When to visit Albania? A practical guide to the seasons
When organizing a trip to Albania, it's worth considering your own expectations for spending time - whether you're planning sunny relaxation by the sea, hiking in the mountains, or active sightseeing of cities and monuments. Each season in this country offers different weather conditions, so a conscious choice of dates allows you to make the most of your holiday opportunities.
Getting Around Albania: A Practical Guide
Traveling in Albania might seem challenging, but in reality, it's a fascinating experience. With a bit of an open mind, the country will reward you with amazing landscapes, hospitality, and unexpected adventures. Here's how to best get around Albania, using public transport, taxis, and hitchhiking.
Qeparo – Albania’s Underrated Gem
For a long time, Qeparo was an underappreciated place that I heard about from a Polish friend who has lived in Albania for over 12 years. Her first visit to this village took place about a decade ago, before then-ruling Edi Rama introduced his Rilindja (Renaissance) program. Back then, Qeparo was a small, forgotten village located almost at the end of the world - with just one small piece of beach and practically nothing else.
Mercedes in Albania – why does this brand dominate Albanian roads?
Albanians have a great passion for cars and use them daily, almost on every occasion. On the country's streets, you can often see luxury models of well-known global brands, of which Mercedes-Benz is undoubtedly the most popular. Although in the capital, more and more vehicles are electric and hybrid cars, which can be charged in underground parking lots under the main square, Mercedes still reigns on Albanian roads, being synonymous with luxury, durability, and prestige.
What is the currency in Albania? Find out what to pay with during your trip
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.
Kruja and the Skanderbeg Museum – the heart of Albanian history
The museum dedicated to George Kastrioti Skanderbeg (Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, 1405-1468) is located in the city of Kruja and is one of Albania's most popular attractions. It was opened in 1982 next to the old castle and was designed by Pranvera Hoxha, daughter of former dictator Enver Hoxha. Enver Hoxha did not appear at the opening as he did not fully approve of the museum's architecture.
King Ahmed Zogu I – the legend of Albania who survived over 50 assassination attempts
Ahmed Zogu I had an unusual name and habit – he smoked up to 150 perfumed cigarettes daily. He was almost indestructible. During his reign, he survived over 55 assassination attempts. He had many enemies. He feared someone might poison him. For this reason, only his mother and older sister prepared his food.
Espresso lifestyle in Albania – life over a cup of coffee
Durres is a coastal city in Albania where daily life moves at a completely different pace than in countries like Poland. There's no room for the rat race or constant rushing here. Residents live peacefully, Mediterranean-style, and without unnecessary stress. Time seems to flow more slowly, and people value moments more than clocks.
Albanian Language – The Mysterious and Melodic Language of the Balkans
Where is Albanian spoken? Although Albanian is mainly associated with Albania, it is spoken by many more people. In total, about 6 […]
Olive oil in Albania – the gold of Mediterranean cuisine
In Albania, olive trees are an integral part of the landscape – you can find them almost everywhere. The local olive oil […]
Albania – Is it really a Muslim country?
When I was planning my first trip to Albania in 2015, I encountered warnings from my family. They were concerned about my safety, convinced that Albania, as a Muslim country, could be dangerous. At that time, my knowledge about this country was minimal, so I decided to explore the topic. I began intensive reading about its history and spoke with many Albanians to better understand their culture and worldview.
