Tirana, Albania: Tips, Tricks and Things To Do
Last Updated: July 29, 2026
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Discover The Tradition of Tirana, Albania
Welcome to Tirana, Albania the bustling capital, where you'll uncover tradition, culture and colour.
The sprawling concrete jungle lies in central Albania within a mountainous bowl and is overlooked by the Dajti National Park.
As with many Bulkan cities, Tirana, Albania is an up-and-coming tourist hotspot with cheap accommodation, trendy nights out and a diverse selection of foods.
In this Tirana travel guide, I will walk you through the city, learning about its history and those who have moulded it. I'll explain the best things to do in Tirana, show you the trendy Blloku area, and discuss where to eat and drink.
The first tip is to bring plenty of cash. I love Revolut, but many places in Albania still only accept cash, and ATMs charge tourists a horrendous price of around £8 per transaction.
All this and more from my four days visiting Tirana in September 2024.
What's Tirana, Albania Like?
In all honesty Tirana, Albania is not a pretty city.
In 2024, you can almost feel the desperation to become Europe's new 'must-visit' destination. Building work and cranes have taken over Tirana, yet, nothing seems to blend.
For me, there is still a long way to go.
Nevertheless, when visiting Tirana, expect to find a vibrant and busy city, where you'll need your wits about you. Blink and an electric bike, scooter or motorbike appear from nowhere, only to weave past at the last second, even on pavements and pedestrian streets.
Likewise, crowds scurry in all directions long into the night and every inch of the city is awash with movement.
The roads are busy and everything appears rushed. That is until you see a group of, usually older men, with an upturned cardboard box playing dominos. Then, and only then does the city take a breather.
Suddenly, it bursts to life again with an ever-expanding market, covering a vast network of narrow streets.
Nightlife in Tirana is an active and exciting event with cocktail bars and restaurants scattered throughout.
If Skanderbeg Square is the centre of history and culture, Blloku is undoubtedly the hub of fashion and trendy bars and restaurants.
Overall, Tirana is a smorgasbord of people, religions, cultures, wealth, lifestyles and architecture. Whatever you want, you will find it here.
How to Get To Tirana, Albania
Tirana is not only the capital, it's the epicentre of Albania and has numerous transport links in and out of the country. Countless buses and flights arrive in Tirana daily. However, there are no trains in Tirana.
Therefore, you will arrive in Tirana at one of three probable locations - Tirana International Airport, Tirane Central Bus Stop or the TEG (Tirana East Gate).
They are in different locations around Tirana but have great links to the centre (Skanderbeg Square).
How to get from Tirana Airport to Triana
Tirana International Airport is roughly twelve and a half miles (twenty kilometres) northwest of Skanderbeg Square in the heart of Tirana. The time of day you make the journey will affect your journey time. Expect anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour. This will improve once the new ring road around Tirana is finished.
Anyhow, there are a few ways of getting from Tirana Airport to Tirana, they are...
Firstly, by bus.Â
Once you exit the airport into the busy and large car park, walk straight, passing all the car hire stalls on your right and you will see a row of buses.
Numerous buses leave for the city centre regularly and are clearly labelled Tirana. The best bus company is Luna Travel and they have free wifi.
However, the buses only accept cash and cost 400LEK (£3.38), one way, per person.
The airport bus will drop you off and pick you up at Tirana Central Bus Stop next to Skanderbeg Square.
Secondly, by self-drive.
Again, exit the airport into the large car park and you cannot miss the lengthy row of stalls, most of which are car hire companies.
Having been in the traffic in Tirana, I wouldn’t want to drive there.
However, this option is worth considering if you plan to explore further afield.
Finally, you can, of course, take a taxi.
Taxis are more comfortable and slightly quicker than the bus. Similarly, they're less stressful than a self-drive. However, they will still get stuck in the airport traffic and cost slightly more.
Nevertheless, if you’re visiting Tirana in a group, the taxi is an affordable way to get to the centre. Taxis from Tirana Airport to Tirana will cost around 2500LEK (£21).
How to get to Tirana (Skanderbeg Square) from Tirana Central Bus Stop
Jump off the bus, be it the airport bus, a local bus or an inter-city bus and walk east through the walkway next to the National Library of Albania (aim for the Mosque's tower), and you will be in Skanderbeg Square within a couple of minutes. It couldn't be easier.
How to get to Tirana from (TEG) Tirana East Gate
If you're visiting Tirana via a bus from another country, such as Ohrid in North Macedonia, you'll arrive in Tirana at Tirana East Gate.
At first, this appears to be a considerable distance south of the city centre.
However, all you have to do is jump aboard the number 8 bus which will whisk you into the city in around half an hour.
The number 8 bus leaves the TEG every six to ten minutes, costing 40LEK (£0.34).
If you’re going to Skanderbeg Square, get off at Katëshet (13th stop).
Cross the main road (you'll have to cross at the junction due to a fence on the other side) and aim for the spire above Et’hem Bej Mosque.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Tirana, Albania?
Tirana is a busy city with so much to do and even more to see and experience.
However, that doesn’t mean you need as long as you may think. Most of the best things to do in Tirana, Albania don’t take that long.
Whilst you could happily spend numerous evenings at Tirana’s restaurants and bars, I’d suggest spending three days, in the city.
Any more than that, and you will likely run out of things to see and do during the day.
The Best Time Of The Year To Travel To Tirana, Albania
The weather in Tirana can make or break your time in the city.
During the summer, the weather can be extremely hot, which can make exploring a sweaty mess. Likewise, if you visit in the depths of winter, expect to hit a day or two of rain and clouds.
Hence, the best time to visit Tirana is during May and June and again in September. The weather is still warm and dry but less humid.
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Tirana, Albania
As you’d imagine, Tirana has accommodation in abundance, ranging from top-of-the-range hotels to hostels. Likewise, there are many options for apartments and homes within the city.
Whatever your style and expected levels of comfort, you will find it here.
Despite being the capital city, all the best things to do in Tirana are close to the city centre. If they are slightly further afield, the buses run from the central square.
Therefore, as long as you stay close to Skanderbeg Square, you'll be in a great location.
The apartment I stayed in, which I highly recommend for a few days, is just off Skanderbeg Square.
Nevertheless, while it was close to all the things to do, we found ourselves walking south to the trendy district of Blloku for meals and drinks.
Hence, my recommendation is to stay in the northeast area of Blloku.
Important Heads up: If you book accommodation in Tirana, Albania with an international booking agent, like Booking.com, you don't pay them. They will secure your booking. However, you pay the property owner cash or BACS the day you arrive. It may sound strange or a little off-putting, but that's how it works here.
One-Bedroom Gem by the Square
- What: A spotlessly clean and cosy one-bedroom apartment.
- Where: Less than two minutes southwest of Skanderbeg Square. (map)
- Why: It’s a spacious, clean and tidy apartment in the heart of the city
- Why Not: You don’t want self-catering.
As far as one-bedroomed apartments go, this is spacious, relaxing, quiet and in the action.
The apartment opens into a small corridor leading to a large, open living room, with a comfy corner sofa and TV.
Within the corridor is a good-sized shower room, while off the living room is a bedroom and a decent galley-style kitchen.
The bedroom has enough storage for more clothes than you could carry and a very comfortable double bed.
The decent galley-style kitchen has a large table and everything you need to live comfortably for a month.
The bedroom and kitchen join through a rear balcony.
While everything within the apartment was clean and tidy and more than perfect for the price, it did need a bit of TLC.
Some door handles were missing, there were small holes in the wall and the bathroom mat could remember the introduction of black and white TVs. Likewise, there was a bowl to collect water from the leaky boiler.
If you plan to stay in Tirana, Albania for more than four or five days, you might want to stay elsewhere. However, for a short stay, this is perfect.
In September 2024, I paid 15,852LEK (£133.50) for three nights for two people.
Further Accommodation in Tirana
As mentioned, there is more than enough accommodation in Tirana, Albania. You will always find somewhere to stay, no matter the time of year.
Regardless of that, it is best to book in advance so you can secure your preferred accommodation. Tirana and Albaina as a whole, are becoming more popular, but for now, you will get away with turning up in the city and finding decent accommodation there and then, without much hassle.
Below are a few links to my trusty trio. Between them, you should find the type of accommodation you're looking for.
A stay in Tirana can be as cheap or expensive as you make it. For example, you can stay in a hostel in Tirana for as little as £7 a night. Similarly, you could stay in a luxury hotel in Tirana for around £140 a night.
You do you, but, sadly, I know where I'm clicking with my funds and budgeted travels...
Best Things to do in Tirana, Albania
As mentioned, there are plenty of things to do in Tirana, and luckily, most of them are within a ten-minute walk of each other. Although, two of the best things to do in Tirana, Albania are a short bus ride away.
But even they are next to each other, which is great for your Tirana itinerary and makes for an easy and fun day out of the centre. They are BUNK'ART and the Dajti Ekspres.
Buses in Tirana are clean, frequent and on time. However, they will pile as many people on board as possible and only take cash.
I can't confirm this, but from taking numerous buses, no matter where you go, all tickets cost 40LEK (£0.34). Occassionally a conductor may see you're a tourist, and try to charge you more, but the tickets clearly state 40LEK.
As well as my list of things to do in Tirana there are numerous day trips north, south and even into North Macedonia. If you have time, I highly suggest you take one. I loved Ohrid in North Macedonia. If you get the chance to visit, take it.
Why? While I enjoyed my visit to Tirana, I didn't find it particularly pretty and found the 'things to do' in Tirana a bit dull and repetitive.
Here are my thoughts on the best things to do in Tirana.
Discovering Tirana, Albania: The Highlights
Visit Mount Dajti using the Dajti Ekspres (cable cars)
- Why: The cable cars are insane and the views - wow!
- Where: In the northeast of the city next to BUNK'ART. (map)
- How long: All in all, you'll need at least half a day.
- How much: Bus there and back 80LEK, cable cars 1,400LEK, plus whatever you do at the top - total 1480LEK (£12.60).
Firstly, I suggest you combine this with a visit to BUNK'ART. From the central bus station just outside Skanderbeg Square, take the blue, number 11 bus. You get off outside BUNK'ART and walk up to the cable car entrance, which takes two minutes.
Personally, this was the highlight of the Albanian leg of the journey and the best thing to do in Tirana.
The Dajti Ekspres takes you on a neverending ride into the clouds rising over mountainous peaks. Views over lakes, trees, and the city spread as far and wide as the Adriatic Sea on the horizon. It's magical.
At points, the cable cars feel like they're moving like a lift, in an almost vertical direction up the cliff face. Something tells you it shouldn't be possible, but it is.
Once at the top, the views are staggering, especially from the viewing platform.
However, I wasn't expecting a funfair-style community with rabbits, peacocks and birds in one direction, and a paintballing and shooting range, in the other.
Sandwiched between them are an adventure park, kids' rides, a restaurant, crazy golf, and even a hotel. It's brilliant, unexpected and crazy.
Go underground and explore BUNK'ART
- Why: How often do you get to see a nuclear bunker?
- Where: Just below the Dajti Ekspres, in northeast Tirana, Albania. (map)
- How long: An hour should do it unless you're a real bunker geek. If you are, you'll want two hours...
- How much: BUNK'ART costs 900LEK (£7.66). However, a combined BUNK'ART and BUNK'ART 2 ticket, costs 1,300 (£11.05).
If you only have time for one of the BUNK'ART's make it this one, and as above, combine it with a ride on the Dajti Ekspres.
Ok, so I admit, this wasn't something that thrilled me, and after an hour, I was more than ready to leave. However, it appears in everyone's 'must see' lists in Tirana. Hence, I cannot, not write about it.
Essentially, BUNK'ART is a vast network of tunnels under the mountains surrounding Tirana. They were designed as a nuclear bunker/retreat for the then-dictator and his elite during the Cold War.
Since the Cold War between Albania and Russia never happened and there was no nuclear fallout, it wasn't used.
Nowadays, it's a hot, sweaty and busy 'art' museum documenting every last detail of the communist army in Albania and those who lived in and around them. The word art is not what I'd use.
For me, it was too document-heavy, and not enough of the original features. Nevertheless, it was interesting and something I'm pleased I've seen. However, I do not feel the need to go back.
Check out BUNK'ART2
- Why: It's something to do if it's cold and raining outside.
- Where: Just south of Tirana City Hall and the Et'hem Bej Mosque. (map)
- How long: Again, an hour is more than enough unless you love reading about history in a sauna.
- How much: As with BUNK'ART, BUNK'ART 2 costs 900LEK (£7.66) or a combined ticket costs 1,300LEK (£11.05).
As per the write-up of BUNK'ART, this didn't tickle my pickle and I was pleased to get out. But, yet again, everyone raves about it. So, I must be missing something.
Similarly, BUNK'ART 2 is a Cold War nuclear bunker, only this time, in the crux of Tirana.
However, this time, the 'art', again wouldn't call it art, is more about the communist police force, policing and the Albanian Ministry of Internal Affairs during the communist era.
I get it - the word art is used as a play on words due to some of the harsh punishments people received if their 'art' was too 'out-there' or controversial. Just call it a museum.
While a lot smaller than BUNK'ART, it was busier and hotter and again, I was disappointed.
Also, it was too document-heavy and it all became a bit same'y.
If entry was limited to a certain number of people at any one time it would be better. Sadly, it isn't and it was just too busy to enjoy.
Join the Free Walking Tour
- Why: You'll learn so much about Tirana, Albania and this tour brings the city to life.
- Where: The meeting point is outside the Opera and Ballet Theater on Skanderbeg Square. (map)
- How long: Anywhere from one and a half to two hours. There are numerous tours every day.
- How much: Well, it's a free walking tour, so take a guess. Although a tip is not a nice gesture, it's expected,
Firstly, there are numerous daily tours in English, and you can rock up to any of them. If you want to do the Free Walking Tour in another language (Spanish or Italian) it's best to pre-book. Their website has all the details.
We explored Tirana on foot with our fantastic guide Eri, who brought the tour to life. The city became lit as he shared his stories and Tirana's history with us.
Not only did we learn about the city, but we also learned about the people, communism, and the way of life in Tirana and Albania during the different rulers.
I always recommend a free walking tour. You understand much more when meandering the city streets with a guide, that you might otherwise miss.
Furthermore, this tour is great even for those who cannot walk far. Everything is within close proximity, and you never really leave the city centre. As far as walking tours go, there isn't too much walking.
Enjoy the Views from the Top of the Pyramid of Tirana
- Why: Nice views over the city from the top.
- Where: Just southeast of Rinia Park. (map)
- How long: Overall you'll need fifteen to twenty minutes.
- How much: Again, it's free... Yeah, boy...
Ok, this isn't going to blow your socks off, and honestly, it doesn't even provide the best view over Tirana. That honour goes to the Sky Club.
Nevertheless, it is a famous landmark in the city, and you do get fantastic views of the mountains and the grand, Namazgah Mosque.
Over the years, the building has seen many changes and even came close to being torn down. Nowadays, the Pyramid of Tirana is a technology centre where kids can learn about robotics.
However, the climb over the top is undeniably the best element of the Pyramid. Therefore, if you can, I suggest you give it a climb. The steps are steep and despite being a short climb, it is harder than it looks.
Relax In Skanderbeg Square
- Why: Skanderbeg Square is the heart of Albania and showcases statues, stories, museums, bars and restaurants.
- Where: In the centre of Tirana, Albania, surrounded by the National Historical Museum and the Opera & Ballet Theatre. (map)
- How long: Spend an hour or so here. Grab a drink or a bite to eat and check out the statues.
- How much: Exploring Skanderbeg Square is free, but the food and drink will cost you.
At first glance, Skanderbeg Square may look like many other squares from many other cities. However, if you join the free walking tour, you will learn it isn't.
Each tile in the square is from a different city, town or village within Albania. It is supposed to represent every person who has moved to Tirana from across the country.
Likewise, the almost unnoticeable sloping of the square allows the water to collect at the edge and circulate back over the top to keep the tiles cool and clean. Genius!
Then, there are the extravagant and elegant buildings enveloping the square, such as the Opera and Ballet Theater, the famous National Historical Museum with the mosaic (my header image) and the enchanting Et'hem Bej Mosque.
Skanderbeg Square is always busy, and it's the perfect place to people-watch, especially from the magical Cafe Botanica.
Even the famous man himself, Skanderbeg lords over the square.
Become a spy at the House of Leaves
- Why: After BUNK'ART and BUNK'ART2 it's the final piece of the communist puzzle in Tirana, Albania.
- Where: Opposite the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral. (map)
- How long: Anywhere from half an hour to an hour. Any more and I want to know what you were doing...
- How much: Ok, sadly, this one isn't free. It's 700LEK (£5.95) per person.
The House of Leaves depicts the Secret Service in Albania from 1944 to 1991. It shows how the communist leaders ruled through fear and how they listened in, spied on and surveilled the public, foreigners and members of their political party.
This is right up my street. Anyone who knows me knows how much that line of work intrigues me. However, again, I was left disappointed with the House of Leaves.
Despite not being underground or in a bunker or, in fact, too busy, it was more of the same as BUNK'ART and BUNK'ART 2.
Yes, there were a lot of documents, and to truly get the vibe you needed to read them all, and it just became too samey again. That said, there were more tangible objects to see and interact with, rather than document after document.
In parts it was interesting, but I was pleased to leave come the end.
Where to Eat in Tirana, Albania
Tirana's irresistible and tasty treats are a highlight of any visit to Tirana, Albania.
As I've found throughout the Balkan countries food brings everyone together. Recipes are passed from generation to generation, and no matter the time of day or night, families and friends of all ages gather around tables for a delicious meal and a catch-up.
These foods tend to be a mix of Greek/Mediterranean and Eastern Europe meets Middle East and my god that's a mix I want in my diet. Likewise, you will find a lot of Italian restaurants in Tirana. One local told us that everyone either signed up for the army or went to Italy to become a chef. I mean, it makes sense.
Furthermore, meals in Tirana seem to involve a lot of bread, hearty vegetables, yoghurt and meat. This means that if you are vegan, you should research some restaurants before you visit Tirana. Either that or you will be eating a lot of salad. When you order a salad, you tend to get basic salads. I'm talking lettuce, a few slices of cucumber and a couple of tomatoes with no sauces.
For vegetarians, there are a lot of flavoursome meals in Tirana to try.
One of which is a famous dish from central Albania called Fërgesë, a roasted pepper dish with yoghurt, tomato and feta cheese, and it's delicious.
However, the most common dish I came across, was, as with Sofia in Bulgaria, meatballs in a sauce or meatballs with hummus. In a way, they are a simplified burger, but with banging tastes. If you see them, give it a go.
That said, here are a few of my favourite places to eat in Tirana.
Restaurant Piceri Era "Blloku"
- What: Traditional restaurant with beautiful world food options.
- Where: In the trendy Blloku district, down the road from Enver Hoxha's Former Residence. (map)
- How much: Absolute bargain, we had four beers, a starter, a side to share and two mains for 3,857LEK (£32.80). (menu)
Firstly, I recommend you book. The restaurant isn't all that small, but it is popular. We had to queue outside for about twenty minutes, and we were lucky. The queue grew after we got there.
Once inside, you are shown to your table where you can buy local beers, which I recommend here.
All in all, the waiters were lovely and very kind helping us decide what to have. They made the perfect recommendations based on what we wanted.
The food was full of flavour and importantly, authentic and traditional.
I couldn't fault it at all, and have to put it down as my best meal in Tirana. When you combine that with the cost, you don't need to look elsewhere for your first and last meal in the city.
Fresh Garden Restaurant
- What: A fun and friendly Italian restaurant with twists on local traditional foods.
- Where: In northeast Blloku, just down the road from Sky Club. (map)
- How much: Again, amazing prices - two starters, two mains and four beers cost 4,240LEK (£36.12). (menu)
Again, it's a popular place and I recommend booking to avoid disappointment. You don't want to miss out on this one.
Hidden on the first floor, this beautiful, green, almost garden setting, is phenomenal. Whoever sorted the decor deserves a bonus, it's magnificent.
Like the decor, the staff are friendly and attentive, going out of their way to make you feel welcome.
I'd give the decor and the staff a ten out of ten. Yet, the food wins even higher accolades. That gets a twelve out of ten.
The portion size, the flavour, and the presentation are unbeatable. If you try the arancini starter, you'll see what I mean. Simply wow.
Plus, there are great options for veggies and vegans and not just a salad.
Overall, this could challenge any restaurant in Tirana for the top spot. Ultimately, it's either here or Restaurant Piceri Era "Blloku".
Oda Garden
- What: Classic Albanian restaurant with a beautiful outdoor garden area.
- Where: On the roundabout next to the Pazari i Ri, a short walk east of Skanderbeg Square. (map)
- How much: A little more expensive than my first two. Two mains, some bread and six beers cost 5,000LEK (£42.36). (menu)
Firstly, many people recommend Oda Garden, and I can see why. It's authentic, feels family-run and is set in a surreal and beautiful garden.
Furthermore, the tastes are exquisite and you won't be disappointed if you eat here.
However, here's the kicker... it is a little bit of a tourist trap.
We were recommended it and came here for our first meal in Tirana. Truthfully we were in awe of it. However, the staff were typically slow and would rather finish a conversation or anything rather than serve.
Next came the cost. Having not eaten out in Tirana, we weren't sure what restaurant prices would be like. Upon seeing the prices, we commented that prices appeared to be the same as in England. We stupidly assumed that maybe it was an upper-end restaurant - which it wasn't, only the prices were.
Finally, they only accept cash, which led to a dash to the cash machine. And they all take around £8 per transaction. Overall, the price escalated for what we had, and whilst I'd recommend the food and the setting, we found other places were much tastier and cheaper.
Bitter Bistro Bar
- What: An American-vibing bistro bar with fantastic meals from breakfast and brunch to scrumptious evening dining.
- Where: On the main boulevard leading north from Skanderbeg Square. (map)
- How much: Brunch is better in Bitter and at a reasonable price. Two brunches, hot drinks and juices cost 2,340LEK (£19.82). (menu)
A gem of a find.
Hidden down a little alleyway, this bristo provides comedy, fantastic service, delicious dishes and a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Upon arrival, the waiter greeted us with a few lines of pure comedy gold, which had us laughing into the menu as we took our seats.
He paid us the perfect amount of attention, not being overly in our faces or leaving us waiting and wanting for anything.
Watching the food being delivered to other tables only excited us further. Every plate was full of fresh, colourful and aromatic foods.
Ours arrived and it didn't let us down. Every bite burst with flavour, and we were both super happy with our choices. In fact, it was so good we came back twice.
The owner (or manager) spoke to everyone as they were eating, checking how their meal was. All the staff were so friendly and kind, they made the already scrumptious meal feel even more special.
Dajti Balcony's
- What: Traditional restaurant with mountainside views.
- Where: Up in the mountains overlooking Tirana, Albania next to Dajti Ekspres (upper station). (map)
- How much: Four large beers, two mains, bread, plus a side of chips (must get) cost a fantastic 2600LEK (£22.12).
This is why you come to places like Tirana.
High on the mountaintops this large decorative wooden cabin clings to the cliff face, producing some of the best traditional foods in Tirana, Albania.
Everyone wants a window seat, and it's worth the wait. The views are endless across the mountainous bowl that houses Tirana and out into the Adriatic Sea.
The staff are slow, but that's forgivable as they were swamped. When they do get to you, they are friendly and polite and make a banging recommendation.
Like the staff and the views, the food is incredible. The pieces of bread are fresh and fluffy, and the chips are clearly from the Balkan states, taking me back to Grandpa's chips in Sofia, mmmmmm. They do them differently in the Balkans. You have to try them.
Then, there's the main course which bursts with flavour on every mouthful, and oh boy, I could eat here every day.
Overall, it was a fantastic experience and something you must try when you visit Tirana, Albania.
Where to Party in Tirana, Albania
As the capital and home to around a fifth of Albania's population, it is no surprise that there are all sorts of nights out waiting for you. Nightlife in Tirana is booming, and you will find many different types of bars and clubs that suit you.
That said, most tend to revolve around two locations.
Firstly, the elegant and vibrant Blloku district just southwest of Skanderbeg Square. Secondly, along the old Tirana Castle walls, on Shëtitorja Murat Toptani (Murat Toptani Promenade), just next to the square.
No matter the time of day or night, both areas were full of people and felt extremely safe. At no point did I see or hear anything to cause concern.
Finally, when trying the local tipple, you should try Korca and Birra Tirana. They are locally produced and taste great. They are also the best way to visit Tirana on a budget and still enjoy the nightlife.
Likewise, as with all the Balkan states, the people of Tirana love a drop of Raki. A spirit, normally drank from a shot glass, but sipped, not downed.
So, let's look at a few of my favourite bars in Tirana, where cocktails, mixers, beers, and shorts are served into the early hours.
Millennium Garden
- What:Â Relaxing garden bar serving epic Cocktails.
- Where: Just southeast of BUNK'ART 2 next to Tirana Castle. (map)
Millennium Garden is one of the most chilled-out, picturesque bars I've ever visited.
Set within a stunning leafy garden, with ambient mood lighting and wooden decor, it feels like you're enjoying world-class cocktails in a jungle. Every detail from the lights and refreshing acoustic music to the wavy designs of the bar and rooftops makes you feel relaxed.
The waiters are fantastic, friendly and funny, and the cocktails are some of the best in Tirana.
I have to recommend the frozen strawberry daiquiri. My god, it's good.
Sky Club
- What:Â Fancy fine dining and drinks overlooking Tirana.
- Where: Between Skanderbeg Square and Blloku. (map)
Ok, not everyone will have the budget in Tirana to give this one a go, but if you do, you must.
High over the city, this 360-degree revolving bar boasts the best view in Tirana. That said, the inside isn't too shabby.
The decor is one of elegance and class, with fantastic lighting and a relaxing ambience.
While outside, you can watch the city light up as night falls. We did a full rotation in a couple of hours, smashing back more cocktails than I care to admit. I highly recommend grabbing a window seat and staying for the full rotation.
Scan the menu on your phone and order at the bar. Go careful, the cocktails here are particularly strong.
Finally, I have to urge you to try the cheesecake. I am a cheesecake fanatic, and it is about the best I've ever had. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Colonial Cocktails Academy
- What:Â Hipster cocktail bar.
- Where: In the fashionable Blloku district just around the corner from Sky Club. (map)
Colonial is a busy, loud, hipster bar with random decor ranging from Buddha and elephant statues to flamingos, African arts and windchimes. Yet, it works.
However, what's most noticeable, is the sheer volume of drinks surrounding the bar. Whatever you want, Colonial will have it. Uniquely, all are served from a newspaper-style menu which adds to that colonial vibe.
Furthermore, if you don't know what you want, give the waiters a flavour to work with, and they will return with a fantastic cocktail that tastes exactly what you wanted. And trust me, it will be strong.
The cocktail makers at Colonial are the most skilled in Tirana.
Whilst the bar is a fantastic place to be, the crowds gather on the undercover veranda, and getting a spot out there is like winning a golden ticket at Willy Wonka's.
The atmosphere is buzzing, and I am sure you will love it.
Opings
- What: Small terraced Japanese-vibed venue, with screens dotted throughout showing sports.
- Where: Inside the beautiful Tirana Castle. (map)
Just inside the castle walls, I loved the clinical, clean style, which creates an ambience of peace and tranquillity.
Everything shouted of a Japanese minka. Which is exactly what Opings is, a house of the people.
Whilst quiet on the occasions we saw or visited, Opings draws a rowdy crowd causing plenty of atmosphere and excitement, especially when the footy's on the TV.
Sadly, despite the beautiful setting, the staff were very slow, which wasn't great but did match Tirana's mañana attitude to service. Likewise, whilst pleasant and a tasty treat, the cocktails, couldn't match any of my previous suggestions.
I highly recommend Opings to any sports fans.
Nostalgia Bringing You Back
- What: Small bar with fantastic music and vibes.
- Where: Opposite Millennium Garden outside the walls of Tirana Castle. (map)
There isn't much to say about Nostalgia.
Ultimatly, it's a small bar where you can relax, put your feet up and people-watch amid one of the busiest streets in Tirana.
Strangely, it never got busy in Nostalgia and you will always find a comfy sofa. There is that old-school vibe, where it feels like you're in your nan's living room while remaining modern and hip.
The only downfall to Nostalgia is also its greatest strength. It gets drowned out by the bigger boulder Millennium Garden opposite. Why is that a strength?
Well, it is quieter and more peaceful, and it goes back to the old saying 'Would you rather live in a cave and look out over a palace or live in a palace and have to look at a cave?'
Admittedly, neither are caves. Both are beautifully decorated, but sitting in Nostalgia with a refreshing local beer and looking at Millennium Garden is the perfect recipe.
Is Exploring Tirana, Albania Safe?
Yes, Tirana is safe for tourists.
During my visit to Tirana, I didn't feel unsafe or see anything that made me question my safety.
In truth, I was more worried about being knocked over by bikes (motor and cycle) riding like idiots across the city.
Crime in Tirana is considered low, especially compared to London, Paris or Madrid. However, Tirana is still a capital city and houses around a fifth of the population. Therefore, crime does and can happen.
If you stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, the tourist hotspots are perfectly safe.
However, if you venture north of the new ring road around the city, alone, the risk of becoming a victim of crime increases. Nevertheless, that is a long way out of the centre and not somewhere tourists are likely to go.
Tirana can be affected by natural disasters, such as earthquakes and flooding. The last big earthquake came in 2019 and measured 6.3 on the Rictor Scale.
Yet again, this is a rare phenomenon and not something you should worry about when visiting Tirana, Albania.
As mentioned, Tirana is busy twenty-four-seven, which makes it a safe city to walk around. Although, this can make things a bit tricky on the roads. Some cars stop at zebra crossings others don't. Some bike riders drive on pavements and pedestrianised areas, some, don't. They whizz past you at speed and you do have to keep an eye out.
For me, they are the biggest threat to your safety in Tirana.
Leave a comment
Thank you for reading my travel guide to Tirana, Albania. I hope you have enjoyed the blog and feel more informed about what to expect when visiting Tirana.
As you may have guessed, Tirana isn't my favourite place, and I won't return any time soon. I feel there are many better places to visit, including the below links.
Tirana is obviously keen to become a major tourist destination, but with ATMs charging around £8 a go, and everywhere only accepting cash, it is a piss-take. Likewise, the best things to do in Tirana were a little dull, and the city itself wasn't the prettiest.
Ultimately, that's just my opinion, despite hearing similar thoughts from others.
However, I did have a great time and recommend the restaurants and nightlife in Tirana.
Finally, all that's left for me to say is I hope you have an amazing time and enjoy every second. Please let me know your thoughts on my Tirana travel guide, the city and your trip in the comments below.
Thanks
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