How to Spend a Weekend in Tirana Like a Local

Every weekend, and not only, life happens in Tirana. Loud cafés, lots of brunch spots, late dinners, spontaneous street chats, and strong coffee are part of the daily rhythm.

If you’re in town for the weekend and want to skip the typical tourist path, here’s how to spend two chill days like a local.

Saturday

Start Slow with a Coffee

No one rushes coffee in Tirana. It’s not just a drink, it’s a whole experience. Head to a small neighborhood café (locals love Mon Cheri, Mulliri i Vjetër, Sophie, Destil) to get a quick espresso, or explore their interesting menu full of tasty drinks.

Sit outside, people-watch, scroll a bit, read a book, or chat if you’re with someone.

If you’re not into slow mornings, you can always go for a run at the Grand Park of Tirana (maybe join a running community). Or, join a workout group, such as Tiranawellness.

Late Morning: Walk Around the City

Tirana is pretty walkable.

Areas like Pazari i Ri (The New Bazaar), Arena, the centre (Skanderbeg Square) are popular. You’ll see colorful buildings, locals selling fruits and veggies, tiny shops, and bars with early drinks and brunch vibes. Grab a byrek from a bakery, they’re super tasty and also affordable (tourists love byrek!).

Lunch: Go for Something Local

Try Taverna Zgara e Tirones or Oda if you want old-school food like qofte, fërgesë, or grilled veggies with olive oil. The prices are good, the portions are big, and it feels like you’re eating at someone’s home.

Stroll Through the Lake Park

Locals call it “Liqeni.” It’s perfect for a walk, or a coffee in one of the small lakeside cafés. If you’re into people-watching, this is peak Tirana — families, couples, joggers, and teens all in one place.

Evening: Drinks & Dinner in Blloku

Once off-limits to most Albanians during communism, Blloku is now full of bars, restaurants, and energy. You’ll find everything from pizza to sushi, KFC, and even classy restaurants, all within one area.

Night: Stay Out Late… or Don’t

Tirana stays up, especially on weekends. If you want to dance, head to a rooftop or club. If you’re more chill, just grab a dessert or a nightcap. Either works.

Sunday

Morning: Brunch It Up

Sleep in a little…it’s Sunday. Then grab brunch at places like Ins, Le Bazal, Lift etc. Think eggs, pancakes, coffee, and slow vibes.

Midday: A Little Culture

You don’t have to go full tourist, but maybe check out the National Gallery of Arts, the House of Leaves or the Bunk’Art. Or just walk around the city center, the pastel buildings and open spaces make it fun even without a plan.

Afternoon: Pick Up a Few Local Things

Head back to Pazari i Ri or try a bookstore like Adrion (it’s a popularone in Tirana). Pick up some Albanian-made jam, olive oil, or even handmade items. Maybe even grab something to gift to family and friends.

Early Dinner: One Last Bite

Before heading out, grab something easy like pizza, or you can even order something online. Wolt and Baboon are two of the main platforms that offer delivery. Nothing too heavy, just enough to end the weekend right.

That’s it!

Nothing too planned. Nothing too busy. That’s the Tirana way, eat well, relax, walk a lot, and enjoy the little things. If you do even half of this, you’ll fit right in.