Tirana: The Complete Guide

Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, offers an eclectic mix of modernity and tradition, making it an exciting destination for any traveler. The city located in Central Albania is known for its bold and colorful architecture, with murals and street art adorning many of its buildings. Visitors can stroll through the lively streets of the city center, where cafes and shops line the boulevards, creating a dynamic and energetic atmosphere. Tirana’s bustling markets, such as the New Bazaar, provide an authentic glimpse into local life, where visitors can find everything from fresh produce to handmade goods.
The city’s green spaces, such as the Grand Park of Tirana and the surrounding artificial lake, offer a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. Whether you’re looking to go for a relaxing walk, rent a bike, or simply sit by the water, these areas provide a refreshing contrast to the busy city streets. For those interested in panoramic views of the city, a visit to Mount Dajti is a must. Accessible by the Dajti Ekspres cable car, this mountain offers stunning views of Tirana and the surrounding countryside, along with a range of hiking trails and picnic spots.
Tirana also has a thriving cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters scattered throughout the city. The National History Museum, located in Skanderbeg Square, offers insights into Albania’s past through its engaging exhibits. Art lovers can enjoy the contemporary works at the National Gallery of Arts, while the Opera House is a fantastic venue for those interested in live performances, from ballet to opera and theater productions. In the evenings, Blloku is the place to be, a trendy neighborhood where locals and visitors gather to enjoy vibrant nightlife, ranging from bars and lounges to live music venues.
For those seeking a taste of Albanian cuisine, Tirana’s restaurants offer a variety of traditional dishes, such as “tavë kosi” (lamb with yogurt) and “fërgesë” (a stew with peppers and cheese). Dining in Tirana is a sensory experience, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating where you can enjoy your meal while people-watching in one of the city’s bustling squares or streets. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, Tirana provides an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Table of Contents
- History of Tirana
- Tirana in Prehistoric and Ancient Times
- Tirana Under Roman Rule
- Tirana During Byzantine Rule
- Tirana Under Ottoman Rule
- Tirana in the Early 20th Century
- 24 Best places to See in Tirana
- Et’hem Bey Mosque
- Skanderbeg Square
- Bunk'Art 2
- Rruga Murat Toptani
- Clock Tower In Tirana
- REJA - The Cloud
- Palace of Culture
- Albanian National Art Gallery
- Hotel Dajti
- Statue of the Unknown Partisan
- Fortress of Justinian
- New Bazaar, Tirana
- Pyramid of Tirana
- Tanners' Bridge
- Postbllok - Checkpoint
- Mother Teresa Square, Tirana
- Colorful Buildings of Tirana
- Mosaic of Tirana
- Tirana Grand Park
- Albanian Royal Palace
- Bektashi World Centre
- Martyrs' Cemetery
- Bunk’Art
- Dajti Ekspres Cable Car
- 15 Best Day Trips from Tirana
- Petrela Castle
- Dajti Mountain National Park
- Cave of Pellumbas
- Preza Castle
- Krujë
- Qafshtame National Park
- Durrës
- Elbasan
- Burrel
- Lushnjë
- Librazhd
- Rrëshen (Mirditë)
- Lezhë
- Gramsh
- Peshkopi
- Where to Stay in Tirana
- Best Time to Visit Tirana
- How to get to Tirana
History of Tirana
Tirana in Prehistoric and Ancient Times
Discoveries in the Pellumbas Cave, near Tirana, have proven that the area has been inhabited since the Iron Age. Early inhabitants likely engaged in agricultural practices, as well as hunting and gathering. The region was part of the wider Illyrian territories, where several Illyrian tribes settled. These tribes were known for their warrior culture and strategic settlements, which laid the foundation for the area’s future development. The remnants of ancient artifacts, including pottery and tools, suggest a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years.
Tirana Under Roman Rule
The area that would later become Tirana was annexed by Rome during the expansion of the Roman Empire. It became an integral part of the Roman province of Illyricum. The Romans recognized the strategic importance of the area, leading to the construction of roads, infrastructure, and agricultural systems that contributed to the area’s growth. One significant discovery is the remnants of a 3rd-century Roman villa found in the region. This villa provides valuable insight into the domestic life and architectural style during the Roman period, indicating the Roman influence in what was then a relatively small settlement.
Tirana During Byzantine Rule
After the Roman Empire split into East and West in the 4th century, Tirana came under the control of the Byzantine Empire. During this time, the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I ordered the construction of the Fortress of Justinian, a fortification that would help secure the region against outside invasions. While the town itself remained small, the fortress represented a significant shift in the area’s role in the broader Byzantine defense network. The fortification is an important piece of history for the region, providing evidence of its strategic military importance during the Byzantine era.
Tirana Under Ottoman Rule
While Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, was fighting the Ottomans in the 15th century, Tirana was still a small village. However, during Ottoman rule, the settlement began to develop into a small town. Under Ottoman influence, Tirana grew in size and importance, becoming a key point for trade and agriculture. The Ottomans built several significant structures in the town, including a bazaar and watermills, which played a crucial role in the economic development of the area. In 1614, Sulejman Bargjini, a local ruler, built the Old Mosque, a hammam (Turkish bath), and a bakery in an effort to attract settlers. This initiative helped establish Tirana as a thriving town and laid the foundation for the modern city.
Tirana in the Early 20th Century
Tirana’s status as a major settlement was further solidified when it was chosen to be the capital of Albania in 1920. This decision came after the Congress of Lushnjë, where representatives from across Albania gathered to discuss the future of the newly independent country. As Albania sought to establish its identity following centuries of foreign rule, Tirana was selected as the political and administrative center of the nation due to its central location and strategic significance. This marked the beginning of Tirana’s transformation from a small Ottoman town to the bustling capital city it is today.
Visiting Tirana for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Tirana on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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24 Best places to See in Tirana
This complete guide to Tirana not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Tirana and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Et’hem Bey Mosque

| Hours: 08:00-11:00 | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Et’hem Bey Mosque
Skanderbeg Square

| Hours: 24 Hour | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Skanderbeg Square
Bunk'Art 2

Location: Rruga Sermedin Said Toptani, Tirana | Hours: Sun - Sat 09:00 - 18:00 | Price: 500 Lek | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Bunk'Art 2
Rruga Murat Toptani

| Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Rruga Murat Toptani
Clock Tower In Tirana

Location: Rr Luigj Gurakuqi, Tirana, Albania | Hours: 9am-4pm Mon-Fri, to 2pm Sat | Price: 200 Lek | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Clock Tower In Tirana
REJA - The Cloud

Visiting REJA - The Cloud
Palace of Culture

Location: Sheshi Skenderbej 1000 Tirana, Albania | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Palace of Culture
Albanian National Art Gallery

Location: Blvd Dëshmorët e Kombit | Hours: 10am- 6pm Mon-Sat | Price: 200 lek | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Albanian National Art Gallery
Hotel Dajti

Visiting Hotel Dajti
Statue of the Unknown Partisan

Visiting Statue of the Unknown Partisan
Fortress of Justinian

Location: Shëtitorja Murat Toptani, Tiranë, Albania | Hours: 07:00 - 02:00 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Fortress of Justinian
New Bazaar, Tirana

Location: Rruga Shenasi Dishnica Tirana Albania | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting New Bazaar, Tirana
Pyramid of Tirana

Visiting Pyramid of Tirana
Tanners' Bridge

Location: Bulevardi "Jean D'Arc" Tirana Albania | Hours: Open 24 hours | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Tanners' Bridge
Postbllok - Checkpoint

Location: Bulevardi Deshmoret e Kombit, Tirana | Hours: 24 hours daily | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Postbllok - Checkpoint
Mother Teresa Square, Tirana

Location: Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit Tirana, Albania | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Mother Teresa Square, Tirana
Colorful Buildings of Tirana

Visiting Colorful Buildings of Tirana
Mosaic of Tirana

Location: Rr. Naim Frashëri | Hours: Open 08:00-17:00. Closed Sun. | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Mosaic of Tirana
Tirana Grand Park

Location: Rruga Herman Gmeiner, Tirana 1000, Albania | Hours: Open 24 hours | Website | Distance: 1.8km
Visiting Tirana Grand Park
Albanian Royal Palace

Location: Rruga e Elbasanit , Tirana | Hours: Only on weekends - 09:00 to 16:00 | Distance: 2.1km
Visiting Albanian Royal Palace
Bektashi World Centre

Location: Rruga Agush Gjergjevica Tiranë Albania | Hours: 10:00-13:00, 17:00-19:00 | Website | Distance: 2.6km
Visiting Bektashi World Centre
Martyrs' Cemetery

Location: Rr Elbasanit | Distance: 2.8km
Visiting Martyrs' Cemetery
Bunk’Art

Location: Street Fadil Deliu, Tirana, Albania | Hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm | Website | Distance: 4.3km
Visiting Bunk’Art
Dajti Ekspres Cable Car

Location: Dajti Mountain, Tirana, Albania | Hours: Winter: 9am to 7pm - Open everyday except Tuesdays. Summer: 09:00 to 21:00 | Price: 800 Lek | Website | Distance: 4.4km
Visiting Dajti Ekspres Cable Car
Best Day Trips from Tirana
A day trip from Tirana offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Tirana provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Petrela Castle

Location: Rruga Petreles, Petrelë, Albania | Hours: 10am-8pm | Website | Distance: 8.6km
Visiting Petrela Castle
Dajti Mountain National Park

Visiting Dajti Mountain National Park
Cave of Pellumbas

Visiting Cave of Pellumbas
Preza Castle

Location: Prezë, Albania | Distance: 16.8km
Visiting Preza Castle
Krujë

Visiting Krujë
Qafshtame National Park

Visiting Qafshtame National Park
Durrës

Visiting Durrës
Elbasan

Visiting Elbasan
Burrel

Visiting Burrel
Lushnjë

Visiting Lushnjë
Librazhd

Visiting Librazhd
Rrëshen (Mirditë)

Visiting Rrëshen (Mirditë)
Lezhë

Visiting Lezhë
Gramsh
Visiting Gramsh
Peshkopi

Visiting Peshkopi
Where to Stay in Tirana
Tirana offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit every budget, from luxury hotels to charming boutique guesthouses. For those looking for a central and comfortable stay, The Plaza Tirana is an excellent choice. Situated in the heart of the city, this 5-star hotel features modern amenities, including spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, and a wellness center. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions like Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the vibrant Blloku area.
If you prefer a more intimate, boutique experience, Hotel Boutique Vila 5 offers a cozy and personalized atmosphere. This charming hotel is located a short distance from the city center and provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. With its beautifully designed rooms and attentive staff, it’s a perfect choice for those seeking comfort and style in a quieter setting.
For travelers on a budget, Hotel Tirana International provides affordable options without compromising on quality. The hotel is centrally located, just a short walk from major attractions, including the Grand Park and the National Theatre. It offers clean, simple rooms and excellent service, making it an ideal base for exploring the city at an affordable price.
For those who want to experience the city’s cultural side, Hotel Nais Beach offers an interesting mix of traditional and modern design elements. The hotel is located in the vibrant Blloku area, which is known for its lively atmosphere, trendy cafes, and bars. Staying here allows visitors to immerse themselves in Tirana’s social scene, while the hotel offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to the city’s nightlife.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Tirana. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Tirana Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Tirana
Tirana, the capital city of Albania, is a vibrant and dynamic destination known for its eclectic mix of architecture, rich history, and lively atmosphere. Here’s a guide to the best time to visit Tirana:
- Spring (March to May): Spring is a fantastic time to visit Tirana as the weather is mild, and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and greenery. This season is ideal for exploring Tirana’s parks and gardens, such as the Grand Park and Rinia Park, and enjoying outdoor activities like walking tours and cycling. Spring also offers opportunities to experience local festivals and events, such as the Albanian Wine Festival and the Tirana Jazz Festival.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in Tirana, with warm temperatures and long sunny days. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor attractions such as the Dajti Mountain National Park and the artificial Lake Tirana, as well as cultural events like open-air concerts and theater performances. Summer also brings a variety of street festivals, food markets, and nightlife options to Tirana. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds during this time.
- Fall (September to November): Fall is another great time to visit Tirana, as the weather remains pleasant, and the summer crowds begin to dissipate. This season is ideal for exploring Tirana’s historic landmarks, such as the Skanderbeg Square and the Et’hem Bey Mosque, without the long lines. Fall also offers opportunities to experience local traditions and customs, such as grape harvesting and olive oil pressing, as well as to sample seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Winter (December to February): Winter in Tirana is relatively mild, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. While some outdoor activities may be limited during this time, winter offers opportunities to explore indoor attractions such as museums, galleries, and historic sites, as well as to indulge in traditional Albanian cuisine in cozy restaurants and cafes. Winter is also a great time to experience Tirana’s cultural scene, with performances, exhibitions, and events taking place throughout the city.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Tirana depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Tirana has something to offer for every traveler throughout the year.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 11°C 55°F
- February 13°C 60°F
- March 15°C 63°F
- April 20°C 71°F
- May 23°C 77°F
- June 29°C 87°F
- July 29°C 94°F
- August 31°C 91°F
- September 29°C 88°F
- October 23°C 78°F
- November 17°C 65°F
- December 13°C 58°F
How to get to Tirana
Getting to Tirana by Air
Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) is the primary gateway for international flights into Albania. Located approximately 17 km northwest of the city center, the airport serves as a hub for various airlines, including Wizz Air, Ryanair, and Air Albania. It offers direct flights to numerous European destinations, such as Milan, London, and Vienna. Upon arrival, travelers can access the city center via taxis, private transfers, or shuttle services provided by car rental companies.
Getting to Tirana by Train
Currently, there is no operational train service to or from Tirana. The city’s main railway station was demolished in 2013 to make way for urban development projects. As of now, there are no active railway lines connecting Tirana to other cities in Albania or neighboring countries. Travelers wishing to reach Tirana by train must disembark at nearby stations, such as Durrës or Shkodër, and continue their journey by bus or car.
Getting to Tirana by Car
Driving to Tirana is a convenient option for those arriving from within Albania or neighboring countries. The city is well-connected by a network of highways and roads, making it accessible from various directions. The journey to Tirana offers scenic views of the Albanian countryside, with winding roads and mountainous landscapes. Upon arrival, visitors can find parking facilities in and around the city center. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Travelling around Tirana
Tirana boasts a variety of public transportation options to help visitors navigate the city. The city’s bus network is extensive, with routes connecting different neighborhoods and key attractions. Furgons (minibuses) are also a popular mode of transport, offering flexible routes and frequent departures. For a more personalized experience, taxis and ride-hailing services like Bolt are readily available. Additionally, many of Tirana’s main attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it a pedestrian-friendly city.