Stroll the central Skanderbeg Square and visit the Ottoman-era Et'hem Bey Mosque to get a first feel for Tirana’s compact center; mosque generally open 8:00am–8:00pm (avoid prayer times).
See the mosaic façade and, if time/energy, a short visit inside to learn Albania’s modern history. Museum hours usually 9:00am–5:00pm; check current seasonal times.