Top 10 Places to Visit in Tirana

Nguyen Kieu Trang 9 0 Error

When you visit Albania's capital, you'll learn about the country's turbulent history since its founding in the 1600s. Tirana has crumbling Soviet-era ... read more...

  1. The Shëngjergji Waterfall, which has been undiscovered for many years and seems like something out of a fairy-tale, is an exquisite spot that you may visit during your vacation to Albania. It's incredible and difficult to imagine that this marvel was just discovered by the general public two years ago! Since its discovery, the Shëngjergji Waterfall has drawn both residents and visitors, and it has become one of Tirana's most prominent tourist attractions.


    The Shëngjergji Waterfall is surrounded by an oasis of colorful and luxuriant greenery, as well as stratified rocks that gleam transcendently in the sunlight. It goes without saying that the view is just breathtaking! This sight is heightened by the inhalation of fresh air and the solitude that surrounds the location, immersing you in an otherworldly experience that you will not want to leave.


    The waterfall is an hour's drive from the city and is readily accessible by taking the national Tirana-Shngjergji (St. George) route. At the moment, several organized trips may transport you to the destination all year. However, you may choose to travel alone so that you may appreciate the natural beauty with fewer people. Whatever you decide, don't leave the Shëngjergji valley without visiting the Shëngjergji Waterfall.


    • Google Rating: 4.8/5
    • Address: 82HJ+HX7, Albania, Tirana, Albania
    • Opening Hours: Daily
    trip.com
    trip.com
    invest-in-albania.org
    invest-in-albania.org

  2. Bunker Art is a Bunker Museum. A gigantic bunker erected by the communist ruler has been turned into a museum. For over 50 years, Albania was dominated by communist dictator Enver Hoxha. During his reign, he erected a massive bunker to safeguard himself and his administration in the event of conflict. You may now enter the five-story bunker and explore the subterranean areas. Bunk Art is a must-see when in Tirana since walking into the terrifying and eerie bunker is an interesting experience.


    Visiting Bunk Art is a thrilling experience you will never forget. You'll be walking through a long, dark tunnel cut into the mountainside. The tunnel itself is an excellent prelude to the eerie bunker you are about to explore. Then you'll see that the ticket office is just close to a still-active Albanian military base. You will then drop inside the five-story bunker. Signs along the path will warn you that the lights might go out at any time, so don't worry!.


    Enver Hoxha's presence is palpable once entering the bunker. Rooms illustrate the tale of the dictator's reign and life. Inside the dictator's office, you can hear his voice on a loop via the phone receiver. You may also watch a video of Enver Hoxha's state funeral in 1985 and visit the military liaison room, telecommunications room, officers' and chief of staff's rooms. The rooms are all set up as though a nuclear strike may come at any time.


    One of the most spectacular views is the vast assembly hall. At the heart of the bunker, the assembly hall would hold social gatherings. During war, Hoxha's government in hiding could rule the country from there. Today, the assembly hall hosts jazz concerts.


    • Google Rating: 4.7/5
    • Address: Rruga Fadil Deliu, Tirana 1001, Albania
    • Website: https://bunkart.al/1/
    • Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday - 09:30 to 16:00
    eatwanderexplore.com
    eatwanderexplore.com
    emerging-europe.com
    emerging-europe.com
  3. This massive Orthodox church, already a landmark in the heart of the capital, is one of many that were erected in Albania following the restoration of religious diversity. Located in the heart of the capital, southwest of Skanderbeg Square, the recently-constructed cathedral has quickly earned reputation as a tourist destination.


    It is the third-largest Orthodox cathedral in the Balkans in terms of size! The cathedral, the Chapel of the Nativity, the Holy Synod's home, the bell tower, the cultural center, a library, two smaller chapels, and the museum comprise the religious complex. The dome of the cathedral rises to a height of just over 32 meters and is instantly identifiable owing to its brilliant blue tint and immense size. The bell tower, which has 16 tiny bells, is 46 meters tall.


    The huge structure has the look of an Orthodox church but does not adhere to any traditional religious architecture. Frescoes, mosaics, and iconostasis are all designed to blend harmoniously with the cathedral's internal architecture, providing artistic value to the structure. There are some modern embellishments, such as a big marble façade and a stairway with surprisingly dazzling lights that shine in the evening. With that said, the site is quite understated during the day but absolutely cannot be missed at night!


    • Google Rating: 4.6/5
    • Address: Katedralja Orthodhokse 'Ngjallja e Krishtit', Rruga Ibrahim Rugova 1, Tiranë 1001, Albania
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 10:00 to 21:30
    globeguide.ca
    globeguide.ca
    wfxrtv.com
    wfxrtv.com
  4. Et'hem Bey Mosque is a medieval religious edifice that escaped demolition when an atheist movement gained hold in Albania in the 1960s. Today, it is one of Albania's largest and most visible Muslim meeting sites. The mosque is famed for its vivid paintings and wonderfully detailed interiors, making it a noteworthy trip for travelers interested in history, religion, and architecture.


    The mosque is made of the chapel, portico on the north and east part of the mosque, and the minaret. It was built using stones transported from the town of Shtish - Tufin on Tirana's east side, and none of the mosque's four façade look alike.


    The mosque's ceiling is in the shape of a portico, and its walls are decorated with landscapes. Images of buildings and bridges, rivers and waterfalls, and trees are uncommon in Islamic culture so they are rarely found in religious buildings. The mosque's dome is ornamented with surahs from the Quran inscribed in a spiral and 99 names of Allah written on its very top.


    Today, Et'hem Bey Mosque is open to all individuals, regardless of ethnicity or religion. Keep in mind that you must adhere to the building's customs. For example, everyone must remove their shoes at the door, and ladies must wear garments and cover their hair. All of these religious customs, however, are unquestionably worth following for the purpose of the enormous joy that every guest will have.


    • Google Rating: 4.6/5
    • Address: AL, Sheshi Skënderbej, 1000, Albania
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 05:00 to 22:30
    dailysabah.com
    dailysabah.com
    dailysabah.com
    dailysabah.com
  5. In a bustling city like Tirana, it may surprise you to see sparse and open nature in the center of the capital. Well, the Grand Park of Tirana offers just that, and so much more. The Grand Park of Tirana is one of the most famous and frequented tourist and local destinations in the capital city. The weekend is the busiest period for park visitors, who seek relaxation in the area's various open green areas, promenades, playgrounds, and cafés.


    Another fantastic location is the Open-Air Theatre, which hosts regular stage concerts with outstanding artists. Tirana's Grand Park also has a number of multi-functional courts for a variety of sports and recreational activities. In the twentieth century, an artificial lake was built, which became a popular training location for runners to train around.


    This renowned Tirana park is more than simply a recreational area; it also houses some of the country's most significant memorials. Notably, these memorials honor the famous names of Albanian literature as well as those who died during World War II. In the valleys around the artificial lake, you can discover the ruins of the Church of St. Procopius, from which you may obtain a breathtaking view of the water.


    There is lots more to do in the park's surrounding regions, one of which being the Aquadrom Swimming Pool Complex, which has pools for people of all ages. Not to forget the Tirana Zoo, which has 25 different species and wonderful wide green areas, and the Botanical Gardens, which provide a stunning refuge of floral beauty for everybody.


    • Google Rating: 4.6/5
    • Address: 8R6G+W32, Rruga Herman Gmeiner, Tirana 1000, Albania
    • Website: https://aprtirana.al/parqe-rekreative/parku-i-madh-i-liqenit-tirane/
    • Opening Hours: Daily
    theholisticbackpacker.com
    theholisticbackpacker.com
    eatwanderexplore.com
    eatwanderexplore.com
  6. Petrela Castle & Village is a beautiful getaway with outstanding authenticity and breathtaking views. This true medieval town has the name of the castle that stands over its historical settlement and is about 18 kilometers from Tirana. While Petrela Castle is the major attraction here, the importance of receiving some fresh air as you stroll the region around it.


    The meandering road that leads to this attractive town passes past gorgeous olive orchards and modern buildings that continue all the way into the village center. You may park your car here and continue your journey on foot by following a small trail. Century-old olive trees flank the castle's majestic gate, which invites you to enter.


    Although the castle contains remnants of the old enclosing wall and observation towers, it has been restored to survive the ravages of time. Two open hallways link the castle's two internal chambers. Walking down these passages will lead you to the main chambers and two minor gates, both of which have been authentically rebuilt. The inside of the castle has a restaurant and a café, both of which are decorated in Petrela's traditional style. Antique furniture, antique household furnishings, handcrafted things typical of the era, and even the cuisine provided in the cafés are in keeping with Petrela Castle's historical beauty.


    • Google Rating: 4.5/5
    • Address: Rruga Petreles, Petrelë, Tirana, Albania
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 10:00 to 18:00
    intoalbania.com
    intoalbania.com
    freepik.com
    freepik.com
  7. Skanderbeg Square – or Sheshi Skënderbej in Albanian – is the heart and soul of the city. Skanderbeg has it all as a cultural and tourist hub, as well as a location for festivals and performances. Its name comes from the nickname of the Albanian national hero and commander Gjergj Kastrioti. The square is around 40,000 square meters in size, and the Skanderbeg statue atop a horse towering over it. Buildings in the square include the Palace of Culture, the Opera and Ballet Theater, the National Bank, and the National Library.


    The square itself has little holes all throughout the tiles. Water bursts out of these pores throughout the summer, when the temperature is about 40 degrees Celsius. It covers the Square in a thin coating of reflecting water, which helps to keep it cool. The building encircling the plaza is neo-renaissance, and there is a huge grass with flower beds to complete the majestic ambiance. Skanderbeg is the city's principal location for popular events, such as the 100th anniversary of Albanian independence in 2012.


    • Google Rating: 4.5/5
    • Address: Plaza Tirana, Sheshi Skender Beu, Tirana 1001, Albania
    • Opening Hours: Daily
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    titan-cement.com
    julianpetersphotography.de
    julianpetersphotography.de
  8. This cable car is a delightful family day out and a superb introduction to the city, taking you up by gondola to the stunning mountain on Tirana’s eastern edge. The cable car spans a kilometer and rises more than 800 meters up the slope, making it the longest in the Balkans.


    The breathtaking view is the major draw of the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car. First, take a 15-minute cable car ride that crosses above treetops, little farmhouses, and passes by steep cliffs. When you get at the higher station of the Dajti Ekspress Cable Car, you will enjoy an incredible view over Tirana. On a clear day, you can see the Adriatic Sea and the Port of Durres.


    Apart from the breathtaking views, the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car is a great spot to unwind and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. On top of the cliff, there is a lovely restaurant. You may eat breakfast, lunch, or supper here while admiring the spectacular views.


    Another alternative is to stop by the spinning bar, which rotates 360 degrees as you sip your hot or cold beverage. Dajti also organizes a variety of interesting outdoor activities. You may try your hand at horseback riding, rifle shooting, mini golf, or quad buggies.


    • Google Rating: 4.5/5
    • Address: Dajti mountain, Tirana
    • Website: https://dajtiekspres.com/
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 09:00 to 18:30
    dajtiekspres.com
    dajtiekspres.com
    adriftaesthetic.com
    adriftaesthetic.com
  9. In the summer, things can really heat up in Tirana, but a day at the beach is just an easy car trip away. Spille Beach is three kilometres-long and sits just south of Durrës, located 40.2 kilometers from the capital of Tirana.


    It has blue water and beautiful golden fine sand, therefore no special shoes are required. The water's entry is exceedingly smooth. This beach is appropriate for a variety of people, including lonely travelers, relaxation retreat lovers, elders, and so on. During the peak season, it might get a little congested.


    The beach is wide enough that you'll be able to find some space at any time of year, and if you're coming with little children, you'll be able to let them paddle in the soft and shallow surf with confidence. Spille has all the trappings of a European beach resort, including restaurants, sports facilities, and more, but the rates for things like beverages, chairs, and parasols are far lower than in other well-known beach resorts. There are also many water sports available, such as catamarans and jet skis. During the season, a lifeguard patrols this beach line.


    • Google Rating: 4.4/5
    • Address: Durrës, Tirana, Albania
    • Opening Hours: Daily
    freepik.com
    freepik.com
    albaniatourguide.com
    albaniatourguide.com
  10. The National Gallery of Arts, which exhibits the best works of Albanian painters, has a huge collection of paintings in a variety of genres from various times. Some of these pieces precisely depict art under government influence, conveying the story of Albania via innovation.


    During Communism, the National Gallery of Arts was the single organization in charge of overseeing and selecting suitable creative works, comparable to the French Salon of the 18th century. Great names in Albanian art have been imprisoned as a result of their improper works, like Maks Velo, Edi Hila, and Edison Gjergo, to mention a few. Fortunately, these masterpieces are now on display at The National Gallery of Arts.


    After being relocated in 1974, the gallery now stands as a cultural heritage site on Tirana's major avenue. The structure was built during the Communist era and has an architectural style with the National Museum of History and the Palace of Culture. The two-story structure is formed like the letter T and is divided into large-scale halls, containing the gallery's library on the first level as well as the two main exhibition rooms.


    The gallery houses almost 4500 works of art by Albanian and foreign artists. The biggest collection is that of the Socialist Realism period, which has epic dimensions but is now tragically closed. The closure sparked considerable controversy and was not well accepted. The whole collection housed within the gallery dates back to the '800s, an Albanian art era produced by the Italian Academy of Fine Arts.


    • Google Rating: 4.0/5
    • Address: Rruga Murat Toptani, 21001 Tirana, Albania
    • Website: http://galeriakombetare.gov.al/en/home/
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 09:00 to 19:00
    lonelyplanet.com
    lonelyplanet.com
    theculturetrip.com
    theculturetrip.com



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