Albania Travel Guide
Everything you need to know before and during your trip.
Best time to visit
May–June and September offer warm weather without the July–August crowds and price spikes. July–August is hottest and busiest, especially on the Riviera. Mountain roads (Theth, Valbonë) are typically only open June–September.
Entry requirements
Many EU, UK and US passport holders can enter visa-free for short stays. Albania is not in the Schengen area but generally follows similar rules — check current requirements for your nationality before booking.
Currency & money
The Albanian Lek (ALL) is the official currency. Euros are widely accepted on the coast and in tourist areas, but you'll get a better rate paying in Lek. ATMs are common in towns; cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants but cash is king in villages.
Mobile internet & eSIM
Local SIM cards (Vodafone AL, One Telecommunications) are cheap and easy to buy at the airport or in Tirana. eSIMs from international providers (Airalo, Holafly) also work well and can be activated before you land.
Safety
Albania is generally very safe for travellers, with low rates of violent crime. Standard precautions apply in cities. Driving is the bigger risk factor — road conditions and local driving styles require extra caution, especially at night.
Driving in Albania
Roads have improved dramatically but mountain and rural routes can still be narrow, unlit, or partly unpaved. Coastal roads like the Llogara Pass are spectacular but require confident driving. An international driving permit is recommended alongside your licence.
Rental cars
Renting is the best way to see the Riviera and mountains at your own pace. Book ahead in July–August. Check insurance coverage carefully, and note that some remote roads (Theth, Valbonë) may void standard rental insurance — ask before you go.
Public transport
Furgons (shared minibuses) connect most towns cheaply and run frequently, though schedules are informal — ask locally for departure times. Intercity buses link major cities. There is no significant passenger rail network for tourism.
Taxis
Taxis are affordable and common in cities; agree a price or confirm the meter before you start. Ride-hailing apps work in Tirana.
Language
Albanian is the official language, a unique branch of the Indo-European family. English and Italian are widely understood in tourist areas, especially on the coast; older generations may speak more Italian or Greek.
Tipping
Not obligatory but appreciated — 5–10% at restaurants, rounding up for taxis, and a small tip for guides is standard.
Weather overview
Mediterranean climate on the coast (hot, dry summers; mild, wet winters) shifting to continental inland (colder winters, especially Korçë) and alpine in the north (snowbound mountains in winter, cool summer nights).
Electricity
Type C/F plugs (EU standard), 230V, 50Hz. Bring an adapter if travelling from outside continental Europe.
Healthcare
Private clinics in Tirana and larger cities offer good care; travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially for mountain activities. Pharmacies (farmaci) are widely available and well-stocked.
Emergency numbers
General emergency: 112. Police: 129. Fire: 128. Ambulance: 127.
Foods you must try in Albania
Albanian phrasebook
A few essentials, with a rough English-style pronunciation guide.
| English | Albanian | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Përshëndetje | pur-shen-DET-yeh |
| Good morning | Mirëmëngjes | mee-ruh-MUN-jess |
| Goodbye | Mirupafshim | mee-roo-PAHF-sheem |
| Please | Ju lutem | yoo LOO-tem |
| Thank you | Faleminderit | fah-leh-min-DEH-reet |
| Yes / No | Po / Jo | poh / yoh |
| Excuse me / Sorry | Më falni | muh FAHL-nee |
| How much? | Sa kushton? | sah koosh-TOHN |
| Where is...? | Ku është...? | koo ush-TUH |
| A coffee, please | Një kafe, ju lutem | nyuh kah-FEH yoo LOO-tem |
| The bill, please | Llogarinë, ju lutem | loh-gah-REE-nuh yoo LOO-tem |
| Do you speak English? | Flisni anglisht? | FLEES-nee ahn-GLEESHT |
| I don't understand | Nuk kuptoj | nook koop-TOY |
| Delicious! | Shumë e shijshme! | SHOO-muh eh sheeysh-meh |
| Cheers! | Gëzuar! | guh-ZOO-ar |