Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Albania
Albania is one of Europe's most welcoming and surprising destinations. Yet because it's still relatively unknown to mainstream tourism, many first-time visitors have questions. Here are the practical answers to everything you need to know.
Is Albania Safe?
Yes. Albania is safe for tourists. Violent crime targeting visitors is extremely rare, and Albanians are famously hospitable — the concept of "besa" (a sacred promise to protect guests) runs deep in Albanian culture. Common-sense precautions apply as they would anywhere: watch your belongings in crowded areas and don't leave valuables in plain sight in your car. Overall, most visitors are surprised by how safe they feel.
Money & Currency
Albania uses the Albanian Lek (ALL). As of 2026, €1 ≈ 100 ALL. Euros are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and tourist businesses (especially on the coast), but you'll often get a better rate paying in Lek. ATMs are plentiful in cities and towns. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and larger restaurants but smaller shops and rural areas are still cash-preferred.
Language
Albanian (Shqip) is the official language. English is widely spoken by younger Albanians (under 40), especially in tourism. Italian is understood by many (thanks to Italian TV), and German is common in areas with diaspora connections. In tourist areas, you'll rarely have communication problems. Learning a few Albanian words (faleminderit = thank you, mirëdita = good day) is appreciated.
Getting Around
- Rental cars offer the most flexibility — roads have improved dramatically. We offer car rentals with or without a driver
- Furgon minibuses are the local public transport — cheap but not always reliable or comfortable
- Private transfers are the most comfortable way to travel between cities. We offer door-to-door service
- Taxis are affordable within cities (agree on price beforehand or use a metered taxi)
Food & Drink
Albanian cuisine is Mediterranean with Turkish and Balkan influences. Must-try dishes: byrek (savoury pastry), tavë kosi (baked lamb with yoghurt), qofte (grilled meatballs), and fresh seafood on the coast. Coffee culture is huge — Albanians drink more espresso per capita than Italians. Raki (grape brandy) is the national spirit, often offered as a welcome drink.
SIM Cards & Internet
Tourist SIM cards are cheap (€5–10 for a month of data) and available at Vodafone, ONE, or ALBtelecom shops in any city. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Coverage is good in cities and along the coast, but can be patchy in remote mountain areas.
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestone streets in old towns)
- Sunscreen and hat (the Albanian sun is strong May–September)
- A light jacket for evenings, even in summer
- Swimsuit — you'll find beaches everywhere
- Cash in small denominations (Lek) for markets and small shops
- European plug adapter (Type C/F)
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% at restaurants is standard. Taxi drivers don't expect tips but appreciate rounding up. Tour guides typically receive €5–10 per person for a full-day tour.