Tirana City Guide

Local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Fërgesë Tirane are must-tries. Italian food is common. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night food is mostly around Blloku.

The Blloku area is lively with bars, pubs, and clubs, offering both relaxed and energetic venues.

Coffee is a big part of life here, with many cafes serving strong Albanian and Italian-style coffee.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. 5-10% in restaurants and rounding up taxis is common.

SIM cards are sold at the airport and in city shops. Main providers include Vodafone Albania, Telekom Albania, and One Albania. A passport is needed to register.

Street cleanliness has improved, especially downtown. Waste collection is regular but recycling is limited.

Some pharmacies operate late or 24/7 on rotation. Minimarts and few eateries offer late or 24-hour service.

Large supermarkets like Spar, Conad, and Big Market sell international products. Fresh markets like Pazari i Ri offer local produce. Supermarkets open early till evening, Sundays less so. Bargaining happens only in fresh markets.

Card payments work in big stores and hotels, but small shops and markets prefer cash. It's smart to carry some cash.

ATMs are common, including Raiffeisen, Credins, and BKT. Expect fees from foreign cards sometimes.

International schools like Tirana International School and Albanian College teach in English with international curricula. Apply early due to demand.

A small but growing scene with meetups and active social media groups. Lots of cafes and coworking spaces for networking.

Good green spaces like the Grand Park provide shaded paths and relaxation spots.

Good running spots include Grand Park and Lana River paths, generally safe with decent air quality.

Several gyms offer good facilities around the city.

Tennis courts are at local clubs with equipment rental often possible.

Padel is growing and courts are becoming more common.

Multiple yoga studios offer classes in different styles, some in English.

Clubs offer BJJ, Muay Thai, and boxing with some English-speaking instructors.

No ski resorts nearby.

Recreational kayaking and paddleboarding are available at the Artificial Lake.

No surfing spots near Tirana; coastal waters are calm.

Diving sites are further south along the Ionian coast.

Private hospitals like American Hospital and Hygeia have English-speaking staff. Public care varies in quality. Pharmacies are widespread and well stocked.

Tap water is mostly safe, especially in newer buildings. Some prefer bottled water for taste or caution.

Good playgrounds and parks like Grand Park of Tirana. Family spots include Zoo Park and Artificial Lake. Kid-friendly cafes exist but are few.

Tirana is the most LGBTQ+ accepting city in Albania with some safe spaces and annual Pride. Public discretion is still advised.

Pet-friendly places are increasing, including accommodations and some restaurants. Green spaces are popular for dogs.