Albania – A Quick & Quirky Guide
Official name: Republic of Albania (Republika e Shqipërisë)
Area: ~28,700 km² – mountains, rivers, and a beautiful Adriatic & Ionian coastline
Population: ~2.8 million (2024)
Location: Southeastern Europe, bordered by Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Greece, and the Adriatic & Ionian Seas
Form of government: Parliamentary republic
Head of State: President Bajram Begaj
Head of Government: Prime Minister Edi Rama
Capital city: Tirana – ~420,000 (metro ~900,000)
Time zone: Central European Time (UTC+1 / +2 in summer)
Official language: Albanian
Currency: Albanian lek (ALL)
EU member: No (candidate country)
Schengen area: No
Top 10 Largest Cities (population approx.)
- Tirana – ~420,000
- Durrës – ~120,000
- Vlorë – ~90,000
- Elbasan – ~85,000
- Shkodër – ~77,000
- Fier – ~75,000
- Kamëz – ~65,000
- Korçë – ~60,000
- Berat – ~55,000
- Lushnjë – ~45,000
Popular Tourist Cities & Regions
- Tirana: Colorful buildings, Skanderbeg Square, and bustling cafés.
- Berat: “City of a Thousand Windows,” UNESCO heritage site.
- Gjirokastër: Ottoman-era architecture and hilltop castle.
- Saranda & Ksamil: Stunning Ionian beaches and turquoise waters.
- Shkodër: Historic town near Lake Shkodra, castles, and rivers.
- Albanian Riviera: Scenic drives, hidden beaches, and Mediterranean charm.
Climate
Mediterranean along the coast (hot summers 25–35 °C, mild winters 5–15 °C) and continental in the interior (cold winters, warm summers). Perfect for beach lovers and mountain hikers alike.
Culture & Daily Life
- Hospitality: Albanians are famously welcoming — expect tea, coffee, and stories.
- Traditions: Music, folk dances, and festivals reflect rich history.
- Outdoor lifestyle: Beaches, mountains, and rivers are playgrounds for locals and tourists.
- Coffee culture: Small cafés and espresso stops are everywhere.
Food & Drink
- Classic dishes: Fërgesë (pepper and cheese stew), byrek (savory pastry), tave kosi (baked lamb with yogurt).
- Seafood: Fresh fish and shellfish from the Adriatic & Ionian coasts.
- Beverages: Raki (fruit brandy), local wines, and coffee.
- Desserts: Baklava, revani (semolina cake), and seasonal fruits.
Summary
Albania is a hidden gem of Southeastern Europe, with mountains, beaches, and historic towns packed into a small country. Tirana buzzes with city life, Berat and Gjirokastër charm with history, and the Riviera dazzles with crystal-clear waters. Warm hospitality, flavorful food, and stunning scenery make Albania an adventurous yet relaxed destination.