Tirana

About Tirana

Albania’s capital has managed to shake off the communist influences from the 1990s and its once-grey buildings are now canvases for colour and creativity. Tirana is an underrated gem of a city with pretty pedestrianised streets, cycling commuters, Ottoman architecture, and abundant green spaces.

With lots of interesting attractions, including museums and art galleries which illustrate Tirana’s rich history, you can easily explore the city on foot. Skanderbeg Square is the city’s central square where plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants surround a statue of Skanderbeg, a famous local warrior. To escape the hustle and bustle, the Parku I Madh (Grand Park) is a haven of peace and tranquillity. Locals head here to picnic on the lawns by the lake, or relax in one of the many café-bars.

Tirana has a rich café culture, and quirky coffee shops spill out onto the streets all over the city. The Blloku district is now brimming with trendy bars, restaurants, lounges and designer boutiques. Farm-to-plate eating is big here, and many of the city’s suburban farms have expanded to include restaurants and delis. For a sleeker urban experience, grab a drink at a rooftop bar and enjoy spectacular views of the city.

Durrës beach is about 30 minutes’ drive from Tirana, and its 10km shoreline is lined with stylish hotels, bars and restaurants. It can get super-busy in the summer months, so get there early if you want to grab a spot on one of the loungers. When the sun goes down, the beachside bars compete to play the loudest music as the lively nightlife unfolds.

25km east of Tirana is Dajti Mountain National Park. It’s the highest mountain in the country, and the Dajti Express cable car will take you on a sky-high scenic trip almost up the top, where you can bask in the view at the cable car station’s restaurant, and treat yourself to a plate of its famous roast lamb on the terrace.