First time in Albania
Albania isn’t difficult to visit. But there are a few things I wish people knew before arriving.
If it's your first time in Albania, forget most of the stereotypes you've heard.
Albania isn't difficult to visit.
But there are definitely a few things I wish people knew before arriving.
So here's what I'd tell a friend before their first trip.
The questions I get asked
Money — learn to use lek
Albania uses the Albanian lek (ALL).
You'll see prices written as 500, 1,000, 2,000 lek, etc.
Cards are increasingly common, especially in hotels, supermarkets and established restaurants, but I always keep cash with me.
Especially when I'm going somewhere small.
A little bakery, family restaurant, beach bar, mountain village — this is where cash becomes useful.
My tip
Don't exchange a huge amount of money at the airport just because you're nervous.
Get enough to get started, then compare rates once you're in town.
SIM cards and internet
If your phone plan doesn't include Albania, I'd get a local SIM or eSIM.
Vodafone and One are the main operators.
For normal tourist routes, coverage is generally good, including the Riviera and major cities.
I wouldn't travel around Albania without internet.
You'll want Google Maps. You'll want WhatsApp. You'll want restaurant locations.
And trust me, when you're driving through the mountains looking for a tiny beach, you'll be happy you have it.
Should you rent a car?
For a road trip? Absolutely.
For Tirana alone? Not necessarily.
Tirana is much easier without one.
But if you're doing the Riviera, southern Albania or trying to see smaller villages, having a car changes everything.
You can stop where you want. You can stay longer. You can take the scenic road. You can find beaches that aren't convenient by bus.
But here's my warning
Albanian driving can feel chaotic if you're used to very predictable Western European roads.
Main roads have improved considerably, but driving habits can still be unpredictable, particularly around cities.
My advice: don't race. Don't assume everyone will signal. Watch for pedestrians. Watch for animals. Watch for sudden overtaking.
And don't let someone else's driving turn your holiday into a competition.
Can I travel Albania without a car?
Yes.
Buses and minibuses connect the major cities and tourist destinations.
But here's my honest opinion: if you're doing the Riviera, I'd rent the car.
If you're doing Tirana + Berat + Gjirokastër and don't care about hidden beaches, buses can work.
Coffee is not just coffee
This is one of the first things I'd tell you.
When an Albanian says "Let's have a coffee", don't assume it means five minutes.
Sit down. Talk. Order another. Watch the street.
Coffee culture is part of everyday Albanian life.
I love this part of Albania.
What should you eat?
Don't live on pizza and burgers.
Please.
Try:
- Byrek
- Tavë kosi
- Fërgesë
- Qofte
- Grilled meat
- Fresh fish
- Seafood
- Albanian salads
- Local cheeses
And if you're on the coast? Eat seafood.
If you're in the mountains? Eat the local meat and traditional dishes.
If someone tells you what their family makes best, order that.
Do people speak English?
In tourist areas, you'll generally find English speakers, especially among younger people.
Italian is also widely understood by many Albanians.
And learn two words:
- Përshëndetje — Hello
- Faleminderit — Thank you
Even if your pronunciation is terrible.
People appreciate the effort.
Are Albanian beaches actually that good?
Yes.
But Instagram has slightly ruined the expectation.
Some beaches really do have incredibly clear water.
But July and August can be crowded.
Ksamil especially can become very busy.
And the Albanian Riviera isn't one giant beach.
It's a collection of villages, bays, rocky beaches, sandy beaches, beach clubs and mountain roads.
My favourite days are usually the ones where I don't try to find the "number one beach".
I find somewhere I like and stay there.
Is Albania cheap?
Compared with many Western European destinations, it can be.
But don't come expecting everything to cost €2.
Tourist areas — especially Ksamil and parts of the Riviera — can get expensive during peak summer.
Beachfront restaurants can also charge more simply because you're paying for the location.
My rule
If you want value: walk a few streets inland.
That's often where you'll find the places locals actually use.
Is Albania safe?
For normal tourists, Albania is generally a relaxed destination.
I wouldn't walk around constantly worrying about my belongings.
But use normal travel common sense.
Don't leave your phone on a restaurant table unattended. Don't leave valuables visible in a rental car. Don't walk into unfamiliar areas late at night just because Google Maps tells you it's a shortcut.
Basically: enjoy yourself, but use your brain.
What should I actually see?
If you only remember ten places, I'd choose:
Tirana
Berat
Gjirokastër
Ksamil
Butrint
Himarë
Dhërmi
Llogara
Vlorë
The Albanian Alps, if you have more time
And don't try to visit all ten in a week.
Tirana, Berat, Ksamil and Vlorë each have their own guide on this site.
Tours and day trips across Albania
Browse all tours and day trips in Albania on GetYourGuide.