If you are traveling to Albania, you will discover another Europe, very different from the western part of the continent. Precisely in that difference and in that distinction lies its magic. That's why we want to tell you what to see and do in Tirana and the surrounding area.
What to see and do in Tirana: an overview of a unique city
Don't expect a monumental paradise like Paris or Budapest. This does not detract from the charm of an enclave full of history and deeply connected to other countries, such as Greece. Here's what you can't miss in such a lesser-known capital city:
Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum
These two destinations are just a few minutes apart, so we recommend visiting them together. This square is the center of the city, a point where countless people converge every day. It is the perfect place to sit down and simply take the pulse of the city and discover how people live.
As for the museum, don't forget that you are in one of the closest points to the most historic main western civilizations ever. Macedonia, Greece and Italy are the closest countries.
Clock Tower and Et'hem Bey Mosque
The mark left by the Ottoman Empire in this city is immense, and these two buildings, beautiful and very particular, are good proof of this. Specifically, the Clock Tower was the tallest building in the country for decades.
Bunk'Art 2
Tirana's communist past is one of the great elements that define this city today. This was the largest bunker in all of Albania, designed precisely to protect its communist leader. A review of a side of history that is not always emphasized, and that you may find fascinating.
In fact, one recommendation is to look for a free tour in which they can explain a little of the past and present of Tirana, as it is a city where many cultures have converged.
Blloku
Every city has a trendy neighborhood where young people go and where you can find restaurants, bars and designer stores. In Tirana this is called Blloku, and you can't miss it.
It's a great plan for an afternoon or even an overnight stay. It is the busiest area in the capital.
What to see and do in Tirana, the outskirts of the city
However, Albania is not limited to its city. A superb plan on your trip is to get a rental car in Tirana and visit some of its surroundings. If the city has not convinced you, the landscape of this country and its natural paradises will. These are the must-sees:
Berat
A small town that has the honor of being the most beautiful town in Albania. It has even been named a UNESCO heritage site. A true wonder with small houses full of windows on a hill that make for an incredible landscape. You will love it.
The Albanian Riviera
It is very difficult for a Mediterranean country not to also have dream-like beaches and beautiful coves where you can sunbathe, swim and enjoy the best that summer has to offer. This is also the case in Albania.
In this case, the Albanian Riviera is a stretch of coastline where you can find small villages and countless coves, very similar to Italy or Croatia.
Gjirokastra, another of the cities to see in Tirana
Few cities in the area have such a rich historical heritage as this one. With an impressive historic center, you will plunge into the medieval world and enjoy a journey through time that is sure to make an impression. Our recommendation is that you take the opportunity to visit some of the traditional restaurants around here. You will not be disappointed.
Shkodër
In the middle of the mountains, surrounded by a river and close to a lake, you will find one of the country's hidden treasures. Although it is receiving more and more tourism, it is true that this city is still, in that sense, virgin. Step into another very different landscape that will not disappoint you.
Why not travel to Greece?
Our last recommendation is that you consider, if you can, a more ambitious trip. Greece is not far from you, and you can travel, by car, through some of the most charming spots of the Peloponnese.
Now you know what to see and do in Tirana, what are you going to do first? If you need a vehicle to move around the country, do not hesitate, we will help you!
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