15 Best Things To Do And See In Tirana, Albania

In Tirana, it seems that all roads lead to Skanderbeg Square. Once you’ve been there, you’ll understand why; this main square, named after an Albanian national hero, is the heart of the city. A statue of Skanderbeg sits in the middle of the square. It’s an iconic place, which has recently been renewed, and is a must-see for everyone who visits Albania. With an opera house, the National History Museum, the Et’Hem Bey Mosque along the sides, this huge square is perfect for a stroll.

The National History Museum is the largest museum in Albania, with over 4,750 objects in its collection, from the Paleolithic era to communist times. There’s much to find out about Albanian history even before you get into the building, because it has a large, recognizable mosaic on its front wall that illustrates the different eras in Albanian history. At the National History Museum, you will embark on a great and fascinating exploration of the history and the culture of this nation.

In a city dominated by cars, this tree-lined pedestrian street is like a breath of fresh air. With no cars and lots of shops and restaurants, Toptani Street, also called Pedonalja, is perfect for a nice walk, shopping, and for buying local souvenirs. It is shady and cool, making it an excellent hideout on a hot summer day. During the holiday season, it hosts a wonderful Christmas market. Alongside the street, there is a Millennium Cinema.

If there are two places not to be missed in Tirana, they are BunkArt and BunkArt2, two museums built inside two coveted anti-nuclear buildings. While BunkArt is bigger and located on the outskirts of Tirana, BunkArt2 is right in the middle of the town, near the main landmarks of the city.

A different, and cool, way to explore the capital city of Albania is to book a Communist tour in town. Good Albania organizes these kind of tours and brings you to visit all the main Communist places of Tirana, such as BunkArt, Blloku (which during the regime was reserved only for the political elites), Museum of Surveillance, Socialist buildings and taste typical Albanian street food.

The best place to escape the crowds of Tirana is the Artificial Lake, a romantic area located at the end of Blloku district. It is a popular destination, especially during the weekends, when locals stroll enjoying nature and fresh air. We suggest you to consider the lake especially if you are traveling with children, because in the area there is the largest fun park of Tirana.

Nature and hiking lovers will want to feast their eyes and stretch their legs on Mount Dajti, a 1,613-meter peak just east of Tirana. The best way to reach this mountain-turned-national-park is either by 15-minute cable car ride or a drive of more than an hour. Once you get to the top, you’ll understand why the journey is worth it: the panoramic views of the city from the top of the mountain are breathtaking. There you’ll also find a hotel and a few restaurants.

If you think that you can only see pyramids in Egypt, you are mistaken — Albania has its own. Enver Hoxha Pyramid was designed as a museum by the late Albanian communist leader’s daughter, and opened in 1988 to show his power and to maintain his legacy. After the fall of Communism, this unique monument, also known as the Pyramid of Tirana, became a symbol of the previous era and was repurposed multiple times, until it losts its appeal. Everyone who likes uncommon-looking places should visit this monument.

This former elite communist district, also known as the Block, has been turned into a vibrant tourist attraction. During communist rule, Ish-Blloku was reserved for high-ranking communist officials; even the leader of Albania, Enver Hoxha, lived here. Nowadays this most expensive area is full of trendy bars, cafés, restaurants, and nightclubs, giving it a cosmopolitan vibe. Ish-Blloku district is also the best place to experience famous Albanian coffee culture, home of the best espresso in town.

Opened in 2017, Pazari i Ri is the new market of Tirana and one of the coolest places to visit in town. It was once one of the worst areas of the capital city, but today after a big regeneration, has turned into one of the places to be in town for every traveler. Don’t forget to take your camera and shoot some colorful pictures of the stands. Then, it’s time to taste fresh fruit and buy some typical Albanian artefacts.

Embark on a full-day adventure from Tirana to explore the historical richness of Kruja and the coastal charm of Durres. Visit Kruja’s famous medieval castle and bustling bazaar, immersing yourself in Albania’s storied past. Continue to Durres, the country’s oldest city, where ancient Roman amphitheaters and seaside views await. Enjoy local cuisine, discover fascinating landmarks, and learn about the vibrant culture that shapes these iconic Albanian destinations.

Set out on an invigorating day trip from Tirana to the scenic Bovilla Lake and the majestic Gamti Mountain. Begin your journey with a picturesque hike offering panoramic views of the crystal-clear lake and rugged landscapes. Experience the natural beauty of Albania as you trek through forested trails and rocky paths. Perfect for adventure seekers, this day trip combines breathtaking scenery, outdoor exploration, and a touch of tranquility.

Discover the cultural treasures of Prizren, Kosovo, on a memorable day tour from Tirana. Wander through its charming cobblestone streets, visit historical sites like the Prizren Fortress, and admire the blend of Ottoman and Byzantine architecture. Savor a delicious local lunch, experiencing the rich flavors of Kosovo’s cuisine. This guided excursion offers a unique glimpse into the region’s history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, making it an unforgettable experience.

Experience the thrill of soaring through the skies with a zipline adventure in Tirana, Albania. Feel the adrenaline rush as you glide over stunning landscapes, taking in panoramic views of lush forests and rolling hills. Perfect for adventure seekers, this activity combines excitement and breathtaking scenery. Expert guides ensure a safe and memorable ride, making it an ideal way to explore Tirana’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.

Embark on an exhilarating day trip from Tirana that combines hiking to Gamti Mountain and exploring Bovilla Lake with a visit to historic Kruja. Begin with a scenic hike offering stunning views of Bovilla Lake’s turquoise waters and surrounding cliffs. Afterward, journey to Kruja, where you’ll explore the medieval castle and vibrant bazaar. This adventure blends outdoor excitement, natural beauty, and cultural discovery, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.