Why visit
Albania is Europe's last affordable coast. Riviera beaches at Ksamil, Ottoman Berat and Gjirokastër, the Albanian Alps for hiking, and Tirana's growing food scene.
Country - Europe
Albania
beachhistorynaturefood
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
Albania works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Tirana as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in Albania.
At a glance
Location
41.0°, 20.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
28,748 km²
11,100 mi²
Country population
2.8 million
96/km²
Subregion
Southeast Europe
Currency
Albanian lek (L)
ALL
Dial
+355
Language
Albanian
Demonym
Albanian
Internet
.al
UN
Member state
ISO code
AL / ALB
Where in the world
41.0° - 20.0°
Albania
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Albania has more than 750,000 Cold War-era bunkers: about one for every four citizens at the time they were built.
- The Albanian alphabet uses 36 letters and was only standardized in 1908.
- Between 1967 and 1990, Albania was officially the world's first atheist state; all religion was banned.
Bordering Albania
Traveler notes
- Theth to Valbona hike is a Balkan classic
- Visa-free for most for 90 days
- Still among Europe's cheapest destinations
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Tirana, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Albania
What is the capital of Albania?
Tirana is the capital of Albania.
What currency does Albania use?
Albania uses the Albanian lek (L), ISO code ALL.
What languages are spoken in Albania?
The primary language is Albanian.
Is Albania landlocked?
No, Albania has a coastline.
What countries border Albania?
Albania borders Montenegro, Greece, North Macedonia, Kosovo.
What is the international calling code for Albania?
The calling code is +355.
When is the best time to visit Albania?
May–Jun, Sep–Oct. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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