Europe · Southeast Europe

Albania

Republic of Albania

Flag of Albania
Local Time
--:--:--
UTC+01:00
🏛️ Capital
Tirana
👥 Population
2,363,314
📐 Area
28,748 km²
💱 Currency
Albanian lek (L)
🗣️ Languages
Albanian
📞 Calling Code
+355
🕐 Time Zones
UTC+01:00
🌐 Region
Europe / Southeast Europe

About Albania

Albania is one of Europe's best-kept secrets, a country of dramatic contrasts where rugged mountain ranges tumble down to a shimmering Adriatic and Ionian coastline. Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, this small but captivating nation offers you a travel experience that feels genuinely undiscovered, with pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and UNESCO-listed historic towns waiting to be explored at your own pace. Despite its turbulent past, Albania has emerged as one of the region's most welcoming destinations, surprising visitors at every turn.

As you travel through Albania, you'll encounter a landscape that shifts dramatically — from the snow-capped peaks of the Albanian Alps in the north to the turquoise coves of the Riviera in the south. Tirana, the capital, pulses with a youthful energy, its colourful buildings and vibrant café culture reflecting a nation confidently looking forward. Ancient cities like Gjirokastra and Berat, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, preserve a living architectural legacy that rivals anything you'd find in more heavily touristed corners of Europe.

What truly sets Albania apart is the warmth of its people and the concept of Besa — an unbreakable code of honour and hospitality. You'll find that travellers are treated as honoured guests rather than tourist fodder. Prices remain refreshingly reasonable, crowds are manageable even in summer, and authentic experiences are everywhere. Whether you're hiking through Valbona National Park, swimming at Ksamil's crystal waters, or sipping raki with locals at a mountain guesthouse, Albania rewards the curious traveller with unforgettable moments that money simply cannot manufacture elsewhere.

History & Background

Albania's history stretches back thousands of years to the ancient Illyrians, fierce warriors who inhabited the western Balkans long before Rome cast its shadow over the region. The Romans eventually conquered Illyria in 168 BC, leaving roads, amphitheatres, and towns that you can still visit today. After Rome's fall, Albania passed through Byzantine, Bulgarian, and Serbian rule before the Albanian nobleman Gjergj Kastrioti — known as Skanderbeg — united the Albanian lords and led a legendary resistance against the Ottoman Empire for over two decades in the 15th century. Skanderbeg remains the national hero, his double-headed eagle emblem now the centrepiece of the Albanian flag.

Following Skanderbeg's death in 1468, the Ottomans consolidated control for nearly five centuries, profoundly shaping Albanian religion, architecture, and culture. Independence was declared on 28 November 1912, a date still celebrated as Flag Day. The 20th century brought immense upheaval — occupation in both World Wars and, most strikingly, nearly five decades of one of the world's most isolated communist regimes under Enver Hoxha. The regime's collapse in 1991 opened Albania to the world, and the country has since made remarkable strides toward democracy and economic development.

Culture & People

Albanian culture is shaped by a rich tapestry of Illyrian, Ottoman, Byzantine, and Mediterranean influences, producing a society that is fiercely proud of its unique identity. The concept of Besa — a traditional code of conduct emphasising honour, loyalty, and hospitality — remains a cornerstone of Albanian life. This deeply ingrained value means that guests are treated with extraordinary generosity, and promises made are kept without question. Albanians are proud of their cultural distinctiveness and the fact that their language, one of Europe's oldest, belongs to its own branch of the Indo-European family.

Traditional music, colourful folk costumes, and vibrant festivals bring Albanian culture to life throughout the year. The iso-polyphony of southern Albania is recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Family ties remain strong, and communal celebrations around weddings, religious holidays, and seasonal festivals are marked with music, dance, and abundant food. Albania is predominantly Muslim, yet the country has a long tradition of religious coexistence, with Catholics and Orthodox Christians living harmoniously alongside their Muslim neighbours, a source of immense national pride.

Food & Cuisine

Albanian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean freshness and Balkan heartiness, drawing on centuries of Ottoman influence while celebrating local ingredients. Grilled meats — lamb, veal, and chicken — are central to the Albanian table, often served with fresh salads of tomato, cucumber, and white cheese. Tave kosi, a baked lamb and yoghurt casserole, is considered the national dish and is a must-try wherever you find it. Byrek, a flaky filo pastry stuffed with spinach, cheese, or meat, makes for a perfect street-food breakfast alongside strong Albanian coffee.

Seafood along the coast is exceptional and extraordinarily fresh — grilled sea bass, octopus salads, and mussels from Butrint's lagoon are highlights. The Albanian Riviera's restaurants serve fish pulled from the Ionian Sea that very morning. Inland, you'll encounter hearty mountain fare like fergese (peppers and cottage cheese), slow-cooked lamb, and cornbread. Raki, the fiery grape brandy, is the national drink, offered to guests as a symbol of welcome. Albanian wine, particularly from the Berat region, has been improving rapidly and deserves more international attention.

Top Attractions

  • Berat (City of a Thousand Windows) — A UNESCO World Heritage Site where Ottoman-era white houses cling to a hillside beneath a medieval castle, creating one of the Balkans' most iconic skylines.
  • Ksamil Beach — Four emerald-green islets just offshore and crystalline turquoise waters make this small southern resort one of the Mediterranean's most beautiful beaches.
  • Butrint National Park — An extraordinary archaeological site layering Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins within a stunning coastal lagoon landscape.
  • Valbona Valley National Park — Dramatic alpine scenery, traditional stone guesthouses, and the famous Valbona-Theth trail through the Albanian Alps attract serious trekkers.
  • Gjirokastra — Another UNESCO-listed Ottoman city built in grey stone, birthplace of novelist Ismail Kadare and home to a formidable castle with panoramic mountain views.
  • Tirana's Blloku District — Once reserved exclusively for communist party elites, Blloku is now the beating heart of Tirana's café, bar, and street art scene.

Practical Travel Tips

  • The Albanian lek (ALL) is the local currency; carry cash for smaller towns and rural guesthouses as card acceptance remains limited outside Tirana.
  • Driving is the most flexible way to explore Albania — roads have improved significantly, but mountain tracks can be rough, so a 4WD is advisable for remote areas.
  • Download Maps.me or use offline Google Maps before venturing into the highlands, as mobile signal can be patchy in mountainous regions.
  • Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up bills or leaving 10% in restaurants is customary and warmly received.
  • English is widely spoken by younger Albanians and in tourism-facing businesses, but a few words of Albanian will earn you genuine smiles.
  • Tap water in Tirana is generally safe, but stick to bottled water in rural areas to be cautious.
  • Book the Valbona-to-Theth hike accommodation well in advance during summer — guesthouses fill up quickly for this popular multi-day trail.

Visa Overview

Citizens of EU countries, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many other nations can enter Albania visa-free for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Albania is not yet a Schengen member, so its 90-day allowance is separate from the Schengen zone's limit. Travellers from countries not on the visa-free list must apply for a visa in advance through an Albanian embassy. It is always advisable to check the latest entry requirements with the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your home country's travel advisory before departure.

Getting Around

Albania's transport network has improved considerably but remains a work in progress. Tirana's Nënë Tereza International Airport connects to major European hubs. Within the country, furgons (shared minibuses) are the backbone of inter-city transport and are cheap and frequent between major towns. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Bolt operate in Tirana. Renting a car unlocks Albania's most scenic corners, particularly the mountain roads of the north and the coastal Riviera. The new Rruga e Kombit expressway dramatically cuts travel time between Tirana and Kosovo.

Safety Notes

Albania is generally a safe country for tourists, with violent crime against visitors being rare. Petty theft can occur in busy urban areas, so keep an eye on valuables in crowded markets and on public transport. Road safety is a greater concern — Albanian drivers can be aggressive, and mountain roads demand concentration. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Some border regions with Kosovo and North Macedonia involve rough terrain; stick to marked roads and trails. The FCO and US State Department both currently list Albania as a standard travel destination with no heightened advisories.

Live Exchange Rates

Current exchange rates for currencies used in Albania.

Albanian lek (ALL) L
Updated: 2026-07-08
⌕
Currency CodeRate
1INCH 0.172553
AAVE 0.000137
ADA 0.070475
AED 0.044651
AFN 0.777933
AGIX 0.166100
AKT 0.020499
ALGO 0.142313
AMD 4.465105
AMP 27.426833
ANG 0.021954
AOA 11.164109
APE 0.084045
APT 0.019599
AR 0.006173
ARB 0.158981
ARS 18.141137
ATOM 0.007726
ATS 0.146544
AUD 0.017503
AVAX 0.001890
AWG 0.021763
AXS 0.012489
AZM 103.344785
AZN 0.020669
BAKE 16.352036
BAM 0.020829
BAT 0.142125
BBD 0.024316
BCH 0.000051
BDT 1.500769
BEF 0.429611
BGN 0.020829
BHD 0.004571
BIF 36.274571
BMD 0.012158
BNB 0.000021
BND 0.015709
BOB 0.120380
BRL 0.062845
BSD 0.012158
BSV 0.000911
BSW 36.356644
BTC 0.000000
BTCB 0.239649
BTG 0.046758
BTN 1.157142
BTT 45,434.309727
BUSD 0.012157
BWP 0.164574
BYN 0.034792
BYR 238.201449
BZD 0.024500
CAD 0.017256
CAKE 0.008785
CDF 28.018569
CELO 0.174940
CFX 0.286070
CHF 0.009827
CHZ 0.715871
CLP 11.275373
CNH 0.082695
CNY 0.082635
COMP 0.000697
COP 40.570601
CRC 5.538218
CRO 0.215479
CRV 0.058497
CSPR 6.880607
CUC 0.012153
CUP 0.322058
CVE 1.174352
CVX 0.010209
CYP 0.006233
CZK 0.258145
DAI 0.012157
DASH 0.000353
DCR 0.001102
DEM 0.020829
DFI 17.614006
DJF 2.162800
DKK 0.079610
DOGE 0.166586
DOP 0.719585
DOT 0.014528
DYDX 0.095305
DZD 1.618534
EEK 0.166633
EGLD 0.004491
EGP 0.593400
ENJ 0.421126
EOS 0.162920
ERN 0.182373
ESP 1.771975
ETB 1.947436
ETC 0.001763
ETH 0.000007
EUR 0.010650
EURC 0.010652
FEI 0.012162
FIL 0.015889
FIM 0.063321
FJD 0.027217
FKP 0.009101
FLOW 0.453888
FLR 1.826821
FRAX 0.012287
FRF 0.069858
FTT 0.054597
GALA 5.624692
GBP 0.009101
GEL 0.031990
GGP 0.009101
GHC 1,387.098438
GHS 0.138710
GIP 0.009101
GMD 0.898360
GMX 0.002121
GNF 106.769731
GNO 0.000117
GRD 3.628915
GRT 0.683336
GT 0.001808
GTQ 0.092836
GUSD 0.012170
GYD 2.549002
HBAR 0.172227
HKD 0.095344
HNL 0.325796
HNT 0.054177
HOT 36.739565
HRK 0.080241
HT 0.367624
HTG 1.594116
HUF 3.786220
ICP 0.005519
IDR 218.803235
IEP 0.008387
ILS 0.037018
IMP 0.009101
IMX 0.089006
INJ 0.002574
INR 1.157142
IQD 15.964916
IRR 16,710.560807
ISK 1.529373
ITL 20.620862
JEP 0.009101
JMD 1.919062
JOD 0.008620
JPY 1.973237
KAS 0.417137
KAVA 0.275542
KCS 0.001762
KDA 2.062146
KES 1.571432
KGS 1.063395
KHR 48.978850
KMF 5.239352
KNC 0.112622
KPW 10.937826
KRW 18.344394
KSM 0.003786
KWD 0.003766
KYD 0.010111
KZT 5.720186
LAK 274.949042
LBP 1,093.641670
LDO 0.037434
LEO 0.001288
LINK 0.001572
LKR 4.079706
LRC 1.126608
LRD 2.205144
LSL 0.197668
LTC 0.000279
LTL 0.036772
LUF 0.429611
LUNA 0.241679
LUNC 198.612603
LVL 0.007485
LYD 0.078160
MAD 0.113854
MANA 0.179089
MBX 0.476085
MDL 0.214385
MGA 51.632210
MGF 258.161051
MINA 0.261509
MKD 0.656496
MKR 0.000009
MMK 25.524977
MNT 43.574336
MOP 0.098204
MRO 4.881270
MRU 0.488127
MTL 0.004572
MUR 0.572257
MVR 0.187959
MWK 21.122997
MXN 0.212663
MXV 0.024028
MYR 0.049567
MZM 775.944531
MZN 0.775945
NAD 0.197668
NEAR 0.006292
NEO 0.006342
NEXO 0.016486
NFT 45,536.078304
NGN 16.685390
NIO 0.447281
NLG 0.023469
NOK 0.118959
NPR 1.852294
NZD 0.021309
OKB 0.000154
OMR 0.004678
ONE 10.109254
OP 0.121466
ORDI 0.003527
PAB 0.012158
PAXG 0.000003
PEN 0.041412
PEPE 4,633.276530
PGK 0.053529
PHP 0.747896
PI 0.115305
PKR 3.385908
PLN 0.045806
POL 0.158956
PTE 2.135091
PYG 74.175317
QAR 0.044256
QNT 0.000184
QTUM 0.017913
ROL 557.397630
RON 0.055740
RPL 0.007043
RSD 1.249777
RUB 0.929715
RUNE 0.031577
RVN 3.289325
RWF 17.851574
SAND 0.253599
SAR 0.045593
SBD 0.098384
SCR 0.177697
SDD 729.715586
SDG 7.297156
SEK 0.117709
SGD 0.015709
SHIB 2,811.609039
SHP 0.009101
SIT 2.552115
SKK 0.320835
SLE 0.278302
SLL 278.302061
SNX 0.056274
SOL 0.000153
SOS 6.947737
SPL 0.002026
SRD 0.457331
SRG 457.330552
SSP 57.897895
STD 263.606193
STN 0.263606
STX 0.074872
SUI 0.016910
SVC 0.106384
SYP 1.343312
SZL 0.197668
THB 0.405593
THETA 0.087797
TJS 0.112746
TMM 212.576884
TMT 0.042515
TND 0.035867
TOP 0.029282
TRL 569,653.634032
TRX 0.036773
TRY 0.569654
TTD 0.082633
TUSD 0.012174
TVD 0.017503
TWD 0.388986
TWT 0.036640
TZS 31.926505
UAH 0.540842
UGX 44.560198
UNI 0.003785
USD 0.012158
USDC 0.012150
USDD 0.012161
USDP 0.012173
USDT 0.012159
UYU 0.490470
UZS 146.499819
VAL 20.620862
VEB 823,673,588.210628
VED 8.242593
VEF 824,259.291502
VES 8.242593
VET 2.587219
VND 319.703524
VUV 1.463723
WAVES 0.047232
WEMIX 0.042944
WOO 1.050703
WST 0.033659
XAF 6.985802
XAG 0.000201
XAU 0.000003
XAUT 0.000003
XBT 0.000000
XCD 0.032909
XCG 0.021954
XCH 0.007840
XDC 0.446127
XDR 0.008949
XEC 2,386.333483
XEM 26.500854
XLM 0.065277
XMR 0.000037
XOF 6.985802
XPD 0.000010
XPF 1.270858
XPT 0.000007
XRP 0.011029
XTZ 0.046566
YER 2.881324
ZAR 0.197668
ZEC 0.000025
ZIL 4.085931
ZMK 224.936283
ZMW 0.224936
ZWD 4.400059
ZWG 0.325844
ZWL 814.193628

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Cities in Albania 190
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Ana e Malit Antigonë Bajram Curri Bajram Curri Ballsh Ballsh Belsh Berat Berat Bërdicë Bilisht Bilisht Bulqize Bulqizë Burrel Burrel Cepo Çërravë Cerrik Cërrik Corovode Çorovodë Delvine Delvinë Dimal Dishnicë Divjakë Dropull i Poshtëm Dropull i Sipërm Durres Durrës Dushk Elbasan Elbasan Erseke Ersekë Farkë Fier Fier Fierze Frakull Fratar Funar Fushë Çidhën Fushe-Arrez Fushë-Arrëz Fushe-Kruje Fushë-Krujë Fushë-Kuqe Gjirokaster Gjirokastër Gjoçaj Gorë Gosë Gramsh Gramsh Helmas Himare Himarë Horë-Vranisht Iballe Kala e Dodës Kamëz Kamze Karbunarë Kavaje Kavajë Kelcyre Këlcyrë Kelmend Kerrabe Klos Klos Konispol Konispol Koplik Korce Korçë Kozare Kraste Kruje Krujë Krume Krumë Krutje Kthellë Kucove Kuçovë Kukes Kukës Kurbnesh Kurvelesh Lac Laç Leskovik Leskovik Lezhe Lezhë Libohove Librazhd Librazhd Lopës Lunxhëri Lurë Lushnje Lushnjë Luzni Maliq Maliq Mamurras Maqellare Mbrostar Ura Memaliaj Memaliaj Milot Odrie Orikum Orikum Paskuqan Patos Patos Peqin Peqin Permet Përmet Perrenjas Peshkopi Peshkopi Pogon Pogradec Pogradec Polican Poliçan Postribë Prrenjas Puke Pukë Pult Qafë-Mali Qelëz Qendër Qendër Qendër Bulgarec Qendër Dukas Qendër Ersekë Qendër Leskovik Qendër Libohovë Qendër Piskovë Qendër Skrapar Qendër Tepelenë Qendër Vlorë Qerret Roskovec Roskovec Rrapë Rreshen Rrëshen Rrethinat Rrogozhine Rrogozhinë Rubik Sarande Sarandë Selenice Selenicë Selitë Sevaster Shalë Shengjin Shëngjin Shijak Shijak Shkoder Shkodër Shkrel Shosh Skënderbegas Tepelene Tepelenë Tirane Tiranë Ulze Ure Vajgurore Vëndreshë Vlore Vlorë Vore Vorë Xarrë Zagorie

Visa Requirements

Check what visa a citizen of Albania needs to enter any country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of Albania?
The capital of Albania is Tirana.
What currency does Albania use?
Albania uses the Albanian lek (L) as its official currency.
What language is spoken in Albania?
The official language(s) of Albania include Albanian.
What is the population of Albania?
Albania has a population of approximately 2,363,314 people.
What region is Albania in?
Albania is located in Europe, specifically in the Southeast Europe subregion.
What is the international calling code for Albania?
The international dialing code for Albania is +355.
What time zones does Albania observe?
Albania observes the following time zone(s): UTC+01:00.
What is the current time in Albania?
The local time in Albania is currently --:--. This time applies to the primary time zone.
What is the total area of Albania?
Albania covers a total area of 28,748 km².
How many states or provinces does Albania have?
Albania is divided into 38 states or provinces.
What are the public holidays in Albania in 2026?
You can view the complete list of public holidays for Albania in 2026 on the Holidays 2026 page.
What are the visa requirements for citizens of Albania?
Visa requirements for citizens of Albania vary by destination. Use our Visa Requirements Checker below to look up requirements for any destination country.