Tirana (Albanian: Tiranë) is the bustling and relatively modernised capital of Albania. It is the most important economic, financial, political and trade centre in the country. Tourists often find the city charming, with both cosmopolitan and small town feelings, and a lively nightlife.
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Sulejman Pasha Bargjini, a native feudal lord from Mullet, established the city in 1614. His first constructions were a mosque, a bakery and a hamam or Turkish bath. On 8 February 1920, Tirana was made the temporary capital by the Congress of Lushnje, and it was proclaimed the permanent capital on 31 December 1925. Today, Tirana suffers from pollution problems mainly due to the rapid increase in cars in the city and continuous construction, compounded by its position in a valley and air pollution blown in from heavy industry in Serbia.
There are no metros available in Tirana. Feet, buses and taxis are the only options to get around in the city if you do not have private transportation. The city centre is small enough to be explored through walking. Walking is a rewarding experience, but beware that there is no continuity in sidewalk width, construction material or condition. Sidewalks frequently end abruptly, have large holes or are very narrow. Pay attention while walking or you may end up spraining your ankle or falling in a hole. Street names are subject to change, so locals rarely know them. It is advised to learn to navigate via landmarks instead of addresses or street names.
1 Et'hem Bey Mosque (Xhamia e Et'hem Beut), Skanderbeg Square (Centre). Daily 08:00-22:00 (summer), 08:00-19:00 (winter). Construction of this mosque took about 28 years and finished in 1821. It is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Albania with very interesting decorations and artwork within it. Reopened in 2021 after full restoration. (updated May 2018) 2 Mosque 'Kokonozit' (Xhamia e Kokonozit), Rruga Thimi Mitko. Finished in 1750 during Ottoman rule and one of the few that survived the Communist rule intact. During that time the building functioned as a storehouse and a tobacco shop, then in 1991 it was returned to its original use.
Go for a walk in the evening along the main streets or at one of the several parks and sit for a coffee or drink. Take part in the vibrant nightlife by visiting one of the numerous nightclubs. If you are adventurous and brave enough, try the peculiar experience of driving in the city's streets by renting a car, or rent a bicycle from a bike renting station.
Food is generally inexpensive, even in the more upscale places. The Italian influence is everywhere and most places will offer pizza and/or pasta along more elaborate dishes. A good rule of thumb is that the priciest or fanciest places rarely are the best ones, particularly in the Blloku. Notable dishes that exemplify the local cuisine include fërgesë (baked vegetables and cheese) and tavë dheu (fërgesë with the addition of liver). Small shops and roadside vendors throughout the city sell foods such as sufllaqe, doner and gjiro for 200–300 lek.
1 Hotspot Tirana, ☏ +355688321066. A coworking space, gallery, and sometimes club with open and friendly people. A very unlike-Albanian place. (updated Dec 2024) 2 Nektar Bookcafe. Supposedly one of the best salep of Albania can be found here. 170 lek. (updated Dec 2024) Blloku is the main nightlife spot in the city. 3 My Way. Young locals and some expats frequent this cosy place. Peja 250 lek. (updated Dec 2024) 4 Old House Bar. The waiter isn't particular helpful and they just have beer and cocktails, no raki. But the crowd and place itself is worth a visit. Beer 300 lek. (updated Dec 2024) 5 My House (Stoa). A little smokey inside but very local. Beer 450 lek.
You should take some precautions when walking around the city. The main advice is to simply watch your step. Although many parts of the city are maintained, there remain holes and worn-down street parts. Cars also seem to drive more recklessly than in most European cities, and assume a right-of-way, so care is needed in crossing the street. Not even a green light is always a guarantee of safety! Try to see when the locals cross the street and cross with them. Crime, however, is not much of a problem. Tirana is a significantly safer city than most cities of comparable size in Europe, with people happily wandering through the city late into the night.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Jul, Tirana typically sees ~33°C daytime highs and 3 rainy days.
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