Best Things To Do And See In Tirana, Albania

Admire the new face of Skanderbeg Square

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.

Skanderbeg Square, Tirana, Albania

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Learn the Albanian history in the National Museum

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.

Historical National Museum, Sheshi Skanderbeg 1, Tirana, Albania, +355 4 222 3446

sunny day in Tirana #albania #tirana #finallysomesun

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Stroll through Toptani Street

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.

Rruga Abdi Toptani, Tirana, Albania

#Pedonalja #Tirane #Albania

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Relax at the Artificial Lake

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.

Artificial Lake, Tirana, Albania

Reach Mount Dajti to admire Tirana from the top

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.

Mount Dajti, Tirana, Albania

The only Balcony in Tirana with this view! #BallkoniDajtit

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Climb the Enver Hoxha Pyramid

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.

Pyramid, Bulevard Bajram Curri, Tirana, Albania

Have fun in Ish-Blloku district

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.

Blloku, Tirana, Albania

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Eat fresh fruit at Pazari i Ri

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.

Pazari i Ri, Sheshi Avni Rustemi, Tirana, Albania

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Ieva Mickute also contributed to this article