Observe a Changing City Without Tourist Glasses
Colourful Tirana © Canva
Albania is still mostly undiscovered by many tourists. It may be a bit of a challenge to get there, but it is very affordable and authentic, so it’s a real insider tip! The whole country is quite a sleeping beauty. Tirana, the country’s capital, was under communist rule for a long time, making it a rather grey and grim place. The collapse of the communist regime in 1992 only made the situation worse at first. It wasn’t until democracy was established in the year 2000, that Tirana began to blossom again under the Clean and Green project, drawing in visitors from all across the globe. Get ready for a truly unique city break!
Take in Colourful Sightseeing Attractions
Skanderbeg Square © Canva
Tirana is known for its colourful architecture from the Ottoman, fascist and Soviet eras. Pastel-coloured buildings line the central Skanderbeg Square. This is a great starting point for exploring the city on foot. At the northern end of the square, you’ll find the National Museum of History. You should also visit the magnificent Et’hem Bey Mosque and the Tanners’ Bridge from the 18th century. If you have enough time for an excursion, check out the Dajti Express: This is the longest cableway in the Balkans, and it’ll take you up 1,600 m to the National Park of Dajti Mountain right next to the city.
Experience the Hotspot of Albanian Nightlife
Tirana by Night © Canva
If you’re looking to feel the city’s young, dynamic energy, the upmarket area Blloku is the place to be. This lively neighbourhood has lots of hot clubs, bars and cafes, and so many students and tourists come here to stroll the streets and soak up the atmosphere. It’s about a 15-minute walk away from Skanderbeg Square, and you can enjoy the good life here on every corner.
Hot tips: Classic Albanian cuisine awaits you at Oda, a tasty and unbelievably affordable restaurant. And if you’re looking for a little romance? You’ll get the best view of the city and see beautiful sunsets from the Sky Restaurant & Panoramic Bar.
Indulge in Vibrant Albanian Cuisine
Albanian Cuisine © Canva
Albanian cuisine is known for being traditional, lavish and full of meat. Local dishes and specialities are typically made up of many colourful ingredients, such as aubergine, potatoes, spinach, corn and beans with LOTS of meat. Most dishes are traditionally served with buttermilk (Albanian: “dhallë”). True, it’s not easy for vegetarians and vegans to find dishes suitable to their diets on the menu; but don’t be shy! With their great levels of hospitality, you can surely clear it up with the chef. ;)
Hot tip: Markata E Fruta Perimeve, in the east of the city, promises tasty specialities and is perfect for travellers on a budget.
Enjoy the Albanian Hospitality and Helpfulness
A city transforming © Canva
It all just comes together: Go ahead and explore, and don’t worry about planning everything out perfectly. At first, the city might seem a bit chaotic and restless. After all, nearly 1 million people live in the capital, and that’s about one-third of the entire population of Albania. The people in Tirana are friendly, though: Their hospitality is unbeatable, they’re open-hearted and unspeakably helpful. Tirana is coming along well, and the feeling that the city is on the edge of a breakthrough is everywhere: Not everything works yet, but things are happening.
Find Affordable Accommodations in Tirana
© Camping Tirana
Two 3-star campsites around Tirana let you escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while. Camping Tirana is a tranquil oasis about 15 km west of the capital: This small, family-operated site is in the countryside and right on a lake. Hotel Restaurant Baron is only 20 minutes away from the city centre by bus. Note: This is a hotel that has a few pitches for motorhomes available on its car park. Ready to head out on an adventure? We hope you have a great time!
Learn more about the motorhome stopover at Hotel Restaurant Baron
