What is the currency in Albania? Find out what to pay with during your trip
Currency used in Albania
The official currency in Albania is the Albanian lek, denoted by the international symbol ALL. The name of the currency comes from Lekë Dukagjini, one of the historical military leaders who supported Skanderbeg in the fights against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century.
Previously, 1 lek was divided into 100 qindarka, but currently – due to inflation – these smaller units are no longer in use.
What are the denominations of coins and banknotes in Albania?
Both coins and banknotes are in circulation. The most common coins are:
- 1 lek
- 5 leks
- 10 leks
- 20 leks
- 50 leks
- 100 leks
The banknotes come in denominations of:
- 200 leks
- 500 leks
- 1000 leks
- 2000 leks
- 5000 leks
It’s worth noting that some banknotes – particularly 200, 2000, and 5000 leks – have been made from polymer materials. They replace the old paper versions, which often got damaged, were worn out, or tore during use. Especially the 200 lek banknote had a bad reputation due to the low quality of material in previous versions.
Different graphic versions of banknotes
In Albania, you can find banknotes of the same denomination in different graphic versions. In the past, the central bank issued two, and sometimes even three variants of one denomination. All versions remain legal tender and are honored throughout the country.
Albanian lek exchange rate and currency exchange
The symbol of the Albanian currency is ALL. The approximate exchange rate is as follows:
- 100 leks is about 3 Polish zloty
- 1 euro is about 125 leks
In Poland, you can find currency exchange offices that offer exchange for leks, but the most convenient and beneficial solution is to bring euros and exchange them on-site in Albania. Euros can be used in many places, such as restaurants or local shops. The exception are banks and stores belonging to foreign retail chains (e.g., Rossmann, Inter Spar), which accept only the local currency.
In practice, it’s better to exchange euros for leks in local exchange offices, as transactions in euros usually end up with a less favorable conversion. It’s also worth noting that exchange offices in Albania don’t charge commission and are widely available.
Unofficial exchange – so-called “street exchangers”
In many Albanian cities, you can still meet private individuals offering currency exchange “from hand”. They usually stand in busy city spots and hold cash in their hands. Their rates are very close to those from official exchange offices, and on Sundays – when most exchange offices are closed – they can be an alternative, although usually less favorable.
Exchange gradually
During your trip, it’s best to exchange currency gradually. In Poland, leks are difficult to exchange after returning, so it’s better not to leave too many for the end of your stay.
ATMs and card payments in Albania
In recent years, the banking infrastructure in Albania has improved significantly. A decade ago, access to ATMs was limited, and card payments were not common. Now the situation is completely different.
In larger cities, tourist resorts, and near hotels, you’ll find many ATMs. From personal experience, FIBANK offers the most favorable withdrawals – using a VISA card, you can withdraw leks without commission, and the exchange rate is favorable.
Can you pay by card?
Card payment is becoming increasingly popular. Many restaurants, pharmacies, shops, and service points accept payment cards – both VISA and MASTERCARD. Large retail chains also enable cashless transactions.
