Tirana is the beating heart of Albania: colorful, lively, and full of contrasts. This city surprises you with a mix of stark communist heritage, bright street art, and charming squares that fill up in the evenings with locals taking their daily xhiro (evening stroll). You’ll walk from historic bunkers and mosques to creative hotspots, cozy bazaars, and trendy coffee bars. Everywhere you’ll feel the energy of a capital that’s still evolving, yet increasingly resembles a buzzing metropolis. A surprisingly fun city-break destination or the perfect starting point for a road trip through Albania. Curious what to do? Here are 16 tips for the best sights in Tirana!

How does transportation work in Tirana?

Unlike many other European capitals, Tirana has no metro or trams—buses are the only form of public transport. On the bus, you buy a ticket from the conductor and pay in cash, so keep some change on you. Taxis are more expensive than the bus but still affordable. You can hail a metered taxi or order one via the Speed Taxi app. Uber does not operate in Tirana.

What to do in Tirana?

The following sights and activities are great to include during your visit to Tirana.

Stroll through Blloku: Tirana’s trendiest neighborhood

Be sure to visit Blloku during your time in Tirana. Once a sealed-off area accessible only to the top members of the communist regime—ordinary Albanians weren’t allowed in—it has since transformed into one of the city’s most vibrant districts.

By day, Blloku is a lovely place for shopping and coffee; by night, it’s the place to be for Tirana’s buzzing nightlife. Café Nouvelle Vague Tirana and the atmospheric Radio Bar Tirana are fun spots for a night out. For drinks with a spectacular city view, head to Sky Club, a popular sky bar in the neighborhood.

Must-do: Get to know Tirana by bike

The most fun way to discover Tirana is by bicycle! We chose this great bike tour, where a local guide takes you to all the city’s highlights. In a small group of up to 10 people, you’ll bike for about three hours to places like Skanderbeg Square, the Pyramid of Tirana, and the large park on the edge of the city. Along the way, your guide shares insights into Albanian culture, the country’s turbulent history, and Tirana’s transformation into a lively city. There’s also plenty of time to pop inside some highlights and take photos.

You’ll ride a comfortable city bike, or you can opt for an e-bike if you want a little extra boost. You can also choose from four different time slots, from early morning to late afternoon—ideal if you want to avoid the heat or fit the tour around other activities.

See the main sights on Skanderbeg Square

In the middle of downtown is Skanderbeg Square—the heart of Tirana. In Albanian: Sheshi Skënderbej. This large square is surrounded by colorful buildings and several of the capital’s most important sights: the Clock Tower of Tirana, the statue of national hero Skanderbeg, the National Historical Museum, and the imposing Opera House. Numerous modern towers are also under construction, making Skanderbeg Square a place where past and present clearly meet.

Tip: Be sure to visit in the evening too, when locals gather and the square really comes to life.

Admire the murals in the Et’hem Bey Mosque

You’ll also find the Et’hem Bey Mosque on Skanderbeg Square—one of Tirana’s most beautiful historic buildings. Built in the early 19th century, it impresses from the outside with its striking minaret and traditional Ottoman architecture. Step inside and you’re surrounded by gorgeous, detailed murals.

You can visit the mosque any day of the week, but check opening hours on Google Maps beforehand. The mosque briefly closes several times a day. Don’t forget to dress appropriately: shoulders and knees should be covered.

Dive into Albania’s history at the National Historical Museum

Another must-see on Skanderbeg Square is the National Historical Museum, the largest museum in Albania. It houses thousands of objects that tell the story of the country—from antiquity through the dictatorship and the transition to a free state. Think centuries-old weapons, ancient mosaics, and striking communist propaganda from the Hoxha regime.

Update: Unfortunately, the museum is currently closed for a major renovation. It’s expected to reopen in 2028. In the meantime, you can admire the exterior, with its enormous mosaic depicting the nation’s history.

Wander along atmospheric Rruga Murat Toptani

Rruga Murat Toptani is one of those streets you’ll naturally pass during a visit to Tirana. It’s a pedestrian stretch with a few large terraces and a relaxed vibe. You’ll also find local artists along the street, showcasing their work or drawing portraits on the spot.

Tip: Pop into Toptani Castle, where behind the old castle walls you’ll find a hip inner courtyard with bars and shops. Perfect for a lunch stop or an evening drink.

Learn about history in the former bunker Bunk’Art 2

Albania has thousands of abandoned bunkers, and one in the center of Tirana has been turned into a museum. At Bunk’Art 2—a former air-raid shelter—you’ll learn about the communist regime’s impact on the Albanian population: from surveillance and control to daily life in a closed society.

Tip: Want to go even deeper into Albania’s history? Visit Bunk’Art 1 as well. It’s just outside the center, at the foot of Mount Dajti, and is considerably larger.

Admire Tirana’s Grand Mosque: the Namazgah Mosque

The Namazgah Mosque—also called Tirana’s Grand Mosque—is the largest Islamic house of worship in Albania. Construction began in 2015 and it opened in 2024. Built after a long period of religious oppression, it now symbolizes the country’s restored freedom of faith. Located right in the center, it stands out with its Ottoman style, large domes, and slender minarets. Visitors are welcome outside prayer times, provided you dress respectfully and appropriately.

Find some peace in Tirana Park

Need a break from the city bustle? Tirana Park is the place to unwind. Take a leisurely walk along the lake or bring local snacks for a summer picnic. Early mornings are especially popular with locals who come to exercise or gather at one of the cozy lakeside cafés.

Shop at Pazari i Ri bazaar

For the best souvenirs, head to Pazari i Ri. This covered market features handmade goods, Albanian pottery, spices, and liqueurs. Planning to pick up a souvenir? Haggling is common for non-perishable goods; for fresh produce, it usually isn’t. Around the market you’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants, including one of our favorites: Oda’s Garden, serving delicious Albanian dishes like fërgesë (a mix of peppers, tomatoes, and feta), stuffed eggplant, and qofte.

Tip: Reserve Oda’s Garden in advance—it fills up fast. There’s often live music from 8:00 PM.

Take the cable car up Mount Dajti

Just outside Tirana’s center is the Dajti Ekspres, the longest cable car in the Balkans. In just 15 minutes it takes you up to 1,100 meters (3,609 feet), right into Dajti National Park. From there, you’ll overlook the capital and, on clear days, even see the Adriatic Sea. There’s also a panorama restaurant, a mini-golf course, and beautiful mountain hikes start from here. A great option is the hike from the cable car station to Tujani Peak. This hike takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and leads to a viewpoint with sweeping vistas over Dajti National Park. In clear weather you can even spot Lake Bovilla from here. Be sure to download the area map in the maps.me app so you can navigate offline—the trail isn’t always well marked and cell reception can be spotty. Bring plenty of water; the hike can be fairly demanding, especially in warm weather.

Tip: The cable car station is easy to reach by bus. A round trip by bus from Tirana to Dajti Ekspres costs less than $1. From the center (behind Skanderbeg Square at the Clock Tower), take line 11 to Porcelan. Get off at the Aziz Deliu stop, follow the signs to the cable car, and walk uphill for about five minutes to the ticket office.

Climb the Pyramid of Tirana

One of Tirana’s most striking buildings is the Pyramid of Tirana. Once built to honor communist leader Enver Hoxha, it’s now best known as a climbable landmark and viewpoint. The panorama from the top is well worth it. A staircase of about 130 steps gets you to the top in no time. Around the Pyramid you’ll find many restaurants, hip coffee bars, and creative workspaces. We loved Soma Vinyl Station, a cozy café where DJs or bands often perform in the evening.

Visit the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral

The Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in Albania—instantly recognizable for its striking entrance with large arches and golden details. Be sure to step inside to admire the impressive murals, colorful stained glass, and the massive golden dome.

Hike to Mount Gamti at Lake Bovilla

A visit to Lake Bovilla makes a great day trip from Tirana. This impressive reservoir lies 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) northeast of the city, in the middle of Dajti National Park. Here you can hike to a spectacular viewpoint on Mount Gamti. The walk to the viewpoint is short but steep. From the parking area it takes about 15 to 25 minutes, depending on your pace. The route leads along a rocky path to a metal staircase fixed to a steep rock face. At the top, you’re rewarded with amazing views of the reservoir—think bright blue water surrounded by green hills and dramatic rock formations. Take a moment to soak it in; it’s one of the most beautiful panoramas in the region.

You can visit Mount Gamti from Tirana on this Mount Gamti tour. Traveling Albania by rental car? It can be smart to plan this stop after your time in Tirana. We visited Lake Bovilla as a stopover on our way to Krujë. It’s about an hour’s drive from Tirana to Lake Bovilla. Part of the route is unpaved with sizable potholes. With a decent rental car it’s manageable as long as you drive slowly. The final stretch is the trickiest, with a few steep hairpin turns up to the parking area. If that feels a bit daunting, you can park by the lake below and walk the last part up.

Take a day trip to the mountain town of Krujë

Krujë is a charming mountain town about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from Tirana. Set at the foot of the Albanian Alps, it has a rich history. Start with a stroll through Krujë’s old bazaar, packed with traditional carpets, woodcarvings, and great souvenirs. Then walk up to Krujë Castle. Inside the fortress you’ll find the Skanderbeg Museum, where you’ll learn all about the national hero and the Albanian revolt against the Ottomans. From the castle walls you’ll also have gorgeous views over the valley—a fantastic spot to watch the sunset!

Following our Albania itinerary? You’ll visit Krujë as a stop on the way to Theth. Visiting Tirana as a city break? Krujë makes a great day trip. If you don’t have a rental car, this day trip to Krujë is a good pick. In addition to Krujë, you’ll also stop at beautiful Sari Salltik—an important Bektashi pilgrimage site high in the surrounding mountains.

Day trip to the Shala River and Koman Lake

More into nature? A day trip to the Shala River is for you. To reach it, you first take a stunning boat ride across Koman Lake, a large reservoir. You’ll cruise between steep cliffs and green gorges with jaw-dropping views. Once at the Shala River, you can take a dip in the crystal-clear mountain water, explore the river by kayak, or hike to a scenic viewpoint. You can visit the Shala River as a day trip from Tirana or include it in your Albania road trip if you have a rental car.

Tips for good restaurants in Tirana

Tirana is a true foodie city. From local eateries to hip fusion restaurants—you’ll find it all in Albania’s capital. These are our favorite places to eat in Tirana.

• Oda’s Garden – A charming tavern with authentic Albanian dishes like tavë kosi (lamb baked in yogurt) and speca të mbushura (stuffed peppers). Vegetarian-friendly.
• North Taste – This small family restaurant serves dishes from northern Albania. Simple, tasty, and well priced. A great pick if you want something authentic off the tourist trail.
• OPA (Greek Street Food) – Perfect for a quick, budget-friendly bite. OPA is known for Greek pitas with delicious fillings like gyros or falafel.
• Happy Belly – Your daily vitamin fix awaits at this vegetarian spot. Happy Belly serves colorful bowls, wraps, smoothies, and fresh juices.
• KungFu Noodle Bar – Craving Asian comfort food? This small eatery serves great curry bowls, ramen, and stir-fries.
• Salt Tirana – One of the city’s most popular restaurants—and for good reason. Expect refined dishes with Mediterranean and Asian influences. A bit pricier, but absolutely worth it.
• SOMEG Rr. Sami Frashëri – A bakery in Blloku where you can grab Albanian byrek and other snacks.
• Pastiçeri Nefeli 3 – In the mood for something sweet? Settle in at this local bakery for a tasty pastry, a fresh orange juice, or a coffee.
• Mami’s Meals – A hidden gem in Tirana! Simple, homey, and affordable—classic Albanian comfort food made with love.
• Hana Corner Café – A great spot for good coffee, fresh juices, and a tasty breakfast. Tucked on a quiet corner in Blloku—perfect for a breather from the city buzz.

Our favorite places to stay in Tirana

Areela Boutique Hotel is the perfect Tirana base without the hefty price tag. The hotel has a unique style with great attention to detail—and top-notch comfort. The colorful rooms are spacious, with comfy beds and air conditioning. Parking is free in the garage, and Skanderbeg Square is just a 10-minute walk away. Prefer a boutique hostel? In the heart of trendy Blloku, surrounded by lively restaurants and bars, you’ll find Vanilla Sky Boutique Hostel. The stylish accommodation has a cozy common area with comfy seating and a large kitchen. You can book a private room or a dorm, all with good beds and air conditioning. The friendly staff will make you feel welcome right away. If your budget stretches a bit further, Rooftop Tirana is a treat. You’ll stay in a stylish, comfortable apartment with nice extras like a mini-fridge and a coffee maker. Some apartments have expansive windows so you can fully enjoy the views. Set on the 11th floor, it offers sweeping panoramas over the lively city. The location is ideal—right in the center of Tirana, with all the sights within walking distance.

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