Tirana

When I first heard the name of the city, it seemed to me so alluring that I immediately wanted to go. On my first visit, the capital of Albania baffled me with the chaotic nature of its appearance. It took me a while to get into its atmosphere.

Tirana, first of all, is interesting for a mixture of eras and styles. Walking through the streets of Tirana, you can find rare traces of the Ottoman city. Despite the apparent antiquity, most of these buildings date back to the 19th century.

After gaining independence in 1912, Albania, until the end of World War II, came under strong Italian influence. This is noticeable in the architecture of Tirana. When Tirana became the capital in 1920, Italian architects, including the famous Florestano di Fausto, were involved in the development of its plan and the construction of key buildings.

The face of Tirana changed significantly during the communist period. The monumentality of communist architecture dominates many areas of Tirana.

Tirana is a dynamically developing city. Despite the apparent inadequacy, Tirana is moving for the better and, possibly, in a couple of years it will become a comfortable and understandable city. At the moment, the traveler may need time to adapt to the tyrant lifestyle.

How to get there

Unfortunately, there is no direct transport connection between Tirana and Russian cities. The fastest and at the same time, the cheapest way is to fly with transfers, flights are offered by various companies. It’s very difficult to get from Moscow or St. Petersburg to Tirana by bus: it will take several transfers, about three days to travel, and this method is much more expensive than an airplane. The only relatively “direct” way is to drive a car. But given the distance of almost 3,000 kilometers and the intersection of 5-6 state borders - this method is very long.

By plane

There are no direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Tirana, but there are several options with transfers, they are described in detail in the article "How to get to Tirana by plane."

Tirana Airport

Tirana's Tirana Airport is the only international airport in Albania. It is located in the village of Rinas, 13 kilometers northwest of the center of Tirana.

The cheapest way to get from the airport is the Rinas Express bus, which will take you to the central square of Tirana - Skanderberg Square (Sheshi Skënderbej). A ticket costs only 1.9 EUR, but its schedule is a significant minus. The bus runs only from 6 am to 6 pm with an interval of once an hour. Therefore, if you arrive sooner or later, you will have to take a taxi.

Taxis at Tirana Airport should be chosen very carefully. I advise you to definitely use an official licensed taxi - it should be yellow, and also have an airport logo on the side. In this case, the trip will cost 18-19 EUR. It is most convenient to order a taxi in advance online on this site.

An alternative to a taxi is to rent a car at the airport. About 8 international and local companies represent their services here. The list and contacts can be found on the airport website, and you can book in advance here. The main disadvantage of this method is the specificity of driving on Albanian roads (more on this in the "Tips for Motorists" section).

By train

It will not work by train to Tirana, firstly, Albania does not have international railway connections. Secondly, Tirana has not had any railway connection since 2013.

By bus

For those who are afraid to fly but don't drive, a bus is the only alternative to get to Tirana. When planning the route, it should be borne in mind that Tirana is connected by international bus services to a small number of cities: these are Athens, Tetovo, Sofia, Pristina, and some Montenegrin cities. Considering that it is problematic to get from Moscow and St. Petersburg to these cities, as a result, a bus trip will cost 250-300 EUR one way, and the travel time will be at least two and a half days.

International buses to Tirana are rare and expensive (minimum cost starts from 35 EUR one way). However, intra-Albanian bus transportation is not without problems. Despite the fact that due to the lack of railway connections at Tirana, buses are the main intercity transport, chaos is observed in bus departures. Firstly, most buses are terribly old and uncomfortable. Secondly, in my experience, the bus almost never leaves and does not arrive on time. Thirdly, the construction of a new bus station is delayed and we have to use temporary stations with terrible infrastructure. In my opinion, the most unpleasant thing is that there are several of them. Fortunately, all bus stations have a clear link to the destination city, so when buying a ticket, be sure to check the address of the station.

By car

From Moscow

The way from Moscow to Tirana is a little less than 3,000 kilometers. On the road, taking into account the overnight stays, you will have to spend two or three days. Most of the route coincides with the road to Budapest, so the details and nuances of this route can be found in the overview article about Budapest. After Budapest, there are two options for continuing the journey. The first through Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro. The second - through Serbia and Macedonia. In all the countries mentioned except Montenegro, road charges are provided depending on the length of the sections covered. From all points of view, the second option is more optimal: less pay, more comfortable terrain and most importantly - less border crossings. Borders themselves are the biggest problem with the road to Tirana, and the fewer the borders, the less travel time. When choosing the second option, refrain from the temptation to shorten the path through the territory of Kosovo. Although this route is shorter, unsettled state borders can create bureaucratic difficulties.

From St. Petersburg

In the case of a journey from St. Petersburg, the road will take longer, since the length of the path is more than 3000 kilometers. For safety reasons, I advise you to arrange at least two nights (for example, in Warsaw and Belgrade). Of the three possible routes, the most optimal is the one marked in blue on the map. In this route, the best ratio of the cost of roads, their quality, terrain and the number of crossed borders.

In both cases, the cost of the trip, taking into account fuel and vignettes, will be 200-250 EUR. To pass the border on the route you need a Schengen visa (multiple entry).

hint: Tirana - time now is 15:00 on October 13Difference in hours: Moscow & plus; 1 Kazan & plus; 1 Samara & plus; 2 Yekaterinburg & plus; 3 Novosibirsk & plus; 5Vladivostok & plus; 8

When is the season. When is the best time to go?

I love coming to Tirana in September when the weather is optimal: it is warm, but not hot, and there is little rain. From a trip in November, I would recommend to abstain if you do not like rainy weather. The main plus of trips to Tirana, unlike the coastal Albanian cities, the prices here are practically independent of the season.

Tirana in the summer

The tyrant in the summer, in my opinion, is too hot, but during this period the least rains. In the summer in Tirana there are a lot of tourists, mainly coming for a day from Montenegrin and Albanian coastal cities. Summer is a great time for trips to the lake, as well as for classic tyrannical entertainment - drinking coffee on the cafe's terraces. In the summer, Tirana also hosts many outdoor festivals and concerts. Another plus of the summer is the possibility of visa-free entry to Albania.

Tirana in the fall

September is the perfect time to travel. During this period, the most comfortable temperature for long walks, so this month is best suited for architecture lovers. In October, foliage begins to golden, and the city is transformed. In November, you should come to celebrate Independence Day (more about it in the "Holidays" section).

Tirana in the spring

Spring in Tirana is warm but rainy. For a spring trip, it is optimal to combine long walks, visiting museums and enjoying the flowering parks of Tirana.

Tirana in the winter

In winter, in Tirana, the temperature is about zero and almost no snow falls. Therefore, for example, despite the beautiful decoration of the atmosphere, Christmas in Tirana is practically not felt. But in winter there are very few tourists and you can walk around the museum halls almost alone.

Tirana - monthly weather

hint: Tirana - weather for the months of January January ± 6.7 February ± 7.7 March ± 9.3 April ± 13.0 May ± 17.3 June ± 21.3 July ± 24.0 August ± 23.7 September ± 20.3 October ± 16.3 November ± plus 11.7 December & plus; 8.7

Areas. Where is better to live

Conventionally, the whole variety of housing options in Tirana can be divided into two zones: the vicinity of the central square (Sheshi Skënderbej) and the vicinity of the Blloku district.

The first option should be preferred to those who are primarily interested in cultural and historical sights. Here are the main attractions and museums. The Blloku area is more for those who love shopping and cafes. It is also better suited for combining urban and natural recreation, due to the proximity of the park. Housing at a cost in these two areas is practically no different. However, prices in cafes and shops are slightly higher in Blloku.

It’s convenient to choose and book accommodation at Bucking. You can see the prices for apartments here, and compare the cost of hotel rooms at this link.

Outside the designated areas, I do not recommend settling. Although many options are very attractive in price, this savings will greatly affect comfort. Firstly, from these locations it is difficult to get to the center. Secondly, tourism infrastructure is not developed here and without knowledge of Albanian it will be difficult even to go to the store.

What are the prices for vacation

Tirana is one of the cheapest European capitals.

  • Firstly, in Tirana cheap housing. Double room in a well-located guest room or a small hotel can be rented for 20-30 EUR. At about the same price, an apartment for a day in the city center will cost. Prices for a bed in a dormitory room in a tyrannical hostel start from 8-9 EUR.
  • Secondly, in Tirana inexpensive food. On the one hand, you can dine in an inexpensive cafe from 6 EUR. On the other hand, prices at local supermarkets and markets are also quite low.
  • Thirdly, in Tirana cheap transport and taxi.
  • As for excursions, the prices in Tirana are average - participation in a group excursion will cost 15-20 EUR. Expensive entertainment is a day trip from Tirana to other cities or to the mountains. On average, a group excursion will cost 40-50 EUR. Although in my opinion, the natural beauties surrounding Tirana are worth it.
hint: Cost of food, accommodation, transport and other currency: Euro, € US dollar, $ Russian ruble, rub Lek, LEK Prices in restaurants and cafes
Eating (lunch / dinner) in a reasonably priced restaurant362 rub
Lunch / dinner for two, 3 course, middle class restaurant1621 rub
McMill at McDonald's or similar combo lunch293 rub
More details

The main attractions. What to watch

In order to better learn the history of the city, I advise you to join the free Tirana Free Walking Tour. During the year, the tour is held every day at 10 am, and in the summer season (from early June to the end of September) a second tour is held at 6 pm. The duration of the tour is 2 hours, and it covers the main attractions of Tirana. The group venue is opposite the Opera House (in the central square, Sheshi Skënderbej).

Top 5

Skanderbeg Square (Sheshi Skënderbej)

This is a huge square, named after the national hero Skanderbeg, who became famous as the organizer of the uprising against the Ottoman Empire. Now the monument to him rises in the center of the square (once this place was occupied by the monument to Stalin). This square can be considered the heart of Tirana, this is the venue for urban events and an indicator of urban change. The main attractions are located on it, including rare Ottoman monuments: Clock Tower (Kulla e Sahatit) and Efem Bey Mosque (Xhamia e Et'hem Beut). There is an observation deck in the tower (entrance ticket costs 0.75 EUR).

Mother Teresa Square (Sheshi Nënë Tereza)

Another significant square in the center of Tirana is named after Mother Teresa, who, thanks to her ethnic Albanian origin, has become one of the main symbols of Albania. The buildings on the square are Tirana's main cultural and educational institutions (university and museum). The square itself was planned and built up during the years of Italian occupation. In an architectural sense, it represents a wonderful example of an ensemble in the style of Italian rationalism. For me, this is a favorite place in the city.

Blloku District

Now it is one of the richest and most developed areas of the capital. There are many shops and cafes here - this is a place for meetings and walks. But during the years of the communist regime, it was a closed area where ordinary residents of Tirana were forbidden to enter. Members of the Albanian Politburo, including Enver Hoxha himself, lived in Block.

Pyramid (Piramida)

Not far from Bloku is one of the most interesting buildings of Tirana - the Pyramid. Its construction began after the death of Enver Hoxha in 1985 for a museum in his honor. The opening took place in 1988. The museum did not last long, and after the fall of communism, the building repeatedly changed its purpose. In recent years, the Pyramid has repeatedly found itself on the verge of demolition, but the urban community has come into its defense, since the Pyramid has become one of the symbols of Tirana.

Mount Ditey (Mali i Dajtit)

Tirana is surrounded by mountains, one of which is Daiti Mountain. Daiti is a favorite vacation spot in Tirana. From the top of the mountain overlooks the whole city, which can be enjoyed from observation platforms or from the terraces of restaurants. Also on the mountain there are ruins of an ancient fortress (Kalaja e Dajtit). You can get to the top by a long cable car. One way ticket costs 4 EUR, round-trip ticket - 6 EUR.

Churches and temples. Which are worth a visit

Albania is a multiconfessional country. Different groups of Albanians profess Islam, Orthodoxy or Catholicism. Therefore, in Tirana, churches and mosques are adjacent.

Efem Bey Mosque (Xhamia e Et'hem Beut)

The construction of this small mosque began in the late 18th century. The uniqueness of its appearance in the decor of floral and natural motifs, which is very rare for mosques. It was closed during the years of the communist regime, but the lump-sum arrival of 10,000 believers on January 18, 1991 broke the resistance of the authorities and the mosque was opened. The interior of this mosque makes a bewitching impression, so I definitely advise you to visit it.

Orthodox Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ (Katedralja Ringjalljes se Krishti)

This cathedral is one of the largest Orthodox church in Europe. Its construction was completed in the 2012th year. The cathedral complex includes a cultural center, a library and a small museum where you can learn about the Orthodox traditions of Albania.

Catholic Church of the Heart of Jesus (Kisha e Zemres se Shenjte)

This temple was erected in 1938-1939 by the project of the Italian architect, like many other buildings of that period. The church was built in Neo-Romanesque style and decorated with frescoes. However, as part of the anti-religious campaign of the communist regime, the church was closed, lost its frescoes and was turned into a movie theater. In 1999, new frescoes appeared in the temple in a realistic manner, which, in my opinion, are worth seeing.

Museums Which are worth a visit

Tirana has a large number of interesting museums, especially those associated with the difficult and interesting history of the country.

  • First of all, I recommend to visit National History Museum (Muzeu Historik Kombëtar), which will give an idea of ​​the history of Albania from antiquity to the present day. Separate expositions are devoted to the struggle for independence, anti-fascist struggle and communist terror. In my opinion, the most interesting collection is in the section "Albanian iconography", where you can see old Orthodox icons. Entrance ticket to the museum costs 0.75 EUR.
  • If you are more interested in ancient history, then I advise you to go to National Archaeological Museum (Muzeu Arkeologjik Kombëtar). His collections cover archaeological finds in Albania from the Stone Age to independence. Entrance to the museum is free.
  • In my opinion, the most interesting museum of Tirana is Leaf house (Shtepia e Gjetheve), which opened recently. Its exposition is dedicated to the activities of SHISH, the Albanian counterpart of the KGB. The museum is open every day from 9 to 19-30, the entrance ticket costs 5.3 EUR.

Parks

Tirana's main park is Big park (Parku i Madh). It is located south of the city center. The park has a huge artificial lake, which makes the park a center of attraction for local residents on weekends, especially in summer. This is a great place to relax from the noise of the city and enjoy outdoor recreation. The park is great for cycling, picnics and relaxing by the river.

Tourist streets

Of all the streets of Tirana stands out Boulevard of National Martyrs (Boulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit), which connects two main attractions - Skanderbeg Square and Mother Teresa Square. This boulevard is a kind of axis of power in Tirana; the main administrative buildings are located along it. The boulevard was designed by an Italian architect in 1939 and was originally called Empire Avenue (Viale del Impero).

What to see in 1 day

In order to see the main attractions of Tirana, one day is enough.

  • 9:00 - start acquaintance with Tirana, I advise you with a cup of coffee in the vicinity of the central square. You should drink coffee slowly, adjusting to the local leisurely rhythm of life.
  • 10:00 - It will take one or two hours to slowly walk along the perimeter of the huge Skanderbeg Square, climb the Clock Tower and explore the city from a height, and also visit the Efem Bey Mosque.
  • 12:00 - I advise you to devote two more hours to the exposition of the National Historical Museum, which will help to better understand the history of Albania and Tirana itself.
  • 14:00 - lunch break
  • 15:00 - go to the south of the city: visit the Bloku district, the Pyramid and the square of Mother Teresa. A bonus to exploring buildings and attractions is coffee in one of the coffee shops in the Bloku district.
  • 18:00-20:00 - I recommend completing my acquaintance with the city in the Big Park on the lake.

What to see in the surroundings

Albania is interesting for its nature, primarily for the mountains. Therefore, a vacation to Tirana, I would recommend a trip to the mountains. In addition to Mount Daiti a little further east of Tirana (about 45 kilometers), there is an interesting mountain, Mali me Gropa, which is called the "mountain with holes." During the walk, the views here are fascinating. Unfortunately, getting on your own is problematic, so I advise you to contact one of the travel agencies that organize day tours (for example, Albaniantrip).

hint: Routes to the neighboring cities of Tirana - Krue 20 kmTirana - Durres 31 kmTirana - Shengin 56 kmTirana - Debar 63 kmTirana - Peshkopiya 64 km

Food. What to try

In Tirana, you can try dishes typical of Central Albania (for more information about Albanian cuisine, see the article on Albania). The pride of local culinary specialists is the Tirana Ferges (Fërges Tirane), although now it can be found in other cities, Tirana owes its origin to the dish. Unlike the classic Ferges, which is a dish of cheese, pepper and tomatoes, veal is added to the tyrant.

In addition to Albanian restaurants, there are many establishments with Italian cuisine in Tirana. I advise you to pay attention to the tyrant markets, where you can buy incredibly tasty vegetables, fruits and dairy products.

Recommended Places

There are excellent coffee houses in the center of Tirana, good coffee can be found on every corner, not without reason locals spend so much time drinking it. As for restaurants - an excellent level of service and food in Italian establishments, they enjoy the special love of the inhabitants of the city. However, I prefer "home" institutions. Of course, they do not look as bright and beautiful as Italian, but the food there is excellent. The best and most authentic of them are located far from the central areas, and it is sometimes difficult for tourists to navigate in them, but their visit is worth it. My favorite restaurant is Tek Zgara Tirones.

Budgetary

  • Tek Zgara Tirones
  • Komiteti Kafe Muzeum
  • Zgara Korça Zhidro

Mid level

  • Artigiano
  • Mullixhiu
  • Restaurant dinasty
  • À la Santé

Expensive

  • Otium
  • Delicatezze di mare
  • Restaurant melograno
  • Ballkoni dajtit

Holidays

Due to the multi-confessional nature of the Albanians in Tirana, one can catch a celebration of Catholic, Orthodox, and Muslim holidays. On the other hand, in Tirana, as in the capital, Albanian national holidays are celebrated on a special scale. The most interesting in my opinion are March 14 (Summer Day, Dita e Verës) and November 28 (Independence Day, Dita e Pavarësisë).

March 14, oddly enough, in Albania, is celebrated Summer Day. This holiday has pagan roots and marks the end of winter and the renewal of nature. To this day, Tirana is decorated with figures in color; mass festivals, concerts and performances are held in the city center.

Independence Day is also considered the Day of the Albanian flag, which is the subject of love and pride of the Albanians. During this period, Tirana is decorated with flags and completely transformed. In addition to classical speeches and concerts, the celebration of Independence Day in Tirana is interesting in preparing a huge cake in the form of the Albanian flag, which is treated to passers-by.

Security. What to watch out for

Despite stereotypes about Albania, Tirana is a safe and calm city. For example, the crime rate in Tirana is lower than in Moscow. However, do not be vigilant and leave your things unattended. The main difficulty in Tirana is traffic. I advise you to cross even the quietest streets very carefully.

As for night walks, you can walk in the center absolutely calmly, but it is better not alone. In my experience, single girls in a cafe enjoy increased attention, which can cause some discomfort. However, the Albanians are unobtrusive and ready to instantly leave alone.

Things to do

In Tirana, walking around the city and visiting museums can be complemented by outdoor recreation - go to the lake in the Big Park or take a cable car to the top of Daiti Mountain. However, the main tyrannical occupation is long and relaxed drinking coffee on the veranda of local cafes, like the locals. In my opinion, this is the first thing to be done in order to fully penetrate the tyrannical atmosphere.

Shopping and shops

There are several shopping centers in the vicinity of Tirana, including the huge TEG (Tirana East Gate), which is considered the largest in the region. However, in my opinion, in Tirana, you should prefer authentic shopping and go to the shops of local designers and manufacturers. To do this, head to the Blloku area or Rruga Myslym Shyri.

Bars Where to go

Tirana has a lot of great bars with cheap alcohol. A glass of beer will cost about 1.5 EUR, strong drinks from 1.2 EUR, cocktails from 2 EUR. The most soulful place in Tirana is the Hemingway bar, be sure to visit it if you like jazz.

Clubs and nightlife

Tirana's nightlife is concentrated in the Blloku area, the fun here usually lasts until the morning, but mainly from Thursday to Saturday. My favorite place is Rooftop XVI. In addition to excellent performances and cocktails, there is a breathtaking view of the night city.

Fans of electronic music and noisy large-scale parties recommend going to the club Folie Terrace.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

Tirana's souvenir shops are full of Albanian national souvenirs: images of the Albanian flag and items in the form of bunkers. In order to find exactly tyrannical souvenirs, I would advise you to go to the souvenir shop at the National Historical Museum, where the choice of souvenirs is much more diverse. For example, here you can find postcards depicting the Ottoman Tirana or the Pyramid model. A large selection of souvenirs is also presented in the Pirro shop. I also advise you to stop by the Lleshi store on Durrësit Street, where you can buy clothes with folklore motifs. Like everything else, souvenirs in Tirana are cheap: for example, for 5 EUR you can buy a magnet, a key chain, a postcard and a mug.

How to get around the city

The center of Tirana is quite small and the main attractions in different parts of the center can be easily reached on foot. The only public transport available is buses. An alternative to buses is just a taxi.

Taxi. What features exist

Different companies in Tirana offer taxi rides at slightly different rates. The starting price is about 2.3 EUR, and the kilometer is about 0.7 EUR. Taxi is the only mode of transport at night, so tariffs are rising (by about 20%). Official taxis take their reputation seriously, so drivers always use a meter. Be sure to use only official taxis in Tirana, trying to save money will lead to big expenses.

The main difficulty with using a taxi in Tirana is communication with drivers. For the most part, they do not understand English, and many foreigners do not pronounce street names correctly - therefore, it is better to write the address and show the driver. I usually use the services of MerrTaxi, the most convenient is that on their website you can calculate the approximate cost of the trip. You can also order a taxi on the site, which in my opinion is the most convenient way.

Buses

There are more than 10 bus lines in Tirana that connect the center with remote areas and suburbs. Buses run from 5am to 10pm. In addition to regular lines, there are special buses to the airport (Rinas Express) and major shopping centers. The fare is very cheap - 0.3 EUR, payment at the entrance to the conductor. Unless absolutely necessary, I would advise you to refrain from using buses. Most of them are old and uncomfortable (although there have been improvements in the last few years). During peak hours, buses are terribly crowded, although they travel at intervals of 10-12 minutes.

Vehicle rental

You can rent a car at the airport (mainly international companies are represented here) or at offices in the city (more local firms). In summer, it is better to book a car in advance, especially if you want to rent a car at the airport. Prices and conditions for different companies are approximately the same. Personally, I use the services of City Car Rental.

In Tirana, you can also rent a bike for 15 EUR per day from Sucle Albania. I like this option much more than Ecovolis automatic bike rental. Although this method is much cheaper, you need to register to use automatic rental. In addition, in the central parking lots in the warm season, there are often no free bikes.

Tips for motorists

The first day of driving in Tirana can be remembered for a long time. Traffic in Tirana is terribly chaotic: cars are being rebuilt from row to row without any logic, moving according to incomprehensible rules, ignoring signs and traffic controllers and constantly buzzing. Albanians themselves explain their behavior by the underdeveloped driving culture (during the communist period, there were restrictions on car ownership). However, despite the randomness of movement, it is safe to drive a car. In particular, due to the fact that due to the congestion and quality of roads, everyone moves slowly, and you can successfully adapt to the local driving style.

Paid parking is available on some streets of Tirana (list on the city parking site). Outdoor parking costs 0.7 EUR per hour. For security reasons, it is better to prefer secure or covered parking. In this case, the whole day of parking will cost 3.7 EUR.

Tirana - Holidays with children

In my opinion, Tirana will not be the most interesting city for young children. Its main charm and attractiveness lies in the tangled Albanian history and the difference in lifestyles, which is completely difficult to explain to children.

After the tyrannical zoo closes, it remains to recommend the Museum of Natural History (Muzeu i Shkencave Të Natyrës) for visiting. It is open for visits on weekdays in the morning (8:00 - 14:00). The entrance is free.

Ski vacation

Watch the video: Dario Gomez - La Tirana (March 2024).

Leave Your Comment