24 hours in Tirana, Albania – the culmination of a trip I didn’t mean to make. I arrived in Tirana thinking I was in Greece as my Facebook post from the time attests:
“OK, so this ‘Welcome to Albania’ sign comes as a bit of a shock. I’ve no idea how TF I’ve ended up in Albania. I was going to Greece. I think I just spent 13 hours on the wrong boat”
Despite not being in Greece, I was still impressed with the friendliness and helpfulness of the people I met – in particular, the car park attendant at Durres port who gave me a free lift into the city centre and helped show me around a little. However, unlike other trips, I really didn’t visit hardly any of the places on the list of stuff to do and see. Check out more summer guides and winter guides on the iRide website
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A Brief History of Tirana
Tirana’s history dates back to ancient times when it was founded as a small settlement by Illyrian tribes. Over the centuries, the city grew in importance, serving as a strategic center for trade and commerce in the region. In the 20th century, Tirana underwent rapid urbanization and development, becoming the capital of Albania in 1920. Since then, the city has evolved into a lively cultural hub, blending its rich heritage with modern influences.
Discovering Tirana: Must-See Attractions
- Skanderbeg Square: Explore the heart of Tirana at Skanderbeg Square, named after the Albanian national hero. Admire the monumental Skanderbeg Statue and the historic Et’hem Bey Mosque, both iconic landmarks in the city. Entrance to the mosque is free.
- BunkArt 2: Delve into Albania’s communist past at BunkArt 2, a museum housed in a former nuclear bunker beneath the city. Learn about the country’s tumultuous history through multimedia exhibits, artifacts, and personal accounts. Admission is 500 Albanian Lek (approximately €4).
- National History Museum: Dive into Albania’s ancient past at the National History Museum, located in the heart of Tirana. Explore its extensive collection of archaeological artifacts, documents, and artworks, spanning thousands of years of history. Admission is 300 Albanian Lek (approximately €2.50).
- Dajti Ekspres Cable Car: Take a scenic ride on the Dajti Ekspres cable car to Mount Dajti, offering panoramic views of Tirana and the surrounding countryside. At the summit, enjoy hiking trails, restaurants, and recreational activities. Round-trip tickets start at 800 Albanian Lek (approximately €6.50).
- Tirana Pyramid: Discover a unique piece of architectural history at the Tirana Pyramid, a former mausoleum dedicated to Albania’s communist leader, Enver Hoxha. Today, the pyramid stands as a symbol of the country’s transition from communism to democracy.
- Blloku District: Experience Tirana’s vibrant nightlife and cafe culture in the Blloku district, once the exclusive enclave of Albania’s political elite. Today, Blloku is a trendy neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, and shops, popular with locals and visitors alike.
- Grand Park of Tirana: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the Grand Park of Tirana, a sprawling green oasis along the Lana River. Enjoy picnics, jogging, and leisurely strolls amidst lush landscapes, playgrounds, and outdoor cafes.
- Tanners’ Bridge: Step back in time at the Tanners’ Bridge, one of Tirana’s oldest surviving landmarks dating back to the Ottoman era. Admire its stone arches and traditional architecture, and imagine the bustling trade that once took place along its banks.
Travelling to Tirana
Travelling to Tirana is relatively easy, as the city is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) serves as the main gateway to the city, with flights from major European cities and connections to destinations around the world. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi, airport shuttle, or public bus to reach the city center. Additionally, Tirana is accessible by train and bus from other cities in Albania and neighboring countries, offering convenient transportation options for travelers. You can also get here by ferry – as I unwittingly discovered.
Once in Tirana, getting around is easy, thanks to the city’s efficient bus and taxi services, as well as bike-sharing programs for eco-conscious travelers. Whether you arrive by air, rail, or road, Tirana welcomes visitors with its unique blend of history, culture, and hospitality.
