A rising Balkan capital, Tirana is the biggest city in Albania, home to over 50% of the population. With so many things to do in a city featuring some of the best restaurants in Europe, the question isn’t what to do, but rather, how to pick among all the options!
Albanian Night is here to help you out: here are the best things to do in Tirana on your visit to Albania.
1. Skanderbeg Square & Albanian Night
Long a meeting point for locals and Albanians from the world over, each tile lining the ground of this square makes up a mosaic of stones from different regions of Albania, representing the unity of all Albanians. The meeting point of the locals, not to mention the center square of all Albanian people across the borders, Skanderbeg square isn’t just a place to visit it’s also a symbol of the Albanian identity.
Here you will find a captivating fusion of architectural styles, from the imposing communist and Italian government buildings to the Ottoman mosque, Baroque clock tower, and sleek, modern skyscrapers. Skanderbeg Square is a symbol of Albania’s rich cultural history, showcasing the diverse foreign influences that have shaped the nation. The square is named after the Albanian commander Gjergj Kastrioti, known by his moniker, ‘Skanderbeg.’ His statue and the infamous mosaic of the National Historical Museum, The Albanians, symbolize the formation and triumph of a distinct Albanian identity against the various invasions the country suffered throughout history.
Just a 2-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square, you’ll find Albanian Night, Tirana’s first-ever signature nightly show hosted in our cultural center. This immersive experience celebrates Albania’s intangible cultural heritage with traditional clothing, the enchanting sounds of Iso-Polyphony, and regional dishes that offer a true taste of the country’s culinary traditions.
Did we mention Albanian Bazaar, where over 500 artisans showcase their handcrafted creations and even offer workshops to teach visitors the art of Albanian craftsmanship? Or that you can book a a daily class to craft a rakia cocktail, savor exquisite regional wines, or learn to dance valle, Albania’s vibrant and traditional folk dance, here?
2. Et’hem Bey Mosque
Today the Et’hem Bey Mosque in Tirana, the final remnant of Ottoman influence in the center of Tirana, is an active place of worship. Recently renovated, the mosque exemplifies the former empire’s dedication to beautifying places of worship through detailed artwork, with the interior walls full of frescoes depicting trees, waterfalls and bridges. This unforgettable site showcases the typical architecture of its era with its prayer hall and portico surrounding its north minaret. In an homage to the former Ottoman capital, the chronogram adorning its wall declares that just as Hagia Sophia has given eternal beauty to Istanbul, so has this mosque to Tirana.
The Et’hem Bey Mosque in Tirana is an active place of worship, so be mindful of adherents of the faith practicing their rites at this holy site. Perhaps the best time to visit the mosque is during the call to prayer, when the Hoxha (imam) calls the faithful to prayer. Skanderbeg Square turns magical at this time.
Many people are attracted to the Et’hem Bey Mosque in Tirana for the charm of stepping backwards in time, into an era when Ottoman influence was at its height. Others enjoy the mosque as an intricate work of art, with lots of details waiting to be discovered by vigilant eyes. With such a rich and varied history, this mosque should definitely top your list of things to do in Tirana.
3. Grand Park of Tirana
The Grand Park of Tirana is the city’s largest park. Located in the heart of the capital, the park encircles the enchanting Artificial Lake of Tirana. Exploring the lake and its environs provides a much-needed natural reprieve from the densely-populated urban center. As one of the top things to do in Tirana, this expansive green haven offers a mix of tranquility and leisure as well as opportunities for exercise with its basketball and tennis courts, 6 kilometeres of dedicated running lanes and a long, winding bike path. Low key ways to enjoy the park include a walk in its forest or a lakeside picnic on a sunny day.
The Grand Park of Tirana is a great spot to connect with others and make new friends as people come here to escape the concrete jungle. But some things never change – much like life in the city proper, Albanians love to keep things slihgtly chaotic with cyclists taking up the running lane and pedestrians walking in the biking path. The park is also a favorite spot for people watching: Albanians young and old love to relax here, and the contrast between the city’s Western-minded youth and the older generation that grew up during communism is on full display.
4. National Historical Museum
Hosted in one of the most impressive buildings of Skenderbeg Square, the National Historical Museum of Tirana catches your attention immediately.
The iconic entrance hosts the famous mural mosaic, “The Albanians,” showcasing Albanian figures from ancient to modern history. Recently renovated thanks to funding from the European Union, the colorful mosaic boasts an array of colors and historical figures as a testimony to Albanians’ undying commitment to protecting their identity. The central figure is a strong woman in traditional dress holding a rifle, representing the Albanian motherland in all its glory and beauty.
The museum features multiple chambers, each covering a different historical era and focus. Whether you’re interested in Albanian antiquity, the Middle Ages, Orthodox Iconography or learning more about Mother Teresa, this museum is full of fascinating artifacts and paintings that take the visitor back in time. Plan to spend half a day in the museumto cover all the different sections. Hiring a local tour guide to explain each section in depth is a popular option for many tourists who want to understand the country’s history in more depth.
We recommend visiting the museum on a very hot, humid day, or when it’s rainy!
5. Bunk’Art 2
Originally constructed between 1981 and 1986 as a hidden bunker by the country’s paranoid communist party, this place is now a unique museum shedding light on Communist-era oppression. Bunk’Art 2 is located in the center of Tirana in a repurposed top-secret nuclear bunker. The 1,000-square-meter bunker unveils the harsh reality of political persecution with photographs and equipment. This museum is an extension of Bunk’Art and focuses on the legendary Sigurimi secret police unit in charge of spying on and torturing the communist regime’s opponents.
This somber museum details for how close to five decades, a ruthless dictator closed off the country from the rest of the world and kept the civilian population under lock and key. This bunker, filled to the brim with the stories and pictures of over 100.000 victims of the Albanian communist party who were prosecuted, tortured or murdered, bears witness to the horrors of the past with the hopes of building a brighter future.
One of the most visited museums in town, Bunk Art 2 is certainly one of the highlights of things to do in Tirana. Not a conventional museum, the cold, reconstructed dome at the entrance typifies communist architecture and serves as testimony to the country’s dark past.
6. House of Leaves
This museum in Tirana gets its name from all the clambering plants crawling their way up the building that today hosts the museum of secret surveillance in communist Albania. Positioned in Tirana’s center near the Orthodox Resurrection of Christ Cathedral and the National Bank of Albania, the structure served as the Central Directorate of the Secret Service from 1944 to 1991. The House of Leaves Museum unravels the dark period of Albania’s history under communist rule, presenting the terrifying reality of living under the watchful eye of the Sigurimi secret police unit.
An eerie sense of dread overcomes the visitor the moment they step over the threshold of this 1930s house. Though it started its life as a maternity hospital, things at this building soon took a sinister change when the Directorate of State Security, the Sigurimi, converted the structure into a headquarters that was used as a surveillance and detention center and place of torture. Used by the Nazi Gestapo over the course of World War II, it’s almost as if you can hear the screams of victims as they were tortured for their crimes of opposing the dictator, practicing their religion or not conforming to the ethos of the communist era.
7. Tanners’ Bridge
The Tanners’ Bridge is a low-key attraction to observe for a quick pit stop during your trip to Tirana. The Lana River, which used to pass under it, has since been diverted away from the arch of this bridge so it flows to its southern side.
A quaint and small structure, this bridge is built with Ottoman-style arches to link Shengjergj Street. In old times, this would connect the surrounding highlands with the city itself.
8. Fortress of Justinian
They say all the roads lead to Rome, and the Fortress of Justinian was ground zero for the city of Tirana. This is the most ancient settlement of the city, with archaeological discoveries dating back to the 6th century BC. The Ottoman-era wall, covered in vines, remains a visible relic, and its foundations constitute a portion of Murat Toptani Street. A mosaic near the Albanian Parliament building nearby commemorates the country’s independence.
Today this castle is full of pedestrian streets, cafes and restaurants. The Kalaja e Tiranes (Castle of Tirana), as locals call it, contains a high-end corridor of restaurants and shops that will appeal to the modern consumer’s sensibilities. The Justinian Fortress’ history is fascinating and deserves a good read: its construction prompted the creation of a network of of castles such as the Ndroqi, Ishmi, Preza and Dorza castles, whose strategic placement was intended to defend it.
9. Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral
Symbolizing Albania’s commitment to religious coexistence, the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral stands at walking distance from Skanderbeg Square. It’s the third largest cathedral of its kind in the Balkans and will certainly make it to the top of your list of things to do in Tirana. The cathedral, the chapel of the nativity, the bell tower, the residence of the Holy Synod, the cultural center, a library, two other chapels and a small museum are all located within this complex. Its stunning towers and facade make taking photos of the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral a must.
Major cultural events, musical concerts and exhibitions are often held at this beautiful spot of spirituality, so make sure to attend these often free events if they coincide with the dates of your visit. But even without anything special going on, the building and its gorgeous facades make for an amazing photo shooting experience. The energy and welcoming environment of this place of worship typically leave visitors clamoring for more.
10. Clock Tower of Tirana
The Clock Tower of Tirana was built in 1822. Its four facades face the city’s main ancient roads, serving as a testament to the Ottoman Empires’ enduring commitment to trade and travel over the course of its rule in Albania.
This monument stands not just as a beautiful and historical timekeeper but also as a symbol of the passing of time and the timelessness of travel. Offering a beautiful view over Skanderbeg Square, visiting the Clock Tower of Tirana is easy and convenient, especially given its proximity to the old mosque of Tirana.
We highly recommend visiting the tower! The best time of day to clamber up its stairs is sunset, when the sun dips along Rruga e Durrësit and providing an excellent opportunity to snap golden pictures of Skanderbeg Square.
Clock Tower of Tirana Hours: the tower is usually open from 9 AM until 6 PM, except Saturdays when it closes at 2 PM and Sunday, when it is closed the whole day
Clock Tower of Tirana Ticket Cost: 200 Albanian Lek
11. Parku Rinia
Parku Rinia, known by locals as Taiwan Square or Taiwan Park, is one of Tirana’s few green spaces. The 29 hectare space features a complex of bars and restaurants, a casino, a free kids’ playground, Tirana’s only dog park and a few historical monuments. At walking distance from the Pyramid of Tirana and Skanderbeg Square, this park offers respite from busy city life and an opportunity to sit and enjoy a coffee or meal after touring the main attractions of the city. This park, whose name means “Youth Park” in English, was given its name to honor the youths who planted its trees over the span of just 24 hours on a voluntary basis.
Most people today go to the park to enjoy a meal at the Taiwan Center, sip a coffee at one of the many cafes, have a walk or bring their kids to the playground. Taiwan Center boasts a bowling alley and arcade, alongside its casino. Those traveling with furry friends will find the park a necessary pitstop, as it’s the only dog park in Tirana where their petes can go off leash and enjoy themselves to the fullest extent in the city.
12. Pazari i Ri
Pazari i Ri, or the New Bazaar, is a bustling market area where locals and tourists alike come to shop for fresh produce, meats, and traditional Albanian goods. The market has been recently renovated, and its colorful stalls are a feast for the eyes.
In addition to food, the bazaar is a great place to find crafts and souvenirs. The surrounding streets are lined with cafés and restaurants, offering a taste of traditional Albanian cuisine.
13. Tirana National Archaeological Museum
Pazari i Ri, “the new bazaar,” is a lively, renovated area dotted with traditional Albanian bars & restaurants serving traditional cuisine and drinks. Built in 1931, the city developed this new site for a sprawling bazaar as the old one near the Clock Tower of Tirana could not accommodate the burgeoning stalls that the traders making their way through and residing in the city required. Originally a market dedicated to the trade of meat, fish and vegetables, today, the market is mostly a place for tourists to enjoy a sprawling complex of restaurants, souvenir shops and bars. Vendors still come here to set up kiosks hawking produce, meat and fish, as well as handmade souvenirs and unique goods from the countryside.
An eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, boutique hotels and authentic villas turned hostels call this slice of Tirana home. To get an authentic feel for how locals spend time in the capital of Albania, you could go for an afternoon xhiro (stroll). Albanians meet up regularly to go out for a xhiro, and once you embark on your own, you’ll undoubtedly notice others out for their casual stroll through town, Pazari i Ri being one of the most popular spots for it. Visitors looking to try their hand at following a local recipe and cook at home can enter the lively market to buy fresh ingredients to have an authentic local experience. Otherwise, many tourists go to Oda, a traditional Albanian restaurant dishing out mouth-watering qofte (meatballs), byrek (puff-pastry filled with cheese, meat or vegetables) and fergese (spicy cheese dish) while enjoying beautiful live Albanian music.
14. Enver Hoxha House
This stately villa in the center of Blloku used to be the residence of the communist dictator of Albania, Enver Hoxha.
Located near Parku Rinia, this neighborhood of Tirana used to be the residential area of all communist party leaders. Most Albanians were forbidden from entering this area and were unaware of what happened on its streets. Most Albanians entered the neighborhood for the first time when communism fell in 1991.
Built in the brutalist architecture style, this house can only be gazed upon from its fence as it is closed to the general public. The government is still deciding on what to do with it and how to proceed with the legacy of a dictator who terrorized and abused his country for close to 45 years; the house will mostlikely be turned into a museum or cultural heritage site similar to how other communist buildings in Tirana have been transformed into galleries and exhibits teaching visitors about the history of the dark era in Albanian history.
15. Ride the Cable Car to Mount Dajti
Mount Dajti is a short bus ride away from the city center. However, most visitors prefer to take the majestic cable card up to the mountain. At walking distance from Bunk Art 1, the Dakti Ekspres lower cable car station will take you on a short, 20 minute ride to the upper cable car station.
On this ride you will get some of the most beautiful views of the city, especially if you decide to take it during sunset. We suggest going on a day trip to Dajti, departing from the lower cable car station in the morning on the way and then riding it back down during the golden hour. Stunning views, amazing hikes and excellent local food all await you at the top of the cable car ride to the top of this majestic mountain on the outskirts of Tirana.
Don’t Forget to come by Albanian Night!
The only place to experience Albania’s first-ever signature nightly show is Albanian Night. Wear traditional Albanian clothes, dance to the UNESCO-recognized Iso-Polyphonia and partake in regional dishes to fully immerse yourself in Albania’s intangible cultural heritage, all in the center of Tirana.
Get in touch with us today if you have any questions about what to do in Albania! We hope to see you soon.
