Trip Planning
The TakeYourBackpack guidebooks are your all-in-one travel companion, featuring the best cities, national parks, hikes, beaches, and unique sites, along with essential tips on when to go, how to get around, exchanging money, and even local phrases to get you started — everything you need for a smooth, unforgettable backpacking adventure.
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Personal tip: I normally search on good rating for atmosphere (for meeting people) and location (for easy exploring). Cleanliness as a bonus.
Travel Essentials
Hepatitis A and B are recommended for travelers to Albania. Consider a rabies shot if you’ll be in contact with animals or exploring rural areas. Routine vaccines like MMR and tetanus should be up-to-date. Always check for any updates from health authorities before your trip.
vaccination requirementsWhen I first started traveling, I often spent part of my first day in a new country hunting for a local SIM card. While this can still be slightly cheaper, it also takes time and planning.
These days, it's much simpler to install an eSIM before leaving home. Once you arrive in Albania, you can activate it immediately and have mobile data from the moment you land — which is especially useful for ordering transport or navigating away from busy airports.
There are many providers nowadays, and price differences are usually small. I personally go with Airalo, as it offers excellent network coverage throughout the country and strong global coverage, so you can manage multiple countries from a single app.
Get your e-sim for AlbaniaCulture & Customs
Albania is welcoming but has some unique customs. Do greet with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Bring a small gift if invited to someone’s home. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. For women, solo travel is generally safe, but dress conservatively to respect local norms. LGBTQ+ travelers should be discreet as social attitudes can be conservative. Always remove your shoes before entering a home. Avoid discussing politics, especially past conflicts, as it can be a sensitive topic.
Trying traditional food is always a great way to experience the culture. Here are some must-try dishes for Albania.
- Fërgesë: A hearty, comforting dish made from bell peppers, tomatoes, and cheese (often feta), baked together to create a creamy texture. It’s a staple in Albanian households, especially in Tirana, and captures the essence of local flavors.
- Byrek: Think of it as Albania’s version of a savory pie, filled with ingredients like cheese, spinach, or meat, wrapped in flaky pastry layers. It’s a popular snack or meal on the go, loved for its versatility and satisfying taste.
- Tavë Kosi: A baked lamb and rice dish with a yogurt and egg sauce, creating a creamy yet tangy flavor. It’s considered a national dish and is a go-to for special occasions, symbolizing Albania’s rich culinary heritage.
- Qofte: These are flavorful meatballs, often made from a mix of beef and lamb, seasoned with spices like mint and garlic. Grilled or fried, they’re a favorite street food snack and often served with fresh bread or salad.
- Flia: A unique layered pancake-like dish, traditionally baked outdoors and perfect for sharing. Made from simple ingredients like flour, water, and butter, it’s often enjoyed during communal gatherings and symbolizes hospitality.
In Albania, tap water quality can vary by region. Locals often drink it, but it’s typically recommended for tourists to stick to bottled or filtered water, especially in rural areas or smaller towns. In cities like Tirana, water is generally safe but still might not be up to the standards some travelers expect.
The main language in Albania is
Albanian. Backpacking is way more rewarding if you know a bit of the local language, so I'd suggest brushing up on the basics just in case your Albanian skills have become a bit rusty.
Want to understand locals better?The complete Travel Guide for Albania includes 52 essential words and phrases — greetings, thank-yous, ordering food, transport, numbers, and common local expressions you'll actually hear.
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Get the Travel Guide - In Albania,
English proficiency varies significantly depending on the region and demographics. In urban areas, particularly in Tirana, the capital, and tourist hotspots like Saranda and Berat, many young people and professionals speak English well. This is largely due to the increasing influence of Western culture, education, and tourism.
In contrast, in rural areas or among older generations, English may be less commonly spoken. Many locals in these regions may communicate primarily in Albanian, with limited English skills. However, you can often find English speakers in hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites, where staff are accustomed to interacting with international visitors.
Overall, while you can generally get by in English in Albania, especially in cities and tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Albanian can enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
Money & Payments
The local currency of Albania is ALL (L).
ATMs: You’ll find ATMs in most towns and cities in Albania. Stick to those associated with major banks like Raiffeisen or Intesa Sanpaolo for reliability. Some small towns might be a bit sparse on ATMs, so plan ahead.
Cash: Cash is king in Albania, especially in rural areas and smaller towns. It’s a good idea to always have some Albanian Lek (ALL) on you, just in case your card isn’t accepted.
Currency: While euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, don’t bank on it everywhere. It’s best to exchange euros or dollars to leks once you arrive. Avoid airports for currency exchange as they often have lower rates.
Card Acceptance: Credit and debit cards are generally accepted in larger cities and more touristy places, but always ask before assuming. Smaller establishments might still be cash-only.
Exchange: For exchanging money, look for official exchange offices in cities. They usually offer better rates than banks and airports. Always double-check the rates and any fees before exchanging.
Tipping in Albania isn’t obligatory but is appreciated. In restaurants, leaving around 5-10% of the bill is common, while rounding up taxi fares is sufficient. For hotel staff, a small tip for good service is welcomed but not expected.
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Over the years, I've learned the importance of packing minimally. It's so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you're headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
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Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.