Guidebook for Tirana
Food Scene
This beautifully renovated villa hosts a fusion restaurant on the first floor, with interior and exterior spaces, serves exquisite sushi and pasta al dente, and includes a cocktail bar on its open terrace on the 2nd floor. Your urban lounge at its best!
43 locals raden deze aan
Salt Tirana
Rruga Pjetër BogdaniThis beautifully renovated villa hosts a fusion restaurant on the first floor, with interior and exterior spaces, serves exquisite sushi and pasta al dente, and includes a cocktail bar on its open terrace on the 2nd floor. Your urban lounge at its best!
The greatest pub to start your night! This is the place to go if you’re a sports fan, if you like good bar foods, and the largest beer assortment in town. It’s the coziest fun you can have!
15 locals raden deze aan
Meduzas irish Pub
Rruga Mustafa MatohitiThe greatest pub to start your night! This is the place to go if you’re a sports fan, if you like good bar foods, and the largest beer assortment in town. It’s the coziest fun you can have!
Ejona means ours, and that is a wonderful way to describe this cozy, honely and decorated place. The food is absolutely delicious ! You feel immediatly @ home, thanks to the kind staff.
7 locals raden deze aan
E Jona
Ejona means ours, and that is a wonderful way to describe this cozy, honely and decorated place. The food is absolutely delicious ! You feel immediatly @ home, thanks to the kind staff.
One of my favorite place to go for lunch, dinner or drinks. Absolutely only top quality food to find here. They serve healthy bowles of food too. Lovely music from a well edited platelist makes me give this place top score!
18 locals raden deze aan
TeDuKtu
One of my favorite place to go for lunch, dinner or drinks. Absolutely only top quality food to find here. They serve healthy bowles of food too. Lovely music from a well edited platelist makes me give this place top score!
The current luxurious spot in town, Umami is the most modern restaurant in Tirana. Very nice restaurant, very professional staff, excellent menu, fantastic food, very good advises from staff about wine to our food.
This may be fulfill another one of those Master Chef fantasies you have been keeping in your drawer, as we say in Albania.
UMAMI
Rruga Ismail QemaliThe current luxurious spot in town, Umami is the most modern restaurant in Tirana. Very nice restaurant, very professional staff, excellent menu, fantastic food, very good advises from staff about wine to our food.
This may be fulfill another one of those Master Chef fantasies you have been keeping in your drawer, as we say in Albania.
The Last Supper serves great burgers for super affordable prices! The restaurant has excellent service and a varied menu of salads, pizzas, sandwiches, and other options (including vegan dishes). It's one of my favorite places to visit in Tirana!
Last Supper Tirana
1001 Rruga Ismail QemaliThe Last Supper serves great burgers for super affordable prices! The restaurant has excellent service and a varied menu of salads, pizzas, sandwiches, and other options (including vegan dishes). It's one of my favorite places to visit in Tirana!
Loved the food and the service. A nice place to discover pasta :) located in the best part of the city. Supper nice place to spend time with friends and family.
Pastaria 2
Rruga Mustafa MatohitiLoved the food and the service. A nice place to discover pasta :) located in the best part of the city. Supper nice place to spend time with friends and family.
Book in advance if you want to make sure that you get a place. The place is a bit small but very nicely decorated and organized. Go for their standard "antipasti" and you will not be dissapointed. Recommended for small groups of friends or colleagues (may be a bit too crouded for families with small children).
22 locals raden deze aan
FISHOP
Rruga Qamil GuranjakuBook in advance if you want to make sure that you get a place. The place is a bit small but very nicely decorated and organized. Go for their standard "antipasti" and you will not be dissapointed. Recommended for small groups of friends or colleagues (may be a bit too crouded for families with small children).
Named Tirana’s Best Hospitality and Fine Dining and mentioned in every list of recommendations of places to eat in Tirana, this restaurant has stolen the hearts of locals and tourists alike. It is partly the charm of the famous chef, Bledar Kola, partly the beautiful wooden, rustic environment of this venue, and mostly the fresh menu with the most traditional Albanian dishes, including revamped pastries we would eat during Communism. Kola won 3rd place in the World Gourmet Society Best Plate challenge in Monte Carlo with a truly Albanian staple, one which hold s a special place in every Albanian’s heart but no other restaurant in town serves: trahana.
47 locals raden deze aan
Mullixhiu
Named Tirana’s Best Hospitality and Fine Dining and mentioned in every list of recommendations of places to eat in Tirana, this restaurant has stolen the hearts of locals and tourists alike. It is partly the charm of the famous chef, Bledar Kola, partly the beautiful wooden, rustic environment of this venue, and mostly the fresh menu with the most traditional Albanian dishes, including revamped pastries we would eat during Communism. Kola won 3rd place in the World Gourmet Society Best Plate challenge in Monte Carlo with a truly Albanian staple, one which hold s a special place in every Albanian’s heart but no other restaurant in town serves: trahana.
Right next to the hopping PazariiRineighborhood, there is a small restaurant called Oda, one of ten restaurants to try in Tirana according to Culture Trip. The name refers to the small rooms inside the traditional Ottoman homes in Tirana and the interior is decorated accordingly with low ceilings and tables as well as traditional carpets adorning the floor. The food is as authentic, delicious and very inexpensive, featuring roasted lamb, byrek, fërgesë, pllaqi, and so much more. You will also find the best selection of homemade raki here!
31 locals raden deze aan
Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine
3 Rruga Luigj GurakuqiRight next to the hopping PazariiRineighborhood, there is a small restaurant called Oda, one of ten restaurants to try in Tirana according to Culture Trip. The name refers to the small rooms inside the traditional Ottoman homes in Tirana and the interior is decorated accordingly with low ceilings and tables as well as traditional carpets adorning the floor. The food is as authentic, delicious and very inexpensive, featuring roasted lamb, byrek, fërgesë, pllaqi, and so much more. You will also find the best selection of homemade raki here!
Located near the Mother Theresa International Airport, this farm-to-table restaurant is one of the must-sees in Tirana. The long, cool vineyards and the modern and open space of the dining area makes this a pretty great spot to relax after your plane lands, before you make it to the bustling city. Opened in 1996, this restaurant is run by a great young chef and winemaker, named FloriUka. Their specialties include their wonderful homemade wine, cheese stuffed pickled peppers, lamb and locally made cheese, and much more. What you’ll notice is the freshness in everything you taste!
6 locals raden deze aan
Uka Farm
Rruga Adem JashariLocated near the Mother Theresa International Airport, this farm-to-table restaurant is one of the must-sees in Tirana. The long, cool vineyards and the modern and open space of the dining area makes this a pretty great spot to relax after your plane lands, before you make it to the bustling city. Opened in 1996, this restaurant is run by a great young chef and winemaker, named FloriUka. Their specialties include their wonderful homemade wine, cheese stuffed pickled peppers, lamb and locally made cheese, and much more. What you’ll notice is the freshness in everything you taste!
Outside of Tirana, in the small village of Surrel in the Dajti Mountain, this restaurant serves food cooked by the very hands of Queen Elizabeth II’s former chef, except that here the food is traditionally Albanian! Surrounded by turkeys and goats running around the beautiful hills of the village, this restaurant serves dishes not only in a traditional way, but in an antique way! Meat comes out in old iron skillets, rakiin vintage vases, and everything smells of cherry pine. The fresh air and the warm atmosphere are worthy of a very long lunch or supper. Some of the best dishes are flija e veriut(the northern pie prepared with delicious meat broth), pickled tomatoes, raw pumpkin salad, petka
22 locals raden deze aan
Ceren Ismet Shehu
Outside of Tirana, in the small village of Surrel in the Dajti Mountain, this restaurant serves food cooked by the very hands of Queen Elizabeth II’s former chef, except that here the food is traditionally Albanian! Surrounded by turkeys and goats running around the beautiful hills of the village, this restaurant serves dishes not only in a traditional way, but in an antique way! Meat comes out in old iron skillets, rakiin vintage vases, and everything smells of cherry pine. The fresh air and the warm atmosphere are worthy of a very long lunch or supper. Some of the best dishes are flija e veriut(the northern pie prepared with delicious meat broth), pickled tomatoes, raw pumpkin salad, petka
Even though its menu offers many other delicious options, this restaurant has to be singled out for the top-notch seafood selections. Its location next to the Twin Towers at the very center of Tirana makes it one of the city’s hottest spots.
22 locals raden deze aan
il Gusto Ristorante
Rruga Kajo KarafiliEven though its menu offers many other delicious options, this restaurant has to be singled out for the top-notch seafood selections. Its location next to the Twin Towers at the very center of Tirana makes it one of the city’s hottest spots.
Located slightly off the main boulevard of Tirana, this restaurant has the best sushi variety in town. Next door to one of the main cinemas of Tirana and a few steps away from the promenade of the city, this is the ideal dinner, walk and a movie setting. Bonus: in the spring and summer, the restaurant moves to an old villa next door where you can enjoy your sushi and sake in a terrace overlooking gardens and the sun
setting over the city.
8 locals raden deze aan
Opium Sushi Restaurant
Murat Toptani StreetLocated slightly off the main boulevard of Tirana, this restaurant has the best sushi variety in town. Next door to one of the main cinemas of Tirana and a few steps away from the promenade of the city, this is the ideal dinner, walk and a movie setting. Bonus: in the spring and summer, the restaurant moves to an old villa next door where you can enjoy your sushi and sake in a terrace overlooking gardens and the sun
setting over the city.
I like a lot sushi, and I must say that Yamato is one of the best places to eat sushi in Tirana. The service is good and the food is very tasty.
11 locals raden deze aan
Yamato
13 Rruga Ibrahim RugovaI like a lot sushi, and I must say that Yamato is one of the best places to eat sushi in Tirana. The service is good and the food is very tasty.
For pizza that will make you think you are in the best restaurant in Rome, you need to go to this place. Undoubtedly the best pizza in town, and the variety offered is astounding. You will find what you love. A cozy yet buzzing atmosphere as well as a beautiful veranda surrounded by the city’s public soccer fields.
20 locals raden deze aan
Pizzeria Saporita
For pizza that will make you think you are in the best restaurant in Rome, you need to go to this place. Undoubtedly the best pizza in town, and the variety offered is astounding. You will find what you love. A cozy yet buzzing atmosphere as well as a beautiful veranda surrounded by the city’s public soccer fields.
All overseen by Avni, unquestionably one of the finest
chefs in the country, the food pouring out of the kitchen
in this place never disappoints. Specialising in classic
local dishes containing enough calories to fuel a small
power station, Mrizi i Zanave isn’t the place to come if
you’re planning on becoming a supermodel for sure.
Relatively quiet during the week, this restaurant is one
among several in the city that explodes on Friday and
Saturday evenings when large families and groups come
to let their hair down, forget about their waistlines and
dance the night away to the live music acts performing
traditional Albanian music.
Restorant Mrizi i Zanave - Tirane
Bulevardi Zhan D'ArkAll overseen by Avni, unquestionably one of the finest
chefs in the country, the food pouring out of the kitchen
in this place never disappoints. Specialising in classic
local dishes containing enough calories to fuel a small
power station, Mrizi i Zanave isn’t the place to come if
you’re planning on becoming a supermodel for sure.
Relatively quiet during the week, this restaurant is one
among several in the city that explodes on Friday and
Saturday evenings when large families and groups come
to let their hair down, forget about their waistlines and
dance the night away to the live music acts performing
traditional Albanian music.
Up the hill on the right on the old road to Elbasan and
more or less within walking distance of the city centre,
this is upmarket Albanian dining at its best. The décor
is mountain chic, with the waiters wandering around
in traditional costumes ferrying plates and bowls piled
high with classic local cuisine to die for. Complete with a
sloped garden populated by a menagerie of animals the
kids will love, if you can’t find the energy to visit for the
single attraction, it’s worth mentioning that the recommended
Martyrs’ Cemetery is a little bit further up the hill.
7 locals raden deze aan
Sofra e Ariut
Rruga e ElbasanitUp the hill on the right on the old road to Elbasan and
more or less within walking distance of the city centre,
this is upmarket Albanian dining at its best. The décor
is mountain chic, with the waiters wandering around
in traditional costumes ferrying plates and bowls piled
high with classic local cuisine to die for. Complete with a
sloped garden populated by a menagerie of animals the
kids will love, if you can’t find the energy to visit for the
single attraction, it’s worth mentioning that the recommended
Martyrs’ Cemetery is a little bit further up the hill.
A 1930s villa with a quiet courtyard hidden behind
high hedges seems the perfect place to indulge in
some Italian food accompanied by a good selection of
wines. The outside seating area has a tropical feel to it,
while inside it’s all minimalist chic with delicate spotlighting.
Although the owners claim to offer more than
just Italian cuisine, this is more or less the only food on
the menu.
Green House Hotel & Restaurant
6 Rruga Jul VaribobaA 1930s villa with a quiet courtyard hidden behind
high hedges seems the perfect place to indulge in
some Italian food accompanied by a good selection of
wines. The outside seating area has a tropical feel to it,
while inside it’s all minimalist chic with delicate spotlighting.
Although the owners claim to offer more than
just Italian cuisine, this is more or less the only food on
the menu.
Slightly hidden away in the small clutch of new office buildings
immediately east of Sheshi Skënderbej and a firm business
dinner favourite, expect a classy interior without going
too far over the top and sweaty chefs in big white hats
slaving away in the open kitchen. The bill of fare features all
of your favourite Italian dishes with a few surprises such as
their rather awesome cheeseburger. The outside seating is
a little way from the chaos in the street and provides some
much needed shade during the heat of the summer.
15 locals raden deze aan
Panevino
18 Rruga Abdi ToptaniSlightly hidden away in the small clutch of new office buildings
immediately east of Sheshi Skënderbej and a firm business
dinner favourite, expect a classy interior without going
too far over the top and sweaty chefs in big white hats
slaving away in the open kitchen. The bill of fare features all
of your favourite Italian dishes with a few surprises such as
their rather awesome cheeseburger. The outside seating is
a little way from the chaos in the street and provides some
much needed shade during the heat of the summer.
Known more widely as kofta in other parts of the world,
the Albanian qofta is a simple, sausage-like dish made
from ground beef that’s cooked on an open flame and
served with a wide variety of salads, sauces and fresh white
bread. The best qofta restaurant in the city, at the Old bazaar.
Qofte Tradita Met Kodra
Rruga Thimi MitkoKnown more widely as kofta in other parts of the world,
the Albanian qofta is a simple, sausage-like dish made
from ground beef that’s cooked on an open flame and
served with a wide variety of salads, sauces and fresh white
bread. The best qofta restaurant in the city, at the Old bazaar.
Modern, bright and always busy, CioccolatItaliani’s menu stretches well beyond crêpes with a veritable smorgasbord of tooth-destroying treats on offer, among them waffles and various concoctions in which chocolate is the main event.
29 locals raden deze aan
Cioccolatitaliani Blloku
Rruga Ibrahim RugovaModern, bright and always busy, CioccolatItaliani’s menu stretches well beyond crêpes with a veritable smorgasbord of tooth-destroying treats on offer, among them waffles and various concoctions in which chocolate is the main event.
Opened way back in 1999 by Marie-Thérèse Marchal and
an exceedingly popular place, there are too many reasons
to visit this tiny corner of France, perhaps the most
important being the authenticity of the baked goods
on sale. Although the Albanians are better than most at
baking crusty white bread, there’s nothing to beat the
baguettes on offer here. Choose to take everything away
in a bag to much on later or relax inside with a decent
cup of coffee and something sweet and sticky.
French Patisserie
1001 Rruga e KavajësOpened way back in 1999 by Marie-Thérèse Marchal and
an exceedingly popular place, there are too many reasons
to visit this tiny corner of France, perhaps the most
important being the authenticity of the baked goods
on sale. Although the Albanians are better than most at
baking crusty white bread, there’s nothing to beat the
baguettes on offer here. Choose to take everything away
in a bag to much on later or relax inside with a decent
cup of coffee and something sweet and sticky.
Easily missed, this tiny place located at the bottom of a
short flight of steps serves arguably the best fruit juice in
the city and is run by a friendly English-speaking woman
who also founded the place. Recommened.
Happy Belly Eat Smart & Juice Bar
Rruga Ibrahim RugovaEasily missed, this tiny place located at the bottom of a
short flight of steps serves arguably the best fruit juice in
the city and is run by a friendly English-speaking woman
who also founded the place. Recommened.
Drinks & Nightlife
Decorated in Communist paraphernalia and serving the largest and most delicious variet of rakiin town, hosting cultural events and documentary nights, this place is the most fun you will have in a museum. A must-see in Tirana! And, if you happen to be in Korça, you should visit its sister bar called Qoshka, located in the historic Old Bazaar neighborhood.
19 locals raden deze aan
Komiteti - Kafe Muzeum
Rruga Papa Gjon Pali IIDecorated in Communist paraphernalia and serving the largest and most delicious variet of rakiin town, hosting cultural events and documentary nights, this place is the most fun you will have in a museum. A must-see in Tirana! And, if you happen to be in Korça, you should visit its sister bar called Qoshka, located in the historic Old Bazaar neighborhood.
A landmark in Tirana, this place has an unbeatable atmosphere, hosting jazz nights, nostalgic disco nights, electronic nights, and everything in between. Its décor is as modern as it is nostalgic and its drinks, simple and tasty. The outdoor patio is never empty!
35 locals raden deze aan
Nouvelle Vague Tirana
Rruga Pjetër BogdaniA landmark in Tirana, this place has an unbeatable atmosphere, hosting jazz nights, nostalgic disco nights, electronic nights, and everything in between. Its décor is as modern as it is nostalgic and its drinks, simple and tasty. The outdoor patio is never empty!
A landmark in Tirana, this place has an unbeatable atmosphere, hosting jazz nights, nostalgic disco nights, electronic nights, and everything in between. Its décor is as modern as it is nostalgic and its drinks, simple and tasty. The outdoor patio is never empty!
61 locals raden deze aan
Radio Bar Tirana
Rruga Ismail QemaliA landmark in Tirana, this place has an unbeatable atmosphere, hosting jazz nights, nostalgic disco nights, electronic nights, and everything in between. Its décor is as modern as it is nostalgic and its drinks, simple and tasty. The outdoor patio is never empty!
A bit off the beaten path, in a very beautiful old part of the city, right behind the Ministry of Education, do not miss the jazzy/artsy Hemingway Bar. The best gin and rum selection, a whirlwind of concerts and events, jazz, blues, tap-dancing, film projections on dilapidated walls, and more. You will love this place!
44 locals raden deze aan
Hemingway Tirana
Rruga Kont UraniA bit off the beaten path, in a very beautiful old part of the city, right behind the Ministry of Education, do not miss the jazzy/artsy Hemingway Bar. The best gin and rum selection, a whirlwind of concerts and events, jazz, blues, tap-dancing, film projections on dilapidated walls, and more. You will love this place!
A staple of Tirana’s nightlife, this upscale bar is one of the few that has retained its initial cool factor. This is where you go to see and be seen. With PepperOnon the upper floor, the hip electronic club, this has become Tirana’s own Studio 54.
27 locals raden deze aan
Pepper Lounge
Rruga Brigada VIIIA staple of Tirana’s nightlife, this upscale bar is one of the few that has retained its initial cool factor. This is where you go to see and be seen. With PepperOnon the upper floor, the hip electronic club, this has become Tirana’s own Studio 54.
One of those places that people always return to. Fun is guaranteed in this pub that turns into a wild nightclub and plays the most unique variety of dance music in town.
20 locals raden deze aan
Checkpoint Charlie Pub Tirana
One of those places that people always return to. Fun is guaranteed in this pub that turns into a wild nightclub and plays the most unique variety of dance music in town.
One of the best outdoor verandas in the world! As you make your entrance, you would never guess the grandiose gardens hiding behind this bar. Full of people even in the most random weeknights, this place will make you think you are somewhere in Latin America.
24 locals raden deze aan
DaDa
One of the best outdoor verandas in the world! As you make your entrance, you would never guess the grandiose gardens hiding behind this bar. Full of people even in the most random weeknights, this place will make you think you are somewhere in Latin America.
It is a lovely small bar placed in a popular street corner in ish-Blloku area, teminding one of the Paris tiny cafes always full and yet, never too much. The coffee is a real italian delight and there is a nice variety of cocktails and drinks at night. There’s nice retro and contemporary music every night and jazz and chill during the day. One of blloku’s best kept secrets!
24 locals raden deze aan
Tribeca Bar Tirana
Rruga Vaso PashaIt is a lovely small bar placed in a popular street corner in ish-Blloku area, teminding one of the Paris tiny cafes always full and yet, never too much. The coffee is a real italian delight and there is a nice variety of cocktails and drinks at night. There’s nice retro and contemporary music every night and jazz and chill during the day. One of blloku’s best kept secrets!
The best place in town to have fun and stay with good people. Go there and forget about everything just enjoy the moment and drink a lot.
13 locals raden deze aan
City Art
Rruga Mustafa MatohitiThe best place in town to have fun and stay with good people. Go there and forget about everything just enjoy the moment and drink a lot.
Discobox, located in the Academy of Arts campus, one of the most beautiful areas in town! The party really starting at 3 A.M and ending in the early morning every single weekend.
Discobox
Discobox, located in the Academy of Arts campus, one of the most beautiful areas in town! The party really starting at 3 A.M and ending in the early morning every single weekend.
If clubbing is one of your favorite things to do here u are! The owner made serious investment to cover this terrace! 1'000+ people are coming to Folie Terrace on spring and summer. Top local and some foreign DJs. Great sound system and light shows. Same owner than Folie Marine.
37 locals raden deze aan
Folie Bar
Shëtitorja Murat ToptaniIf clubbing is one of your favorite things to do here u are! The owner made serious investment to cover this terrace! 1'000+ people are coming to Folie Terrace on spring and summer. Top local and some foreign DJs. Great sound system and light shows. Same owner than Folie Marine.
Perched on top of the 17-storey Sky Tower building in the
very heart of the city, this magnificent restaurant offers
equally inspiring views of the city and nearby mountains
and is worth the heart-stopping trip in the lift even if
you’re only looking for an espresso. The not surprisingly
wallet-emptying menu is packed with international and
Albanian dishes that by all accounts are worth every penny
if you’re hungry and looking for a meal with an unbeatable
view.
Sky Tower Tirana
Rruga Ibrahim RugovaPerched on top of the 17-storey Sky Tower building in the
very heart of the city, this magnificent restaurant offers
equally inspiring views of the city and nearby mountains
and is worth the heart-stopping trip in the lift even if
you’re only looking for an espresso. The not surprisingly
wallet-emptying menu is packed with international and
Albanian dishes that by all accounts are worth every penny
if you’re hungry and looking for a meal with an unbeatable
view.
A small underground (as in its in a basement) club in the
blloku with communist-era décor, cocktails served in jam
jars and live acoustic music sets most evenings. Intimate
and well worth looking in if you’re passing late at night,
those in the know say that this is the most gay-friendly
place in the city.
Bunker 1944
Rruga Andon Zako ÇajupiA small underground (as in its in a basement) club in the
blloku with communist-era décor, cocktails served in jam
jars and live acoustic music sets most evenings. Intimate
and well worth looking in if you’re passing late at night,
those in the know say that this is the most gay-friendly
place in the city.
The only licensed casino in Tirana where it’s possible to play
table games, the Regency has a total of 20 gaming tables
and no less than 250 slot machines. To get in you’ll need to
be over 18 and to have some form of picture ID. Casual dress
is fine.
Regency Casino
UnazaThe only licensed casino in Tirana where it’s possible to play
table games, the Regency has a total of 20 gaming tables
and no less than 250 slot machines. To get in you’ll need to
be over 18 and to have some form of picture ID. Casual dress
is fine.
Parks & Nature
An unstoppable surge of water falls from 30 meters high on the side of the Gropa Mountain. The Shëngjergji Waterfall, located near the village of the same name, is one of the most beautiful outdoor destinations in Tirana. And, it is so easy to get there! You will travel by car until you cannot go any further. From then you will walk for about 20 minutes, following the signs, which will take you directly to the waterfall. One of the first things you will notice is the red hue of the cliffs surrounding it!
Shëngjergj
An unstoppable surge of water falls from 30 meters high on the side of the Gropa Mountain. The Shëngjergji Waterfall, located near the village of the same name, is one of the most beautiful outdoor destinations in Tirana. And, it is so easy to get there! You will travel by car until you cannot go any further. From then you will walk for about 20 minutes, following the signs, which will take you directly to the waterfall. One of the first things you will notice is the red hue of the cliffs surrounding it!
The lake is one of the trendiest outdoor destinations in Tirana. The trip to get there from the capital takes only 40 minutes. Yet, for such a short distance, the scene changes entirely! At Boville Lake, the terrain is slightly mountainous and enveloped in lush low vegetation. This area is perfect for hiking and rock climbing! In fact, most rock climbers choose it because it offers varying levels of climbing difficulty.
6 locals raden deze aan
Bovilla Lake
The lake is one of the trendiest outdoor destinations in Tirana. The trip to get there from the capital takes only 40 minutes. Yet, for such a short distance, the scene changes entirely! At Boville Lake, the terrain is slightly mountainous and enveloped in lush low vegetation. This area is perfect for hiking and rock climbing! In fact, most rock climbers choose it because it offers varying levels of climbing difficulty.
One of rarest karst caves and prehistoric settlements in Albania! Stalactites and stalagmites cover the cave in its entirety while underground currents flow under the cliff floor. Organized tours follow the road that takes you to Pëllumbas Village. From here, you hike on the rest of the road that takes you to the destination.
14 locals raden deze aan
Shpella e Pëllumbasit
One of rarest karst caves and prehistoric settlements in Albania! Stalactites and stalagmites cover the cave in its entirety while underground currents flow under the cliff floor. Organized tours follow the road that takes you to Pëllumbas Village. From here, you hike on the rest of the road that takes you to the destination.
Mali me Gropa takes its name from the holes formed by the limestone cliffs’ process of dissolution from water. The karst crags have the shape of a funnel. The area has a very interesting ecosystem resulting from nature’s century-old chemical experiment. Its flora and fauna are rich in vegetation and various animal species. This monument of nature can be visited by following the Tirana-Dajt-Bizë highway with the trip lasting approximately 2 hours.
Mali me Gropa-Bizë-Martanesh Protected Landscape
SH54Mali me Gropa takes its name from the holes formed by the limestone cliffs’ process of dissolution from water. The karst crags have the shape of a funnel. The area has a very interesting ecosystem resulting from nature’s century-old chemical experiment. Its flora and fauna are rich in vegetation and various animal species. This monument of nature can be visited by following the Tirana-Dajt-Bizë highway with the trip lasting approximately 2 hours.
Outdoor explorers have discovered this natural treasure fairly late. Thus, it remains one of the most untouched destinations around! It is located about 4 km below Skëterrë Village, in the valley of the Erzen River. With a width of about 20 meters and depths of 20 meters, at the end of the gorge lays a beautiful swimmable lake with turquoise waters. Legends talk about a giant creature that once lived there, keeping the locals away from this magical place. Today, you can take a car or bus until Krrabë Village. The remainder of the road involves a hike in a beautiful trail.
Syri i Cikllopit
Outdoor explorers have discovered this natural treasure fairly late. Thus, it remains one of the most untouched destinations around! It is located about 4 km below Skëterrë Village, in the valley of the Erzen River. With a width of about 20 meters and depths of 20 meters, at the end of the gorge lays a beautiful swimmable lake with turquoise waters. Legends talk about a giant creature that once lived there, keeping the locals away from this magical place. Today, you can take a car or bus until Krrabë Village. The remainder of the road involves a hike in a beautiful trail.
The crosscutting of the Dajti and Brari mountains has created this interesting canyon, reachable via the traces of the old Arbër Road. Tujani is 1.2 km long, 20-50 m wide and about 250 m deep, with a karst ecosystem that includes caves of various sizes on the canyon’s slopes. The destination is not very popular yet and, hence, especially appealing to the explorers out there! You can drive or take the cable car to reach the field of Dajti and then proceed on foot to reach the canyon. The path to the top includes orientation signs so it is not difficult to find.
Maja e Tujanit
The crosscutting of the Dajti and Brari mountains has created this interesting canyon, reachable via the traces of the old Arbër Road. Tujani is 1.2 km long, 20-50 m wide and about 250 m deep, with a karst ecosystem that includes caves of various sizes on the canyon’s slopes. The destination is not very popular yet and, hence, especially appealing to the explorers out there! You can drive or take the cable car to reach the field of Dajti and then proceed on foot to reach the canyon. The path to the top includes orientation signs so it is not difficult to find.
A short stroll south of central Tirana, the city’s Grand Park
offers a convenient respite away from all the traffic and
dust. At one time, thousands of the city’s inhabitants
came here to play and picnic. Now it’s a place for people
to fish, swim, stroll and have a sneaky snooze after lunch.
Among the park’s small collection of monuments are the
tombs of the Frashëri brothers, who helped catalyse Albania’s
national awakening towards the end of the 19th century. The large lake at the far northern end of the park is a popular place during the summer, and is ringed by a handful of restaurants.
59 locals raden deze aan
Grand Park of Tirana
Rruga Herman GmeinerA short stroll south of central Tirana, the city’s Grand Park
offers a convenient respite away from all the traffic and
dust. At one time, thousands of the city’s inhabitants
came here to play and picnic. Now it’s a place for people
to fish, swim, stroll and have a sneaky snooze after lunch.
Among the park’s small collection of monuments are the
tombs of the Frashëri brothers, who helped catalyse Albania’s
national awakening towards the end of the 19th century. The large lake at the far northern end of the park is a popular place during the summer, and is ringed by a handful of restaurants.
Rinia (Youth) Park is now the proud focus of among other things the evening xhiro, when thousands of locals dress up and stroll around to meet up and chat with friends. The spidery white building that looks like it could be the lair of a James Bond villain is an entertainment complex called Taiwan and houses restaurants, a swish terrace café, bowling alleys and a casino. The main attraction however is the fountain in front of Taiwan which in the evening fascinates hundreds of
young and old onlookers with its light show.
40 locals raden deze aan
Rinia Park
Rinia (Youth) Park is now the proud focus of among other things the evening xhiro, when thousands of locals dress up and stroll around to meet up and chat with friends. The spidery white building that looks like it could be the lair of a James Bond villain is an entertainment complex called Taiwan and houses restaurants, a swish terrace café, bowling alleys and a casino. The main attraction however is the fountain in front of Taiwan which in the evening fascinates hundreds of
young and old onlookers with its light show.
Dajti Mountain National Park is located to the east of Tirana and is the largest park in the list of the 15 national parks of our country. Dajti Mountain, also the Park’s name, has a unique beauty on every side and that’s why it is often called the “Natural Balcony” of Tirana. Dajti Mountain was proclaimed a National Park, with an expanded area of 29 384.18 hectares, including the Bovilla catchment basin. Dajti Mountain National Park lies in the Skanderbeg Mountain ranges. The mountainous area of the park is divided and fragmented into passes and deep gorges and impressive canyons, offering visitors fantastic landscapes and a variety of colors and reflexes.
34 locals raden deze aan
Dajti
Dajti Mountain National Park is located to the east of Tirana and is the largest park in the list of the 15 national parks of our country. Dajti Mountain, also the Park’s name, has a unique beauty on every side and that’s why it is often called the “Natural Balcony” of Tirana. Dajti Mountain was proclaimed a National Park, with an expanded area of 29 384.18 hectares, including the Bovilla catchment basin. Dajti Mountain National Park lies in the Skanderbeg Mountain ranges. The mountainous area of the park is divided and fragmented into passes and deep gorges and impressive canyons, offering visitors fantastic landscapes and a variety of colors and reflexes.
Shopping
Toptani Shopping Center is located in the heart of Tirana very near the central square Skenderbeu, it has underground parking. The mall itself is ultra modern, multi-floor. It is very clean, neat and everyone can find something for himself/herself if interested in shopping.
102 locals raden deze aan
Toptani Shopping Center
1001 Rruga Abdi ToptaniToptani Shopping Center is located in the heart of Tirana very near the central square Skenderbeu, it has underground parking. The mall itself is ultra modern, multi-floor. It is very clean, neat and everyone can find something for himself/herself if interested in shopping.
Behind the Pyramid, the Galeria Mall has around 50
shops, bars and cafés in a pleasantly air-conditioned,
four-floor complex. There’s a supermarket on the
ground floor.
7 locals raden deze aan
GoTech Luxury
Behind the Pyramid, the Galeria Mall has around 50
shops, bars and cafés in a pleasantly air-conditioned,
four-floor complex. There’s a supermarket on the
ground floor.
The QTU shopping centre has a large Carrefore supermarket,
electronics shop, food court and a branch of
Western Union.
18 locals raden deze aan
Qendra Tregtare Univers
The QTU shopping centre has a large Carrefore supermarket,
electronics shop, food court and a branch of
Western Union.
The biggest and best shopping centre in Albania features
two floors of shops, a food court, cafés, a huge
Carrefore supermarket in the basement and a multiplex
cinema.
58 locals raden deze aan
TEG - Tirana East Gate
Autostrada Tiranë - Elbasan The biggest and best shopping centre in Albania features
two floors of shops, a food court, cafés, a huge
Carrefore supermarket in the basement and a multiplex
cinema.
A fancy Italian department store on the lower floors of the
ABA building, selling fashion, luxury home appliances, children’s toys and other nice things. There’s also a currency
exchange kiosk on the ground floor.
24 locals raden deze aan
COIN Tirana
Rruga Papa Gjon Pali IIA fancy Italian department store on the lower floors of the
ABA building, selling fashion, luxury home appliances, children’s toys and other nice things. There’s also a currency
exchange kiosk on the ground floor.
Libraria Adrion Bookstore
Arts & Culture
The Pyramid, the undisputed top attraction for every visitor, was designed by the most talented group of architects of the time to be the mausoleum of Albania’s former dictator, EnverHoxha. Until 1991, its main function was as Hoxha's memorial while, after 1991, it was converted into a cultural center. An aerial view of the Pyramid reveals not only the fact that its shape is not of a standard pyramid, but also the shape of a two-headed eagle, the Albanian symbol that is also embroidered on the national flag. In recent years, the building is due to be renovated and partly reconstructed with the objective of returning its architectural functions to the public’s service.
25 locals raden deze aan
Piramide van Tirana
21 Rruga Dervish HimaThe Pyramid, the undisputed top attraction for every visitor, was designed by the most talented group of architects of the time to be the mausoleum of Albania’s former dictator, EnverHoxha. Until 1991, its main function was as Hoxha's memorial while, after 1991, it was converted into a cultural center. An aerial view of the Pyramid reveals not only the fact that its shape is not of a standard pyramid, but also the shape of a two-headed eagle, the Albanian symbol that is also embroidered on the national flag. In recent years, the building is due to be renovated and partly reconstructed with the objective of returning its architectural functions to the public’s service.
The area of the former Block is one of the most fascinating and dynamic quadrants of Tirana. The unexpected combination of the modern urban and the inherited architectures visually told, after the 90s, the city’s communist history and what followed thereafter. During Communism, the entire Block area was forbidden to ordinary citizens, who were supposedly too afraid to turn their heads and look at Hoxha's villa from afar. EnverHoxha's Villa was built in the center of this quadrant on a large piece of land surrounded by a light iron fence. Hoxha lived in this villa until the last hours of his life, leaving behind the population’s permanent curiosity on what exactly happened inside the place wh
11 locals raden deze aan
Enver Hoxha's Former Residence
The area of the former Block is one of the most fascinating and dynamic quadrants of Tirana. The unexpected combination of the modern urban and the inherited architectures visually told, after the 90s, the city’s communist history and what followed thereafter. During Communism, the entire Block area was forbidden to ordinary citizens, who were supposedly too afraid to turn their heads and look at Hoxha's villa from afar. EnverHoxha's Villa was built in the center of this quadrant on a large piece of land surrounded by a light iron fence. Hoxha lived in this villa until the last hours of his life, leaving behind the population’s permanent curiosity on what exactly happened inside the place wh
The “House of Leaves” represents Albania's attempt at building a sincere relationship with its past. Initially intended for health services, during WWII, this enigmatic building was used by the Gestapo and afterword converted into the headquarters of Albania’s former State Security (SigurimiiShtetit) where the sophisticated tapping of the capital's population took place. The proximity of the building to the Central Post Office was no coincidence as this facilitated the interception of the people’s correspondence. The building is easily accessible from any point in Tirana, located only a few meters from Skanderbeg Square, opposite the Orthodox Cathedral.
52 locals raden deze aan
House of Leaves
The “House of Leaves” represents Albania's attempt at building a sincere relationship with its past. Initially intended for health services, during WWII, this enigmatic building was used by the Gestapo and afterword converted into the headquarters of Albania’s former State Security (SigurimiiShtetit) where the sophisticated tapping of the capital's population took place. The proximity of the building to the Central Post Office was no coincidence as this facilitated the interception of the people’s correspondence. The building is easily accessible from any point in Tirana, located only a few meters from Skanderbeg Square, opposite the Orthodox Cathedral.
Before the 90s, for the majority of Albanians, information represented a luxury. For the most part, it was entirely absent and, even when provided, it was carefully selected and manipulated to keep the population under control. This category of fiercely guarded governmental secrets included the construction of the anti-nuclear bunker, inaugurated in 1978 by EnverHoxha with one specific aim in mind: the protection of communist officials from a potential attack by foreign armies, an attack which never happened. This 5-story underground palace, built in Tirana’s northeastern entrance, includes 106 rooms and a large conferential hall. A number of the rooms exhibit aspects of Hoxha's life through
195 locals raden deze aan
Bunk'Art 1
Rruga Fadil DeliuBefore the 90s, for the majority of Albanians, information represented a luxury. For the most part, it was entirely absent and, even when provided, it was carefully selected and manipulated to keep the population under control. This category of fiercely guarded governmental secrets included the construction of the anti-nuclear bunker, inaugurated in 1978 by EnverHoxha with one specific aim in mind: the protection of communist officials from a potential attack by foreign armies, an attack which never happened. This 5-story underground palace, built in Tirana’s northeastern entrance, includes 106 rooms and a large conferential hall. A number of the rooms exhibit aspects of Hoxha's life through
The bunker located behind the Ministry of Internal Affairs is a similar structure albeit smaller in size. Photos of the period’s documents show the relationship between the dictatorship and its guiding ideological principles. Bunk'art 2 reconstructs the history of the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs during 1912-1991 and reveals the secrets of the former State Security, the secret police that persecuted the opponents of EnverHoxha's regime. The bunker has 24 rooms and a special apartment for the Interior Minister. This well-calculated maze, all built in concrete, was meant to protect in case of possible chemical attacks, which also never happened.
195 locals raden deze aan
Bunk'Art 1
Rruga Fadil DeliuThe bunker located behind the Ministry of Internal Affairs is a similar structure albeit smaller in size. Photos of the period’s documents show the relationship between the dictatorship and its guiding ideological principles. Bunk'art 2 reconstructs the history of the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs during 1912-1991 and reveals the secrets of the former State Security, the secret police that persecuted the opponents of EnverHoxha's regime. The bunker has 24 rooms and a special apartment for the Interior Minister. This well-calculated maze, all built in concrete, was meant to protect in case of possible chemical attacks, which also never happened.
Across from the bank, stands the Palace of Culture. The very Soviet-style building replaced Tirana’s former Old Bazaar in 1959, at the height of Communism in Albania. Actually, its very first brick was placed by former USSR President Nikita Khrushchev and its last in 1963, when the building was completed. The building houses inside it the National Theater of Opera and Ballet and the National Library.
9 locals raden deze aan
Palace of Culture
Sheshi SkënderbejAcross from the bank, stands the Palace of Culture. The very Soviet-style building replaced Tirana’s former Old Bazaar in 1959, at the height of Communism in Albania. Actually, its very first brick was placed by former USSR President Nikita Khrushchev and its last in 1963, when the building was completed. The building houses inside it the National Theater of Opera and Ballet and the National Library.
One of Tirana’s most recognizable landmarks, this structure is one of Albania’s most treasured historical and architectural objects. Inaugurated on October 28, 1981, this museum is the largest in Albania! Its front façade is marked by a giant mosaic designed to show the developmental stages of Albanian people throughout the centuries. Its creation gathered the top experts of history, linguists, archaeology, ethnography, cartography, architecture and art in Albania.
167 locals raden deze aan
Nationaal Historisch Museum
7 Sheshi SkënderbejOne of Tirana’s most recognizable landmarks, this structure is one of Albania’s most treasured historical and architectural objects. Inaugurated on October 28, 1981, this museum is the largest in Albania! Its front façade is marked by a giant mosaic designed to show the developmental stages of Albanian people throughout the centuries. Its creation gathered the top experts of history, linguists, archaeology, ethnography, cartography, architecture and art in Albania.
The city’s must-see National Art Gallery hosts an excellent
and varied collection of Albanian art covering a wide
range of styles, tastes and historical periods. The permanent
exhibition shows works by some of the country’s
earliest artists, whilst upstairs are some outstanding
examples of Socialist Realist paintings depicting heroic
partisans and idealised factory workers bristling with
muscles and grinning with socialist satisfaction, all of it
produced between 1944 and 1990 when even the size
of the canvas and subject matter were dictated by the
Party.
58 locals raden deze aan
National Gallery of Art
2 Shëtitorja Murat ToptaniThe city’s must-see National Art Gallery hosts an excellent
and varied collection of Albanian art covering a wide
range of styles, tastes and historical periods. The permanent
exhibition shows works by some of the country’s
earliest artists, whilst upstairs are some outstanding
examples of Socialist Realist paintings depicting heroic
partisans and idealised factory workers bristling with
muscles and grinning with socialist satisfaction, all of it
produced between 1944 and 1990 when even the size
of the canvas and subject matter were dictated by the
Party.
Thought by many to be the remains of a Byzantine-era
Roman villa built on this site in the 3rd Century AD and
uncovered in 1972, this small but recommended attraction
features not only some well preserved mosaic floors
as the name suggests but also a collection of beautiful
carved stones complete with religious motifs that have
led some to believe the original building that stood here
was in fact a church.
13 locals raden deze aan
Mosaic of Tirana
Thought by many to be the remains of a Byzantine-era
Roman villa built on this site in the 3rd Century AD and
uncovered in 1972, this small but recommended attraction
features not only some well preserved mosaic floors
as the name suggests but also a collection of beautiful
carved stones complete with religious motifs that have
led some to believe the original building that stood here
was in fact a church.
Sightseeing
Skanderbeg Square is the epicenter of the capital, surrounded by some of the most important buildings of the country. The space was initially designed in a circular shape by three architects of Mussolini’s Italy: Florentano de Fausto, GherardoBosio and Armando Brasini. It was in 1937 that the square was given the name of the Albanian national hero. Only two years ago, it was reconstructed to become a pedestrian space. The large square has the interesting shape of a slight pyramid that culminates in its very center. During the summers, water rushes down its sides to refresh the passers-by!
52 locals raden deze aan
Skanderbeg Square
Skanderbeg Square is the epicenter of the capital, surrounded by some of the most important buildings of the country. The space was initially designed in a circular shape by three architects of Mussolini’s Italy: Florentano de Fausto, GherardoBosio and Armando Brasini. It was in 1937 that the square was given the name of the Albanian national hero. Only two years ago, it was reconstructed to become a pedestrian space. The large square has the interesting shape of a slight pyramid that culminates in its very center. During the summers, water rushes down its sides to refresh the passers-by!
This landmark and symbol of the capital was finally opened for tourists in 1996. Built in 1822, the monument initially housed a bell brought from Venice which chimed every hour! Another Venetian detail is its dome, which highly resembles that of St. Mark's Bell Tower in Venice. Inside the tower, the 90 steps on a long spiraling staircase take you to its very top, at 35 meters.
The Clock Tower of Tirana
This landmark and symbol of the capital was finally opened for tourists in 1996. Built in 1822, the monument initially housed a bell brought from Venice which chimed every hour! Another Venetian detail is its dome, which highly resembles that of St. Mark's Bell Tower in Venice. Inside the tower, the 90 steps on a long spiraling staircase take you to its very top, at 35 meters.
Right next to the Clock Tower, stands Et’hemBey Mosque, another iconic monument of the city. It is the only surviving mosque from the eight built-in Tiranë during the 18th-19th centuries. Its foundations were constructed by MollaBey in the 18th century while the shrine was completed by his son, HaxhiEt’hemBey, in the first quarter of the 19th century. It represents a typical object of oriental architecture, exhibiting very beautiful intricate murals.
47 locals raden deze aan
Et`hem Bey Mosque
Sheshi SkënderbejRight next to the Clock Tower, stands Et’hemBey Mosque, another iconic monument of the city. It is the only surviving mosque from the eight built-in Tiranë during the 18th-19th centuries. Its foundations were constructed by MollaBey in the 18th century while the shrine was completed by his son, HaxhiEt’hemBey, in the first quarter of the 19th century. It represents a typical object of oriental architecture, exhibiting very beautiful intricate murals.
The blloku is a relatively small patchwork of streets in the
southwest of Tirana saturated with some of the best bars,
restaurants and shops in the city. After the war, the area was
full of factories that were cleared to make way for a guarded
complex of luxury residential buildings for the exclusive use
of the country’s ruling elite. Opened to the public during
the political changes of the early 1990s, the blloku is the
place to come for fine dining, people-watching from one of
the district’s countless outdoor terraces, driving around in
expensive BMWs and generally showing off.
132 locals raden deze aan
Blloku
The blloku is a relatively small patchwork of streets in the
southwest of Tirana saturated with some of the best bars,
restaurants and shops in the city. After the war, the area was
full of factories that were cleared to make way for a guarded
complex of luxury residential buildings for the exclusive use
of the country’s ruling elite. Opened to the public during
the political changes of the early 1990s, the blloku is the
place to come for fine dining, people-watching from one of
the district’s countless outdoor terraces, driving around in
expensive BMWs and generally showing off.
The Boulevard of the Martyrs of the Nation as it’s known
in English is a wide and scarily impressive, 1.3km length of
road stretching north-south between Sheshi Skënderbej
and Sheshi Nënë Tereza. The work of the Italian architect
and engineer Gherardo Bosio (1903-1941) and still featuring
many of the original examples of fascist architecture
that were built along its edges and around its squares, the
street dates from 1939-1941 and is the only thoroughfare
in the city that gives any sense of Tirana being anything
other than a typical medium-sized Balkan town. Several of
the city’s better museums can be found along it, among
them the National Archaeological Museum, the National
Art Gallery.
Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit
Bulevardi Dëshmorët e KombitThe Boulevard of the Martyrs of the Nation as it’s known
in English is a wide and scarily impressive, 1.3km length of
road stretching north-south between Sheshi Skënderbej
and Sheshi Nënë Tereza. The work of the Italian architect
and engineer Gherardo Bosio (1903-1941) and still featuring
many of the original examples of fascist architecture
that were built along its edges and around its squares, the
street dates from 1939-1941 and is the only thoroughfare
in the city that gives any sense of Tirana being anything
other than a typical medium-sized Balkan town. Several of
the city’s better museums can be found along it, among
them the National Archaeological Museum, the National
Art Gallery.
This elegant Ottoman stone footbridge once served
as the main connection between Tirana and the highlands
to the east. It was used to get agricultural produce
and livestock across the Lana River to the markets
and sits in the traditional area of skinners and leather
workers. The Lana was rerouted in the 1930s and the
bridge was neglected, eventually becoming a rubbish
tip. It’s now restored to its former glory and is used by
pedestrians again.
13 locals raden deze aan
Tanners' Bridge
Bulevardi "Jean D'ArcThis elegant Ottoman stone footbridge once served
as the main connection between Tirana and the highlands
to the east. It was used to get agricultural produce
and livestock across the Lana River to the markets
and sits in the traditional area of skinners and leather
workers. The Lana was rerouted in the 1930s and the
bridge was neglected, eventually becoming a rubbish
tip. It’s now restored to its former glory and is used by
pedestrians again.
Said by some to be the oldest house in the Balkans,
this magnificent example of a traditional Ottomanera
konak is at least 300 years old as has over the
centuries served as a military building, a hospital and
even a women’s prison. Now owned by the Albanian
artist Sali Shijaku (b. 1933) and surrounded by a beautiful
garden, the Sali Shijaku House also operates as a
café and gallery containing a large collection of Impressionist
and Socialist Realist paintings.
Sali Shijaku House
Said by some to be the oldest house in the Balkans,
this magnificent example of a traditional Ottomanera
konak is at least 300 years old as has over the
centuries served as a military building, a hospital and
even a women’s prison. Now owned by the Albanian
artist Sali Shijaku (b. 1933) and surrounded by a beautiful
garden, the Sali Shijaku House also operates as a
café and gallery containing a large collection of Impressionist
and Socialist Realist paintings.