Top Things to do in Tirana - Ticket To Utopia

Welcome to Tirana, the capital city of Albania! Located in the centre of the country the city has amazing history and culture. Being one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe, Tirana is a budget traveller’s paradise.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or just want to have fun, Tirana has something special to offer for everyone.

TOP THINGS TO DO

1. Bunk’art 2

Albania’s bunkers are fascinating relics from its communist past. Built to defend against perceived threats during Enver Hoxha’s regime, these concrete structures now dot the landscape as unique landmarks. Although their original purpose has faded, some are now cafes, art installations, and accommodations, adding a special charm to Albania’s countryside.

Bunk’art 2 is a bunker that has been repurposed as one of the most fascinating museums I’ve ever seen! Located in the heart of Tirana, it offers a compelling insight into Albania’s communist period and the struggles its people endured during the dictatorship. Inside the bunker, you’ll find a series of exhibitions with photographs, documents, and audiovisual displays, providing a vivid account of the country’s history.

Tickets cost just €4.00 and visiting is a must! Be sure to save it!

2. Mount Dajti

You can find Mount Dajti just east of Tirana which is part of The Dajti National Park. The mountain offers amazing views over the capital, which makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists. You can go hiking, have a picnic or simply enjoy the beautiful views. There is also a rotating cafe where you can stop and enjoy panoramic views.

To get to Mount Dajti, you need to take the cable car (Dajti Ekspress). Tickets cost €6.00 return and it’s open Mon-Sun from 9 am to 6 pm.

3. Skanderbeg square

The Skanderbeg square is the main square of Tirana and was named after the national hero Skanderbeg. Skanderbeg, whose real name was Gjergj Kastrioti, was a prominent military leader and national hero of Albania. His most significant achievement was leading a successful resistance against the Ottoman Empire’s invasion and attempts to conquer Albania during the 15th century.

The square is surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants and a lot of times is hosts cultural events.

4. Et'hem Bey Mosque

Located next to the Skanderbeg Square, the Et’hem Bey Mosque is a beautifully designed Ottoman-era mosque. Visitors can explore the mosque’s interior and admire its stunning frescoes and Islamic architecture.

The entry is free and be sure to dress appropriately and take off your shoes before entering.

5. National Historical Museum

The National History Museum is the most important museum in Albania. Built in 1981, it is the largest museum in Albania. Here you can see a variety of exhibitions from Antiquity, Medieval to the Albanian Resistance of World War II and the Communist genocide.

The ticket costs €5.00 and you can visit daily from 9 am to 7 pm.

Where to stay

Budget – Vanilla Sky Boutique Hostel – right in the city centre, next to Rinia Park

Medium – ART Hotel Tirana – located next to Skanderbeg Square, this cute hotel has a shared lounge and its own bar.

High – StarLight Hotel – located just 600m from Skanderbeg Square, this beautiful 4-star hotel has private parking, a restaurant and a bar.

Author

Miruna

Full-time software engineer, part-time traveller. I am the annoying person who slows you down because she saw a stray cat that “needed” attention.