle to the Dajti Ekspres. (This is also explained in detail on dajtiekspres.com.).You can also hike (up) and enjoy the scenery, one way about 2–3 hr. Get off the Porcelani bus (11) one stop before Porcelani at Thesari (about 2-3 stops before Bunk'Art). There you will find the start of the hiking trail up to the upper cable car station and even further to Dajti.

Brar Canyon and Bridge. A panoramic canyon and Ottoman bridge just steps from the capital. Spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and Tirana. A cave and a beautiful waterfall is found near Shengjergj village.

Southeast of Tirana. There are many small resorts and restaurants in Tirana's greenbelt areas of Berzhite, Petrela, and Farke along Rruga e Elbasanit and SH3. One locality features shooting range facilities, a modest golf club and horse riding, while others traditional food, wooden villa accommodations, and swimming pools. The area includes some gated communities with luxury villas and amenities. Additionally, you can visit Farka Artificial Lake Park in Farka where you can enjoy a splendid view of the Tirana Mountain Range.

Dajti Mini Golf. A fun mini-golf course, the only 18-hole course in the country. Suitable for players of all ages and with no previous experience needed. With a number of obstacles in your way, the aim of the game is to get your ball into the hole in the least amount of shots. The course is equipped with floodlighting allowing players to continue playing after sunset. The course is most easily accessed via the Dajti Ekspres cable car which is around 2 km from the centre of Tirana. The cable car journey to the top of Dajti mountain is around 15 minutes in length.

Lalzi Bay Beach. Popular weekend beach retreat where small seaside resorts can be found. This is also where Albania's wealthy rest.

General's Beach. A popular seaside weekend retreat. The name stems from an Italian general who used to rest at this beach during World War II. Accommodation is available in form of wooden villas. An international resort is also being build nearby at Kalaja e Turres. Visit nearby Bashtova Castle and Shenepremte Church.

Football – The city has two teams playing in Kategoria Superiore, the top tier. KF Tirana play at Selman Stërmasi Stadium, capacity 9500, southwest side of city centre. FK Parizani play at Arena Kombëtare, capacity 22,500. This is also known as Air Albania Stadium and hosts the national team's home games. It's southeast corner of city centre towards the Grand Park. Summer Day celebrations in Mid-March, and Independence Day festivities on November 28.

Tirana International Film Festival. This annual film festival held at the end of November and beginning of December highlights the work of ethnic Albanian artists.

Rally Albania. The event features an international competition in the rough Albanian countryside roads.

Buy

Money There are plenty of ATMs accepting Cirrus/Maestro and Visa around the city. They charge 500–1,400 lek (abi, UnionBank vs. otpbank) per withdrawal with international cards. 2026: OTP Bank of Albania charged 500 lek, Credins Bank charge 600 lek, Raiffeisen Bank charged 800 lek.

Exchange bureaus are abundant around the city. The ones at also exchange odd currencies like BAM—just ask the guys standing around there or head straight into the exchange office.

Iliria’98 Currency Exchange. Several branches around central city area.

Locals open-air markets are available in most quarters of the city, and vegetable and fruits are often sold just around the next corner. Proper markets, which sell all sorts of things, tend to be more busy before noon and are barely open late although vegetable and fruits stands are an exception. In the following the larger markets in Tirana:

Central Market. Rather touristic, so the prices are inflated. They have fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, beans, flea market stuff, as well as traditional cooking utensils.

Tregu Dinamo. Locals tend to shop here, which covers 60,000 m² and sells food, herbs, tea, cosmetics, clothes, kitchenware, hardware, toys, ceramics, secondhand stuff (including the odd wetsuit collection), and so on. Few touristy items and souvenirs.

Fruit & Vegetables Market. Local produces and prices. There are also many stalls and shops towards it, having a similar variety, especially along Vath Koreshi (which also includes butchers).

Neranxi. Has some Asian products (coconut milk, etc.) and lots of produces that can be bought by the kilograms—nuts, rice, quinoa, oats, cereals, camomille, beans, herbs, teas, etc. A little pricey.

Grand Bazaar. Fruits, vegetables, books, ceramics, 2nd-hand, kitchen appliances, cloths, shoes, etc. Bigger than the Central Market, non-touristy, but a little off-track.

Bicycle quarter. Numerous shops selling used and cheap bicycles (some of which certainly stolen) and doing repairs.

Furniture quarter. Right next to where they sell bicycles, there are several 2nd-hand furniture stores. Even though the variety is a little limited.

Household appliances. Numerous small shops selling new and cheap household appliances, mostly from China.

Second-hand quarter. Tools, cloths, electronics, antiques, household appliances, etc. It is probably good if you speak Albanian and tell them exactly what you are looking for, otherwise you will have to dig though loads of junks or won't even find anything.

Flea market. This certainly is a proper flea market, even though its style might deter most non-Albanians. It all looks dirty and is spread across the ground. Nevertheless, some good bargains and properly functioning things can be found here; you might be even more lucky than in the other shops of the quarter.

Meti Pc Repair. Repair and used computer parts.

Garage Sale. Probably the largest 2nd-hand store. Household electronics and appliances, tools, cable, etc.

Fruit & Vegetables Popup Markets. There seem to exist some by the city sponsored markets that pop up from time to time. Though, no real time table is available. There is near Hemingway Bar.

Adrion International Bookshop. Magazines and newspapers from around the world. English books available.

Natyral & Organik. The shop works directly with producers and sell local organic olive oil, raki, wine, honey, and dried herbs.

Tulla Record Store. Independent record shop inside Tulla Culture Center, selling new and used vinyl records, with selections ranging from jazz, hip-hop, electronic, dance and classical music to CDs by Albanian alternative, pop and rock artists. It also has a bar/café and is part of a wider cultural venue with exhibitions, concerts, lectures and workshops.

Citypark Albania. A large shopping centre has some 180 shops, a Mercator hypermarket, food court, skating rink.

Galeria Mall. More than 50 shops, bars and cafés.

Kristal Shopping Center. Has a Conad supermarket and a cinema complex.

QTU shopping centre. Has a supermarket, electronics store.

Toptani Shopping Center. Splashy shopping mall in the city centre.

Eat

Food is generally inexpensive, even in the more upscale places. The Italian influence is everywhere and most places will offer pizza and/or pasta along more elaborate dishes. A good rule of thumb is that the priciest or fanciest places rarely are the best ones, particularly in the Blloku. Notable dishes that exemplify the local cuisine include fërgesë (baked vegetables and cheese) and tavë dheu (fërgesë with the addition of liver).

Budget Small shops and roadside vendors throughout the city sell foods such as sufllaqe, doner and gjiro for 200–300 lek. Also try the local speciality originally from Turkey, byrek (50–80 lek), barely haut-cuisine but inexpensive.

Many cantina-like local and inexpensive restaurant serve delicious regional dishes for lunch or throughout the day. The following are recommended:

Flower's. Daily menu and à-la-carte. Free water and bread as locals are used to it. Muzaka, creamy egg plant ... feels like the try beyond the usual.

Gjelltore Dibra. Local dishes and central location.

Tasty. An authentic and plain cantine-like restaurant with a great choice of inexpensive, genuine Albanian dishes.

Te Dhuri. Only daily lunch menu available, no à-la-carte. Simple but delicious. Though, it seems a little Albanian might be needed to communicate your needs.

Vjosa. Serves all regular Albanian dishes; Supe Pule, Tashqebab, Tave Dheu, Salate Fshati, Fergese, etc.

Otherwise, there are many meat-heavy fast food places all around the city:

Mr. Chicken. Good taste of Albanian fast food. Fresh rotisserie chicken

Gjiro Kamara fast food restaurant. Good taste of Albanian fast food.

Marion Restaurant. Budget self-service restaurant in the Central Campus. Very popular among students.

Qofte Tradita Met Kodra. A little grill on Sheshi Avni rustemi featuring qoftas (rissoles).

FISH FRIENDS by Temla - Little fish shop + Imbiss in Qyteti Studenti. Decent pasta with seafood just 500 lek.

Tek Zgara Tirones 2. Good traditional Albanian cuisine with massive servings.

Birrari Ke Tori. Straightforward traditional Albanian food, with mostly meat dishes on the menu. The restaurant is practically in the basement, so it is easy to miss.

Oda. This restaurant inside a Tirana traditional house serves delicious traditional cuisine. Note that this is the original one — Oda Garden (aka ODS) south of Pazari is the hostile take-over one.

King House restaurant. Combination of excellent Albanian and Italian food. Always very popular with expats and locals.

Yamato restaurant. A more formal restaurant than other Blloku eateries, children-friendly Yamato has a big selection of Japanese foods prepared by a Filipino chef.

Era. Options include stuffed aubergine and pilau with chicken and pine nuts.

Spaghetti Western. Sit-down/table service restaurant. Good pasta, excellent steaks. They often have a blonde ale on tap - a nice taste of home for some American palates. Fun, kitschy decor in homage to Italian western cinema, as the name of the place would suggest.

Chinese Garden. Sit-down, table-service Chinese restaurant, serving the western-versions of Chinese food, though one will occasionally see Chinese diplomats, businesspeople and tourists eating. Good food, large portions for the main dishes, noodles and rice. On the upper level of the building. Outdoor dining available during warm months.

Sofra e Ariut. Specializing in traditional Albanian cuisine, the interior is decorated with traditional ornaments.

Juvenilja Castelo. Mainly serves Italian and Albanian food. A 5-star restaurant.

Otium. Among flowering plants, find samples of Gallic cuisine including seasonal seafood and other dishes.

Mullixhiu. This Biloku neighborhood eatery is part of Albania's slow-food movement where culinary theater and presentation are part of the experience.

Drink

Hotspot Tirana. A coworking space, gallery, and sometimes club with open and friendly people. A very unlike-Albanian place.

Nektar Bookcafe. Supposedly one of the best salep of Albania can be found here.

Bars Blloku is the main nightlife spot in the city.

My Way. Young locals and some expats frequent this cosy place.

Old House Bar. The waiter isn't particular helpful and they just have beer and cocktails, no raki. But the crowd and place itself is worth a visit.

My House. A little smokey inside but very local.

Miqtë e Muzikës Live. A energetic place with live music (Jazz, regional) and a cordial host. Some people find it to be a tourist trap, so better ask for prices beforehand.

Hemingway. A cocktail bar with Jazz, Blues, Reggae, etc. They also have inexpensive local beer, but they do not advertise it. Their service is not the quickest though.

Komiteti Kafe Muzeum. Styled as a cafe museum, this little bohemian place looks like a flea market. Every spare centimetre is crammed with communist-era relics, farming implements (those pitchforks hanging from the bar are probably a warning), Japanese fans, old clocks and so on. It's certainly a memorable spot for coffee or one of 25 varieties of raki.

Radio. Named for the owner's collection of antique radios, deep-1950s lamp shades and even a collection of communist-era propaganda books to read over a cocktail. It attracts a young and well-fed crowd.

Sky Tower Rotating Bar. A bar in a rotating tower. The rotation is a bit jerky and may leave you slightly seasick.

Clubs Converse, Charls, Steel Wings (Bikers club), Unit, Mos Fli are clubs in Blloku frequented by die hard rock and metal fans.

Tunel. Decent bar and club, with sometimes international DJs. In summer rooftop, in winter basement. They won't go longer than 02:00 or 03:00.

Sleep

Star Hotel. Clean, safe, private rooms with private bathroom and shower, well maintained, friendly, staff speak English.

Hotel Victoria. Family-owned hotel in a new residential area that offers quietness and fresh air.

Tirana Backpackers Hostel. A small hostel, with just 25 beds, in a beautiful villa built in 1940. Dorms are spacious and well lighted, back garden. Bikes can be rented for city tours.

Hotel Verzaci. The hotel is a ten-minute walk from the Tiranë airport terminal building, very convenient for early departures or late arrivals.

Jolly City Centre Hotel. A small hotel in central Tirana with a 24-hour front desk and friendly staff. If arriving by plane, catch the Rinas Ekspress airport coach (250 lek) which terminates behind the Opera, 500 m from the hotel.

Trip'n'Hostel. This hostel is housed in a design-conscious self-contained house, with a leafy garden out the back, a bar lined with old records, a kitchen and a cellar-like chill-out lounge downstairs. Dorms have handmade fixtures, curtains between beds for privacy and private lockable drawers, while there's also a roof terrace strewn with hammocks.

Milingona City Center Hostel. Inexpensive hostel not far from the city center. The outdoor seating in the colorful makeshift garden is a delight. Several housecats roam the outdoor area. Reception is open 24/7, but there is a fee for late check-ins.

Hotel Baron. Meeting facilities include conference rooms, a ballroom, and banquet facilities.

Hotel City Tirana. Family-owned hotel with exquisite service. As of April 2024 "temporarily closed".

Hotel Meg Klaus. 11 rooms. TV, air-con and bathroom worked fine. No restaurant (and no breakfast included) but a hotel bar. Some staff had trouble speaking English.

Bed and Breakfast Tirana Smile. Eight rooms. Each has a big workspace and good beds (though bathrooms are small). There are communal lounge with sofas, books and a large table where breakfast is served.

Green House. 10-room hotel. Some rooms have balconies, all have low-slung beds, shag-pile carpets, minibars and sleek furnishings. Downstairs is a large terrace restaurant where guests take breakfast each morning.

Hotel Airport Tirana. Grand hotel with every modern amenity.

Hotel Brilant Antik. Excellent rooms and helpful staff.

Hotel Grand. A small, 3-star standard hotel.

Hotel Mondial. Prestigious 4-star hotel. 28 rooms. Also a bar and a restaurant.

Rogner Hotel Europapark. Part of the Rogner chain of hotels, this modern hotel is where the headquarters of the communist party were planned to be built before the fall. Very luxurious. Beautiful gardens and an outdoor swimming pool that is always freezing. The comfort has five stars. Security is unsurpassed.

Tirana International Hotel. Centrally located, this hotel was built during communist times and has changed hands. There are plans for drastic changes in its appearance, and it remains one of the major and best hotels in Albania. If you have the time have lunch on the covered balcony of their restaurant, the food and service is excellent.

Xheko Imperial Hotel Tirana. Small hotel in the Bllok area. 48 luxurious rooms, equipped with all the modern amenities. Restaurant with Albanian traditional cuisine.

Rogner Hotel Tirana. Small hotel in the Bllok area. 48 luxurious rooms, equipped with all the modern amenities. Restaurant with Albanian traditional cuisine.