This article will give you brief information on the best areas to stay in Tirana, also featuring cost of travel and when to visit Albania’s capital
Traveling to Albania soon? Check below our guide to the best places to stay in Tirana, featuring the area of Blloku and much more about the Albanian capital.
Main Square, Tirana. Photo by Lassi Kurkijärvi
Tirana is a capital and the biggest city of Albania, a country located in the southwestern part of the Balkan peninsula. The country is famous for its hospitality, rich history and beautiful nature.
Tourism in Tirana: Overview
Albanian tourism is rapidly growing year after year and Tirana is one of Europe’s secret places. The country’s capital is also a place where modern style meets the old and traditional and there was rapid change after the fall of Communism. It became a vibrant little city with plenty of hotels, restaurants, cafes and entertainment options.
The places of interest you should visit are Skanderbeg Square, International Centre of Culture, Et’hem Bey Mosque, Clock tower, National Museum of History.
Click here to find accommodation in Tirana on Booking.com
Tirana is relatively easy to reach by plane. Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza is operating number of international flights. Although Tirana is not a port, you can reach historic town of Durres by boat and from there travel to Tirana by bus or train. Also, there is a number of buses with international and local destinations, making it easy to get around.
If you are flying to Tirana, the best option is to check for flights on Jetradar.
Best Places to Stay in Tirana
Tirana is a place where modern and traditional styles blend. If you prefer historic neighborhoods then you should check Mujos and Pazari which form the oldest area of the city. Also, there is Central market here so you can enjoy the local atmosphere of trading.
However, the most popular area for tourists is around Skanderbeg Square. It is a busy neighborhood and is known for its shopping, cafes, and nightlife. Many touristic attractions are within walking distance. It is the most central location for a stay in Tirana.
However, if you are looking for an upmarket area, with trendy bars, and nightlife, then you should consider Blloku. The Sky Tower is located in the Blloku area and has a nice restaurant overlooking the city.
Budget Accommodation in Tirana – €
Guesthouse Pension Andrea – an affordable option close to the Tirana Bus Station.
Star Hotel – a lovely hotel in central Tirana, close to the Opera.
Reasonably Priced Accommodation in Tirana – €€
Hotel Iliria – a reasonably priced option in a great location in the city of Tirana.
Sar’Otel Hotel & SPA – a great option if you want to stay close to the Skandenberg Square.
Luxurious Hotels in Tirana – €€€
The Plaza Tirana – one of the most luxurious options to stay in Tirana.
Cost of Travel in Tirana
Tirana is a relatively cheap city to stay. If you are on a budget, you will need to spend around 50 € including food, accommodation, and transportation per day. Try to book the place in advance this will spare you some extra money.
However, on average you will spend between 50-100 €. This includes food, accommodation, transportation and activities. Most people consider Tirana quite cheap when it comes to food prices. For instance, you can have dinner for two for around 20 € which is quite affordable.
Tirana is in fact one of the most affordable cities in Europe. If you are travelling the continent on a very low budget, a stay in the Albanian capital will certainly be helpful for your budget. On the other side of the spectrum, you can splurge in Tirana for a fraction of what you would spend in more common destinations in the region like Italy or Greece.
Best Months to Visit Tirana
The climate in Tirana is Mediterranean. The summers are hot and winters are mild and rainy. January is the coldest and July and August the hottest months of the year.
The best time to visit Tirana is from May to October. During this period the weather is warm and stable with less rain. However, if you find yourself in Tirana at the end of November, the Tirana International Film Festival is a great event.
Albania is a great option if you traveling to Europe in winter. The coast has mild temperatures and outdoor activities and sightseeing is much more pleasant than in most other European destinations.
Other Resources for Traveling in the Balkans
If you are traveling to the Balkans you might want to check some of our other guides to the region. Check where to stay in Corfu and the best places to stay in Montenegro. You can also check the average and minimum salary in Albania.
For those visiting Tirana soon, leave your thoughts and questions in the comment box below.