Interesting facts and practical advice
Albania is full of unusual attractions, from unique traditions and natural beauty, through monuments listed on the UNESCO list to thousands of bunkers.
How and what to pay with in Albania?
- The local currency is the Albanian lek (LEK). Euros are accepted at most tourist (and often non-tourist) locations. Card payments are also possible in larger shops, restaurants and major petrol stations. However, it's always best to ask about card payment options first \u2014 just to be safe.
- It's definitely worth always having some LEK in cash. The exchange rate is around 1 \u20ac/95 LEK, but it fluctuates, and paying in euros can be unfavourable. Ideally, exchange CZK to euros at home and then either exchange to LEK at the current rate in Albania, or pay in euros the first chance you get and receive LEK in change at the current rate. We strongly advise against exchanging to LEK from home \u2014 the rates are poor and the fees are high.
- You can of course withdraw money from an ATM. The ATM network is wide but rules vary. The fee for a single withdrawal can be between \u20ac6\u20138 with a withdrawal limit of \u20ac1,000 or 100,000 LEK. Some banks refund ATM withdrawal fees, but you'll need to check this before you travel. In general, the Revolut card is ideal for travellers.
How to drive on the road?
How to get from the airport to Durr\u00ebs?
From the airport you can reach Tirana, Durr\u00ebs and other destinations in Albania by bus from the terminal. Taxis are also readily available outside arrivals. Holidaymakers heading to Durr\u00ebs can also use our transfer service \u2014 just send us a message on WhatsApp +420\u00a0777\u00a0138\u00a0990 well in advance. Child seats are available as standard, and we’ll be happy to share local tips about life in Albania along the way.
What is the healthcare like in Albania?
Dental clinics are excellent. They are commercial and prices are significantly lower compared to other countries. In case of a health emergency, call the European number 112. Pharmacies (farmaci) are widely available everywhere and pharmacists often speak English or Italian. Albania does not require any special vaccinations.
A few basic tips
- Local traffic can be chaotic. If you're renting a car, be cautious and prepared for unexpected obstacles such as animals on the road. Check with the rental company in advance whether they allow driving on unpaved roads \u2014 you don't want a surprise fine when you return. Rental cars are fitted with tracking chips.
- Cash payment is common in Albania, especially outside major cities. Always carry some Albanian LEK with you.
- Drink only bottled water, as the quality of tap water may not always be guaranteed. Food at markets and in restaurants is usually fresh, but pay attention to hygiene in less formal establishments.
- When moving outside tourist areas, it's useful to have mobile data on your phone for communication and navigation. If you don't want to buy a local SIM, try an app like Airalo.
- Respect local customs, such as dressing more conservatively when visiting mosques or mountain villages, especially in the east of the country.
What makes Albanians happy?
Albanians are known for their hospitality and friendly approach. If you want to make a good impression, here are a few tips:
- Albanians will appreciate your interest in their history, traditions, music or cuisine. Ask about national dishes, traditional dances or famous heroes, for example.
- Learn a few basic phrases. Even a small attempt to speak Albanian will be greatly appreciated by locals. A simple good morning or thank you will go a long way.
- If you're invited to someone's home, a small gift will be appreciated. Accepting the invitation is a sign of respect. A smile and willingness to chat will quickly make you a favourite guest. Remember to compliment the food and the home.
What about food in Albania?
Typical Albanian specialties include tav\u00eb kosi (lamb baked with yogurt and eggs) or f\u00ebrges\u00eb (a mixture of tomatoes, peppers and cheese). Albania is also known for its desserts such as baklava, trilece (milk cake) or gliko (brutally sweet preserved fruit). The typical alcoholic drink is rakije, a strong spirit usually made from fermented grapes. Albania will delight every coffee lover. You will rarely come across bad coffee.
How do I communicate in Albania?
When is the best time to visit Albania?
The best time to visit Albania depends on your interests. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for exploring historical monuments, mountain areas, and national parks, as the weather is pleasant, with temperatures between 20–25 °C, and tourist sites are not overcrowded. Summer (July–August) is a great choice for beach lovers with short trips to cooler natural locations, such as canyons or lakes. The Albanian coast on the Adriatic and Ionian seas offers plenty of beaches and pleasant temperatures around 30-35 °C, but be prepared for larger crowds of tourists.
Winter (December–February) is also an interesting period to visit, especially if you enjoy a quieter atmosphere and walks through snowy mountain landscapes. Winter weather is mild on the coast, but in the mountains there is often snow. Outside the main season, there are also lower prices for accommodation and a return flight can be purchased for a few tens of €.
What are the prices in Albania?
Accommodation is very diverse, from cheap private accommodation (around 30-40 €/night for an apartment), to comfortable hotels or better private apartments (50-120 €/night for an apartment). Transport (buses and minibuses) is relatively cheap – 1€ in the city and between cities from 3 to 10 €. A taxi ride in the city will cost you approximately 10-20 € for a short trip.
What to see in Albania?
Albania offers plenty of beautiful and interesting places waiting for your discovery – stunning beaches on the southern coast, majestic mountains in the north, river canyons, lakes, well-preserved historic cities, or remnants of previous civilizations. Check out our tips for attractive places in individual regions of Albania. Whether you are drawn to adventure in wild nature, history, or the charm of traditional Albanian villages, you will find everything worth seeing here! As we visit new places, we will gradually add them.
Our articles on interesting topics related to Albania.
Our articles on interesting topics related to Albania.
We'll pick you up from the airport and take you back to the airport
Whether you're flying to Albania for the first time or you're an apartment owner and need to get from the airport to your accommodation, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll chat during the ride about what's new in Albania. We'll get you back to the airport too, that's for sure.
We'll arrange a car for you to explore Albania
Are you planning an adventure in the interior, or a relaxing trip along the coast? We'll help you arrange a car for any option and we're even able to arrange an SUV or off-road vehicle for you. Friendly prices and family communication.
We'll take you on an excursion
Since you're already in a foreign country, it's worth getting to know it a bit better. You want to take home some extraordinary experiences, don't you? We'll take you on trips to ancient cities, canyons or lakes and share lots of interesting information about Albania along the way.
How to enjoy your vacation and avoid unnecessary spending
Stay smart
Whether you're heading to Albania or anywhere in the world, you can use the proven Booking.com to book accommodation. You'll find a huge selection of cozy private apartments, houses and hotels. The price range is wide and you'll definitely find something.
Fly for reasonable prices
Need a flight ticket? Check out the well-known Kiwi or the less well-known but very popular Kayak among seasoned travelers. It's our favorite. It quickly compares offers from all airlines and shows you the most cost-effective flight combinations. You can also set price alerts, so as soon as a ticket reaches a price that suits you, you'll get a notification.
Internet v mobilu
In the second half of 2026, Albania is promised free European roaming. Until then, you can get data with, for example, the YESIM app. You'll get mobile internet on favorable terms.
Think about backup plans
Good travel insurance is the foundation of any trip. A trip to Albania is no exception. Insurance covers you in case of illness, injury or loss of belongings. We ourselves have ended up in a hospital abroad a few times. Having good insurance will save a lot of stress and, above all, money.
