We know how challenging it can be when researching places to visit either for vacation, tourism or for whatever reason. Albania is certainly a good pick, as it is in the heart of Southeast Europe, and it is known for its rich history, warm hospitality, diverse landscape, and affordability. Therefore, we have put together the Top 5 Places to Visit in Albania.
The country is relatively small as it spans around 28,748 kilometres (11,100 square miles) making Albania easily explorable within a short period. Also, the favourable climate throughout the year adds to its appeal.
However, many Albanians speak English, and this is commonly used in tourist locations like hotels and restaurants. So, communication in English should not pose any challenges. Meanwhile, for those who are just visiting for the first time, learning Albanian phrases such as “Mirëdita” (Good Day) “Faleminderit” (Thank you) and “Ju lutem” (Please) can help foster connections with the locals and show appreciation, for their culture. As you go through this post, you will explore the top 5 captivating places to visit in Albania and delve into the cost of living there too. So, let us uncover the gems that make it an irresistible and a must-visit destination.
It’s important to know that here at Adventure Twist, all travel recommendations and tips are based on personal experience and thorough research by our travel experts and locals.
Places to visit in Albania and cost of living.
1. Tirana
The city has several exciting places for memorable experiences and activities, and it’s located in the capital of Albania. Places like Skanderbeg Square, Bunk’Art 2, Tirana’s Grand Park and Bloku District. As a first-time visitor to Tirana, and you are looking for nice Albanian cuisine there, then you need to check out the New Bazaar. At this spot, you can find local flavours, buy fresh products, and experience the city’s bustling atmosphere. Another exciting activity in Tirana is climbing Mount Daiti. There you can enjoy the breathtaking views of Tirana and its surrounding landscape.
At the top, you can enjoy hiking, and the stunning panorama. You can also take the Dajti Express cable car to Mount Dajti, that’s if you are planning to have a fun sight of the place while going around. I would recommend cycling in the city and taking advantage of Tirana’s bike-sharing programs, as this is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the different places there.
Cost of Living in Tirana
The low and affordable cost of living in Albania cuts across Tirana, as getting around Tirana is affordable and convenient. You can navigate through the city with public buses, as this is cost-effective because you only need a single-ride ticket of 40 Albanian Lek (0.43 USD). “Albanian Lek, the currency used in Albania and is symbolised as LEK”. Taxis are also reasonably priced but more expensive than using the bus, and the cost of taxis depends on the level of traffic and the travel miles. But the ideal taxi fare in normal traffic starts at 300 LEK (4 USD) and up to 1200 LEK (13 USD).
In terms of accommodation and meals, Tirana offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets. You should expect to spend approximately between 3700 LEK (40 USD) to 9000 LEK (100 USD) per night depending on the type and location of the hotel. Traditional restaurants are reasonably priced. This will cost between 1500 LEK (16 USD) to 3500 LEK (37 USD) per person. Meanwhile, exploring the New Bazaar for nicely produced and fresh meals, including snacks is a budget-friendly way to experience the local food scene.
2. Ksamil
Albania, despite its relatively small landscape, has quite a few places to visit, one of which is Ksamil, a village in southern Albania Riviera. The city has a pristine relaxation beach with crystal clear water, making it one of the top 5 places to visit in Albania. You would adore visiting the island of Ksamil because it offers a private sanctuary for swimming, tanning, and snorkelling. The Butrint National Park and the Blue Eye in Muzinë are both close to Ksamil and are sure to leave you with amazing vacation memories.
Cost of Living in Ksamil
Ksamil is a small village in Albania, with amazing sites to visit and a low cost of living there. The place is very affordable to visit, considering the low transportation cost, accommodation and getting their nicely made traditional food. If you are visiting this place, you probably would have to stop at the capital airport which is the Tirana International Airport and then take a taxi from Tirana to Ksamil. Uber doesn’t operate in Albania, the major taxi services there are Speed Taxi App and Ups Taxi App. The taxi fare is approximately 15000 LEK (157 USD). For a better experience, I recommend hiring a taxi to take you around as this can also serve as a guide around the place.
However, there is no direct transportation from Tirana airport, which is the capital of Albania to Ksamil. The only available means to get there is to take a taxi and 2 buses, which will take you about 4 hours via the E853/SH4. The taxi fare is estimated at 19000 LEK (203 USD), while the bus will cost you 3314 LEK (35 USD).
Expect to spend a total sum of 22475 LEK (240 USD) for both taxis and buses. The first taxis which you’ll take from the airport terminal will stop you at Saranda, then you will have to take another bus to Ksamil. However, the price of accommodation in Saranda is cheaper as the price ranges from 2380 LEK (26 USD) to 5950 LEK (64 USD) per night depending on the suit type. Also, you can find nice and affordable hotels to stay in Ksamil that are budget-friendly. But if you want accommodation that is self-catered, then I would recommend staying at Saranda.
3. Berat
In 2008, Berat was named a UNESCO World Heritage location. The charm of the city comprises a lot of exciting and fun things to do there. These include Visiting the Berat Castle, the Onufi Museum, the Ethnographic Museum and taking a stroll across the Gorica Bridge which connects two parts of the city and offers an architectural marvel to admire.
Cost of Living in Berat
The city of Berat is an affordable place to visit, and for those who plan to take the local bus within the city, you will need to spend 30 LEK (0.32 USD) for a single ticket per person. You can get to Berat from the Tirana International Airport either by bus or a taxi. The bus costs about 730 LEK (8 USD), while taxis cost 6200 LEK (66 USD). The transportation within the city of Berat is convenient and affordable, with a well-connected road. Both buses and taxis are readily available for everyone. Also, the cost of meals is relatively affordable, and they have nice local cuisine at Berat’s traditional restaurants. Prices for lodging are typically fair, ranging between 2381 LEK (25 USD) to 7145 LEK (76 USD) per night. Given the location’s historical value, you can find lodging options that suit your budget.
I would suggest carrying some cash with you when moving around the city. Informatively, the currency used is called Albanian Lek (LEK), and you can easily exchange your country’s currency for LEK. While small transactions can be made with cash, credit cards are generally accepted in hotels and restaurants. Berat enjoys pleasant weather because of its Mediterranean climate, which features hot, mild winters and dry summers. So, for nice weather and fewer crowds, try to schedule your trip for the autumn(fall) or spring.
4. Gjirokastër
This city is located in the southern part of Albania, between the Drino and Gjerë mountainsides. I recommend including this city in Albania if you are planning to visit Albania, as it is considered one of the best places to visit. However, the experience here is quite relative as some people didn’t like that you must get on a 3hrs 30mins drive from the Tirana airport to Gjirokaster since there’s no flight to take you straight there. However, it is still considered one of the most visited cities in Albania.
From its UNESCO World Heritage Sites old town to its vibrating culture, Gjirokaster is known for its historic and captivating places, including its nice morning view from the Gjirokaster Obelisk(a monument to Albanian language and education). The Gjirokaster Obelisk is the first place you should visit because you can get a breathtaking view of the city from this spot including the Castle, the Old Bazaar and Mosque, among other amazing sights.
Albania has about 158 castles and the Gjirokaster castle appears to be one of the most amazing castles you would love to visit. Gjirokaster also have a museum which I don’t think anyone who visits the city should miss. Inside the museum presents a lot of amazing historical artefacts alongside a well-written biography of some of modern-day Gjirokaster’s residents. So, I highly recommend that you visit the city if you ever pick Albania as your choice of vacation.
Cost of living in Gjirokastër
Travelling from your country to Gjirokaster for vacation is certainly an adventure. You don’t have to worry about the cost of living there as the city is known for its affordability in terms of housing, renting a hotel, transportation and getting traditional cuisine. Gjirokaster has accommodations ranging from guesthouses to modern hotels, and this variety of hotels is indeed budget-friendly. You should expect to spend between 3579 LEK (38 USD) to 7158 LEK (76 USD) per night depending on the suit type. You can get to Gjirokaster from Berat using the city bus which would cost you 30 LEK (0.32 USD) for a single ticket. The city bus is only scheduled for two rounds, the first bus moves at 8 am, while the next bus is at 2 pm.
Also, to get a better experience within the city you will have to walk on foot, but don’t worry it’s a small place with a nice atmosphere and architecture, so walking around will give you a nice insight into the city. But if you plan to go for a longer distance, you can also take the taxis or local buses as these are readily available or you can still rent a car.
5. Shkodër
One of the most charming places to visit in Albania is Shkoder, known for its rich history and culture, not to mention, that the city is a cheap place for people who visit Albania. Here you can find the Rozafa Castle(the biggest tourist attraction in Shkoder), the old town, the Marubi National Museum, the lead Mosque and Beker Mosque, you can also take a boat ride on the Shkoder Lake.
Moving around Shkoder can be achieved using either the local public transport or taxis which are available for everyone, and it’s cost-friendly. But if you are considering renting a car, it is a good idea as it will allow you to explore most spots in Shkoder and expect to spend around 200 – 300 LEK, which is about 3 USD which is considerably cheap. Unlike other places to visit in Albania, Shkoder is closer to the capital.
Cost of living in Shkodër
The cost of transportation here is very affordable as it will only cost you 200 – 300 LEK to rent a car for tourism, this in USD is about 3 USD. Don’t worry about the cost of accommodation because Shkoder has different budget-friendly hotels ranging from cosy to boutique hotels. Depending on your preference, the price of getting a hotel per night in Shkoder is between 4000 and 10,000 LEK (45-110 USD).
If you are the type that wants to try something new, then I would recommend you go for Shkoder traditional cuisine. You should expect to spend approximately 2000-3000 LEK (30 USD) per person on international food at a mid-range restaurant. While for their local food, it’s approximately 1000-1500 LEK (25 USD) per person. So, considerably, Shkoder is indeed a nice and cost-friendly city in Albania.
Recommended: 🗺️The New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri) in Tirana
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