Albania uses the Albanian lek (ALL, L).

Albania is known for its rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and Ottoman-era architecture. It’s a hidden gem in Europe with warm hospitality, ancient ruins, and affordable travel. Highlights include Berat, Gjirokastër, and the Albanian Riviera.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–10% is polite. Tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides for great service. Always tip in cash where possible.

You most likey do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days, but check entry rules before you go. Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months from your arrival.

May to September is the best time to visit Albania for beach weather and outdoor exploring. Spring and early fall are great for sightseeing without the heat. The coast is buzzing with tourists in July and August, but still relatively undiscovered compared to the rest of Europe's beach destinations.

Albania has a Mediterranean climate—hot summers and mild winters along the coast, with colder, snowy conditions inland. Expect long sunny days in summer, and cooler, wetter weather in winter months.

Yes, especially in the mountains and inland regions. The Albanian Alps get snow from December through March, making them ideal for winter hiking or skiing. Coastal areas rarely see snow.

Albania uses plug types C and F, with a voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz. US travellers will need a suitable adapter. Check your device's voltage range before using it.

ATMs are available in most cities and towns, but less common in remote areas. Many machines accept international cards. It’s a good idea to carry some cash, as not all places take cards.

Tap water is not always safe to drink, especially in rural areas. Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. It’s cheap and widely available in shops and hotels.

Light clothes for summer, layers for the mountains, and a waterproof jacket for spring or autumn. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring ruins or hiking. Bring modest clothes for churches and traditional towns.

You can take three days to visit one of Albania's sights, be it the sun-soaked coast, its capital Tirana, or its mountain region. To tick off two or more, we recommend at least a week.

Berat and Gjirokastër (UNESCO towns), the Albanian Riviera, Butrint National Park, Lake Ohrid, and the Llogara Pass are all highlights. Tirana offers quirky museums and a growing café culture.

Albanian cuisine features grilled meats, byrek (filled pastry), fresh seafood, and mountain stews. Local cheese, olives, and seasonal produce feature heavily. Raki, a strong grape brandy, is often offered as a warm welcome.

We highly recommend guests purchase travel insurance prior to your trip. Please ensure you add the details of your insurance to the MyTrafalgar portal.

Your insurance should cover trip interruption, personal injury, medical expenses, and evacuation and repatriation cover, including during pandemic events.