Planning a trip through Albania? Then you’re probably curious about what such a journey will cost. Albania is known as one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, especially when it comes to transportation and food. While that’s often true—particularly outside of peak season—it doesn’t apply to every region. Accommodations in the inland areas, for example, are often much cheaper than along the popular southern coast. To help you create your travel budget for Albania, in this article we share our experience with costs for transportation, accommodation, food, tours, and activities. We’ve also included a handy overview of daily budgets for different types of travelers.
Costs for Food and Drinks in Albania
Food in Albania is not only delicious but also very affordable! A fresh salad, grilled fish, homemade dips, and a glass of Albanian wine? At a local taverna in the inland regions, you’ll rarely spend more than $17 per person for a full meal with several courses. Prices for a main dish usually range between $6 and $9. In touristy areas, such as along the popular southern coast, these prices can be a bit higher.
For a simple snack like a byrek (filo pastry filled with cheese or meat), you’ll often pay no more than $1. Coffee lovers are in for a treat too—an espresso costs just $1, and a cappuccino around $2. A beer typically costs between $1 and $2. The price of a cocktail varies widely by region, from about $6 inland to $11 along the coast.
Car Rental Costs in Albania
The most convenient way to explore Albania is by rental car. Especially if you want to visit multiple places, this gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace. Rental prices in Albania vary a lot depending on the season and how far in advance you book. In peak season—July and August—cars are much more expensive than in the winter months. Prices also depend on the type of car. A small vehicle is always cheaper than a large luxury car. Planning to visit more remote destinations like Theth and Valbona? Then it’s best not to rent a small sedan, but an SUV instead. Prices start at around $33 per day in winter (including full insurance). In spring and fall, prices average about $55 per day. In the summer months, rates rise to about $83 per day. Check out our tips for renting and driving a car in Albania.
Gas costs: Driving in Albania is slightly more expensive than you might expect: fuel prices average between $1.75 and $2.00 per liter ($6.60–$7.50 per gallon), depending on the region and exchange rate.
Public Transportation and Taxi Costs in Albania
Prefer not to rent a car? That’s definitely possible, though it requires a bit more planning. Buses run between most major cities, and a ride often costs just a few dollars. For shorter distances, you can use (even cheaper) furgons—these minibuses usually leave from local stations or busy streets and depart once they’re full. You can buy a ticket directly on the bus; no need to book in advance.
Taxis are another option, and compared to many other European countries, they’re relatively inexpensive in Albania. Taxis usually run on a meter, with fares starting at a few dollars and then less than $1 per kilometer. We do recommend agreeing on the price beforehand or confirming that there’s a meter, so you don’t get any surprises.
Accommodation Costs in Albania
Whatever your budget, you’ll find plenty of nice places to stay in Albania. While accommodation costs depend on the destination and season, here’s a general idea. Traveling on a tight budget? A night in a good hostel or guesthouse costs around $33–$55 for a double room. A dorm bed ranges from $17 to $28. Along the coast, especially in popular places like Sarandë and Ksamil, prices are higher. Expect double rooms to start at $55–$77.
Traveling with a bigger budget? Albania also has plenty of boutique hotels and luxury stays. For these, you’ll usually pay $77–$132 per night, often with perks like a pool and sea views. Want an idea of hotel and hostel prices? Check out our favorite accommodations in Albania.
Note: In peak season (July and August), accommodation prices in Albania can skyrocket. Room rates can more than double, so your travel period has a big impact on your budget.
Activity and Tour Costs in Albania
Whether you’re into culture, nature, or adventure, you don’t need a big budget to enjoy Albania. Many city sights are free or cost just a few dollars to enter. Explore castles, ruins, bunkers, or museums in Gjirokastër or Berat. A round-trip ride on the longest cable car in the Balkans, in Tirana, costs about $7 and rewards you with panoramic views of the city.
There’s also plenty to do on the water. With this fun boat trip from Sarandë, you’ll visit the best hidden beaches and snorkeling spots for about $44. A popular day trip is this boat tour to Shala River via Koman Lake, which costs around $65.
Average Daily Costs in Albania
It’s tricky to say exactly how much you’ll spend per day traveling in Albania—it all depends on your style, preferences, and travel season. Staying in simple guesthouses or hostels, eating at local tavernas, avoiding expensive activities, and using public transport? Then you’ll do just fine with a daily budget of about $55 per person (especially if you’re traveling as a couple). Prefer comfortable hotels, dining at nicer restaurants, and occasionally using taxis or renting a car? Then you’re looking at $77–$99 per day, depending on how many tours and activities you join. In peak season (July and August), expect these amounts to be a bit higher.
