A One-Day Itinerary for Exploring Tirana

  • 9:00 AM: Skanderbeg Square
    Located in the city center

    Start your day at the heart of Tirana, Skanderbeg Square, with its historical and cultural significance. The square features the iconic Skanderbeg monument and the National Museum of History, which introduce you to the history of Albania and display Albanian art from prehistoric times to the present day.

  • 11:00 AM: Ethem Bey Mosque
    5 minutes (0.4 miles) from Skanderbeg Square

    A visit to the Ethem Bey Mosque is a must when exploring Tirana, with its intricate interior and exterior designs. The mosque is the central point of Tirana's main pedestrian boulevard and is surrounded by countless coffee shops, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

  • 12:30 PM: Lunch at Oda Restaurant
    10 minutes (0.8 miles) from Ethem Bey Mosque

    For lunch, enjoy traditional Albanian dishes and a panoramic view of the city at Oda Restaurant. The restaurant is located on the top floor of a skyscraper and has an open balcony that overlooks Tirana.

  • 2:30 PM: Bunk'Art 1
    20 minutes (2.5 miles) from Oda Restaurant

    To learn more about the country's communist past, visit Bunk'Art 1, a former bunker turned museum. The museum offers a unique experience and insight into the history of Albania during the communist regime.

  • 4:30 PM: Piramida
    10 minutes (1.2 miles) from Bunk'Art 1

    End your day at Tirana's most controversial building, Piramida, a communist-era monument that has been abandoned for many years due to various ownership disputes. The building's unique structure and urban art create an interesting atmosphere, and the view from the top offers a great panoramic view of Tirana.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Skanderbeg Square (1 hour, free)
  • Ethem Bey Mosque (1.5 hours, free)
  • Oda Restaurant (1.5 hours, £££)
  • Bunk'Art 1 (2 hours, £)
  • Piramida (1 hour, free)
    • Total Estimated Costs: £££

Transportation

The most convenient way to travel within Tirana is by taxi or rented car, which costs around £15-£20 per day with a valid driver's license. Walking is also an option for shorter distances.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Grand Park of Tirana, The Clock Tower of Tirana and The National Gallery of Arts. If you have less time, skip the Piramida and add the TID tower to your itinerary, which is located near Skanderbeg Square.

Airports

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) is the only airport in Tirana, located 9 miles from the city center. A taxi from the airport to the city costs around £15-£20, and the journey takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic.

0