Tirana: The Heart of Albania
Tirana, Albania's bustling capital, is a city of contrasts, where traditional and modern blend. With its lively streets, colourful buildings and rich history, Tirana offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Tirana:
Skanderbeg Square
Skanderbeg Square, named after Albania's national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, is the heart of Tirana. Surrounded by important government buildings and the National History Museum, this square is a great place to start your visit.
Food Bank Tower (Kulla e Sahatit)
Built in the 19th century, this historic clock tower offers visitors a panoramic view of the city. You can climb the stairs and enjoy the view of Tirana and the surrounding mountains.
BUNK'ART
This former communist bunker complex has now been converted into a museum and art space. BUNK'ART delves into Albania's history and offers insight into the country's communist period.
The Great Park of Tirana
This beautiful green park is an oasis in the middle of the city. You can walk there, take a boat ride on the artificial lake or just relax and enjoy nature.
The New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri)
A lively market full of stalls selling local products, crafts and delicacies. It is a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and pick up some souvenirs.
Food in Tirana
Albanian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean flavours and Balkan traditions. Sample traditional dishes such as "byrek" (a cake filled with cheese or meat) or "tavë kosi" (a yoghurt and lamb dish). Tirana's many cafés and restaurants offer both local and international dishes.
Centuries-old mosques and churches
Tirana is a melting pot of cultures and religions. Visit the E'them Bey mosque, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture, or the Orthodox Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, a modern architectural marvel.
Dajti Mountains
For the adventurous, a trip to the Dajti Mountains is a must. You can take the Dajti Ekspres cable car and enjoy breathtaking views of Tirana and the Adriatic Sea.
Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Tirana comes alive with its lively nightlife. There are plenty of bars, clubs and lounges where you can enjoy music, dancing and local drinks.
Tirana, with its mix of old and new, offers a unique experience for every traveller. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature or just want to relax, Tirana has it all.
