Tirana is a city full of contrasts. On one hand, you have numerous traces of socialist-realist architecture, such as bunkers and large-panel buildings. On another, you have various historical buildings, plenty of vibrant colours and walkable green areas. What’s worth seeing in the capital of Albania? Here’s our guide.
Tirana
What to see in Tirana?
Tirana is Albania’s largest city and the capital of this beautiful and largely touristically-undiscovered country. It’s located at the heart of the country, surrounded by mountains and hills – you’ll also find Durres and Golem nearby. Though there are no beaches in the city itself, as Tirana is an inland city, you have some of the most beautiful beaches in Albania relatively nearby.
Tirana is a cultural melting pot, combining the strange post-Soviet world with Islam, the Balkans, good coffee and good weather amidst mountainous scenery. Join us for a tour of Tirana!
Skanderbeg Square
A highlight of Tirana
Skanderbeg Square (Sheshi Skënderbej) is the central place in the capital. You’ll find most of the characteristic sites here – the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the clock tower, the opera house and the National Historical Museum. In the centre of the square, you have a monument to Albania’s greatest hero, Skanderbeg. The design of the whole square was done in Neo-Renaissance style by Armando Brasini and Florestano di Fausto. In later years, it was remodelled a bit to give it more of a modern feel. Skanderbeg Square is the ideal place to begin your journey through Tirana.
Et’hem Bey Mosque
The oldest mosque in Tirana
The Et’hem Bey Mosque is located in Skanderbeg Square. Its construction began at the end of the 18th century. It’s an example of minimalist architecture, typical of the Balkan religious style. From the outside, the temple does not seem very special, but its interior makes up for it twofold. You’ll find a huge chandelier and richly decorated walls covered with stained glass and floral motif paintings here. It is worth mentioning that the mosque was closed during the communist period – it only opened, both for worshippers and visitors, in 1991.
Resurrection Cathedral
Orthodox church in Tirana
Although Islam is the dominant religion in Albania, there’s no issue with other religions being practised alongside it in the country. Orthodox Christians have a modern Orthodox church in Tirana, which opened in 2012. You’ll, no-doubt, spot the huge shiny dome on the roof and the golden doors leading inside from afar. The interior is noteworthy too – you’ll find richly decorated mosaics and icons characteristic of the Orthodox Church. There are also other buildings here related to the Orthodox art and history here, including a whole cultural centre, a library and a small museum.
Bunk’art 2
A bunker museum
If there’s one thing incessant in Albanian landscapes, wherever you may roam, it’s this – concrete, anti-nuclear bunkers. There were two main ones in the capital, intended for high-ranking officials and influential people (including, of course, Enver Hoxha). Today, both bunkers serve as museums. Particularly interesting is the exhibition in Bunk’art 2, which is dedicated to the history of the Albanian police. Its particular emphasis is on the political police, who were a source of fear in society.
The 20 rooms contain, among other things, tools and equipment for the surveillance of citizens, as well as numerous photographs and documents. The stories of people who became victims of the cruel regime are also presented. It is definitely worth taking the time to visit Bunk’art 2 and learn about the dark history of Albania, which is still so fresh after all. If you are travelling with children, pay attention to the signs indicating which exhibitions are not suitable for the youngest visitors.
National Historical Museum
Tirana’s largest museum
If you want to delve deeper into Albania’s history and learn more about the country’s complicated past, the National Historical Museum will be an ideal choice. The building itself, an example of typical socialist realist architecture, opened in 1981. On the front wall you will see a huge mosaic depicting important moments in Albania’s history. Inside, there are more than 4,700 exhibits, divided thematically and representing different periods – from remote antiquity to modern times.
Fortress of Justinian
Tirana Castle
Dating back to before 1300, the Fortress of Justinian is an official cultural monument of Albania. In the past, it served as the most important seat of rulers. It was also the meeting point of the main trade routes and, thus, at the same time, the heart of the city. Today, you can sleep comfortably inside the walls and enjoy great Albanian cuisine here – there are hotels, numerous restaurants and cultural attractions. There are also many atmospheric cafes along Rruga Murat Toptani, the main street leading to the castle. They are frequented by tourists and Tirana residents alike.
House of Leaves
Museum of the Albanian Political Police in Tirana
The House of Leaves is a museum housed in a building that was the former headquarters of the Sigurimi, the Albanian political police during the communist period. Its walls were opened to the public as a museum in 2017. In its 31 rooms, you can see exhibits related to the functioning of the security apparatus, as well as dark rooms or laboratories that were used to test dangerous substances, such as chemicals and radioactivity. In front of the entrance to the House of Leaves, there is a notice stating that the site was created to commemorate the victims of the totalitarian regime. The museum was also awarded the prize of European Museum of the Year in 2020.
Petrelë Castle
A romantic place near Tirana
Less than 10 miles away from Tirana, you have a fairytale castle. It’s located in a small village of Petrelë and dates back to the times of Justinian I. Its location atop a hill offers delightful views of the surrounding area and the Erzen river. You’ll also find some traditional Albanian cuisine on site, as the castle houses a charming restaurant. It’s a great spot for a romantic getaway at an intimate outdoor table. Brides and grooms are keen on choosing the Petrelë Castle for their wedding photo sessions.
Mount Dajti
A viewpoint near Tirana
It’s rare to find a National Park right next to a bustling metropolitan area. If you’re into hiking and natural spots, make sure to head to Mount Dajti, located on the outskirts of the capital. You can reach the top via a market trail. If you’re not into that sort of thing, you can also take the longest cable car in the Balkans, the Dajti Express!
The view from the top (1,613 metres above sea level) is stunning. You’ll see the skyline of Tirana and, on clear days, you can even see the Adriatic coast. Of course, there’s also a restaurant at the top, so you can enjoy not just the views but the local delicacies too.
Map of Tirana attractions
What to see in Tirana?
1) Skanderbeg Square
2) Cable car to Dajti Mountain
3) Bunk’Art 2
4) Et’hem Bey Mosque
5) Tirana Cathedral
6) National Historical Museum
7) Fortress of Justinian
8) Tirana Pyramid (for a bonus!)
The Albanian capital is rarely the first choice for a visit to the Balkans, and we think that that’s a huge shame. There are so many beautiful sights for all types of tourists here and you’ll invariably find something for yourself.
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