What to do in Tirana, Albania? Your Atractions Guide in Tirana

Overview of Tirana

Tirana, the capital city of Albania, is a captivating and colorful city that beautifully mixes modernity and tradition. The city boasts of a rich blend of Albanian and Ottoman history that is reflected in its architecture, museums, and landmarks. While here, you’ll be able to indulge in great food, music, and art while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. Let’s take a look at ten places you should visit, and five places you might want to avoid in Tirana.

Places to Visit

1. Skanderbeg Square

One of the main attractions, Skanderbeg Square is the central Square of Tirana. Here, you get to see the National Museum of History, the Et’hëm Bey Mosque, and the Palace of Culture.

2. Et’hëm Bey Mosque

The Et’hëm Bey Mosque is a monument of Culture of Albania, and it’s one of the oldest mosques in the region. The mosque has great historical significance and breathtaking decorations, which make it a must-visit.

3. National History Museum

The National Museum of History tells the story of Albania’s rich past. Its exhibitions include ancient times artifacts and Albania’s communist history.

4. BUNK’ART

Bunk’art is a reflective museum of the history of the Albanian Communist era, showcasing the bunkers that were built during the communist regime. Deeply insightful and engaging.

5. Dajti Mountain

Dajti Mountain is the perfect spot if you wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It provides a panoramic view of the city and some fun adventurous activities like hiking.

6. The Pyramid of Tirana

The Pyramid of Tirana is an iconic landmark and a symbol of the city’s rich history. The place is perfect for relaxing and getting a glimpse of the Albanian art scene.

7. Zgara Korçare

You can’t leave Tirana without trying the traditional Balkan cuisine. Zgara Korçare is the perfect spot that provides the best grilled meat and exceptional service.

8. Blloku

This area was once reserved for communist officials, but since the 1990s, Blloku became the trendy neighborhood filled with lively cafes, bars, and restaurants that offer an excellent experience of Tirana nightlife.

9. Tanners’ Bridge

The Tanners’ Bridge is the oldest bridge that still stands in Tirana. It’s a historical landmark that is looked upon with much reverence by the local people. The bridge has an undeniable charm and an interesting history that’s worth the visit.

10. House of Leaves Museum

The House of Leaves Museum is designed to showcase the history of the Albanian State Security from 1945 to 1991. The building used to be the headquarters for the State security department during the communist regime.

Places to Avoid

1. Skanderbeg Statue

The statue is not worthy of avoiding, but it’s usually overcrowded with souvenir vendors and street performers, making it less authentic and less peaceful for visitors.

2. Bllok Cemetery

Although a historical site of importance, the cemetery should be avoided as it does not have any proper maintenance and is not safe for visitors to explore due to its current layout.

3. Exbllok

Exbllok is the former name for Blloku district, which means that it shouldn’t be avoided as a district but only as a name by some locals who still associate it with the communist regime.

4. Rruga Myslym Shyri

There isn’t anything bad about this street, but just as Skanderbeg statue, it’s crowded with vendors and is known to be targeted by pickpockets.

5. The Bloody Fortress

This historical landmark is not easy to get to and is not well kept, making it dangerous and not worth visiting.

Overview about the city