6 Best Cities to Live in Albania From a Local’s Perspective

Mediterranean feel, tasty food, affordable options (compared to Western Europe) and friendly, warm people… if this sounds like your ideal lifestyle, Albania might be the perfect place for you.

Here’s a glimpse into some of the best expat-friendly cities in Albania to consider moving to.

Tirana

Tirana, the capital of Albania, is where much of the country’s activity and energy is centred. The city has undergone significant changes in recent years, filled with new cafes, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. It has also become a popular tourist destination.

The centre, Blloku, and Arena areas are particularly popular and are known for their restaurants and nightlife.

Check out some of the neighbourhoods in Tirana.

Renting in Tirana around the main areas is not cheap. At least if we take into consideration the average salary of the employees here. You’re expected to pay around €600 for an apartment near higher standard areas like Arena. However, it costs considerably less if you live in areas like Astir, Kombinat, Fresk, and others located further from the centre.

Public services are available to go around the city and outside Tirana. However, the bus system is a bit outdated and can get very crowded, depending on the line. Taxis are always available if you prefer a more comfortable transportation mode. Recently, you can also find BinBin Scooters in Tirana. The price is 20 cents/minute. And if you enjoy walking, Tirana is a city you can easily discover on foot (at least when it comes to destinations not too far from the centre). However, this is not a good idea during summer, as the weather gets very hot.

Tirana offers good public services, including international schools and modern healthcare. Public and private hospitals are scattered around the city.

Green spaces are limited but not absent. The Grand Park and the Artificial Lake are the biggest parks in the city. People can relax there, go for walks, jog, or picnic.

Parku Rinia (Taivani) is a small park located just next to the city centre. It’s designed to have a dedicated area for dogs, playgrounds for children, and a café if you want to sit down and enjoy the view.

Pallati I Brigadave (The Palace of Brigades) is a hidden gem that gives a royal feeling straight out of a Bridgerton scene. You can visit this spot only on weekends, from 09:00 to 20:00. To get there, take the Centre-Teg bus, or if you prefer, you can walk there but keep in mind it’s a bit far from the centre.

In Tirana, you’ll find a community of expats who have decided to make the city their home. You can connect with them through Facebook groups and find events to attend together. This is a great way to make new friends and not feel alone in a new country. Albanians are also welcoming and friendly. They are willing to assist you if you ask for help. English is widely spoken, mostly by the younger generation and many people also know Italian.

Tirana is a digital-nomad-friendly city. There are many cute coffee shops and co-working spots from which you can work at your own pace. On the other hand, to enjoy your time off, you’ll never run out of something to do here. There are many entertainment alternatives, as Tirana is a vibrant city full of energy and life. That being said, fun and interesting events happen all the time.

Final thoughts about Tirana

Overall, Tirana is the most populated city in Albania. It is the capital and largest city of the country, with a significant portion of the nation’s population residing there. If you like this kind of energy, vibrant lifestyle, socialising, friendly people and events that take place all the time, then Tirana is the city you must consider moving to.

Durrës

Durrës is the second-largest city in Albania and just a 40-minute drive from Tirana. It’s a nice coastal city located on the Adriatic coast, known for its Roman amphitheatre and ancient city walls.

Durrës offers a more laid-back lifestyle than Tirana but still has everything needed for comfortable living. The in-town healthcare is available, with facilities like the American Medical Centre located within easy reach. The regional hospital is also nearby, ensuring access to medical services when needed.  

While international school options are limited, Albanian College for English speakers is an institution expats with families can consider.

Durrës is well-connected with reliable public transportation, including buses and taxis. The city’s compact layout makes walking a pleasant option, especially since you get the chance to enjoy the sea view. The Mediterranean climate in Durrës means mild winters and warm summers, which is perfect for beach lovers.

Restaurants and cafés are plenty, and events take place once in a while. You’re expected to find like-minded people here, so adapting should be a simple and even fun process.

As you walk through Shëtitorja “Vollga” (Promenade), you’ll find a nice area with well-maintained pathways, relaxing spaces, restaurants and cafés. You can go for a run, a slow walk, or simply enjoy the sunset sitting near the sea to get the most out of the experience.

Final thoughts about Durrës

Durrës offers a reasonable cost of living, combining the beach life with the city life. Main facilities are available, and the proximity to Tirana and the Tirana International Airport makes it a convenient and appealing destination for expats. Furthermore, with ongoing and anticipated investments, Durrës is poised for significant growth and development in the near future.

Shkodër

Shkodër is a beautiful city in northwestern Albania. It has a vintage, movie-like vibe, especially since many people use bikes as their mode of transportation. The city is near Lake Shkodër and surrounded by mountains, from which you can enjoy beautiful views.

But Shkodër is also a city full of history. Rozafa Castle, which is associated with the legend of the same name, is one of the signature historical sites.

Shkodër has a friendly atmosphere and hosts various cultural events throughout the year. It’s also more affordable than Tirana and Durrës, making it a good choice for those looking for a lower cost of living while still enjoying a rich cultural experience.

Shkodër offers city bus lines, providing an affordable means of travel within the city. The city centre is compact and easily accessible on foot. To truly explore the beauty of Shkodër and have fun at the same time, consider renting a bike from one of the options, like Shkodra Rent Bike. Metered taxis, such as Speed Taxi, Lux Taxi, etc, provide convenient and cost-effective city navigation options.

To get a glimpse of the beautiful Albanian nature and enjoy the views that will leave you speechless, you can take a trip to Theth (76.2 km). Travelling from Shkodër to Theth is like entering a natural wonderland. Starting in Shkodër, you drive through the mountains and see Lake Shkodër below. As you climb, the scenery transforms into dense forests and clear rivers. Shkodër’s nature shines with greenery, tall peaks, and colourful plants. The journey to Theth isn’t just a road trip; it’s an entire adventure through the untouched beauty of Shkodër, as it reveals the natural heavens that make this part of Albania so special.

Final thoughts about Shkodër

Shkodër is ideal for those who want to be in contact with nature and away from the chaotic city life. The city is between Lake Shkodra and the Albanian Alps, so outdoor enthusiasts have the perfect chance to enjoy activities like hiking and cycling. It is also more affordable compared to cities like Tirana and Durrës, though it may offer fewer facilities compared to these main urban centres.

Vlorë

Known as the gateway to the Albanian Rivier, Vlorë is located where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, and it’s a city expats and retirees seem to love. Some of the best neighbourhoods here include Lungomare, Transballkanike, Pavaresia or Skela, Uji i Ftohte, Muradie, and Rradhime.

Vlorë has a busy port and is a hub for maritime activities. Its warm weather and attractive beaches are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The city also makes a great destination for those who enjoy beautiful sea views and prefer a relaxed lifestyle.

Historical sites like the Muradije Mosque and Independence Square also add to the city’s appeal.

Public buses and taxis are available to get around. Walking is also encouraged, especially since you get to benefit from the sea views.

Parks are not popular in the city. However, going for a run or a nice walk on the beaches is never a bad idea. On the other hand, Llogara National Park, a beautiful and well-known park in the south of Albania, is about 40 minutes’ drive from Vlorë.

Final thoughts about Vlorë

Vlorë is a destination to be considered for those who want to enjoy a quiet life near the beach. Due to its location that meets the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, in Vlorë, you’ll find some beautiful beaches with crystal clear water. The climate is favourable and the atmosphere is welcoming, especially with other fellow expats living here. While public services are not the same as in Tirana, Vlorë provides the main amenities one needs for a comfortable life.

Saranda

Saranda is becoming increasingly expat-friendly, thanks to its appealing coastal setting and growing infrastructure. Its nice setting, sea views, and pleasant climate throughout the year add to the advantages of living here.

The city’s waterfront promenade is lined with restaurants and cafes. Socialising is easy with expats and like-minded people living in the city. Saranda is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Ksamil and Mirror Beach, which have been tourist hotspots in recent years.

The city is a gateway to the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells about the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Local festivals and cultural events often take place in Saranda, especially during summertime.

Saranda offers a more relaxed lifestyle compared to Tirana. Public services and amenities are not as advanced as in the capital; however, you can find essential amenities like healthcare facilities and public services. The city has several healthcare facilities, including the private Saranda Hospital, which offers various medical services. There are also supermarkets with international products, restaurants, and cafes that offer a mix of local and international cuisine.

The cost of living in Saranda is generally lower than in larger cities (it can get expensive during summer). However, it is worth noting that the city’s infrastructure may not be as extensive as in Albania’s major urban centres, but the warm, welcoming community and beautiful surroundings make it a fantastic place to call home.

Final thoughts about Saranda

The local community is welcoming, and English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, which helps newcomers settle in more comfortably. Also, Saranda’s growing expat community enjoys a friendly atmosphere and a range of social activities you can join to better fit into the new lifestyle.

Korçë

Often called the “City of Serenades,” Korçë is a city in southeastern Albania, identified with its cultural heritage and traditional atmosphere. Albanians also refer to it as “Little Paris” due to the French cultural influence during World War I.

The city’s mountain views, historical architecture, friendly energy and affordability make it a pleasant place to live. Korçë gets specifically popular during winter, as it’s one of the most preferred holiday destinations by natives and tourists.

Korça is accessible by various means, with well-connected road networks linking it to major cities in Albania. Public buses provide convenient transportation options for those travelling to this city.

From Tirana or Durrës, drive southeast on the SH3 highway towards Elbasan. At Elbasan, switch to SH75, heading towards Pogradec. After passing through Pogradec, continue on SH3 until reaching Korca. The journey involves a beautiful detour by Lake Ohrid. Remember to check local traffic rules.

Korçë offers multiple bus services connecting various cities at different times. The most frequent route is the Korça-Tirana-Korça line, which has multiple departures and returns throughout the day. Other key connections include Durrës, Lushnjë, Fier, Vlora, Berat, Bilisht, Pogradec, Elbasan, Saranda, and Gjirokastër, with specific departure and return schedules. Some routes run daily, while others operate only on certain days of the week.

Dardha and Voskopoja are two picturesque villages in Albania’s Korça region, just a few minutes from the city centre. Each village has its own beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich nature, traditional food, and lovely views.

The city has a few healthcare facilities, including local clinics and the Korça Regional Hospital, which provide basic medical services. Some of the amenities include a variety of local shops, restaurants, and cafes, though the selection may not be as extensive as in larger cities.

Korçë is home to several public schools with a strong emphasis on cultural and historical education. However, there are no international schools, which might be a consideration for expat families with children. While basic healthcare services are available in town, more specialized medical care may require travel to larger cities. The healthcare system is accessible but might not meet all the needs of expats accustomed to international healthcare standards.

Korçë is famous for its café culture, the National Museum of Medieval Art, and the beautifully renovated Old Bazaar area. In the city, you can participate in activities like exploring it, visiting nearby villages, walking, and enjoying the natural surroundings.

The city is more affordable compared to larger cities. The lifestyle promised is a balance between traditional and modern amenities.

Final thoughts about Korçë

While smaller and less developed than major cities like Tirana, Korça is still a city that expats might consider their destination. The environment is friendly, and the vibe is peaceful (apart from the season when it gets more crowded). English is less commonly spoken compared to Tirana, but many locals in the service industry are helpful and friendly. However, if you have kids and prioritize international education options, there are no international schools in the city.