bigtravelbuzzTirana County is a county located in central Albania, with its capital being Tirana, the country’s capital and largest city. The county has a population of over 800,000 people and covers an area of approximately 1,610 square kilometers.
Tirana County is known for its vibrant culture and rich history, as well as its beautiful natural scenery. The county is home to several important landmarks and tourist attractions, including Skanderbeg Square, the National Museum of History, and the Et’hem Bey Mosque.
The economy of Tirana County is diverse and includes industries such as construction, manufacturing, finance, and tourism. The county is also home to several universities and research institutions, making it a hub for education and innovation in Albania.
Overall, Tirana County is an important and influential region in Albania, playing a key role in the country’s social, cultural, and economic development.
Places to Visit in Tirana County
Tirana County is located in central Albania and is the most populous county in the country. It is home to the capital city of Tirana, which is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. Here are some places to visit in Tirana County:
Skanderbeg Square: This is the main square in Tirana and is named after the national hero Skanderbeg. It is home to several important buildings, including the National Museum of History and the Et’hem Bey Mosque.
Mount Dajti National Park: Located just outside Tirana, this park is home to Mount Dajti, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The park is also home to a range of flora and fauna, as well as hiking trails and outdoor activities.
National Museum of History: This museum is located in Tirana and houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Albania’s rich history and culture.
Bunk’Art 2: This museum is located in a former nuclear bunker and provides a fascinating insight into Albania’s recent history, particularly during the communist era.
Blloku: This is a trendy neighborhood in Tirana that was once off-limits to the general public. Today, it is home to a range of cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops, and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Tirana Castle: This castle dates back to the Ottoman era and is located in the heart of Tirana. Today, it is home to a range of restaurants and cafes, as well as a museum that showcases the castle’s history.
National Art Gallery of Albania: This gallery is located in Tirana and houses a vast collection of Albanian art, including paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.
Preza Castle: This castle is located just outside Tirana and dates back to the 14th century. Today, it is home to a restaurant and provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Grand Park of Tirana: This park is located in the heart of Tirana and provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It is home to a range of flora and fauna, as well as walking trails and outdoor activities.
Mother Teresa Square: This square is located in the center of Tirana and is named after the famous Albanian nun and missionary Mother Teresa. It is home to several important buildings, including the National Opera and Ballet Theater of Albania.
Best Time To Visit Tirana County
The best time to visit Tirana County is during the spring and autumn seasons, which run from April to June and September to November, respectively. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the temperature is comfortable for outdoor activities. Additionally, the scenery during these seasons is beautiful, with blooming flowers in the spring and colorful foliage in the autumn.
Summers in Tirana County can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), and winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping to below freezing. However, if you don’t mind the weather extremes, visiting during the summer or winter can also offer a unique experience. Summer offers a chance to enjoy the beaches and the coast, while winter offers the opportunity to enjoy winter sports in the nearby mountains.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Tirana County depends on your interests and preferences. However, if you want to enjoy a pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures, the spring and autumn seasons are the best options.
Things to Do in Tirana County
Tirana County, located in central Albania, offers a variety of things to see and do for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Tirana County:
Explore the city of Tirana: The capital city of Albania is a vibrant and bustling place, filled with history, culture, and many attractions. Visit Skanderbeg Square, the National Museum of History, and the Et’hem Bey Mosque, among other landmarks.
Visit Mount Dajti National Park: This park is located just outside Tirana and offers visitors stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.
Experience the nightlife in Blloku: This trendy neighborhood in Tirana is known for its bars, restaurants, and cafes, and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Visit Bunk’Art 2: This museum is located in a former nuclear bunker and offers a unique insight into Albania’s history, particularly during the communist era.
Enjoy the beaches and coastline: Tirana County is located near the coast, and there are several beaches and resorts to enjoy, including Durrës Beach and Kavajë Beach.
Visit the National Art Gallery of Albania: This gallery is located in Tirana and houses a vast collection of Albanian art, including paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.
Try Albanian cuisine: Tirana County is home to many excellent restaurants serving traditional Albanian dishes such as byrek, tave kosi, and fërgesë.
Attend a cultural event: Tirana County hosts many cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, film festivals, and other cultural celebrations.
Explore the castles: Tirana County is home to several castles, including Tirana Castle and Preza Castle, which offer visitors a glimpse into Albania’s rich history.
Relax in Grand Park of Tirana: This park is located in the heart of Tirana and offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with walking trails, outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery.
How to get around in Tirana County
Tirana County is the most populous county in Albania and is home to the capital city, Tirana. Here are some of the best ways to get around in Tirana County:
By foot: The city center of Tirana is relatively small and can easily be explored on foot. Walking is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the city and to explore the various neighborhoods.
By public transportation: Tirana has an extensive bus system that covers most parts of the city and its suburbs. Additionally, there are shared taxis, called furgons, that run along specific routes and are often quicker than the buses.
By taxi: Taxis are widely available in Tirana and are a convenient way to get around, especially at night or for longer distances. However, make sure to agree on a price with the driver before getting in the taxi.
By bike: There are several bike rental companies in Tirana, and biking is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. However, be aware that traffic in Tirana can be chaotic, and it is important to follow traffic rules and wear a helmet.
By car: Renting a car is also an option, but be aware that driving in Tirana can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors. Traffic can be chaotic, and parking can be difficult to find.
By private transportation: Many hotels and tour companies offer private transportation services, which can be a convenient and comfortable way to get around Tirana and its surroundings.
Where to eat in Tirana County
Tirana County is home to many excellent restaurants and eateries, offering a variety of Albanian and international cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Tirana County:
Oda: This upscale restaurant in the heart of Tirana serves traditional Albanian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Mullixhiu: This restaurant in Tirana is known for its innovative cuisine and creative dishes. The menu changes frequently and features a variety of international flavors.
Serendipity: This cozy restaurant in Tirana is popular for its homemade pasta, seafood dishes, and local wine. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
Era: This rooftop restaurant in Tirana offers stunning views of the city and serves a variety of international dishes, including sushi, pizza, and steak.
Salt: This modern restaurant in Tirana serves a mix of international and Albanian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes frequently, and the restaurant also offers an extensive wine list.
Juvenilja: This restaurant in Durrës, a coastal city in Tirana County, is famous for its seafood dishes, including grilled fish and octopus.
Era Restaurant & Lounge: This restaurant in the outskirts of Tirana offers a relaxed atmosphere and a mix of Albanian and international cuisine. The restaurant is known for its grilled meats and fresh salads.
Kodra e Kuajve: This traditional Albanian restaurant in the hills above Tirana offers stunning views of the city and serves a variety of Albanian dishes, including roasted lamb and traditional stews.
Green & More: This vegan and vegetarian restaurant in Tirana serves a variety of healthy dishes made with organic, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes salads, soups, sandwiches, and smoothies.
A la Santé: This French-inspired bakery and cafe in Tirana is known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and coffee. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the cafe also offers light breakfast and lunch options.
Famous street stalls in Tirana County
Tirana County is home to a variety of street food stalls offering delicious and affordable snacks and meals. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Tirana County:
Qebaptore Tirona: This street stall in Tirana serves traditional Albanian qebapa, grilled meatballs made with lamb or beef. The qebapa are served with flatbread and a spicy tomato sauce.
Fergesë: This street stall in Tirana is famous for its fergesë, a traditional Albanian dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese. The dish is served with bread and is a great option for vegetarians.
Byrek Vendore: This street stall in Tirana serves delicious byrek, a savory pastry made with filo dough and filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. The byrek is baked fresh daily and is a popular breakfast or snack option.
Bakllamaja: This street stall in Tirana serves bakllama, a traditional Albanian flatbread made with cornmeal and served with cheese or honey. The bread is cooked on a hot griddle and is a popular street food snack.
Kokomani: This street stall in Tirana is famous for its kokomani, a traditional Albanian dessert made with walnuts, sugar, and spices. The dessert is cooked over a fire and is a popular treat during winter.
Kërnacka: This street stall in Tirana serves kërnacka, grilled lamb or beef intestines seasoned with salt and pepper. The dish is served with flatbread and is a popular street food snack.
Dürüm: This street stall in Tirana serves dürüm, a Turkish-style wrap filled with grilled meat, vegetables, and sauce. The wrap is made with thin flatbread and is a popular street food option.
Qofte: This street stall in Tirana serves qofte, grilled meatballs made with lamb or beef and seasoned with herbs and spices. The meatballs are served with bread and a spicy tomato sauce.
Tavë Kosi: This street stall in Tirana serves tavë kosi, a traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb or beef and yogurt. The dish is served with bread and is a popular option for lunch or dinner.
Çiçeku: This street stall in Tirana serves çiçeku, a traditional Albanian pastry made with layers of filo dough and filled with cheese or meat. The pastry is baked fresh daily and is a popular breakfast or snack option.
Where to stay in Tirana County
Luxury accommodation
Tirana County offers a range of luxury accommodations, from stylish boutique hotels to lavish resorts. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Tirana County:
Rogner Hotel: This five-star hotel in Tirana is set in a beautiful park and features a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, and the hotel also offers several dining options.
Sheraton Tirana Hotel: This luxurious hotel in Tirana offers stunning views of the city and features an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center. The rooms are spacious and modern, and the hotel also offers several dining options.
The Plaza Tirana: This five-star hotel in the heart of Tirana features a rooftop pool, spa, and fitness center. The rooms are spacious and modern, and the hotel also offers several dining options.
Sky Hotel Tirana: This boutique hotel in Tirana offers stunning views of the city and features a rooftop bar and restaurant, spa, and fitness center. The rooms are stylishly decorated and feature modern amenities.
The Rooms Hotel and Residence: This stylish hotel in Tirana features a rooftop pool and bar, fitness center, and spa. The rooms are spacious and feature modern amenities, and the hotel also offers several dining options.
Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center: This luxurious hotel in Tirana features a fitness center, spa, and several dining options. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, and the hotel also offers conference facilities.
Dajti Park Resort: This luxurious resort in the mountains above Tirana features stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. The resort offers several dining options, a spa, and fitness center, and the rooms are spacious and modern.
Sheraton Tirana Riviera: This luxurious resort on the Albanian Riviera features a private beach, outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center. The rooms are spacious and modern, and the resort also offers several dining options.
Hotel Colosseo Tirana: This stylish boutique hotel in Tirana features a rooftop pool and bar, fitness center, and several dining options. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, and the hotel is located close to many of Tirana’s top attractions.
The Prime Hotel Tirana: This five-star hotel in Tirana features a rooftop pool and bar, spa, and fitness center. The rooms are spacious and modern, and the hotel also offers several dining options.
Where to stay in Tirana County
Budget accommodation
Tirana County offers a variety of budget accommodations, from guesthouses and hostels to affordable hotels. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Tirana County:
Trip’n’Hostel: This cozy hostel in Tirana offers comfortable dormitory and private rooms at affordable prices. The hostel also features a shared kitchen and lounge, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Propaganda Hostel: This centrally located hostel in Tirana offers dormitory and private rooms at affordable prices. The hostel also features a shared kitchen and lounge, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Freddy’s Hostel: This friendly hostel in Tirana offers clean and comfortable dormitory and private rooms at affordable prices. The hostel also features a shared kitchen and lounge, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Vila e Arte: This budget-friendly hotel in Tirana offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel also features a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Baron: This affordable hotel in Tirana offers clean and comfortable rooms at budget prices. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Hostel Albania: This centrally located hostel in Tirana offers dormitory and private rooms at affordable prices. The hostel also features a shared kitchen and lounge, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Center Rooms Oresti: This affordable guesthouse in Tirana offers clean and comfortable rooms at budget prices. The guesthouse also features a shared kitchen and lounge, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Capital Hostel Tirana: This cozy hostel in Tirana offers dormitory and private rooms at affordable prices. The hostel also features a shared kitchen and lounge, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Millennium: This budget-friendly hotel in Tirana offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar, as well as free Wi-Fi.
La Boheme Hotel: This affordable hotel in Tirana offers clean and comfortable rooms at budget prices. The hotel also features a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi.
Travel Tips Tirana County
Here are some travel tips for visiting Tirana County:
Dress appropriately: Albania is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long skirts or pants, while men should wear long pants.
Use taxis or public transportation: Tirana County has a public transportation system consisting of buses, trolleys, and minibuses. Taxis are also widely available and relatively inexpensive. It’s recommended to avoid using private cars for transportation, as parking can be difficult to find and traffic can be congested.
Be aware of scams: As with any tourist destination, there are some scams to be aware of in Tirana County. It’s recommended to avoid street vendors selling fake goods and to only exchange money at official exchange bureaus or banks.
Try the local cuisine: Albanian cuisine is diverse and delicious, with influences from Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. Some local specialties to try include fërgesë, a dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, and byrek, a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
Learn some basic Albanian: While many people in Tirana County speak English, it’s always appreciated to make an effort to speak the local language. Learning some basic Albanian phrases such as hello (përshëndetje), thank you (faleminderit), and please (ju lutem) can go a long way in making a good impression.
Stay safe: Tirana County is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Visit outside of peak season: Tirana County can get crowded during the summer months, so consider visiting in the spring or fall for fewer crowds and more pleasant weather.