Traveling in Albania is all about contrasts and variety. One day you’re standing on top of the Albanian Alps, and the next you’re floating in the crystal-clear waters of a hidden bay. Adventure, culture, and relaxation blend seamlessly here. While Albania is becoming increasingly popular among travelers, there are still plenty of places where it feels like you’re exploring an undiscovered corner of Europe. From traffic and money matters to mobile internet, the country has its own rhythm and rules. We traveled all across Albania and gathered the most practical tips and handy insights for you. This way, you’ll be well prepared and make the most out of your trip to Albania.

#1 Best Time to Visit Albania

The best time to visit Albania is between May and September. During this period, the country is at its best: nature is green, coastal towns are lively, and mountain roads are accessible. Accommodations and restaurants are also fully open.

#2 Check if Your Mobile Plan Works in Albania or Buy an eSIM

Albania is not part of the EU. This means in many cases you’ll pay extra for mobile data, calls, or texts. Check with your provider before leaving if your data plan is valid in Albania. Some providers (like KPN or Vodafone) offer an additional international bundle, but these are often limited in data and more expensive than alternatives. Want to be online right away without hassle? Then an Albania eSIM is a great solution. With it, you can easily use mobile internet via a digital SIM card without swapping out your own.

#3 Money in Albania

In Albania, you pay with the Albanian lek (ALL). Sometimes amounts are also listed in euros, but it’s almost always cheaper to pay in lek. Euros aren’t accepted everywhere, and when they are, the exchange rate is often unfavorable.

While you can increasingly use debit or credit cards in Tirana and touristy coastal towns, that’s not the case everywhere. In villages, small shops, restaurants, guesthouses, and markets, cash is almost always required. You’ll also usually need cash for entry tickets at local attractions. Always keep some cash on hand.

ATMs are easy to find, especially in cities and tourist areas. Union Bank, Credins Bank, and BKT charge the lowest fees. Fees are usually a fixed amount per withdrawal, so it’s smart to withdraw a larger sum at once. The maximum amount you can withdraw depends on the bank and ATM.

#4 Is Tipping Common in Albania?

Tipping in Albania is not mandatory, but it’s highly appreciated. In restaurants and cafés, it’s common to leave about 10% if you’re happy with the food and service. Rounding up the bill is also fine, especially for coffee or a drink. If you booked a tour or had good service during a transfer, it’s thoughtful to tip the guide or driver as a thank-you. A typical guideline is about 10% of the tour price or around $2 per person per day for a guide or driver. In taxis, tipping isn’t expected, but rounding up the fare is seen as a kind gesture.

#5 Renting a Car in Albania Is Ideal

With a rental car, you can explore Albania freely. Whether you’re taking a road trip along the Albanian Riviera, driving through the rugged north, or visiting cultural highlights like Gjirokastër and Berat, a car rental lets you make the most of your trip. Want to know what to look out for when renting and driving in Albania? Think about choosing the right car, the state of the roads, traffic rules, and of course the costs. In our detailed article on renting a car in Albania, we share all the ins and outs so you can hit the road well prepared!

#6 Don’t Forget Water Shoes and Hiking Boots

Water shoes are very handy in Albania. Many beaches are made up of pebbles or rocks instead of soft sand, and in rivers or near waterfalls the ground can be slippery or uneven. The last thing you want is to step on a sharp rock or sea urchin during your vacation. Water shoes are also perfect for adventurous activities, which Albania has plenty of! It’s also a paradise for hikers. Planning to hike from Theth to Valbona? Make sure to bring sturdy hiking boots. Even on shorter hikes, they come in handy since many trails are quite rough.

#7 Book Early, Especially in Peak Season

Albania is becoming more popular, especially in summer. In July and August, both international and local tourists travel through the country en masse. If you’re visiting during this time, plan your trip well in advance and book important things early. Unique experiences and top stays—like a boat trip on Koman Lake with an overnight at Shala River—sell out fast.

#8 Traveling in Albania Is More Expensive in Summer

July and August are peak season in Albania. These are the busiest months of the year, and prices rise sharply. Accommodation prices can even double. Renting a car is also more expensive in high season. Booking early is the best way to avoid steep prices. Take a look at our favorite accommodations in Albania to secure a great stay.

#9 Don’t Rely Blindly on Navigation Apps

Navigation apps are useful but not always accurate in Albania. There’s a good chance you’ll suddenly end up on an unpaved road that looked fine on the app. Sometimes routes even dead-end, especially in mountainous areas or small inland villages. Don’t rely blindly on the app—when in doubt, ask a local for help.

It’s also smart to ask your host or guide in advance about the best route. Local knowledge is invaluable in Albania. They’ll know which roads are passable and which to avoid. This way, especially with a rental car, you won’t end up stuck on a bumpy mountain path.

#10 Go With the Albanian Flow

Not everything in Albania runs on schedule. A bus may be delayed, a restaurant might suddenly be closed, or you may get stuck in traffic because a flock of sheep is crossing the road. Tours and transfers don’t always start exactly on time, sometimes without any clear reason.

At first, Albania may feel a bit chaotic or unpredictable, especially if you’re used to highly organized travel. But that’s also part of the charm—going with the flow. Don’t let it frustrate you, embrace the relaxed pace instead. Chances are, your best memories will come from those unexpected twists.

#11 Taste the Albanian Cuisine

A trip to Albania wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The country’s food culture is rich and full of variety, with influences from the Balkans, Greece, Italy, and Turkey. Dishes are usually prepared with fresh, local ingredients like freshly caught fish, homemade cheese, seasonal vegetables, and artisanal bread. Along the coast, seafood dominates the menu, while in the mountains, you’ll find hearty meat dishes and stews. Vegetarians also have plenty of options. While the cuisine is meat-heavy, there are lots of vegetable, legume, and cheese-based dishes too. Here are some must-tries:

• Byrek – Savory filo pastry filled with spinach, meat, or cheese
• Tavë kosi – A baked dish of lamb and yogurt
• Fërgesë – A creamy mix of peppers, tomatoes, and cheese
• Speca të mbushura – Stuffed peppers
• Qifqi – Spiced rice balls from Gjirokastër

#12 How to Easily Plan Your Trip to Albania

A foreign language, quirky infrastructure, and remote destinations—it might sound like planning a road trip through Albania is a challenge. But nothing could be further from the truth! You can easily plan your trip yourself without a travel agency. We’ve mapped out the ultimate Albania itinerary, covering the country’s most beautiful destinations. For each stop, we’ve also created detailed guides full of practical info—from how to get there to what you shouldn’t miss, plus tips on great restaurants, cozy accommodations, beautiful beaches, and unique hiking routes. With these resources, you’ll have no trouble organizing your own adventure in this surprising corner of Europe.