Albania
Welcome to “Albanian Adventures” – Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Hidden Gem of Europe!
Discover the Unexplored: Albania, a land of untouched beauty and ancient mysteries. Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Albania is a country that promises an array of unique experiences. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Albanian Riviera to the timeless streets of Berat and Gjirokastër, our blog will guide you through this enchanting nation.
Why Albania? Often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours, Albania is a treasure trove of rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s a place where the past and the present merge seamlessly, offering a travel experience like no other.
Below you will find comprehensive guides to the country.
Best Time To Visit
Spring (Mar-May): Ideal for nature and culture enthusiasts, with moderate temperatures (15°C-20°C), cultural festivals in cities like Tirana and Berat, and scenic hikes along the Albanian Riviera.
Summer (Jun-Aug): Perfect for beachgoers and adventurers, featuring warm weather (above 30°C), stunning beaches like Ksamil and Dhermi, and activities like hiking and rafting in the Albanian Alps.
Autumn (Sep-Nov): Great for food lovers and off-peak travelers, with cooler temperatures (18°C-25°C), less crowded historical sites like Gjirokastër, and scenic food tours amid olive groves and vineyards.
Winter (Dec-Feb): Suited for history buffs and those seeking tranquility, with mild coastal temperatures (10°C-15°C), quieter exploration of historical sites, and winter sports in the northern mountains.
What To Expect
Capital: Tirana
Population: 2.812 million (2021)
Language: Albanian, the country’s official language, is spoken by almost 98% of the population of Albania. There are two main spoken dialects of Albanian, southern Tosk and northern Gheg, and they are mutually intelligible.
Currency: The official currency in Albania is called a Lek or ALL. 1 USD is equivalent to about 95.32 Albanian Lek and 120.61 is around £1 GBP. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: Most major credit and debit cards are accepted in banks, larger supermarkets and international hotels. It is important to note, however, that smaller businesses and taxis will often only accept cash. A lot of places will now also accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google pay.
Plugs: In Albania, they use power sockets (outlets) of type C and F. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: It’s pretty safe to travel around Albania. Albania does have petty crime, but no more than a major city would elsewhere.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Albania and reasons to visit Albania
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Albania
1. Explore the Ancient City of Butrint
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Butrint is a spectacular archaeological site with ruins that span 2,500 years. It offers a unique glimpse into the various civilizations that have occupied the area, from the Greeks and Romans to the Byzantines and Venetians. Walking through Butrint is like stepping back in time, surrounded by ancient walls, a Roman amphitheater, and medieval churches.
2. Relax on the Albanian Riviera
Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Albanian Riviera is a must-visit for beach lovers. The coastline stretches from the village of Dhermi to Ksamil, near the Greek border. Enjoy the sun on popular beaches like Jale and Himara or find your own secluded spot. The Riviera is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, especially in towns like Saranda.
3. Hike in the Albanian Alps
For the adventurous, the Albanian Alps in the north offer breathtaking landscapes and challenging trails. The region, sometimes called the “Accursed Mountains,” is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The Valbona to Theth hike is particularly famous, offering stunning views of the rugged terrain, traditional villages, and the unique culture of the highlands.
4. Discover the Ottoman Charm of Gjirokastër and Berat
These two cities are renowned for their well-preserved Ottoman architecture and are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Gjirokastër, with its fortress and stone-roofed houses, and Berat, known as the “Town of a Thousand Windows,” are both filled with history and charm. Walking through their cobbled streets is like wandering through a living museum.
5. Visit the Capital City, Tirana
The vibrant capital offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. Explore attractions like Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the colourful buildings of the city centre. Tirana is also known for its cafe culture, lively bars, and a range of restaurants offering traditional Albanian cuisine.
Albania Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – 950–1,340 ALL / £8–12 GBP / $9–13 / €9–12
- Hostel Private Rooms – 2,450–5,000 ALL / £20–43 GBP / $24–47 / €22–46
- Budget Hotels – 2,500–3,500 ALL / £21–30 GBP / $25–33 / €23–32
- Airbnb Private Rooms – 1,800–3,600 ALL / £15–31 GBP / $17–34 / €16–33
- Airbnb Apartments – 5,800+ ALL / £50+ GBP / $56+ / €54+
- Campsites – 1,200 ALL / £10 GBP / $11 / €11
Transportation
- Local Bus or Minibus – 30–150 ALL / £0.25–1.30 GBP / $0.30–1.40 / €0.30–1.20
- Intercity Bus – 500–1,200 ALL / £4–10 GBP / $5–11 / €5–10
- Taxi (per km) – 300–400 ALL / £2.50–3.40 GBP / $3–3.75 / €3–3.60
- Car Rental (per day) – 2,500–4,000 ALL / £21–34 GBP / $25–38 / €23–36
Food
- Budget Meal – 300–600 ALL / £2.50–5 GBP / $3–6 / €3–6
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – 1,000–2,000 ALL / £9–17 GBP / $10–19 / €9–18
- Coffee – 100–150 ALL / £0.85–1.30 GBP / $1–1.50 / €0.95–1.20
- Beer – 150–250 ALL / £1.30–2.10 GBP / $1.50–2.40 / €1.40–2.30
Activities
- Museum Entry – 200–500 ALL / £1.70–4.30 GBP / $2–5 / €1.90–4.70
- Guided Tours – 2,000–5,000 ALL / £17–43 GBP / $19–47 / €18–46
- Boat Tours – 3,000–7,000 ALL / £26–60 GBP / $29–66 / €28–65
- Guided Hiking Tours – 2,500–5,500 ALL / £21–47 GBP / $25–52 / €23–51
Albania Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – 5,000 ALL Per Day
(Approx. £40 GBP / $50 USD / €46 EUR)
A backpacking budget allows you to stay in a hostel dorm, cook some of your meals, and use public transportation. You can enjoy free and low-cost activities like hiking, beach outings, or free walking tours.
If you plan to drink, add an extra 500–1,000 ALL (£4–9 GBP / $5–10 USD / €5–9 EUR) per day for alcohol expenses. To save even more, stick to local buses and shop at markets for fresh produce.
Midrange – 10,500 ALL Per Day
(Approx. £88 GBP / $105 USD / €97 EUR)
A mid-range budget offers the comfort of a private room in a hostel or Airbnb. You’ll have the flexibility to eat out at local restaurants, enjoy a few drinks at bars, and explore museums and cultural landmarks.
This budget also covers a couple of day trips, taxis for short rides, and paid tours to enhance your experience. You’ll get a mix of convenience and leisure while staying within budget.
Upscale – 18,000+ ALL Per Day
(Approx. £151+ GBP / $180+ USD / €166+ EUR)
A luxury budget ensures a stay in boutique hotels or high-end Airbnbs. You can dine out at quality restaurants for every meal, indulge in wine and cocktails, and explore Albania through private tours and guided experiences.
This budget also covers seamless transportation, with taxis or rental cars for flexibility and comfort. It allows for enjoying all the sites, from ancient ruins to coastal getaways, without compromise.
Albania Money-Saving Tips
Albania remains one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. Even if you choose private accommodations or dine out regularly, you’ll find it hard to overspend here. But for those looking to stretch their budget further, here are some tips to help you save money during your trip:
- Bring a Water Bottle with a Filter – Tap water in Albania isn’t always safe to drink. Instead of buying bottled water, bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter. Brands like LifeStraw or Grayl are perfect for ensuring your water is safe and clean while reducing plastic waste.
- Take Free Walking Tours – Explore Albania’s cities with free walking tours, which are a fantastic way to learn about local history and culture. In Tirana, the Tirana Free Tour offers excellent city tours, and there are also free walking tours in Berat and Shkodër. Don’t forget to tip your guide for their time and expertise!
- Cook Your Own Meals – Hostels and Airbnbs in Albania often come with kitchen facilities. Cooking your own meals is not only cost-effective but also allows you to enjoy fresh produce from Albania’s many farmer’s markets. Groceries are cheap, and you can make delicious meals with local ingredients like fresh vegetables, olive oil, and herbs.
- Stay with Locals via Couchsurfing – Couchsurfing is still a popular and safe way to save money in Albania. It’s free, and staying with a local provides you with insider knowledge about the area, including the best affordable spots to eat and hidden attractions.
- Bunk in Hostels – Albanian hostels are among the cheapest in Europe, especially dorm rooms. They’re great for meeting fellow travellers and often organise free or low-cost group activities like hikes or cultural nights.
- Walk Everywhere – Most Albanian cities and towns are compact and walkable. Save on transportation costs by exploring on foot, whether it’s the historic streets of Berat, the beaches of Himarë, or the colourful neighbourhoods of Tirana.
- Use Local Buses – If walking isn’t an option, take local buses or minibuses (furgons), which are incredibly affordable and connect most cities and towns. Skip taxis unless necessary, as they are more expensive.
- Take Advantage of Wild Camping – Albania allows wild camping, meaning you can pitch a tent or park your camper van almost anywhere legally. This is a fantastic way to cut down on accommodation costs and immerse yourself in nature, especially along the stunning Albanian Riviera or in the mountains.
- Enjoy Free Outdoor Activities – Albania is a paradise for nature lovers. Hiking trails in the Accursed Mountains, exploring the Blue Eye Spring, or lounging on pristine beaches like Ksamil are all free or very affordable. Make the most of Albania’s abundant outdoor attractions!
- Travel Off-Season – Visiting Albania during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) means cheaper accommodations, fewer crowds, and lower prices for activities and transportation. The weather is still pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore.
How to Get Around in Albania
Getting around Albania can be an adventure, as the country’s transport infrastructure is still developing. Here’s an updated guide to navigating the country efficiently and affordably:
Walking
In most towns and cities, walking is the easiest way to get around. Places like Tirana, Berat, and Gjirokastër are compact and pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within close proximity.
Public Transportation
Public buses operate within cities and towns, with fares typically costing 50 ALL / £0.40 / $0.50 / €0.45 per ride. While schedules can be a bit loose, buses are generally reliable for short distances.
For longer journeys, furgons (shared minibuses) are common and affordable, though they often lack fixed timetables. Simply show up at the station and ask locals or drivers for the next departure.
Airport Transfers
To get from Tirana International Airport to the city centre, the airport shuttle is the cheapest option. It operates from 6am to 11pm, costs 500 ALL / £4.20 / $5 / €4.60 (one-way), and takes about 30–40 minutes, dropping you off near the National Museum.
Alternatively, taxis from the airport to Tirana cost around 3,000 ALL / £25 / $30 / €28. Make sure to confirm the price before starting your journey to avoid surprises.
Taxis
Taxis are widely available in all major cities. Metered rates usually start at 350 ALL / £2.90 / $3.50 / €3.20, with an additional 350 ALL / £2.90 / $3.50 / €3.20 per kilometre. Be cautious, as many drivers prefer to negotiate flat rates, which are often inflated. Insist on using the meter to ensure a fair price.
For short distances or late-night rides, taxis can be a convenient option, though they’re pricier than public transport.
Buses and Intercity Travel
Buses and furgons are the primary way to travel between cities. While the roads are often in poor condition, making journeys slower than expected, they’re still the most practical and economical choice.
Tirana to Sarandë: ~1,900 ALL / £16 / $19 / €18, 5–6 hours
Tirana to Berat: ~500 ALL / £4.20 / $5 / €4.60, 3 hours
Vlorë to Berat: ~500 ALL / £4.20 / $5 / €4.60, 2 hours
There’s no need to pre-book; simply show up at the station, buy a ticket, and board. However, expect delays, as roads can be congested and schedules are flexible.
For planning routes and fares, websites like Gjirafa or local resources may be more reliable than international platforms like BusBud.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a great way to explore Albania’s remote areas, like the Albanian Riviera or the Accursed Mountains. Rentals start at 2,000 ALL / £16 / $20 / €18 per day, but prices can vary depending on the season and vehicle type.
You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP), and driving in Albania requires caution. Roads can be narrow and poorly maintained, and local driving habits are aggressive. Ensure your car is insured and carry a spare tyre, as punctures are common. For the best deals, check Discover Cars.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is relatively safe and widely accepted in Albania, especially in rural areas. Locals are often friendly and happy to offer rides. While you’ll rarely wait long for a lift, it’s best to stick to daylight hours. Use HitchWiki for tips and popular routes.
Trains
Albania’s rail network is minimal and outdated, with most locals and tourists opting for buses instead. Trains are slow, infrequent, and unreliable, so they’re not recommended unless you’re seeking an offbeat adventure.
Cycling
For adventurous travellers, cycling is a unique way to explore Albania’s stunning landscapes. However, be prepared for rugged terrain, steep mountain roads, and limited cycling infrastructure.
Travel Resources
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