New Bazaar, Tirana

Bazaar in Tirana

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Gertjan R.

The New Bazaar, or Pazari i Ri, is one of the most dynamic and atmospheric places in Tirana, where history, culture, and everyday life converge. Located just east of Skanderbeg Square, this historic neighborhood dates back to the early 20th century and has long been a center for trade and social interaction in the capital. The area takes its name from the lively farmers' market at its heart, where vendors sell everything from freshly harvested fruits and vegetables to homemade raki, local wines, cheeses, and olives. Today, the New Bazaar stands as one of the best places to visit in Tirana for those looking to experience authentic Albanian culture through its flavors, people, and traditions.

Revitalized in 2017 as part of Tirana's urban renewal project, the New Bazaar has been transformed into a modern yet traditional market square. Its colorful facades, red-tiled roofs, and wide pedestrian streets make it one of the most photogenic spots in the city. The blend of restored architecture and open-air energy has made it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Tirana, combining old-world charm with modern comfort. Whether you come to shop, eat, or simply wander, the market offers an immersive taste of Albanian life.

History and Significance of the New Bazaar
Things to See and Do in the New Bazaar
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting the New Bazaar
Is the New Bazaar Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the New Bazaar
Nearby Attractions to the New Bazaar

History and Significance of the New Bazaar

The New Bazaar's roots go back to the early 1900s, when it replaced Tirana's original market located near the Clock Tower. Over the decades, it became a vital hub for farmers and merchants from the surrounding countryside, who brought their goods to sell in the city. The market served not only as a trading center but also as a social meeting point where locals gathered to exchange news and stories - a tradition that continues today.

Following the fall of communism, the area declined somewhat but never lost its soul. In 2017, a major restoration project by the Municipality of Tirana revitalized the bazaar and surrounding neighborhood, blending traditional design with contemporary functionality. The renewed square now features cobblestone walkways, restored Ottoman-style buildings, and an expanded marketplace. This revival helped turn the area into a model for urban renewal - balancing heritage with vibrant city life.

Things to See and Do in the New Bazaar

The New Bazaar offers far more than just shopping. Its central market is packed with colorful stalls selling seasonal produce, herbs, honey, nuts, spices, and traditional delicacies. It's also an excellent place to find local wines and raki, the traditional Albanian spirit, often sold directly by small producers. Alongside the market, numerous cafés and restaurants invite visitors to relax and sample regional dishes such as tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) or fërgesë (a flavorful mix of peppers, tomatoes, and cheese).

The area comes alive in the evening, when locals gather for dinner or drinks under string lights that illuminate the square. Cultural events, food fairs, and art exhibitions are often held here, adding to the district’s festive atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby streets - they’re lined with artisan shops, bakeries, and souvenir boutiques that showcase Albania’s growing creative scene.

How to Get There

The New Bazaar is located just a short walk east of Skanderbeg Square, making it one of the easiest attractions to reach in Tirana. Simply follow Rruga Luigj Gurakuqi from the square, and you'll reach the market in about five minutes on foot. 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. There are several parking areas nearby, though it’s best explored on foot due to its pedestrian-friendly layout. Public buses also pass along the main road near the market, and taxis are readily available throughout the city.

Practical Tips on Visiting the New Bazaar

Best time to visit the New Bazaar: Morning for fresh produce and local interaction; evening for dining and nightlife.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
Opening hours: Roughly 7:00 am - 10:00 pm; market stalls typically close earlier than restaurants.
Official website: None.
How long to spend: 1-2 hours to explore and dine.
Accessibility: Fully accessible with wide walkways.
Facilities: Cafés, restrooms, ATMs, and shaded seating areas.
Photography tip: Visit early for the best light on the colorful facades and bustling stalls.
Guided tours: Included in most Tirana walking tours or food tours.
Nearby food options: Numerous restaurants serving both Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine within the square.

Is the New Bazaar Worth Visiting?

Absolutely - the New Bazaar is one of the must-see places in Tirana and captures the city's spirit better than almost anywhere else. It's where the old meets the new, where history, culture, and community blend in a vibrant everyday rhythm. Whether you're tasting local produce, chatting with vendors, or enjoying a glass of Albanian wine at sunset, the New Bazaar offers a truly authentic experience of Tirana's life and energy.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (936)

Kruja Bazaar, set on a mountainside in Krujë, is a lively cobblestone market where traditional shops sell handmade crafts, textiles, carpets, olive oil, honey and carved woodwork; visitors praise its authentic atmosphere, friendly shop owners and plentiful souvenir choices, and many note that the bazaar offers great photo views of the well-preserved castle at the bazaar's end, making it a rewarding stop if you take time to browse.

Przemysław Król

5 months ago

"✨ Kruja: The Perfect Last Stop Before Your Flight Home 🏰 We visited Kruja as our final destination before flying out of Albania, and I highlyrecommend it for this purpose. Its location, only about a 30-minute drive from the airport, makes it an ideal and stress-free last taste of the country's history and beauty. While we didn't go inside the castle itself, we walked to its base, and it looks like a very well-preserved fortress from the outside. To be honest, after visiting other places in Albania, Kruja might not have the same immediate 'wow' factor as cities like Berat or Gjirokastër. However, it is absolutely worth a visit for its unique charm: its dramatic setting on a mountainside offers great views, and it features a beautifully restored castle and a fantastic bazaar, which in our opinion is rivaled only by the one in Gjirokastër. The main event for us was the bazaar. It's a vibrant place, and while you'll find plenty of typical souvenirs, if you look carefully among the more common items, you can discover some genuinely interesting and authentic crafts. From many spots around the bustling market streets, you can also capture some lovely photos of the castle and the surrounding landscape. For lunch, we chose a restaurant named Panorama. While the food was decent but not spectacular, the experience was elevated by the beautiful views of the castle from our table and the friendly service we received. This visit was the final attraction of our 2025 trip to Albania. For anyone interested in our full itinerary, I'll be describing it soon in a review for Skanderbeg Square in Tirana!..."

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Roz St

2 months ago

"A beautiful and authentic place full of history and charm! The Kruja Bazaar is the perfect spot to experience traditional Albanian culture — fromhandmade crafts and carpets to local souvenirs. The shop owners are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere feels like stepping back in time. Definitely a must-visit when in Albania!..."

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izet loloci

a month ago

"Kruja Old Bazaar is a charming cobblestone market dating back to the 17th century, filled with traditional shops offering handmade crafts, antiques,and local souvenirs, reflecting Albania’s rich cultural heritage...."

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FAQs for Visiting the New Bazaar

Yes, though some stalls may close earlier.

Most small vendors prefer cash, but restaurants and cafés accept cards.

Yes, it’s one of the safest and most welcoming areas in central Tirana.

Yes, many eateries offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.

Definitely - children enjoy the open spaces and lively market scene.

Nearby Attractions to the New Bazaar

Skanderbeg Square - Tirana's main square surrounded by landmarks and museums.
Et'hem Bey Mosque - One of the city's oldest and most beautifully decorated mosques.
National History Museum - Albania's largest museum, tracing the nation's history from Illyrian times to the present.
Rruga Murat Toptani - A scenic pedestrian street with art installations and historic walls.
Rinia Park - A leafy public park and social hub with fountains and cafés, just a short walk away.

The New Bazaar appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Tirana!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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