If you’re planning your trip to Albania, you’ve probably come across plenty of conventional guides detailing what to do in Tirana. From the Grand Park to Bunk’Art to Albanian Night, the country’s first-ever evening show where you can dress in traditional Albanian clothes, Tirana is brimming with incredible experiences and fascinating history, culture and attractions that you don’t want to miss!
But if you’re looking for more under the radar, unusual things to do in Tirana, we’ve got you covered. From the quaint to the historical, Tirana is full of undiscovered sites and experiences that definitely deserve your attention.
Here are five Tirana hidden gems you shouldn’t miss on your next trip to this capital in the Balkans:
1. The Wall: Truck Ruins at the German Embassy
Curious about hidden historical spots in Tirana? On July 2, 1990, a major historical event happened in Tirana that rarely gets mentioned by local tour guides and history books – a truck was driven by an Albanian man desperate to flee the harsh communist regime into the Western German embassy’s walls. The breach he created allowed over 3,000 desperate Albanians to flock into the embassy’s courtyard, bringing international attention to the plight of Albanians desperate to flee the harsh Hoxha regime.
The incident was significant in bringing attention to the atrocities committed by the government and bringing about its end; the cabin of Ylli Bodinaku’s truck has been renovated and left outside the walls of the German Embassy as a commemoration of one brave mans’ attempts to break free from the tyranny of the communist regime and help thousands of his fellow countrymen escape. You can see the truck and a plaque commemorating the breach site today, here, for free.
2. Mosaic of Tirana
Architecture lovers will salivate over this hidden Tirana gem – the Mosaic of Tirana is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the center and houses what is believed to be a third-century remnant of a Roman house called the “Villa Rustica” by archaeologists. The site was later home to a Paleo-Christian Basilica and received government recognition as a cultural monument in 1973.
The well-preserved mosaic shows a snippet of what life must have looked like in the past in ancient Roman times, and also includes contemporary art exhibits and sculptures that give it a modern twist. Informative signage at the site gives more details about the site’s historical and cultural significance. We recommend checking ahead of time to make sure it’s open, as the site has been undergoing renovation recently as more and more tourists discover this Tirana hidden gem!
And don’t forget to visit the nearby lively cafes – Streha is a popular spot for local artists and young bohemian types, offering up delicious drinks in an outdoor setting that sometimes hosts local vendors hawking goods in an open-air flea market.
3. Bike Around Lake Farka
Want to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in Tirana’s natural beauty? The nearby suburb of Farkë offers a serene escape just minutes away from the center of the city, especially if you rent a bike or take the bus there (it’s less than 10 kilometers away from the capital).
This artificial lake is perfect for going on a jog, walk or bike ride. It’s a great spot to disconnect from the chaos of Tirana and the popularity of its Grand Park; Farka is still a bit under the radar with tourists, and offers a well-paved path around the lake that’s perfect for enjoying a serene day away from the noise of the capital. Here, you can snap gorgeous pictures of nearby Mount Dajti against the azure waters of the lake.
4. Sali Shijaku House
Curious to discover some local art in a carefully-preserved townhouse in the heart of Tirana? Sali Shijaku was a highly honored Albanian artist, receiving multiple Republic Awards and titles including “Merited Artist,” “People’s Painter,” and “Honor of the District of Tirana” by the government, and you can visit an ancient townhouse-turned-gallery that honors his legacy and artwork in just a 15 minute walk away from Skanderbeg Square.
The House of Sali Shijaku is a centuries-old building housing the paintings of a painter that also serves up coffee and food. You can have a pleasant lunch here consisting of traditional Albanian food, a quick coffee and then go inside the gallery to admire the unique and traditional paintings of Sali Shijaku for just three euros. The pre-Ottoman structure houses sculptures and paintings that the young grandson of the painter is sometimes present to explain, and the outdoor patio/cafe area is a great spot to relax and step back in time in the heart of the bustling city.
5. Backstreet Antique Shops near Pazari i Ri
Do you appreciate a good antique shop? Tirana is full of them – if you haven’t already bought your souvenirs and handmade crafts at Albanian Night’s Bazaar, check out the antique shops behind Pazari i Ri. These backstreets are a sight in and of themselves, as here you’ll see Albanian vendors hawking everything from fruits to bags of coffee to antiques to bicycles. There are plenty of hidden storefronts and weekend stalls selling everything from old communist pins and vintage postcards to Ottoman-era trinkets, coins, military medals and out-of-print books in Albanian, Italian and even Russian.
These little spots don’t always have signs or clear hours, so it’s worth poking your head into any open doors or asking nearby locals where to find these shops. The best finds often come from asking around and being open to a bit of wandering – we recommend starting your expedition behind Pazari i Ri and walking a bit to find the best antique shops in Tirana!
That’s it for Tirana’s unusual tourist sites and what to do on your next trip to the capital of Albania. If you haven’t already checked out Albanian Night, it’s the best souvenir shop in Tirana and puts on an amazing evening show that’s worth participating in before you head back home. Happy travels!
