Is Albania Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

After all of my solo trips to Albania over the years, it’s the question I get asked the most often. Is Albania safe for solo female travellers? A quick search on Google will bring up many conflicting opinions on this topic so my goal for this post is to clear things up and shed some light on this controversial subject. 

As a woman who has solo travelled to 50+ countries over the years I can tell you that Albania is absolutely a safe place to visit as a solo female traveller. I wrote this article as an honest reflection of my personal experience living and travelling solo in Albania. My hope is that this will both enlighten and inspire your solo trip to Albania. 

Despite its reputation in the media, Albania is not the crime riddled country that many people assume it is. This gem of the Balkans is actually one of the safest countries to travel in Europe. With friendly, welcoming locals, spectacular beaches and fascinating history, I can’t think of any reason why you wouldn’t want to travel solo in Albania!

So without further ado, let’s dive in and answer the burning question, is Albania really a safe place to travel for solo females?

Is Albania Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Why Solo Female Travel in Albania is on the Rise

Tourism is growing fast in Albania for many reasons, especially after gaining attention on social media as ‘Europe’s best kept secret’. It’s not so secret anymore, I’m sure you’ve seen the beautiful beaches of Ksamil trending on Instagram!

As more people look for less crowded and more affordable alternatives to Western Europe, Albania is stepping into the spotlight. Its pristine beaches, dramatic mountain ranges, and friendly locals have put it on the radar for adventurers of all kinds, especially solo female travellers.

Budget Friendly – Compared to popular countries nearby like Italy or Greece, Albania is a budget-friendly destination which is appealing for those seeking to stretch their travels further. You’ll find that accommodation, food, and transportation cost significantly lower than most other European destinations.

Stunning scenery & unique culture – Albania’s scenery is incredibly diverse from the turquoise beaches on the Albanian Riviera to the the alps in the north and the many historic towns in between. It also boasts a unique blend of cultures, with Ottoman, Italian, and Balkan influences that create a rich and authentic travel experience.

Easy to Travel – To top it all off, it is very easy to travel around Albania with cheap car rentals as low as €25 per day and efficient bus routes around the country, you will have absolutely no trouble getting around on your own. The country is relatively small with all of its main landmarks easily accessible from one another.

As someone who travels the world full-time, I find myself returning to Albania for all of the reasons above and more. It easily ranks among my top three favourite countries and I know I’ll continue to visit in the years to come. 

Tips for Staying Safe in Albania as a Solo Female Traveller

This is one of the most common questions asked by women considering a trip to the Balkans and understandably so. Albania is still relatively unknown to many travellers, and online information can be sparse or conflicting. The short answer? Yes, Albania is generally safe for solo female travellers, but like anywhere, understanding local norms and staying aware of your surroundings can make a big difference.

Street Safety (Day vs. Night)

During daylight hours, Albanian cities and towns are typically very safe to explore on your own. Locals are friendly and used to tourists, especially in places like Tirana, Saranda, and Berat. It’s not uncommon to walk around with a camera or phone out during the day without issues.

At night, it’s wise to be a bit more cautious especially in quiet, residential neighbourhoods or poorly lit streets. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can happen, particularly in crowded areas. Stick to well-populated zones after dark, and use taxis or rideshare apps if you’re unsure.

• Tip: Avoid dark alleys and don’t have valuables on display at night, common-sense precautions that apply anywhere.

Harassment Levels

One of the most pleasant surprises for many solo female travellers in Albania is the low level of street harassment compared to countries like Italy, Turkey, or Morocco. Albanian men may occasionally stare, especially in areas where tourism is less common, but it’s usually more about curiosity than aggression.

Unwanted interactions are rare and if someone does approach you, a polite but firm “no” or simply walking away tends to work well. Most women report feeling respected, especially in cities and beach towns where tourism is booming.

• Tip: Dressing modestly in rural areas helps you to blend in and reduce attention.
  

  Living in Saranda, Albania

Attitudes Toward Women

Albanian society holds traditional values, but that doesn’t mean women (especially foreign women) are disrespected. In fact, solo female travellers are often met with kindness, curiosity, and hospitality from locals.

While gender roles may be more conservative in the countryside, you’re unlikely to experience any overt discrimination. Younger generations, especially in cities, are increasingly open-minded and globally connected.

• Tip: A friendly smile and respectful attitude go a long way in building trust with locals.

Transportation Safety

Getting around Albania as a solo woman is easy and straightforward. Public buses and furgons (minivans) are cheap and widely used. While they may not always run on time, they’re safe and often filled with families and solo travellers.

Taxis and local buses are a cheap and reliable way to get around in the cities. To avoid being overcharged, opt for official taxis (be sure to negotiate prices before hand!) or use Google maps to navigate the local bus schedules. Taxis are still limited in rural areas, so pre-arranged transport can be helpful.

• Tip: Avoid hitchhiking unless you’re highly experienced and feel safe. It’s not common practice in Albania.
  

  Wandering solo in the ancient streets of Gjirokaster

My Personal Experience Travelling Solo in Albania

“But isn’t Albania a dangerous place to visit?” A question I have heard countless times by people over the years when telling them about my travels. Due to its history of communism and portrayal in the media (have you seen the movie Taken?), the country has gained a reputation for being mysterious, lawless, or even unsafe, especially for women traveling alone.

However this perception couldn’t be further from the truth. While Albania’s past may seem intimidating on paper, the reality is a country that’s incredibly welcoming, culturally rich, and far safer than many popular European destinations.

I have visited Albania on three separate occasions over the past five years. I’ve lived alone in an apartment in Saranda, travelled solo around the country as well as lived and worked at a hostel in Tirana.

Overall, I have never felt that my safety was in danger at any time. In fact, I would recommend solo female travel in Albania to any friend or blog reader. As long as you are taking regular safety precautions as in any other country you visit, there is a low chance of anything going wrong while travelling solo in Albania!

I’ve never had anything stolen and experienced minimal attention from men in the streets. The few times I have received attention from men in Albania was while working out in a gym in Saranda and relaxing at the beach in Ksamil. After politely declining their offers, they left me alone with no issues. These encounters were not harassing or intimidating in any way. 

If this is your first solo trip, one thing I will recommend is that you don’t share your location on Instagram/social media in real time. This is a simple way to avoid unwanted attention or “online stalkers” that may be located in the place you’re currently travelling. Simply posting a few days after you left will help you stay safe.

Practical Travel Info for Solo Females in Albania

Visa Requirements – Albania is very welcoming when it comes to visas. Most travellers, including those from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. U.S. citizens can stay up to 1 year visa-free.

Language Tips – The official language is Albanian (Shqip), a unique language not closely related to others in Europe. While many young Albanians speak some English, especially in cities and tourist areas, you may encounter language barriers in rural regions.

Here are a few useful phrases:

• Hello – Përshëndetje

• Thank you – Faleminderit

• Yes – Po / No – Jo

• Do you speak English? – Flisni anglisht?

*Tip* Download Google Translate and the Albanian language pack for offline use.

Currency & SIM Card Advice

• Currency: Albania uses the lek (ALL). Credit cards are accepted in cities, but cash is king in most places especially in small towns, local restaurants, and public transport. Euros are often accepted throughout the country, especially in Tirana.

• ATMs are widely available, but the fees can be quite high charging €5 or more for a single transaction. I would highly recommend bringing cash in euros into the country where you can exchange it without commission in local currency exchange offices. 

• SIM Cards: For reliable data throughout the country, buy a local SIM card from Vodafone or One Albania at the airport or in city shops. Sim cards are cheap and tourist-friendly, you can get several GB of data for €10.

Travel Insurance – As a solo female traveller, I can assure you that having good travel insurance isn’t optional, it’s essential. As someone who has had to use my SafetyWing Nomad Insurance while travelling solo in Turkey and living in Albania, I promise you this is something you should never travel without.

I would have been out of pocket $55,000 USD when I spent a week in an Istanbul hospital with severe Pneumonia if I wasn’t covered! I still feel grateful that my claim was quickly approved and my trip didn’t have to end there. 

What I personally love about SafetyWing is how flexible it is for long-term travel. It covers you in over 180 countries, includes emergency medical treatment and hospitalization, and even lets you sign up after you’ve already left home! This is something most traditional travel insurance doesn’t allow.

As a digital nomad, the automatic monthly renewal also means I don’t have to constantly remember to buy new coverage every time I move countries. But if you’re only planning a short trip, you can also choose specific dates for a single journey.

Having good travel insurance ensures peace of mind that you won’t be out of pocket hundreds or thousands of dollars for a doctor or hospital visit. If you’re traveling abroad, especially solo or long-term, I genuinely wouldn’t travel without this coverage. You can sign up for Nomad Insurance by SafetyWing here and enjoy your next trip knowing you’re protected if the unexpected happens!

►Get covered with SafetyWing Nomad Insurance◄

Best Destinations for Solo Female Travellers in Albania

Albania is full of amazing destinations that are safe and welcoming for solo female travellers. The best way to stay safe and meet other like-minded travellers is to stick to Albania’s most popular and well-connected towns and cities.

From culturally rich cities like Berat and Tirana to the sparkling turquoise waters of the Albanian Riviera, these are the places I recommend adding to your Albania itinerary!

Tirana

Albania’s bustling capital is vibrant and full of energy. As the capital city it’s the most cosmopolitan place in Albania, offering a great mix of cafes, museums, markets, and nightlife.

The city is very walkable and areas like Blloku are popular among locals and tourists alike. Tirana is a fantastic place to start your journey, with plenty of hostels and guided tours that make it easy to meet other solo travellers.

Be sure to read my detailed post on the top 12 things to do in Tirana to help plan your trip!

*Tip* Stay at Tirana Backpacker Hostel for a relaxed vibe and the perfect setting to meet other travellers. I love this hostel and always stay here when visiting Tirana.

Shkodër

Located in northern Albania, Shkodër is known for its laid-back atmosphere, lakeside views, and artistic vibe. It’s also the perfect base for exploring the Albanian Alps or starting the famous Valbona to Theth hike. The town is compact, safe, and easy to explore on foot, making it ideal for solo women looking for both culture and adventure.

Berat

Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and whitewashed houses stacked on the hillside. The city is incredibly peaceful, with a charming old town and a castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Solo female travellers will love the welcoming locals, cozy guesthouses, and the slower pace of life here.

Gjirokaster

Another UNESCO gem, Gjirokaster is a stunning town made entirely of stone, nestled in the mountains of southern Albania. Its steep cobbled streets, fortress, and traditional houses offer a memorable cultural experience. It’s safe, picturesque, and a great stop if you’re looking to dive deeper into Albanian history and heritage.

Theth

If you’re drawn to rugged mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails, Theth is your dream destination. Located in the heart of the Albanian Alps up north, this remote mountain village is a haven for nature lovers. While it’s more isolated, Theth is well-known on the backpacker circuit, meaning you’ll find a small but strong community of other solo and group travellers during the high season of June-August.

Saranda & Ksamil

Down in the south, Saranda and the nearby beaches of Ksamil offer white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and lively beach towns that are perfect for a relaxing solo escape. This area is one of the most popular summer destinations in Albania, which means it’s easy to meet other travellers, find group activities, and enjoy the nightlife without feeling alone. Plus, the Greek island of Corfu is just a short ferry ride away!

Planning a trip to the south of Albania? Check out my detailed post on the best things to do in Saranda to get inspired😊

Himare

If you’re planning to explore the Albanian Riviera further, you’ll want to add Himare to your itinerary. I fell in love with this tiny laid-back beach town, the vibe was so much more chill than Saranda or Ksmail plus the beaches here are truly stunning! You can easily do a day trip from Saranda to Himare but it’s also worthwhile to spend a few nights to get the full experience. 

FAQs About Solo Female Travel in Albania

Is Albania safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Albania is considered one of the safer countries in the Balkans for solo female travellers. Violent crime is rare and locals are known for their hospitality. That said, just like anywhere else, it’s important to take standard precautions: avoid poorly lit areas at night, use official transport services, and trust your intuition.

Do Albanians speak English?

English is widely spoken in tourist areas especially among young people. In places like Tirana, Saranda, and Shkodër, you’ll have no problem communicating. In rural areas English may be limited but in my experience Albanians are incredibly helpful and will often go out of their way to assist you, even with a language barrier.

How do I get around Albania as a solo traveller?

Public buses and furgons (shared vans) are the most common ways to get around. They’re affordable and safe, though not always punctual. For more convenience and flexibility, many solo travellers use taxis or rent cars to get around especially when considering an Albanian road trip. 

What should women wear in Albania?

Albania is relatively liberal when it comes to clothing, especially in cities and coastal areas. You’ll see locals in everything from jeans to dresses, and tourists in beachwear in coastal towns like Ksamil or Saranda. In rural villages or when visiting mosques, it’s respectful to dress more modestly.

Is Albania expensive to travel solo?

Not at all! Albania is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Europe. Accommodation, food, and transport are all very affordable, making it ideal for solo travellers looking to stretch their budget on a long-term trip. A decent hostel bed can cost €10–15, while a traditional meal at a local restaurant rarely exceeds €6–8.

Is it easy to meet other solo travellers in Albania?

Absolutely. Popular spots like Tirana, Shkodër, and Saranda are full of hostels, walking tours, and day trips where you can meet other solo travellers. Whether you’re hiking in Theth, staying in a hostel in Berat or doing a day tour from Tirana, you’ll find plenty of other women travelling solo.

Are Albanians friendly to tourists?

Yes, Albanian culture is known for its welcoming hospitality which emphasizes taking care of guests. As a solo female traveller, you’ll likely experience warm welcomes, helpful locals, and perhaps even invitations for coffee or home-cooked meals when travelling off the beaten track.

When is the best time to visit Albania?

The best time for solo female travellers in Albania is spring (April–June) or early autumn (September–October) when the weather is warm, the crowds are manageable, and the prices are lower. July and August are beautiful but can be very busy and hot, especially along the coast. If you’re planning a trip during high season I would recommend visiting the north to escape crowds.

Final Thoughts: Is Albania a Safe Destinations for Solo Female Travellers?

After travelling solo through Albania myself, I can confidently say that this country is one of Europe’s most underrated and most rewarding destinations for solo female travellers. Albania offers the perfect mix of safety, affordability, and cultural experiences, wrapped in stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.

Whether you’re wandering the historic streets of Berat, hiking through the Alps in Theth, or relaxing on the turquoise shores of Ksamil, Albania is a place where you can feel both empowered and at ease as a woman travelling alone.

With a little planning, an open mind, and a desire to connect with locals and fellow travellers, your solo trip to Albania can be deeply fulfilling, safe, and unforgettable. It’s easy to see why Albania is my favourite European country for solo travel and I hope it leaves you just as inspired as it did me.

If you have any more questions about solo travelling in Albania, don’t hesitate to give me a follow on Instagram and shoot me a message over there! From one solo female traveller to another, my dms are always open for questions or even just a chat 🙂 

Read More Albania Travel Guides

• 23 Best Places to Visit in Albania
• The Best Restaurants in Saranda
• The Best Hotels in Saranda
• 12 Epic Things to do in Saranda, Albania
• The Best Hotels in Ksamil for Every Budget
• The Best Beaches in Saranda
• 12 Amazing Things to do in Tirana, Albania
• Saranda vs Ksamil – Which town should you stay in? 
• 12 Awesome Day Trips from Saranda + How to Get There
• Day Trip to the Blue Eye from Saranda – Ultimate Guide 
• The Ultimate One Week Albania Road Trip Itinerary

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