Albania Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Driving in Albania: Road Rules & Tips for Tourists

• Driving License: EU, UK, US, and many international licenses are valid in Albania for up to 1 year. Non-EU/UK/US drivers should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national license for car rentals.
• Road Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on highways like the SH1. Always carry your license, passport, and car rental documents.
• Toll Roads: Albania has limited toll roads. The A1 highway (Tirana to Kosovo) is the main toll road, known as the “Nation’s Highway.” Tolls are relatively inexpensive, around 5 EUR for a full trip. Payment is in cash (Lek or Euro).
• Road Conditions: Roads in cities like Tirana and Durres are generally good, but rural and mountainous areas (e.g., the Albanian Alps or the road to Gjirokastër) can be narrow, winding, and poorly maintained. Exercise caution, especially at night or during rain.
• Parking: Parking in Tirana can be challenging due to limited spaces. Use designated parking areas to avoid fines. In smaller towns and tourist areas like Saranda, parking is easier but still monitor signs for restrictions.
• Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance may be limited outside major cities, so carry a spare tire and basic tools.
• Useful Resource: For more driving information, visit the Albanian Road Authority website.

Albanian Currency: Using the Lek for Your Trip

• Albanian Lek: Albania uses the Albanian Lek (ALL) as its official currency. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Lek, and notes in 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 Lek.
• Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange offices in cities like Tirana or Durres for the best rates. Avoid exchanging at airports or unofficial vendors due to high fees. Euros are often accepted in tourist areas like the Albanian Riviera, but change may be given in Lek.
• Payment Methods: Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Tirana and tourist areas. However, cash is preferred in rural areas, small businesses, and markets like the Kruja Bazaar.
• ATMs: ATMs are common in cities and tourist destinations, but less so in rural areas. Most accept international cards, though fees may apply. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues.

Albania Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Need to Know

• Local Laws: Drug possession, including marijuana, is illegal and can lead to imprisonment. Public drinking is frowned upon outside designated areas like bars or restaurants, and fines may apply in cities like Tirana.
• Cultural Sensitivities: Albanians are generally hospitable, but respect local customs. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Et’hem Bey Mosque in Tirana or Orthodox churches in Berat. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like the Kosovo conflict.
• Photography Restrictions: Photography is generally allowed, but avoid taking photos of military installations or border areas, especially near Kosovo or Greece. Ask permission before photographing locals, particularly in rural areas.
• Beach Regulations: On public beaches like those in Ksamil, follow local rules—no littering, and respect designated swimming areas. Some beaches may charge a small fee for access or sunbeds during peak season.
• Customs Rules: You can bring up to 200 cigarettes and 1 liter of spirits duty-free. Declare cash over 1,000,000 ALL (or equivalent) when entering or leaving. Prohibited items include narcotics, weapons, and certain cultural artifacts without permits.
• Complaints: For travel-related issues, contact the Albanian Ministry of Tourism and Environment. Visit their official website for more information.
• Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for general emergencies. For legal issues, contact your embassy in Tirana—most Western countries have diplomatic representation in the capital.

Albania Travel Safety: Stay Secure on Your Journey

• Crime in Albania: Albania is generally safe, with low violent crime rates. Petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas such as Tirana’s Skanderbeg Square or Durres’ markets—keep valuables secure.
• Road Safety: Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and poorly maintained roads in rural areas. Mountain roads like the SH20 to the Albanian Alps are narrow and lack guardrails—drive cautiously, especially in winter when snow or ice is common.
• Health Risks: Tap water is safe in most urban areas like Tirana, but bottled water is recommended in rural regions. Food hygiene standards are generally good, but stick to busy restaurants to avoid foodborne illnesses.
• Natural Hazards: Albania is prone to earthquakes due to its location on several fault lines—familiarize yourself with safety protocols. Flooding can occur in spring, particularly in low-lying areas like Shkodra.
• Medical Facilities: Public hospitals in Tirana, like the Mother Teresa University Hospital, provide basic care, but facilities in rural areas are limited. Private clinics in the capital are better equipped—travel insurance covering medical evacuation is recommended.
• Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for general emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). The tourist police in Tirana (dial 129) can assist with minor issues or language barriers.
• Border Areas: Avoid unmarked border areas near Kosovo due to occasional tensions and the risk of landmines from past conflicts. Stick to official crossings like Qafë Morinë.

Flights to Albania: Travel Options

Albania’s main gateway is Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA), located 17 km northwest of Tirana. A smaller airport, Kukës International Airport (KFZ), serves low-cost flights in the northeast. Most international flights arrive at TIA from cities like London, Milan, and Vienna.