Last Updated on August 2, 2025 by Sarah Wilson
Tirana, Albania’s capital, is a city full of history, energy, and charm. It’s certainly not the most beautiful city I’ve ever visited, far from it. However, as a solo traveller, I felt safe wandering around by myself. It was fascinating to explore, and I really loved the food.
From its communist past to its modern, colourful streets, there’s plenty to see. Whether you’re interested in museums, markets, architecture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere in a lively café, Tirana offers a unique blend of experiences.
Here’s a guide to the best things to do while you’re in the city.
Start with a Free Walking Tour
If you’re new to Tirana, a walking tour is definitely one of the best ways to get your bearings. I booked this one through GuruWalks, and it was an excellent introduction to the city’s history, culture, and key landmarks.
If, like me, you know very little about this part of the world, it’s a great way to learn about Albania’s communist past and its transformation into the vibrant city it is today.
It’s also a great way to get recommendations from locals and explore on foot without worrying about navigation.
Exploring Central Tirana
Skanderbeg Square & Nearby Landmarks
Skanderbeg Square
Tirana’s main square is the heart of the city, surrounded by important landmarks. Named after Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero, it’s a great place to start your exploration.
Why visit?
It’s home to some of Tirana’s most important buildings. The large, open space makes it ideal for photography and people-watching, and it serves as an excellent starting point for nearby attractions.
Enjoy a coffee or breakfast at the L’Incontro or Café Botanica overlooking the square.
Et’hem Bey Mosque
A beautifully restored 18th-century mosque located on Skanderbeg Square, this is one of the oldest buildings in Tirana and a rare survivor from the communist era when religious buildings were banned.
Why visit?
Stunning frescoes inside depict trees, waterfalls, and bridges—unusual for Islamic art and it is a peaceful spot in the middle of the city’s bustle.
Admission is free, but please dress modestly if you plan to enter the mosque.
Clock Tower
Standing next to the mosque, this historic tower offers panoramic views of the city.
Why visit?
It is one of Tirana’s oldest structures, and you can climb the stairs for a fantastic view of Skanderbeg Square.
Bunk’Art 2
This underground museum, housed in a former nuclear bunker, focuses on Albania’s secret police and surveillance state during Enver Hoxha’s dictatorship.
Adult ticket 900 Lek or 9 euros. Cash or credit card accepted.
Combined ticket 1300 for Bunk Art 1 and 2.
Open: Monday to Thursday 9:30 AM – 6 PM
Friday to Sunday 9:30 AM – 8 PM
Why visit?
It is a fascinating insight into what life was like under one of Europe’s most repressive regimes, with chilling exhibits on interrogation, surveillance, and political oppression.
House of Leaves
Once the headquarters of Albania’s secret police, this museum offers an in-depth look into the country’s communist-era espionage.
Entry: 700 Lek (cash only)
Open: Tuesday–Saturday: 9 AM – 4 PM
Sunday: 9 AM – 3 PM
Closed on Mondays
Why visit?
Here, you can learn how ordinary citizens were spied on and controlled and view original surveillance equipment and chilling case studies.
Postbllok Checkpoint
This open-air memorial includes a bunker, concrete pillars from a forced labour camp, and a fragment of the Berlin Wall.
Why visit?
It is a sobering reminder of Albania’s totalitarian past and is free to visit while exploring the city centre.
Modern Architecture
Look out for a building facade designed to resemble the face of Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg and the building Downtown One Tirana with balconies shaped like the map of Albania.
Blloku District: From Communist Past to Trendy Hub
Once a restricted area for communist leaders, Blloku has transformed into the trendiest part of Tirana, filled with cafés, bars, and restaurants.
Pyramid of Tirana
Do not come excepting to see an Egyptian pyramid, the Pyramid of Tirana was originally built as a museum for dictator Enver Hoxha, this brutalist structure is now being redeveloped into a creative and tech hub. Close to the pyramid is the excellent and quirky Komitei Bar, which is a must-visit.
Street Art & Colourful Buildings
Tirana’s former communist-era buildings were repainted in bright colours after the fall of the regime, adding a unique charm to the city. The city is also home to some excellent street art.
Markets & Historic Spots
New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri)
A lively market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and handicrafts. There are some nice little restaurants in the area. I had some lovely local food at Tradita te Meri. Cash only.
Tirana Castle (Kalaja e Tiranës)
A small historic area transformed into a stylish courtyard with cafés, boutique shops, and restaurants.
Try the fixed menu at Ceren Ismet Shehu – really good! But come hungry.
Tanners’ Bridge
Leather workers once used an Ottoman-era stone bridge near the new mosque to transport goods.
Parks & Scenic Spots
Rinia Park
A small central park, perfect for a break from sightseeing. People say Don’t miss The Cloud, a modern art installation here. I’m not a fan of contemporary art, and I must say that the cloud hasn’t changed my views.
Grand Park of Tirana
A large green park with a scenic lake, ideal for walking, jogging, or relaxing, and some nice coffee and lunch spots.
Day Trips & Outskirts
Bunk’Art 1
A massive Cold War bunker that is situated slightly outside the city, near the Dajti Ekspres cable car. Take bus no 11 to Porcelan from Skanderberg Square.
Entry: 900 LEK/ 9 Euros (Card accepted)
Combined ticket 1300 for Bunk Art 1 and 2. You don’t have to see both bunkers on the same day.
Open daily: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Mount Dajti National Park
Take the Dajti Ekspres cable car for stunning views and hiking. (And mini golf, paintball, etc.) The journey time to the top of the mountain is 15 minutes, covering a distance of 4,354 metres.
Open every day except Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
The restaurant Ballkoni Dajti, located at the top, is situated at an elevation of just over 1000 metres above sea level, and its prices are reasonable. I had a nice eggplant dish with a view.
To reach the Dajti Ekspres cable car, take bus L11 from Skanderbeg Square. Inform the bus conductor of your destination, and he will let you know where to disembark. Google Maps wants you to leave the bus too early.
If You Have More Time: Day Trips to Berat & Gjirokastër
Berat – The “City of a Thousand Windows”
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Berat is famous for its Ottoman-era white houses, stunning mountain views, and historic castle.
Why visit?
You can wander through the well-preserved Mangalem and Gorica quarters and visit Berat Castle, which still has people living inside its walls. And don’t forget to try the local wine and traditional Albanian food at a restaurant overlooking the valley.
I booked a day trip through Get Your Guide, this is the tour to Berat that I did.
Gjirokastër – The Stone City
Another UNESCO-listed town, Gjirokastër, is known for its stone-built houses, cobbled streets, and Ottoman-era architecture. It is a long day out, though, but I think it is worth it.
Why visit?
You can explore the Gjirokastër Castle, visit the Ethnographic Museum, located in the former home of dictator Enver Hoxha and explore the unique bazaar and traditional handicrafts.
I had the best lunch here at Odaja restaurant.
This is the tour to Gjirokastër that I took.
Both destinations offer a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s rich history and are well worth the trip if you have the time.
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Food & Drink: Must-Try Albanian Dishes
Tavë Kosi
Baked lamb and rice in a creamy yoghurt sauce. Loved this dish.
Fërgesë
Peppers, tomatoes, and cottage cheese (often with liver or beef). Loved this one too.
Byrek
Flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
Take An Albanian Cooking Class
A great way to experience Albanian cuisine hands-on. It was raining heavily, and so I did this class, what a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon and I am totally useless in the kitchen.
Essential Travel Tips
Cash is King – Many places only accept cash, although larger places accept euros and credit cards.
ATM Fees – High fees (500-700 Lek per withdrawal). $1 is approximately 83 Albanian Lek. One euro is almost 100 Lek, so it’s a lovely, easy conversion for me to use.
Public Transport: The bus fare is 40 Lek per person (may increase to 50 Lek soon). How to use the bus, board, pay the collector (cash only), not the driver, and keep your paper ticket, as sometimes bus inspectors board the bus.
Final Thoughts
Tirana is a city of contrasts, where history meets modern energy, and communist-era bunkers stand alongside colourful cafés. Whether you’re exploring its past, enjoying the vibrant street life, or escaping to the mountains, there’s something for everyone.
If you have extra time, a day trip to Berat or Gjirokastër is a fantastic way to see more of Albania’s fascinating culture. Enjoy your time in Albania’s lively capital, I certainly did. And if you find yourself in Tirana when it’s raining, check this post for some rainy day activities.
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