What’s a Perfect Day in Tirana [Planned by a Local]

If you plan on visiting Albania soon, you should definitely spend some time in Tirana, even if it’s just for 24 hours. While it may not be the most beautiful city there is, Tirana is full of history, culture, and experiences waiting to be discovered.

Today, we’ll share how you can get a glimpse into the city’s past and present in just 24 hours. Let’s start with the itinerary.

Start the Day with a Tasty Breakfast

Before you begin the exploring journey, it’s time to have a tasty breakfast and fuel up. Start your day with a hearty meal at cute spots like Noor Cafe, Çoko, or TeDuKtu.

If you prefer something lighter and on the go, you can opt for Mulliri Vjeter or Mon Chéri, two popular coffee chains in the country, and our ‘Albanian alternatives’ of “Starbucks”.

Other coffee spots that I love:

• Hana Corner Café

• Destil Creative Hub

• Antigua Specialty Coffee

If you want to try something traditional, go for the famous Albanian pastry, byrek, which you can find anywhere in the bakeries for less than one euro.

Explore Skanderbeg Square

Head to Skanderbeg Square, the heart of Tirana. Here, you can see the grand statue of the national hero, Skanderbeg, and take in the impressive architecture of the National Historical Museum, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Clock Tower. They are all open to tourists for an affordable fee, apart from the Et’hem Bey Mosque, which you can enter for free.

You can book a walking tour with a guide for just €10.50/person.

Visit the National Historical Museum

Spend an hour or two exploring Albania’s largest museum. The exhibits cover everything from ancient Illyrian artefacts to the Communist era. This visit will give you a very insightful overview of the country’s history.

Walk Around Pedonalja and The Castle of Tirana

Pedonalja, also known as “Murat Toptani” Street, is one of the most popular tourist spots in Tirana. This pedestrian pathway is always full of energy, featuring street music, restaurants, cafes, and a cinema just around the corner.

Just a short walk away is the Tirana Castle, which, despite its name, isn’t a traditional castle but rather a charming area with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops.

Tip: Keep in mind that prices in this area shops tend to be higher than those in other parts of the city.

Bunk’Art 2 & The House of Leaves

After lunch, head to Bunk’Art 2, a converted Cold War bunker museum. The exhibits focus on Albania’s Communist past and provide a unique glimpse into the country’s recent history. The House of Leaves is another museum dedicated to showcasing the communist era in Albania and is located not too far from Bunk’Art 2.

Time for Lunch

You haven’t truly experienced a new country until you’ve savoured its traditional cuisine.

Tourists in Tirana love “Oda”. It’s a popular restaurant in New Bazaar, where you can enjoy authentic Albanian dishes. Specialities like tave kosi (baked lamb with yoghurt) or fërgesë (a dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese) are very popular in Albania.

Other traditional restaurants to consider:

• Ceren Ismet Shehu.
• Tradita Shqiptare.
• Zgara e Tirones 2.
• Restorant Tymi.

Stroll Down Blloku

Blloku district is one of the most famous neighbourhoods in Tirana. Once a restricted area for Communist Party elites, today, the area is especially known for its vivid nightlife.

Take a walk around the area, which is filled with cafes, boutiques, and street art. Explore a little bit, and you can enjoy a coffee or gelato as you go.

Visit the Pyramid of Tirana

Check out the iconic Pyramid of Tirana, a controversial structure originally built as a museum for Enver Hoxha, Albania’s former dictator. After the recent investments that have been made here, the area has completely transformed into a place filled with restaurants, coffee shops, and events hubs.

If it happens that you love bubble tea, I suggest SenTea, which is located in the area.

The view from Mulliri Vjeter here is superb during the sunset.

Arena

The Arena area in Tirana, centred around the Air Albania Stadium, is also very popular in the city and a great place to experience Tirana’s contemporary urban vibe. This area is not just for sports enthusiasts. In fact, surrounding the stadium, you’ll find a variety of stylish cafes, restaurants, and shops.Keep in mind that this area tends to be a bit pricier compared to other spots in the city.

Relax at the Grand Park of Tirana

Head to the Grand Park of Tirana for a relaxing late afternoon. Walk around the artificial lake, visit the Botanical Gardens if you have some extra time, or simply find a shady spot to unwind and watch the world go by.

Dinner at Mullixhiu

For dinner, visit Mullixhiu, a restaurant in the Grand Park of Tirana known for its innovative take on traditional Albanian cuisine. Enjoy dishes made with locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, rustic setting.

Enjoy Your Evening in Bllok

End your day back in Blloku, where you can choose from a variety of bars and clubs. If you like rooftops, the SkyTower in Tirana is one of the best spots for a unique dining and entertainment experience. It provides stunning 360-degree views of the city as it slowly rotates, allowing guests to take in panoramic vistas of Tirana while enjoying a meal or a drink.

Return to Your Accommodation

Head back to your accommodation to rest after a full day of exploring Tirana, reflecting on the vibrant culture, rich history, and warm hospitality you’ve experienced.

Other activities you can do if you don’t prefer this itinerary or if you have more than 1 day to spend in Tirana:

• Day trip to Kruja.
• Day trip to Durres.
• A day in Dajti National Park.

Next Up:

• Albania’s Airports, Ferries and Road Links To The World (Updated 2024)
• 10 Unique Fun Activities to Try in Tirana
• Getting Around Tirana: Transportation Guide
• Top 8 Must-Visit Bars in Tirana
• Tirana Neighbourhoods – All You Need To Know