Albania Travel Guide for 2025: Top Summer Tips and Hidden Gems

Here, you can read my reflections and advice if you’re planning a trip to Albania. I spent two weeks there and will share insights about the country, including its beaches, cities, food, and other useful tips. Before I dive in, let me start with some facts: Albania is one of Europe’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, experiencing an impressive 80% increase in visitors last year. However, I believe the country’s infrastructure is not yet fully prepared for mass tourism, and as you read further, you’ll understand why I feel this way.

Arriving in Albania – Tirana Airport

If you’re traveling to Albania, your journey will likely begin at Tirana Airport. I recommend this route, especially considering the Balkan roads, which can be challenging for newcomers. Tirana Airport is conveniently located between the capital, Tirana, and Durrës, making it ideal if you’re heading to either city. Keep in mind that most Balkan roads are mountainous, with few highways, and crossing multiple borders can add to the complexity.

Upon exiting the airport, you’ll find numerous promoters offering internet SIM cards, car rentals, and other services. They’re often loud and eager, creating a lively introduction to Albania’s hospitality.

One convenient feature of the airport is the automated passport scanning machines for travelers from the EU, EEA, USA, Canada, or Australia. If you’re from other countries, you’ll need to go through the border police. The airport’s official name is Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza, named after Mother Teresa.

While the airport isn’t very large, it offers a glimpse of Albania’s developing infrastructure. Seating is limited, and finding a quiet spot can be a challenge. However, there is a small garden on the ground floor where you can relax or smoke. Be aware that the airport lacks public Wi-Fi, though you might be able to get a password from one of the shops. Interestingly, the airport interior features unique carpeted floors, which caught my attention—I took several photos of it!

Getting Around in Albania – Buses, Taxis, and Ferries

Albania has no active train system, making it the only country in Europe without one. To get around, you’ll rely on buses, minibusses, or car rentals. If you’re not used to chaotic and unstructured traffic, I don’t recommend driving here.

From Tirana Airport, buses connect to various cities, and you can pay in euros or leks directly to the driver. However, don’t expect air conditioning on every bus; some rely on open windows for ventilation. For example, we took a minibus from Tirana to Durrës for €6—a 40-minute journey paid directly to the driver.

City buses:

  • In Tirana, public buses have a ticket collector onboard, so be ready with exact change in leks.
  • In Durrës, city buses cost 2 leks and stop running after 10 PM.
  • Between Sarandë and Ksamil, buses take about 40 minutes, with a conductor managing tickets.

Intercity buses: These can be unpredictable. Overcrowding is common, and passengers might even be asked to sit on the floor while still paying full price. To avoid this, board at the starting station.

Taxis: Taxis are expensive and often overcharge tourists. Negotiate the fare in advance and, if possible, share the ride with others. For instance, we were charged €20 for a short 4 km ride in Durrës.

Ferries: There’s a ferry service between Sarandë and Corfu, Greece.

Tirana Airport, City of Durrës, Bus in Durrës

Beaches in Albania

Albania’s beaches vary between the north and south. Northern beaches are sandy, while southern ones are rocky. This distinction might help you decide where to visit.

Albania has both public and private beaches. Private beaches belong to resorts and often block access with fences extending into the water, making it difficult to walk along the coast. Some beaches, like those in Ksamil, double as massage centers or pedicure spots. While the beaches are generally pleasant, I missed having natural shade in most areas.

Currency and Prices in Albania

The official currency in Albania is the lek (1 EUR ≈ 100 leks). Euros are widely accepted but often incur a commission of 10–20%, so it’s better to exchange money at a bank or exchange office. ATMs also charge fees, typically around 10%. Credit cards are not widely accepted, and even when they are, you may face resistance from staff or extra charges of 1–2%.

Despite these inconveniences, Albania remains an affordable destination. A good meal costs €5–10, and a cup of coffee is €1–2. Fiscal receipts are rare, with handwritten notes often serving as bills.

People, Language, and Food

The official language is Albanian, also spoken in Kosovo and parts of North Macedonia. Many Albanians speak good English, and some also know Italian. If you encounter someone who doesn’t speak English, there’s usually someone nearby who can help.

The food in Albania is influenced by Greek and Turkish cuisine. You’ll find many pastries and delicious sweets, which I highly recommend. Albanian bakeries offer affordable treats, and the local Mediterranean fruits and vegetables are excellent. Overall, Albanians seem naturally skilled at hospitality, which will serve them well as tourism grows.

Hitchhiking in Albania

We hitchhiked from Tirana to Sarandë, waiting only 20 minutes near a gas station. It turned out to be a fantastic way to learn about Albanian culture and get tips from locals. If you’re driving, consider stopping at villages along the way—they’re charming and full of character.

Albanian Mountains are beautiful

Choosing Where to Stay

If you enjoy vibrant nightlife and parties, head to southern Albania. For quieter, family-friendly beaches, the north is a better choice. We visited Sarandë, Ksamil, Tirana, and Durrës, and I can confidently say you’ll enjoy any of these destinations.

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