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Albania has steadily moved from “hidden gem” to a country travellers actively seek out. Located in Southeast Europe and still more affordable than most EU destinations, it attracts visitors who want variety without the high costs or crowds.
Some travellers discover Albania while researching budget-friendly trips. Others arrive intentionally, curious to see whether it really offers what social media and travel blogs promise.
In most cases, the experience is positive, but only if expectations are realistic.
This guide covers what travelling in Albania looks like in 2026, what has changed in recent years, and what you no longer need to worry about.
Entry Requirements and Travel Basics
For most travellers, entering Albania is straightforward.
- No visa is required for EU, UK, US, Canadian, Australian, and many other passport holders for short stays.
- Boarding passes do not need to be printed. Mobile boarding passes are widely accepted at Albanian airports.
- A passport is required; national ID cards are accepted only for certain neighbouring countries.
- There are no special health or COVID-related entry requirements as of 2026.
Airports, border crossings, and airline processes are largely digitised, and Albania no longer feels behind in basic travel infrastructure.
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 on village roads. This is common 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.
If you’re looking for car insurance in Albania, you can get an instant quote now from our partner, Albsig. They offer both mandatory TPL insurance and comprehensive Kasko insurance for full coverage.
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, buses, some shops, and certain restaurants are not likely to operate by card.
The Euro is widely accepted in Albania; however, make sure you have some Lek with you in case some places only accept this currency.
Internet, SIM Cards, and Connectivity
Internet access in Albania is reliable and affordable.
- Wi-Fi is standard in accommodations, cafés, and restaurants.
- eSIMs and digital SIMs are widely used by travellers.
- Physical SIM cards are easy to buy in city centres (try to avoid purchasing them at the airport, as the cost is higher there)
Public Transport is Accessible
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.
To be honest, travelling by bus is uncomfortable; they get too crowded, depending on the bus line you take. A conductor typically collects the fare in the traditional way, and it costs 40 cents to travel to locations within a city.
Minibuses (called furgons) don’t have air conditioning most of the time, so it’s best to skip this way of transportation if that’s a dealbreaker for you.
To travel to other cities, look out for bus terminals. Usually, tourists opt for popular destinations like Gjirokastra, Vlora, and Saranda. The South and North Bus Terminal is where you should go. (You can take a taxi or a bus to get there).
Or Tirana East Bus Terminal to get to other Albanian destinations like Pogradec, Korça, etc.
Locals Are Very Friendly
Albanians are known for their hospitality, and they’ll go out of their way to assist you. They are welcoming and friendly, and this is something that surprises a lot of tourists.
Many locals speak English and are willing to help if you ask (actually, even if they don’t speak English, they’ll probably find a way to help).
One thing to keep in mind: Staring is common here. If you notice people staring at you in Albania, do not worry. People are just curious; they don’t have bad intentions.
Since we’re here, you can check out my guide on how to connect with expats in Albania.
Don’t 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.
Visit Other Places Nearby
If you want to visit as many places as you can, you can connect trips. For example, from Saranda, you can take a ferry that takes you to Corfu. From Shkodra, you can easily visit Montenegro. Or you can make a road trip to Ohrid, Macedonia, from Pogradec.
Best Time to Visit Albania
The best time to visit Albania is during the less-crowded months, like 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.
