What Are The Top Things to Do in Tirana?

Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania. It lies at the heart of both the country and the Balkan peninsula and serves as one of the most visited places in the region. Tourists can explore Tirana’s vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and dynamic nightlife. Ironically, despite being one of the most visited cities in Albania, many travelers have yet to uncover the many things to do in Tirana. In this guide, we will give you an overview of the best Tirana attractions for your upcoming trip, along with suggested activities for each day. We’ll also suggest some great places to stay in Tirana and provide insider tips for travelers on a budget.

Where to Stay in Tirana

No trip to Tirana would be complete without finding the perfect place to stay. There are many incredible hotels and accommodations spread throughout the city, so finding one that suits your taste should be easy.

Luxurious Hotels

If you’re looking for luxury, Tirana has some excellent opulence try:

• Rosewood Tirana Hotel
• Hilton Tirana Hotel & Spa
• Ibis Tirana Hotel

Budget Accommodation Options

If you’re on a budget, there are still many bedrooms for every budget:

• Bright IRLITA hotel
• The City Hotel
• AlbHotel Pallati i Ri
• Parku I Artit Hotel

Top Things to Do in Tirana

Roaming around Tirana is like a journey through Albania’s turbulent past and promising future. Don’t forget to add these unforgettable experiences to your must-do list:

Explore Skanderbeg Square

Located in the downtown area of Tirana, Skanderbeg Square is not only the most visited placein Albania but also one of the country’s largest thoroughfares and an important landmark in Tirana’s history. Its architectural layout incorporates both Socialist influences from Albania’s past and contemporary lines, making it a must visit attraction for tourists.The square not only symbolizes Tirana’s rebirth as a modern city but sets the precedent for other important buildings located in its proximity, such as the Opera House, National Museum and Clock Tower. Visitors will also find numerous al fresco dining options and street food stalls offering delicious snacks and meals for travelers on a budget. Also on the square stands an equestrian statue of Gjergj Kastriot Skenderbeg, the Albanian national hero who defended the country from falling into Ottoman hands during the 15th century. Legend says that touching his toe brings luck!

Take a Picture at Mount Dajatit

Atop Mount Dajatit sits a sculpture of Mother Teresa, looking out over the city of Tirana, that pays tribute to the Mother Teresa’s Albanian heritage and legacy, who was born in Skopje but was ethnically Albanian with family ties to Tirana. The beautiful statue atop Mount Dajatit is definitely one of Albania’s most recognizable landmarks and serves as an important symbol for the Albanian people, while also offering breathtaking views over the city of Tirana and its surrounding area from atop the mountaintop parkland.

Visit Et’Hem Bey Mosque

The Et’Hem Bey Mosque is one of Tirana’s most famous attractions, being one of the oldest pieces of cultural heritage in Albania. Built in 1821 by Molla Bey from Turkey, this distinctive building stands out from the rest of the buildings in Tirana due to its yellow color blended with its characteristic minarets and Ottoman design influences. Though religious services are no longer offered within the mosque, it is still considered an important religious landmark. Many visitors flock to catch sight of its intricate interiors and colorful Selendi carpets that adorn its spacious hallways.

Stroll Through Grand Park Lushnje

Grand Park Lushnje is one of Tirana’s many green parks located within city limits. It is known for its large outdoor amphitheater that can seat up to 10,000 people, perfect for gatherings and outdoor concerts. The parkland’s well-maintained walkways are ideal spots for taking a leisurely stroll surrounded by lush foliage and city life activities such as horseback riding lessons and attractions like ferris wheels for younger kids. Grand Park Lushnje is also home to City Zoo and a children’s playground which makes it a top hotspot for family outings or afternoon picnics during warmer months.

Visit Monument Of National Martyrs

This monument was built to commemorate all those who lost their lives in Albania’s struggle for independence from Islamic rule during World War II and their sacrifice for Albanian statehood. Inscribed on its simple granite wall is a moving inscription by poet Ismail Gjollesha that reads: “They gave their life for freedom, may their names remain forever”. The symbolism behind this monument is obvious; it was built as testament to those brave men and women who fought for what they believed in at great personal cost, such as imprisonment or death by guerilla forces. Visiting this landmark not only pays tribute to those who sacrificed their life in pursuit of government freedom but serves as a reminder that freedom isn’t taken lightly nor can it be taken without consequence.

Shop ’til You Drop in Blloku

Blloku is Tirana’s trendiest neighborhood and home to some of the city’s most affluent residents as well as numerous prestigious boutiques, bars, eateries, cafes and night clubs that are frequented by locals and visitors alike. Strolling around Blloku’s tree-lined street makes for a picturesque afternoon activity especially on sunny days when terraced cafes that offer a great view over the city skyline to enjoy your latte or espresso alongside delicious traditional bites like burek made from locally grown vegetables or fruits.

Visit National History Museum

The National History Museum is one of Albania’s best known cultural institutions and houses invaluable historical items from all different periods of evolution in Albania including maps, documents, photographs as well as reconstructed scenes depicting everyday life during different eras in Albanian history. A must visit museum while in Tirana, with divisions dedicated to ancient civilizations such as Greece, Rome and Illyria, World War II, Communism and post-communism eras among others makes it a top attraction in Tirana both for locals and visitors alike!

Conclusion

Tirana is an amazing city with plenty of things to do that should not be missed out on during your stay there! Whether you’re looking for luxurious hotels or inexpensive local flavor – you’ll find all your needs will be met throughout your travels in this charming capital city of Albania! From historical museums and monuments to glitzy nightlife – you’re sure to create some unforgettable memories during your visit!