Tirana travel guide

The colourful and charming capital of Albania, Tirana, nestles on the edge of Europe. A vibrant and dynamic city, Tirana has a rich history that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. Known for its Ottoman and Soviet-era architecture and monuments, its modernised buildings and infrastructures embody an impressive metamorphosis. There are bustling markets and delicious food to enjoy, and for those who like nature, there are opportunities to go hiking and enjoy the outdoors.

Top things to see and do in Tirana

• Visit Skanderbeg Square, the city’s main square, and admire the impressive National History Museum and Ethem Bey Mosque.
• Discover the city’s rich history at the Bunk’Art museum, a former nuclear bunker turned museum, and take a different perspective of Tirana’s past.
• Visit the iconic Clock Tower, a historic tower that dates back to the Ottoman period, 1822 and was brought to life by the court poet Haxhi Et’hem Bey.
• Marvel at the colourful architecture of the Pyramid of Tirana, a pyramid-shaped building that was once a museum and is now used for events and exhibitions.
• Take a walk in the lush Grand Park, the city’s largest park, and enjoy the fresh air and greenery.
• Explore the vibrant Blloku neighbourhood, an upscale and trendy area with shops, cafes, and restaurants and enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine.
• Browse the bustling Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar) market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.

Tips for travellers

Take a day trip to the town of Ohrid and visit the site of one of the oldest human settlements in Europe. You can take a dip in one of the oldest lakes in the world and learn about the iconic sights while listening to stories of different cultures, traditions, and invasions throughout the years. You can also visit churches from the 11th century and learn about the spread of Slavic Orthodoxy. Discover why the place was known as the “Jerusalem of the Balkans”.