Is Tirana Worth Visiting? + A Perfect 1 Day Itinerary

(Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.)

Last Updated on December 23, 2024 by sydabroad

Is Tirana worth visiting? Read more to find out! (and a one-day itinerary)

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, I’m sure Tirana doesn’t come to mind as a must-visit destination. However, I’m here to convince you that if you are traveling around Albania, Tirana is very much worth a spot on your bucket list. 

Yes, there are more beautiful places to visit in this country (which I think you should see), but Tirana is well worth it for its rich culture and fascinating history. Tirana is the bustling capital city of Albania and I spent about a week here in the city during my Europe backpacking trip. 

In this guide, I’m going to share a perfect 1-day itinerary, answer some frequently asked questions about visiting Tirana, as well as the question, is Tirana worth visiting? I’ll also give you some travel tips and opinions from my perspective after traveling around Tirana. 

I arrived in Tirana after spending time in Northern Albania, Shköder. Initially, the reason I chose to visit Albania was to hike up north in the Alps. Which was certainly well worth it. I did the Valbona to Theth hike which was an unreal experience. After visiting over 50 countries, it’s one of my favorite travel memories. 

I’ll dive into more details about this hike in another guide, but there’s so much to see in Albania. And I love how Tirana gives you access to Albania’s natural beauty. This is pretty much why I found myself in Tirana, I knew I had to pass through to reach my next destination. You’ll find out that this is pretty much the case no matter where you’re traveling to in Albania. 

Because you’ll pass through the capital, make the most of your time here! I suggest spending one to two days in Tirana. It really is worth a visit. 

A Quick History of Tirana

Tirana has a complex history, it’s a city that has now evolved into a dynamic metropolis. The city is a cultural hub with a blend of ancient history and modern flare. 

Tirana was hugely impacted by the communist regime so here in the capital, you’ll find many historic and cultural landmarks that help tell the story of the modern Albania we see today.  

The communist regime lasted from 1946 to 1992 under the leadership of Enver Hoxha. During this time the country was very isolated with heavy restrictions placed on its people. Today, it’s a vibrant city with lots to offer. If you’re interested in learning more about Albania’s communist era, you can join a communist walking tour. 

5 Reasons to Visit Tirana, Albania 

1. Tirana is an Affordable Destination

One of my favorite things about traveling Albania (and Eastern Europe in general) is that it is extremely affordable. No matter what your budget is, you’ll have the chance to do it all. No need to sacrifice experience because of your budget.

 If you’re coming from a Western country, you’ll quickly notice that your money goes a long way here. Accommodation options range from stylish boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels, all at a fraction of what you’d pay in other European capitals. 

Activities, dining out, and transportation are also very affordable. For just a few euros, you can enjoy a delicious Albanian meal, fresh seafood, or a nice coffee at a local cafe. There are plenty of budget-friendly activities, such as the National History Museum, the Bunk’Art museums, and free walking tours. 

2. The Vibrant Culture and History 

Another thing that makes Tirana such a captivating city to visit is its rich and diverse blend of culture and history. The city has influences from its Ottoman, Italian, and communist past intertwined now with its modern vibe. 

As you explore Tirana, you’ll notice its modern architecture and colorful buildings alongside Ottoman-era mosques and communist-era monuments. If you want to learn more about Albania’s complex history, I suggest checking out the Bunk’Art Museum. It’s located in a massive underground bunker and tells the story of Albania’s communist period. I’ll dive into more details about visiting this museum later in the guide. 

3. It’s A Gateway to The Rest of Albania

No matter where you plan to visit in Albania, you’ll likely have to pass through Tirana. The bus system in Albania is efficient and affordable but they all pretty much connect through the city’s capital. If you want to go from one smaller town to another, you can’t. You’ll have to go through Tirana, so you might as well make the most of it! 

I do suggest venturing beyond the country’s capital city. There is so much natural beauty in Albania like the breathtaking Albanian Alps in the north and the picturesque Riviera in the south. 

Tirana’s central location and well-connected bus routes make it the ideal starting point to explore Albania’s vibrant landscapes. You can also fly in and out of Tirana International Airport. From my experience, this was one of the easiest cities to fly out of in the Balkans. 

4. Unique Blend of Old and New 

Tirana is a fascinating city of old and new. You’ll see colors and modern architecture that coexist with historic landmarks. Contemporary art galleries and trendy spaces like the New Bazaar reflect the city’s modern vibe, while the Et’hem Bey Mosque and the Clock Tower offer a glimpse into its Ottoman past. 

You’ll also notice the blend of old and new extends beyond architecture. Traditional Albanian hospitality thrives alongside buzzing nightlife and trendy cafes. This dynamic mix of tradition and innovation gives Tirana its unique charm. 

5. Vibrant Cafe Scene 

Tirana has a vibrant cafe scene – another reason to visit this wonderful capital! The city’s streets are dotted with cafes of all sorts. You’ll find everything from family-run locations to modern coffee shops. 

Whether you’re looking to get some work done or people-watch while you sip on a latte, you’ll find the perfect spot in Tirana. One of my favorite spots is Hana Cafe– an adorable coffee shop with a warm and inviting ambiance. Their iced coffee is delish and so is their banana bread. 

I also recommend visiting Noor, another vibey spot known for its cozy interior and amazing coffee. I spent a few hours working from my laptop here and it was perfect. 

Where to Stay in Tirana 

I suggest staying in central Tirana so that you can walk just about everywhere. I spent about a week in Tirana and stayed at the popular Trip’n’Hostel and their other hostel, Trip’N’Hostel Chill Zone. 

Pretty much every backpacker suggests Trip’n’Hostel and it is a fun and lively hostel. They also have free breakfast that’s actually so good. As for the rooms themselves, they were fine. Nothing fancy at all. And it was loud. If you are looking to party and meet people, I would definitely suggest Trip’n’Hostel.

On the other hand, I feel like I may have discovered a hidden gem. I stayed at their other hostel, Trip’N’Hostel Chill Zone, and it was so nice. This is technically a coworking hostel so it had a workspace with great wifi and plenty of desk space and chairs. 

The rooms were also MUCH nicer. I treated myself for a couple of nights to a private room and it was so incredibly nice and only €30 per night. I also stayed in their dorm one night and it was great as well. This is not much of a social hostel but if you need time to recharge this is the place for you. 

Also, if you want to stay somewhere nice, just stay at Trip’N’Hostel Chill Zone and go party at the regular Trip’N’Hostel. They are a short walk from each other making it easy to go back and forth. 

Alternatively, if you are looking for a boutique hotel, I’ve listed a couple of options I suggest below. 

Hotel Boutique Villa 135 | This is a nice boutique property located just a short walk from Skanderbeg Square. Check availability here. 

The Plaza | This is a 5-star property with spacious rooms and a stylish space. It’s in a wonderful location and is very affordable as a luxury property! Check availability here. 

FAQs About Visiting Tirana, Albania

How is Tirana for Tourists?

Tirana is a tourist-friendly destination in that there is plenty to explore, it’s easy to get around and the locals are welcoming. It’s also very budget-friendly, you can find nice accommodation for a cheap price. Tirana is also generally a safe city. I felt safe the entire time in the city as a solo female traveler. 

Is Albania Worth Visiting for Tourists?

Absolutely! Albania is a gem of a country in the Balkans. From stunning beaches in the south to breathtaking mountains in the north, this country is packed with natural beauty and endless adventures. While Tirana may not be the most exciting destination compared to other places in Albania, it’s still worth spending a night or two to experience the capital’s unique vibe.

For those looking to explore the Alps up north, I highly recommend visiting Shkodër and doing the iconic hike between the villages of Valbona and Theth. This is truly a must in Northern Albania. 

How Many Days Do You Need in Tirana?

One or two days is typically enough to explore Tirana. Or at least hit all the highlights. As the capital city, it has some interesting sites, but it’s not the most captivating destination in Albania–at least in my opinion. 

You can easily cover the main attractions in this timeframe, such as the Bunk’Art 2 Museum, the main plaza, and the Pyramid of Tirana.

The main reason I stayed in Tirana for a week was because I needed a base to get some work done. If I had been traveling solely for exploring, I would have limited my stay to just a day or two. 

Is Tirana Cheap?

Yes! Tirana is a very budget-friendly destination. If you’re a backpacker looking to explore a European capital without breaking the bank, Tirana is a great choice.

Is Tirana Easy to Get Around? 

Yes, especially if you’re staying in the city center, where most attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, Tirana has an efficient public transportation system that’s easy to use. 

Pro-tip: Tirana has an airport shuttle bus that departs behind the Palace of Culture every hour. The bus costs 400 LEK and is an efficient and affordable way to get to and from the airport. You can purchase bus tickets directly from your driver in LEK. Make sure you have cash, when I was here they only accepted cash payments.

What is The Best Time to Visit Tirana? 

Honestly, Tirana is a great place to visit year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making these seasons ideal for exploring. Summer brings long sunny days, but it can be hotter and more busy. 

Winter in Tirana is relatively mild compared to other European cities like Brussels and Bratislava, making it a nice spot to visit even during the colder months. 

RELATED POST: The Perfect Backpacking Europe Packing List for Female Travelers

Is Tirana safe?

Yes, Tirana is generally considered a safe city. As a solo female traveler in Tirana, I felt safe during my time there. Like in any big city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, stick to well-lit areas, and exercise common sense. 

One thing to note is that men in this region tend to stare. This is common in Eastern Europe and, while it can feel uncomfortable, it’s not usually a safety concern. When this happens, it’s best to just ignore it and continue your day. 

Do They Speak English in Tirana?

The official language in Albania is Albanian, however, you will find English is widely spoken in the capital. As more and more travelers visit Tirana it is becoming a more popular tourist destination which means more people are used to helping nonnative speakers. 

For those working in the tourism and hospitality industry and the younger generation, English is widely spoken. You’ll be just fine getting around Tirana as an English speaker 

While traveling internationally, I suggest using an eSIM for affordable cellular data. Airalo makes it easy to purchase and install an eSIM suitable for the destination you are visiting. Purchase data with Airalo here.

So, is Tirana Worth Visiting? 

Here’s what I suggest; don’t visit Albania solely to visit Tirana. There are many more beautiful places to explore in this country. However, you’ll likely transit through this city, and in that case, I recommend staying a couple of nights.

In Tirana, you can immerse yourself in Albania’s culture and learn all about its dynamic past. Visiting the museums and joining a walking tour will give you a lot of insight into this city and the country as a whole. So yes, I think Tirana is worth visiting! 

What to Do in Tirana, Albania  | Tirana 1 Day Itinerary 

Alright here’s my quick one-day in Tirana itinerary. Pick and choose the things you’d like to do and feel free to rearrange activities according to your schedule. 

Start Your Morning in Tirana at a Cafe

As mentioned earlier in the guide, Tirana’s cafe culture is incredible. Start your morning with an iced latte or juice from one of the many wonderful cafes around the city. If you’re looking for a coffee and a small treat, I love both Hana Cafe and Noor. 

If you want something refreshing, stop by Fruit Juice Tirana. This little spot has the most delicious fresh-squeezed juices and they are SO cheap. I literally had a juice every day, this place was 11/10. A juice would also make the perfect afternoon treat during the heat of the day.  

Visit Skanderbeg Square in Tirana 

Skanderbeg Square is the main square/plaza in Tirana. It’s where many tours will meet and there’s typically a lot going on in this area. This plaza is named for the military commander who led a rebellion against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century.

Here you’ll find the famous National History Museum, Tirana’s Town Hall, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Skanderbeg Monument. 

Optional: Join a Walking Tour

Depending on how much time you have in Tirana, I suggest joining a walking tour. This will maximize your time in the city. Visit GuruWalk or the Tirana Free Tour websites to book a tour. Yes, these are free walking tours but make sure to tip your guide at the end. 

Joining a tour is a great way to learn about the city, its culture, its people, and all about Albania. I really enjoyed my walking tour because I didn’t know much about the country before visiting. We visited historic sites in the city, bunkers, and vibrant neighborhoods. Our amazing tour guide also gave our group the best recommendations in the city!  

One of my favorite things to do when I first get to a new city is take a free walking tour. This is a great way to get a sense of where everything is, learn about the city itself, and you’ll get the best local recs from your guide. I love booking my walking tours with GuruWalk – check them out here! But always remember to tip your guide.

Bunk’Art 2 Museum 

Because I didn’t know much about Albania before visiting, I knew visiting a museum in Tirana was important. Specifically the Bunk’Art Museums. There are two locations (Bunk’Art and Bunk’Art 2) and I chose to visit Bunk’Art 2 because it’s centrally located in the city whereas the original Bunk’Art is a bit harder to get to. 

Bunk’Art 2 is smaller than the original but there’s no shortage of information. The museum is housed in what used to be a nuclear bunker. It walks you through Albania’s communist past for a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s history. 

Fun Fact: Did you know that there were over 700 thousand (yes, thousand) underground bunkers built around Albania between the 1960s and 1980s? They were built as protection against a possible attack on Albania by Yugoslavia or NATO. Thankfully, the bunkers were never used and were eventually abandoned following the dissolution of the communist government in 1992.

Lunch Break 

Alright, next it’s time to take a break from exploring for lunch. There are many delicious restaurants around Tirana. Zgara Supreme 2 is great for local food and I also loved Opa which is Greek fast food. Their gyros were so good.

New Bazaar

Next, we’re heading to the New Bazaar. This is a neighborhood, market area in Tirana with produce stands, little street vendors, and more. It’s a lively area and one you can’t miss in Tirana. 

You can also find many great restaurants around this area if you want to stay here for lunch. The New Bazaar is also a good place to pick up some little gifts or souvenirs. You should definitely pick up some fresh fruit, the fruit here is so good. I just LOVE how fresh the produce is in Albania. 

Grand Park of Tirana

After the New Bazaar, head to the Grand Park of Tirana. This is a sprawling green space in the heart of the city and a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It’s great for people-watching, a picnic, or just a nice, relaxing break from the city.

In the park is a beautiful man-made lake, memorials, statues, Saint Procopius Church, and Presidential Palace, and there’s even a botanic garden and zoo close by. 

Pyramid of Tirana for Sunset 

If you’re looking for a good view of the city, climb the Pyramid of Tirana. This is a popular activity during sunset for pretty views and a fun challenge. The Pyramid of Tirana is located near the Lana River, just a short walk from the city center. 

This pyramid was built in 1988 and originally operated as the Enver Hoxha Museum, Albania’s former communist dictator. This landmark has since been a conference center and a NATO base during the Kosovo war. 

If you find yourself with more than a day in Tirana, a day trip is always a good option! Check out this day trip from Tirana that takes you to Berat and Belshi Lake!

Local Cuisine for Dinner in Tirana | Oda Restaurant

Finally, you should end your one day in Tirana at one of the best restaurants in the city – Oda Restaurant. This was my favorite spot I dined at during my time in Tirana. The ambiance was so vibey and the food was delicious. This is a traditional Albanian restaurant serving dishes like fërgesë, qofte, speca të mbushura, and jani me fasule. 

End Your Day With Dessert! 

Okay, actually the last thing on this itinerary is dessert. Pick up some ice cream at Fabrika on your way back to your hotel or hostel! They have so many delicious flavors. I had the dark chocolate ice cream in a cone and it was delish. 

Map | Is Tirana Worth Visiting? 

So, is Tirana worth visiting? Yes! I hope you enjoyed this guide and got some ideas on how to spend your one day in Tirana. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below or DM me on Instagram.

Recommended Tours in Tirana

Like this post? Pin it to save for later!