My Top 5 Neighbourhoods to Live in Tirana

Exploring a new city without knowing anything about its neighbourhoods can be a bit tricky. You don’t know what to expect, and without a guide, you might miss out on the coolest cafes, parks, or places that make the city special. 

To save you time, we’ve rounded up the top 5 neighbourhoods in Tirana which are considered best to live in.

For reference, here’s a map with 5 neighbourhoods marked:

1. The City Center, or the Hub That Connects All Neighborhoods

If you’re looking for a spot that ties together different neighbourhoods in Tirana, the city centre is where it’s at! 

Packed with all the necessities, from supermarkets like Pro Natura, Conad, and One Stop to numerous mini-markets, pharmacies, and various shops, the centre is definitely a convenience hub.

Most common activities you can do around here is take a walk at Skanderbeg Square (especially during sunset), have a cup of coffee or a bite at the spots nearby, like Momento, Botanica, Opera Café and if you’re a book lover, you might want to check out Adrioni, a famous bookstore in Tirana.

In close proximity, you’ll find the iconic Et’hem Bey Mosque and the Clock Tower. And, just a short walk away is the famous Pedonalja, (the promenade), along with the Tirana Castle and Toptani Shopping Centre.

If you’re into art, the National Historical Museum of Albania is a must-visit, and you might consider The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet for a unique evening.

Now, let’s talk about coffee spots!

Downtown Tirana has some famous coffee shops that are not only cosy but also perfect for remote workers, including Destil (one of my favourites) Mulliri, Sophie, Mon Chéri, Papa’s Caffe.

Note: Destil also regularly host some cool events you should check out.

In case you need medical attention, near the centre you’ll find Swiss Medical Center Tirana and Intermedica laboratory. 

As for banking options, there is a variety of choices conveniently situated close to each other, such as Intesa Sanpaolo, OTP, Raiffeisen, BKT, Tirana Bank and Credins.

2. Myslym Shyri

Imagine a place just a 10-minute walk from Tirana’s downtown that’s got it all…Myslym Shyri is that neighbourhood! 

Need groceries, clothes, or medicine? No worries, you’ll find everything you’re looking for right here.

What’s cool about this neighbourhood is the bunch of awesome stores lining the streets. They’ve got fancy clothes, awesome jewellery, and even wedding dresses!

And when it comes to groceries, you’ve got Alb Market, KMY, EHW.Conad City, and a few smaller shops all around, including the well-known drugstore in Tirana, Well.

Of course Myslym Shyri’s got a bunch of coffee spots as well (after all, Tirana is very popular for its coffee culture, and basically, cafes are everywhere in the city!) like Mulliri, Mon Chéri, and lovely restaurants like Lé BAZAL (great for brunch as well), IN’S (one of the best brunch spots in my opinion).

And hey, if you’re a book lover, don’t miss the Onufri publishing house and book store located here. They’ve got a cool spot on the second floor where you can kick back and read.

This area is like the gateway to other places in Tirana. Take a left at the Mulliri Coffee Shop, and you’re on your way to the trendy Blloku district. Or just keep walking straight, and you’ll hit the lively 21-Dhjetori area. If you turn right from Mulliri Coffee Shop and take a short walk, you’ll end up at Kavaja Street.

Some medical centres and clinics around the area include Melior Med Laboratories, Medical Clinical Allergology, Dr. Medical Clinic Salubritas, Tirana Dental Clinic, and Femija ne fokus ( child psychologist).

Banking options include Union Bank, Credins, OTP, BKT Branch.

Whether you want to live here or you’re just visiting, Myslym Shyri is one of the best areas. It’s modern, it’s welcoming, and it’s right in the heart of the city. 

3. Kavaja Street

Just a hop, skip, and jump from the city centre, Kavaja Street is another fantastic neighbourhood, and one of the best in Tirana.

From big supermarkets like Xhangolli and Conad, and yes, you guessed it – another Mulliri coffee shop (Because every neighbourhood needs one, right?), you’ll also find everything you need in this area.

What makes this area unique is the coexistence of religious harmony, where you’ll find a mosque and a few churches, located just a in a short distance away from each other.

When it comes to food, this area has got you covered with a variety of restaurants. Try Kapitoli for a taste of the Greek dish sufllaqe, or head to Sofra Turke for some mouthwatering Turkish dishes. If you prefer Italian food, check out Painted Black.

Craving traditional Albanian flavours? Zgara Supreme is your go-to spot. And if you’re in the mood for something quick, there’s Fish ‘N Chips, Proper Pizza, Royal Fish and Chips, or if you fancy a more upscale experience, Artur restaurant makes a great choice.

Shopping enthusiasts, rejoice! At the Tregu Çam (Çam market) you’ll find everything from clothes to makeup and household goodies, for an affordable price.

If you fancy some art, check out Mezuraj Museum.

Some clinics in this area include e-Med Physio, Tirana Panel Clinic, Acura Eye Clinic, Grande Clinic, İstanbul Hair Clinic, Tirana Eye Clinic.

Banking options to consider are ABI, Raiffeisen, Intesa Sanpaolo, Union Bank, Tirana Bank, FIBank, ProCredit, OTP.

4. The New Bazaar

For a taste of traditional Albania, look no further than the New Bazaar! (One of my personal favourite neighbourhoods.)

Located within its energetic atmosphere (whether in summer or winter), it derives its name from the bazaar defining its character. Besides the diverse range of foods, you can explore various souvenirs and vintage items there.

Around the Stephen Center, a few coffee shops create cosy corners for a delightful cup of coffee or cappuccino. But the real gem lies within the bazaar, where these coffee spots blend with the lively market atmosphere and people who are always walking around.

Around the New Bazaar, you’ll find places like Ods, a hotspot for tourists seeking authentic flavours, or Zgara Korçare for a hearty Albanian meal. Seafood enthusiasts can try Markata e Peshkut for a taste of the sea right in the heart of the city.

Events occasionally light up in the area, turning summer evenings into memorable experiences. 

Remarkably close to the centre, you’ll find everything you need within minutes, making the New Bazaar a must-visit destination for those who prefer to have it all! A glimpse of the Albanian tradition, gastronomy, and a lively local vibe.

Although there are not many healthcare facilities in this neighbourhood, you can find a couple, such as PrimaMed and Identico Dental Clinic. However, there are additional options within walking distance in the surrounding neighbourhoods.

A few banking options around this neighbourhood include Tirana Bank, OTP, and Kredo.al, which is a financial institution.

5. Arena of Tirana

Arena, named after the city’s stadium, is an upmarket neighbourhood in Tirana. This lively area matches all tastes, making it a go-to spot for locals in the know, and for foreigners.

For your daily caffeine fix, check out charming coffee spots like M’House and Sophie. If brunch is your vibe, IN’S and Miro have you covered with delightful options.

Around Arena, you’ll find diverse culinary alternatives, from Monk for sushi to Morsi serving up burgers, Era for pizza and traditional Albanian fare, Lift steak house for a hearty meal, and Oriental City for those craving Chinese flavours.

Got a sweet tooth? Don’t miss D’Angelo, the Belgium chocolate heaven!

Around this area, you’ll find several supermarkets, bakeries, pharmacies, and lounges.

During summer, the Square at Arena (called Sheshi Italia, or Italia Square) becomes a hub for young people, offering a great space to chill with friends or even skate around. 

Keep an eye out for events at the Italia Square and the nearby Mother Teresa Square, it’s a popular event spot.

Here are some medical clinics to consider around this area: Gen-O-Time, Estpital International Clinic, Art orl clinic.

And if you need to withdraw or send some cash, you’ll easily find a Western Union, and BKT.

Which One Would You Choose?

With convenient access, diverse conveniences, and unique flavours, Tirana’s neighbourhoods offer a little bit of everything…for everyone.

Which one do you think would be your favourite, if you were about to live here?