Driving in Albania: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

• Driver’s License: EU licenses are valid. Non-EU visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their license for stays over 90 days.
• Traffic Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas like Tirana, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on highways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.01%.
• Road Conditions: Main roads like the SH1 (Tirana to Durrës) are decent, but rural roads can be narrow and winding—drive cautiously, especially in the Alps. Night driving is not recommended outside cities.
• Parking: Parking in Tirana is regulated—use metered spaces or paid lots near the city center. Free parking is common in smaller towns like Saranda.
• Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance is limited—carry a spare tire and emergency kit.
• Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit Albania Tourism.

Albania Currency: Using the Albanian Lek for Your Trip

• Albanian Lek: Albania uses the Albanian Lek (ALL). Coins come in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 lekë; banknotes are 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 lekë.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or licensed bureaus in Tirana for the best rates. Avoid street vendors. Euros are often accepted in tourist areas like the Riviera.
• Payment Methods: Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in Tirana hotels and restaurants, but cash is essential in rural areas like Gjirokastër. Always carry some ALL for small purchases.
• ATMs: ATMs are common in Tirana, with banks like Raiffeisen offering reliable services. Outside the capital, ATMs are scarce—withdraw cash in advance.

Albania Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Should Know

• Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to imprisonment. Public intoxication may result in fines—drink responsibly.
• Cultural Sensitivities: Albanians are welcoming—greet with a handshake and use “Mirëdita” (Albanian). Respect religious sites like the Et’hem Bey Mosque by dressing modestly. More on this in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
• Photography Restrictions: Photography is generally fine, but avoid taking pictures near government or military areas without permission.
• Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are discreet. Smoking is banned in public indoor spaces—use designated areas.
• Customs Rules: You can bring 1 liter of spirits and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over 10,000 EUR (or equivalent) upon entry or exit.
• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact local police in Tirana at +355 4 222 2435.

Travel Safety in Albania: Staying Safe on Your Trip

• Crime in Albania: Albania is relatively safe, but petty theft occurs in Tirana, especially in markets and public transport. Keep belongings secure and avoid isolated areas at night.
• Road Safety: Roads outside Tirana can be challenging—watch for uneven surfaces. Local drivers may be aggressive; drive defensively. Winter (December-February) brings snow in the Alps—use winter tires.
• Health Risks: No major health risks. Tap water in Tirana is safe, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas. Mosquitoes can be a concern in summer—use repellent.
• Natural Hazards: Albania has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers (25-30°C) and mild winters (5-10°C). Earthquakes are possible—familiarize yourself with safety protocols.
• Medical Facilities: Healthcare in Tirana is adequate, with hospitals like the American Hospital. Rural areas have limited facilities—carry a basic medical kit.
• Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. Pharmacies in Tirana are well-stocked—look for “Farmaci” signs.
• Public Transport Safety: Minibuses (furgons) are common but can be crowded—watch for pickpockets. Taxis in Tirana are safe—use official ones or apps like Speed Taxi.

Culture & Etiquette in Albania: What to Know

• Greetings: Albanians are warm and welcoming. A handshake and “Mirëdita” (Hello in Albanian) is standard. Close friends may greet with a hug or cheek kiss.
• Dining Customs: If invited to an Albanian home, expect a feast—bring a small gift like sweets or flowers. Always try a bit of everything, as refusing food can be seen as impolite.
• Religious Sites: Dress modestly when visiting mosques like the Et’hem Bey Mosque or churches in Shkodër. Women may need to cover their heads in some religious sites.
• Festivals: The Tirana International Film Festival in November is a highlight. The Gjirokastër National Folklore Festival, held every five years (next in 2028), showcases traditional music and dance.
• Language Tips: Albanian is the official language, but English is common in tourist areas. Learning a few phrases like “Faleminderit” (Thank you) goes a long way.
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated—around 5-10% in restaurants in Tirana. In rural areas, it’s less common.

Local Cuisine in Albania: Must-Try Dishes and Drinks

• Byrek: A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, a popular street food in Tirana.
• Fërgesë: A traditional dish of peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often served with bread.
• Tave Kosi: Baked lamb with a yogurt-egg sauce, a comforting Albanian classic.
• Raki: A strong local spirit made from grapes or plums, often sipped after meals.
• Seafood: Along the Riviera, enjoy fresh seafood like grilled octopus or fish in places like Dhermi.
• Where to Eat: In Tirana, Oda offers traditional Albanian dishes in a cozy setting. For seafood, head to Guva Mangalem in Saranda—details in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Albania: Must-Visit Places

• Skanderbeg Square in Tirana: The heart of the capital, surrounded by the National History Museum and the Et’hem Bey Mosque.
• Albanian Riviera: Stunning beaches and villages like Dhermi, Ksamil, and Himarë, perfect for a coastal escape.
• Butrint National Park: A UNESCO site with ancient ruins from Greek, Roman, and Byzantine times, near Saranda.
• Gjirokastër Old Town: A UNESCO-listed stone city with Ottoman architecture and a historic castle.
• Albanian Alps: Ideal for hiking, with trails like the Valbona to Theth route offering breathtaking views.
• Kruja Castle: A historic fortress near Tirana with the Skanderbeg Museum and a traditional bazaar.

Flights to Albania: Travel Options

Tirana International Airport (TIA) is the main gateway, with flights from European cities like London, Milan, and Vienna. Low-cost carriers like Wizz Air and Ryanair operate routes to Tirana.

Make Your Packing List for Albania