If you’re planning a trip to Albania’s vibrant capital, you’re in the right place. This in depth guide to the top 12 things to do in Tirana is packed with local insight and must-see highlights. After spending three months living in Tirana, I fell in love with its colourful streets, quirky charm, and mix of tradition and modern life.
It’s a city that surprises you, one moment you’re sipping espresso in a trendy Blloku café, the next you’re exploring a Cold War-era bunker turned art museum. Tirana may not be on every traveller’s radar yet but that’s part of what makes it so special. It’s raw, real, and buzzing with a unique energy.
During my stay in Tirana, I made sure to explore every corner of the city, from hidden local hangouts to the most iconic landmarks. This detailed travel guide covers everything you need to know from the top Tirana activities, the best restaurants, how to get around and where to stay for every budget.
Whether you’re here for a quick city break or embarking on a road trip around Albania, these experiences will help you get to know the city beyond the guidebooks. Here are the best things to do in Tirana that you shouldn’t miss!
See Tirana from above on the Dajti Cable Car
Table of Contents
Top 12 Things to Do in Tirana, Albania – A Local’s City Guide
Explore Skanderbeg Square
No trip to Tirana is complete without spending time in Skanderbeg Square, the cultural and historical heart of the city. It’s the perfect starting point for exploring, and you’ll find some of Tirana’s most important landmarks right here.
Dominating the square is the massive National History Museum, easily recognizable by the colourful mosaic above its entrance (currently closed for renovations). Inside, you’ll get a fascinating overview of Albania’s past, from ancient times to the Communist era.
Just across the square is the Et’hem Bey Mosque, a beautifully restored 18th-century mosque that somehow survived the country’s atheist dictatorship. Step inside to admire its intricate frescoes and peaceful atmosphere.
The square itself is a wide-open pedestrian space, great for people-watching or joining in on one of the frequent festivals and events. Whether you visit during the day or see it lit up at night, Skanderbeg Square gives you a real feel for the energy of Tirana.
Visit Bunk’Art 1 & Bunk’Art 2
If you’re into unique museums with a twist of Cold War intrigue, Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2 are some of the top rated things to do Tirana. These museums are set inside actual underground bunkers built during the Communist era, offering a chilling yet fascinating look at Albania’s recent past.
Of the two, Bunk’Art 1 is the more immersive experience, it’s set in a massive bunker carved into Mount Dajti’s slopes on the outskirts of the city. It’s filled with detailed exhibits on daily life under dictatorship, military operations, and surveillance. Inside you’ll get to walk through Enver Hoxha’s former bedroom and office.
The best part of Bunk’Art 1 is that it’s located right next to the Dajti Express Cable Car, so you can easily combine both into one exciting day of sightseeing. Getting there can easily be done by taking the local bus #11 from the ‘Biblioteka’ bus stop near Skanderbeg Square, tickets cost 40 lek per person.
Bunk’Art 2 is located in the city centre near Skanderbeg Square, ideal if you’re trying to see the sites of Tirana in one day. It’s smaller and focuses more on the secret police and internal repression. Both are powerful and thought-provoking, but if you have more time to spare I recommend visiting Bunk’Art 1.
Tickets: 900 lek/person or 1300 lek combined ticket for both museums
Opening Hours: See updated opening hours for both museums at the official website
Visit Enver Hoxha’s former office at Bunk’Art 1
Entry to Bunk’Art 1
Take the Dajti Express Cable Car
After your visit to Bunk’Art 1, head over to the nearby Dajti Express Cable Car for a scenic ride that offers some of the best views in Tirana. This 15-minute ride takes you up the slopes of Mount Dajti, offering sweeping views over Tirana and the surrounding landscape. On arrival you’ll find a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
At the top, make your way to the popular Dajti Balcony’s restaurant for lunch. This lovely restaurant serves up traditional Albanian dishes alongside panoramic views of Tirana below. It’s definitely one of the best spots to sit with a glass of wine and soak it all in.
Once you’ve finished your meal, you can explore the area further with a short hike or even try some of the nearby activities like mini-golf or horseback riding. It’s a great way to combine culture, nature, and lunch in one trip.
Tickets: 1400 lek/person round trip
Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm daily (closed on Tuesdays)
Take in the view of Tirana from Dajti Cable Car
Enjoy a drink at Dajti Balcony Restaurant
Grab a Coffee in the Blloku District
Once off-limits to the public during communist times, the Blloku District has transformed into Tirana’s trendiest neighborhood. It’s one of my favourite spots in the city for a long term stay. Today, it’s a lively mix of colourful buildings, boutiques, street art, and some of the best bars and restaurants in the city.
The café scene in Blloku is unbeatable, locals take their coffee culture seriously here and there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than sipping an espresso on a sunny terrace and watching the world go by. Blloku perfectly blends Tirana’s past and present, definitely a must on your itinerary.
If you’re looking for great vegetarian food, don’t miss my favourite spot Gjelber, a cozy gem tucked away on a quiet street serving delicious healthy bowls, wraps and fresh juices. For something more traditional, head to Restaurant Piceri Era “Blloku”, a popular place known for its classic Albanian dishes and warm atmosphere.
As the sun goes down, Blloku really comes to life, this is the beating heart of Tirana’s nightlife with stylish cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and lively clubs that stay buzzing late into the night.
Stop for coffee in Blloku District
Visit the Grand Park and Artificial Lake
Just south of the city centre lies Tirana’s beloved Grand Park, a sprawling green oasis surrounding the beautiful Artificial Lake.It’s the perfect place to escape the city’s bustle and enjoy local life – families picnicking, joggers circling the lake, cyclists cruising along shaded paths, or simply taking in the surroundings.
During my time living in Tirana, I came here often to enjoy a quiet coffee at one of the cafes next to the lake. I also really liked this outdoor bar with orange bean bags called My Favourite Tirana, a perfect vibe for happy hour drinks with friends on a sunny afternoon. Whether you’re looking to get your daily steps in, relax in nature, or sip sunset cocktails, the Grand Park is a must on your Tirana itinerary!
Enjoy a happy hour cocktail in the Grand Park of Tirana
Experience Local Culture at Albanian Night
For an unforgettable evening filled with tradition, head to Albanian Night. It’s an exciting dinner-and-dance show on Kavaja Street, only steps from Skanderbeg Square. Here you can have an immersive cultural experience with music, lively circle dances, and even the chance to wear a traditional costume. You can also choose to include a delicious meal inspired by regional Albanian cuisine.
From the moment you arrive, the energy is contagious: performers re-enact village weddings as you watch traditional dancing and singing. You might even want to join in the dancing! The evening flows into the night with opportunities to mingle, toast with raki, and soak in the warmth of Albanian hospitality.
Albanian Night is a fun and memorable way to experience true Albanian culture and delve deeper into local traditions. Get updated information and purchase tickets online by visiting the official website.
Tickets: €38/person dance show only, €60/person dinner & dance show
Opening Hours: show begins at 7:00pm daily
Experiencing culture and tradition at Albanian Night
Climb The Pyramid of Tirana
One of Tirana’s most iconic landmarks, the Pyramid of Tirana (formerly the Enver Hoxha Museum) now stands as a striking symbol of transformation. Built back in 1988 in a brutalist style, it’s had many lives: a museum, conference centre, nightclub, NATO base, and more. Today, you can climb its stepped façade, up to platforms that offer panoramic views over the city.
This stop doesn’t take long but it’s worth a climb to the top to see the view. The Pyramid of Tirana is quite an unusual sight, yet it’s photogenic and free to explore any time. Also, there’s a great pizza place nearby called Laguna where you can get delicious pizza on the go for 150 lek per slice!
See the view from the top of Tirana’s Pyramid
Stroll Through the Old Bazaar
A wander through the Old Bazaar is a must on your list of things to do in Tirana! Here you can find a pedestrian street with cozy cafés, restaurants, and a market with local vendors. It’s a lovely place to browse the artisan stalls selling handmade souvenirs and Albanian products like olive oil, honey, and different types of raki.
Hungry for lunch? Don’t miss Tradita te Meri, a cute family-run taverna serving traditional dishes in a charming, outdoor setting for a very reasonable price. I loved sitting on their patio, having lunch and sharing a half litre jug of wine with friends in the sun. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists so don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a table.
Exploring the Old Bazaar
Visit the House of Leaves Museum
The Museum of Secret Surveillance also known as House of Leaves is a haunting glimpse into Albania’s surveillance-era past. Housed in the former Sigurimi headquarters, complete with original listening devices, bugged rooms, and chilling audio recordings, it’s a historical experience you won’t forget.
Named for the ivy-covered exterior, this compact museum with 31 rooms first opened in May 2017. Allow around 1 – 2 hours to wander through exhibits that detail the tactics of the secret police, including a cold, bunker‑style room in the leafy garden.
It’s small but it leaves a lasting impression, perfect for anyone looking to better understand Albania’s dark past and the realities of life under constant surveillance.
Tickets: 700 lek/person
Opening Hours: 9am – 7pm daily
Visit the House of Leaves Museum
Check out Tirana Castle
Tirana Castle also known as the Fortress of Justinian is a historical landmark that blends centuries-old stone walls with modern city life. It’s not the typical medieval-style castle that you’re expecting.
Dating to the Byzantine era, the only part of the castle that remains is a stone wall that now contains a pedestrian area filled with cafes, shops, and restaurants.
In my opinion a visit to the castle is not an essential thing to do in Tirana, but if you’re in the area, a quick stroll through makes for a nice addition to your city explorations.
Take a walk through Tirana Castle
Sample Unique Raki Flavours at Komiteti
If you’re curious about Albania’s favourite traditional drink, raki, there’s no better place to try it than Komiteti Kafe Muzeum. This quirky little bar in the heart of Tirana feels more like a vintage museum than a typical pub with shelves full of old communist memorabilia and cozy corners to sip in.
What makes Komiteti special is its impressive selection of raki flavours from the classic grape to more unusual infusions like walnut, sage, rosemary, and even chili. Don’t forget to try a raki cocktail here, I recommend going for the Marigo or Jolanda.
The staff are super knowledgeable and happy to recommend a tasting flight of 10 rakis if you’re not sure where to start (trust me, the baked raki is the best one!). It’s a fun way to experience a big part of Albanian culture and the relaxed vibe makes it easy to spend a few hours here. Sampling raki at Komiteti is an iconic thing to do in Tirana, just go easy as it’s stronger than it tastes!
Enjoy a tasting flight of raki
Try a raki cocktail at Komiteti
Take a Day Trip from Tirana
Tirana is the perfect base for exploring Albania’s diverse landscapes and historic gems. With everything from coastal towns to castle-topped hills just a short drive away, these easy day trips from Tirana let you explore some of the best places in Albania without travelling too far from the capital.
Lake Bovilla
If you’re up for a hike with stunning mountain views, head to Lake Bovilla, about an hour northeast of Tirana. It’s best reached by booking a day tour or renting a car and driving there yourself. Keep in mind the road to get there is gravel which makes for a bumpy ride.
This turquoise reservoir sits beneath dramatic cliffs and is a favourite local escape for hikers and nature lovers. The trail to the Bovilla Viewpoint is short but steep, rewarding you with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Pack snacks and water and bring proper shoes for the rocky path. There is a restaurant nearby offering post-hike food and drinks with a nice view.
Just 45 minutes from Tirana, Kruja is a historic hilltop town rich in Albanian heritage. Home to the Skanderbeg Museum and a well-preserved Ottoman bazaar, it’s the ideal place to learn about Albania’s national hero and pick up unique souvenirs.
Wander through cobbled streets lined with boutiques and cute restaurants before exploring Kruja Castle for sweeping valley views. The town is small and walkable, making it perfect for a half-day trip.
It’s easy to catch the bus there from Tirana’s regional bus station, otherwise booking a day tour is a popular way to go. A guided tour of Kruja is the best way to learn about the town’s fascinating history and visit the main landmarks.
If you’re craving the coast, the seaside city of Durrës is just a 40-minute drive from Tirana. Known for its long beaches, ancient Roman amphitheatre, and laid-back vibe, it’s a great spot for hitting the beach or having lunch at a seaside restaurant. Walk the palm-lined promenade, grab fresh seafood, or visit the Archaeological Museum for a bit of history.
Durrës gets busy in summer, so go early or visit off-season for a quieter experience. It’s a great place for catching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea. I also enjoyed visiting the nearby town of Golem. With plenty of nice beachfront hotels, it’s perfect for a little weekend city break. Keep in mind that you won’t find those pristine, white-sand beaches of the south in Durrës, you must travel to the Albanian Riviera for them.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Berat is known as the “city of a thousand windows” thanks to its white Ottoman houses stacked along the hillside. About two hours from Tirana, it’s well worth the trip for its historic charm and postcard-perfect views. Truly living up to its status as the most beautiful town in Albania!
Admire the epic view from the Byzantine-era Holy Trinity Church, visit the Onufri Museum, and stroll along the cobbled streets of Mangalem and Gorica quarters. Wine lovers will also appreciate the local vineyards, I loved visiting Alpeta Winery in the nearby village of Roshnik.
It’s easy to spend the day soaking up Berat’s timeless beauty and cultural depth however if you have more time, you won’t regret staying for a night or two. Stay at Aria Baci Guest House for an authentic experience and gorgeous balcony views.
Get off the beaten track with a visit to the countryside village of Pëllumbas, only 45 minutes from Tirana. Start with a trek to Pëllumbas Cave, where you can explore impressive stalactites. From there, continue hiking through Erzen Canyon, a lush gorge with beautiful river pools, dramatic limestone walls, and small waterfalls.
The full day trip from Tirana takes around 8 hours, so pack water, snacks, good walking shoes and a swimsuit if you want to take a dip in the water. It’s an ideal excursion for nature lovers and hikers, combining an exciting cave visit and scenic trekking just outside Tirana. I really enjoyed this day trip and it was one of the highlights of my time living in Tirana!
Tirana Walking Tour – Join a local guide on an informative 2 hour walking tour as you pass by the city’s top highlights and learn all about it’s history from the Ottoman to the communist era.
Open Top Bus Tour of Tirana – A convenient 24 hr ticket that allows you to hop-on hop-off the sightseeing bus while exploring the city’s main landmarks at your own pace.
Guided Bar Crawl with Welcome Shots – The Tirana pub crawl is a fun way to meet other travellers while discovering the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, welcome shots are included at each bar and nightclub.
Guided Tour of Tirana’s Highlights – Enjoy this top-rated sightseeing tour of Tirana’s best hidden gems and top highlights with an experienced local guide.
Where to Stay in Tirana
Budget
Tirana Backpacker Hostel– Stay at the centrally located Tirana Backpacker Hostel for a laidback vibe and an excellent way to meet other travellers. I worked in this hostel for three months and can only say positive things about it. I especially love that it’s a vegetarian only hostel, their amazing breakfast and dinner is always meat-free!
Mid Rage
Central City Apartments – A fully-equipped apartment in a convenient location, only 8 minutes from Skanderbeg Square. This cozy space will have you feeling right at home with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Ideal for those who want to make their own breakfast or do their own laundry. You’ll find the large supermarket next door super handy.
Luxury
Hotel Theatro City Centre – Located only steps from Skanderbeg Square, this clean and modern hotel offers excellent value for money with a luxurious vibe. Enjoy comfortable, well-decorated rooms and an amazing breakfast included, with the highlights of Tirana right at your doorstep.
Always a chill vibe in the garden of Tirana Backpacker Hostel
Where to Eat in Tirana
Traditional
Oda’s Garden – A casual restaurant known for its outdoor dining with traditional music and a dancing show every night. Service is fast here and the vibe is fun, I highly recommend this place for a traditional experience.
Restaurant Piceri Era “Blloku” – Enjoy an authentic and memorable dining experience featuring delicious homemade food with generous portions at this highly-rated Albanian restaurant.
Tradita te Meri – A low-key family-run restaurant near the Old Bazaar where you can get all the Albanian staples for a surprisingly low price.
Enjoying a traditional meal at Restaurant Piceri Era “Blloku”
Quick Eats
Laguna Pizza – A local’s favourite spot near the Pyramid of Tirana where you can quickly grab a slice of pizza and gelato for a good price and amazing taste.
Lakror TeEla– Don’t visit Tirana without trying a Byrek (soft pastries with savoury fillings), this place lives up to its high ratings with fresh food and super friendly owners.
FAST FOOD ALBANIA – The most popular place to get a kebab on the go near Skanderbeg Square. Great value for money here with huge portions and cheap prices.
Falafel House – Grab a falafel wrap on the go to fuel your explorations at this popular vegan spot. The portion sizes are huge and it’s the best falafel I tried in the entire city!
Tirana Backpacker Hostel – Mentioning this gem again because they are a vegetarian/vegan friendly hostel serving a vegan breakfast (included in your stay) and a vegetarian dinner every night. Meat is not allowed to be brought into the hostel.
Amazing vegan breakfast at Tirana Backpacker Hostel
Practical Tips for Visiting Tirana
Safety – Tirana is very safe for foreign travellers, even when walking around at night. Like any city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing. As a solo female traveller in Albania, I never felt unsafe during my three months living there. Locals are incredibly welcoming and happy to help with directions or recommendations.
Currency – Albania uses the Albanian lek (ALL), and cash is king, especially at local markets or smaller restaurants and cafes. Many places don’t accept credit cards, so it’s best to keep some lek on hand at all times.
ATMs are widely available but the fees and exchange rates can be high. I recommend bringing euros in cash into the country and exchanging them for no commission at one of the many currency exchange shops around the city. I always use Iliria’98, a reliable exchange shop located throughout the city and at the airport.
Albanian Lek
Transportation – Tirana is very walkable, and most attractions are within easy reach of the city centre. Local buses are cheap (around 40 lek per ride) but can be a bit tricky to navigate for first-timers, Google Maps helps for this.
Taxis are affordable, though not all drivers use meters so be sure to negotiate prices beforehand. If you’re planning day trips from Tirana, renting a car is a great option for more flexibility and costs as low as €25 per day.
Cultural Customs – Albanians are warm, generous, and very proud of their culture. It’s polite to greet people with a smile and say “mirëdita” (good day). Don’t be surprised if locals go out of their way to help you, they genuinely want visitors to feel welcome in their country.
Scenes of Tirana
Best Time to Visit Tirana
The best time to visit Tirana is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring the city on foot without the intense summer heat. These shoulder seasons also mean fewer crowds and more affordable prices on accommodation.
Summer brings vibrant nightlife and festivals, but expect higher temps and busier attractions. Winters are mild but much quieter, ideal if you’re after a slower-paced, local experience. Tirana is a great destination year round, it’s the perfect choice for a weekend break and makes a good starting point for any Albanian road trip.
Spring vibes at Tirana Park
The Best Travel Insurance for Albania
Are you travelling to Albania from overseas? If you are, then you’ll need to get travel insurance before you go.
Travelling to any country without insurance is never a good idea. The reality of travelling overseas is that unexpected things can happen at anytime so the best thing you can do is be prepared.
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