Welcome to Albania! A land where history, breathtaking nature, and heartfelt hospitality come together in perfect harmony. From the crystal-clear beaches of the Riviera to the majestic peaks of the Albanian Alps, there’s something magical here for every type of traveler.
But to make the most of your journey, you should not only know what to visit, but also where to find help, how to get around, and where key services are located. Here’s your complete travel guide!
✅ TOP THINGS TO DO IN ALBANIA
1. Explore Historic Cities
- Berat, the city of a thousand windows – UNESCO World Heritage Site with Ottoman architecture and icon museums.
- Gjirokastër, the stone city – castle views, traditional houses, and the national armory museum.
- Kruja, the city of the national hero – medieval bazaar, castle, and the Skanderbeg Museum.
2. Beach Time on the Riviera
- Dhërmi, Himara, Jale, Ksamil – turquoise waters and Mediterranean vibes.
- Butrint – A UNESCO-listed archaeological park surrounded by lush nature.
3. Mountain Adventures and Eco-Tourism
- The Albanian Alps – Theth, Valbona, and Lëpushë are perfect for hiking and pristine nature.
- Lake Koman Ferry – Albania’s own mini-fjord and a must-see journey.
4. Taste Authentic Albanian Cuisine
- Try Tavë Kosi in Elbasan, Fërgesë in Tirana, Baklava in Gjirokastër, and grilled meat in Kukës.
- Don’t miss out on homemade raki and local wines.
🛠 ESSENTIAL FACILITIES & WHERE TO FIND THEM
When traveling, practical needs are inevitable. Here’s how to handle them in Albania:
🏥 1. Medical Help & Pharmacies
- Public hospitals in every major city – main one is Mother Teresa University Hospital in Tirana (QSUT).
- Private clinics: such as American Hospital, Hygeia, and Salus – available in major cities.
- Pharmacies are everywhere. Search “pharmacy” on Google Maps or ask for a “24-hour pharmacy”.
📞 Emergency medical number: 127
👮♂️ 2. Police & Safety
- Police stations are located in all towns and tourist areas.
- Tourist Police units are available in Tirana, Durrës, Saranda, Shkodër, and other key cities.
📞 General emergency number: 112
🚌 3. Transportation
- Within cities: Licensed taxis (look for logo or use apps like UPs Taxi, Speed Taxi).
- Intercity travel: Buses from terminals (in Tirana near the Customs area).
- Minibuses (furgons): Ask locals for directions, as they don’t always use fixed stations.
💡 Useful apps: Rome2Rio, Google Maps, Maps.me
💳 4. Banks & ATMs
- Major banks: Raiffeisen, BKT, Credins, Intesa Sanpaolo.
- ATMs are located near banks, shopping centers, and city squares.
🌐 5. Internet & SIM Cards
- Buy local SIM cards at the airport or any phone shop: Vodafone, One, or ALBtelecom.
- Free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafés, hotels, and restaurants.
ℹ️ 6. Tourist Information Centers
- Tirana: Near Skanderbeg Square.
- Gjirokastër, Berat, Shkodër, Saranda: Usually found in city centers or old towns.
- Look for signs with “i” for Information or search “Tourist Info” on Google Maps.
🗺 HOW TO FIND WHATEVER YOU NEED
If you can’t find a service or are unsure where to go, try this:
- Google Maps: Type in “hospital near me”, “ATM”, “pharmacy open now”, etc.
- Ask the locals: Albanians are incredibly friendly and often speak English.
- Helpful apps:
- MAPS.ME (offline maps)
- TripAdvisor (for restaurants and things to do)
- Rome2Rio (transportation routes)
- TreasuresOfAlbania.com (Licensed National Tourist guide)
🗣 USEFUL ALBANIAN PHRASES
| Albanian | English |
|---|---|
| Spital | Hospital |
| Farmaci | Pharmacy |
| Polici | Police officer |
| Ku është…? | Where is…? |
| Ndihmë | Help |
| Faleminderit | Thank you |
🌟 PRO TIP:
Don’t hesitate to contact me – I am a Registered and Licensed National Tourist Guide in Albania, I’m just a WhatsApp message away from you – +355684258606!
