10 Things You Should Know Before Travelling to Albania

It’s finally summer. Maybe you’ve just discovered this small country in Southeastern Europe, and it seems like an interesting and affordable travelling destination. Or maybe you have been planning your trip for a while and are excited to be in Albania finally.

Either way, you’re in the right place.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit.

Print Your Boarding pass

Before your trip, check upfront if you need a printed boarding pass at Tirana National Airport. I’ve recently heard some people say it must be printed, and someone I know had a similar experience, so I suggest you print it in advance to prevent any stress while you are at the airport.

Driving can be challenging

Renting a car is very convenient for exploring the country on your own terms. However, one thing to keep in mind is that driving in Albania can be a challenge, especially when there’s a lot of traffic. Some rural areas don’t have the best infrastructure, and roads can be uneven.

Also don’t be shocked if you spot locals riding a horse or a mule in such areas. This is common to witness in the Albanian countryside.

Tip: If you plan on visiting the mountainous destinations, make sure to rent the proper type of vehicle. Not all of them are appropriate for such terrains.

Make sure to bring cash with you

Credit card payment is not accepted everywhere in Albania, so always make sure to bring cash everywhere you go. For example, hostels, guesthouses, buses and some restaurants are not likely to operate by card. Euro is widely accepted in Albania; however, make sure you have some Lek with you in case there are places that only accept this currency.

Be aware of scams

Scams in Albania don’t involve aggressive selling that puts you in an uncomfortable position. Instead, it might involve you being overcharged,

To avoid this, always check the prices carefully wherever you are. For example, the prices of sunbeds, supermarket products, restaurant menus, etc. Also, ensure you book taxis with a confirmed price beforehand to prevent scams. There’s no Uber in Albania, but there are similar apps like Speed Taxi App, Patoko, Taxi.al.

Public Transport

Getting around Albania is relatively straightforward. The country has an extensive network of buses and minibuses (known as furgons) connecting major cities and towns. Taxis are also available, but if you’re on a budget and want to travel longer distances, it’s better to consider public transport.

Travelling by bus is uncomfortable and can get crowded, depending on the bus you take. A conductor typically collects the fare in the traditional way, and it costs 40 cents to travel to locations within Albania.

Minibuses (called furgons) don’t have air conditioning most of the time, so it’s best to skip this way of transportation.

To travel to other cities, look out for bus terminals. Usually, tourists opt for popular destinations like Gjirokastra, Vlora, and Saranda. South and North Bus Terminal is where you should go. It’s a bit far from the centre, so you better take a taxi or a bus.

People are friendly

Albanians are known for their hospitality. They are welcoming and friendly. Many locals speak English and are willing to help if you ask.

One thing to keep in mind: Staring is common. If you notice people staring at you in Albania, do not worry. People are just curious; they don’t have bad intentions.

Dont always trust Google Maps

Google Maps can be helpful, but it can also be super stressful if it doesn’t guide you properly. For example, sometimes, it shows faster routes that might be off-road and rough.

Always check the route before driving and choose the main roads. You surely don’t want to end up in the middle of nowhere, especially in an unknown country.

Connect Your Trip

If you want to visit as many places as you can, you can connect trips with each other. For example, from Saranda, you can take a ferry that takes you to Corfu. From Shkodra to Montenegro. Or you can make a road trip to Ohrid, Macedonia, from Pogradec.

when to visit

The best time to visit Albania is during the less-crowded months, like April, June and September. These months offer pleasant weather, and you get to enjoy the sights more comfortably.

While winter in Albania isn’t too cold, it’s best to visit during the spring or early autumn to experience the country’s natural beauty without the summer crowds.

Safety and Security

Albania is generally a safe country for travellers. In crowded areas, it’s wise to remain vigilant, especially in tourist hotspots.

Ready to plan your trip?

This is your sign to book that ticket and plan your trip to Albania! We’re sure you’ll have an amazing time, and with these tips in mind, even a comfortable journey. For similar tips and a lot more valuable content on Albania, feel free to join our online community.

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