Welcome to Albania

Closed to outside visitors for decades, Albania is now welcoming tourists once again. And those who make the trip will find much to love. Like a postcard from another era, Albania is awash in ancient castles, gorgeous beaches and staggering alpine scenery.

Don’t miss the Albanian Riviera, the most popular region in the country for its long beaches, cobblestoned streets, overflowing flower boxes and adorable Orthodox churches. The capital, Tirana, is in the Riviera, and brims with museums and art galleries. If time allows, make your way to the town of Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its Ottoman architecture and beautiful castle.

Unique Facts

• Partake in the xhiro, the evening walk. It’s one of Albanian’s richest and most lovely traditions and a wonderful way to socialize with the locals.
• It’s opposite day in Albania! Albanians nod “yes” when they actually mean “no,” and they shake their head “no” when they mean “yes.” Use your words to avoid confusion!
• Mother Teresa was Albanian and is the country’s heroine. She is the only Albanian to have received the Nobel Prize.
• You will see a large number of scarecrows in odd places in Albania. The locals believe that if you place one on a home or building that is under construction, it will ward off envy from neighbors.
• The highest point in the country is Golem Korab, on the border with Macedonia. It is 8,858 feet high.

Language

Albania’s official language is Albania.

When To Go

The best time to go to Albania is spring, early summer or early autumn.

Airports

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for three months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Albania: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive the Hepatitis A vaccine. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B, Yellow Fever and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Albanian Lek

Getting Around

Use extreme caution when driving. Emergency response services are inadequate. Road conditions are poor in rural areas during the winter and during inclement weather. Do not travel at night.

The public transportation options are limited. Marked taxis are considered safer. Rail conditions are poor, limited and unreliable. There is private bus travel available between most major cities.

Driver’s License

An international driving permit is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Tirana
Rr. Elbasanit, No. 103
Tirana, Albania
Telephone: +(355) (0) 4-2247-285
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(355) (0) 4-2247-285
Fax: +(355) (0) 4-2374-957; +(355) (0) 4-2232-222
ACSTirana@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

http://www.albaniantourist.com/index.html

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 112

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Albania. Street crime is common in urban areas, mostly at night. The most common crimes are burglaries and theft.