I went anyway and I thought Tirana was a really quirky place! 

This was a decade ago. Since then, Tirana has changed in many ways. It is easier to get to now, and more travellers are visiting.

If you are planning a trip to Albania’s capital and are wondering if 2 days in Tirana is enough, I would say yes.

It’s the ideal amount of time to see the main attractions, eat some traditional food and visit some cooler areas of the city.

I wrote this 2 day Tirana itinerary to help you plan your time in the city or consider taking a few side trips outside of it, too.

Overview of Tirana

Lively, colourful Tirana is the heartbeat of Albania, where 25% of the population now lives.

Since emerging from its communist past in the early 1990s, the city has transformed dramatically.

Once dominated by drab, grey concrete, Tirana’s centre is a kaleidoscope of bold colours, vibrant public squares, and pedestrian-friendly streets perfect for wandering. 

Trendy Blloku buzzes with energy as locals and visitors gather in chic bars and cafes, while Tirana’s grand boulevards reflect the city’s history.

Ottoman-era minarets, Italian-style architecture, and bold socialist-era murals stand side by side. Tirana will surprise you. 

Add excellent museums, dynamic street art, and a warm, welcoming vibe, and you’ll understand why Tirana is a must-visit destination for curious travellers. 

Arriving In Tirana

Getting to Tirana is straightforward and convenient, whether by air or land. 

If you’re flying in, the Nënë Tereza International Airport (Mother Teresa Airport) is just 17km northwest of the city centre. 

From the airport, you can take the Rinas Express bus for 250 lekë, which departs hourly between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m or reserve your ticket here on this comfortable 24-hour transfer bus from the airport to central Tirana.

You can opt for a taxi, priced between 1500 and 2000 lekë, around $15 – $20 or pre-book a minivan transfer here; the price is roughly $12.

Tirana’s decentralised system organises routes by destination for those travelling by bus.

International buses depart from the International Bus Station off Rruga e Durrësit, with routes to major cities like Skopje, Athens, and Dubrovnik. 

2 days in Tirana Itinerary – Day 1:

Day 1: History, Art, and Hidden Gems in Central Tirana

Morning: Skanderbeg Square & the ‘I Love Tirana’ Sign

Start your day in Skanderbeg Square, Tirana’s expansive central plaza.

This is more than just a square—it’s the heartbeat of the city, surrounded by significant landmarks and buzzing with life. I love how it shows all the different styles of architecture.

You’ll find the Et’hem Bey Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Albania, standing as a testament to the city’s Ottoman past and the National Opera House, a nod to Tirana’s cultural scene.

There is also a bookstore where you can buy books in English.

Don’t miss the ‘I Love Tirana‘ sign, a popular photo spot that captures the city’s newfound spirit—I guess inspired by the I Love Amsterdam sign.

It’s here in the square that you will also see some Italian architecture and new shiny buildings being built, including the Intercontinental building.

And, of course, there is a statue of the national Albanian hero Skanderbeg. 

Next, see the National History Museum, whose impressive mosaic facade—depicting Albania’s history from ancient Illyrians to communist rule—is hard to miss as it can be seen from a distance. 

You can also visit the museum. The ground floor’s ancient history and artefacts have good English descriptions. 

Unfortunately, the other floors are only in Albanian, so you would need to use the Google Translate App to get more context on what you are looking at. Hopefully, the museum will adapt in 2025 and include English. 

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Midday: The Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral & Lunch

Walk a short distance to the impressive Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral. Its size is huge, and again, I love how the architecture changes.

Its massive dome and contemporary design stand out; it blends some traditional religious architecture with modern elements. 

Step inside as entry is free, and marvel at the colourful frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. It’s also nice and cool in the middle of hot Albanian summer, so it is a nice retreat. 

For lunch, head to Mrizi i Zanave for a taste of traditional Albanian food.

I love their Albanian pies. This is about a 15-minute walk, so maybe try to go to the Museum House of Leaves before lunch or head to Tymi, which is only a 5-minute walk.

Tymi delivers innovative takes on Albanian cuisine in a trendy setting.

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Afternoon: House of Leaves Museum & Bunk’Art 2

Opposite the cathedral is the House of Leaves, Albania’s former surveillance headquarters during the communist era.

The museum tells chilling tales of espionage, control, and the everyday fear Albanians lived with. Each exhibit is haunting yet fascinating, offering a glimpse into life under Enver Hoxha’s regime. The ticket costs 700 LEK, which is 7 euros.

Continue your historical journey at Bunk’Art 2, located near Skanderbeg Square.

This underground bunker museum reveals the secretive world of Albania’s state police during the dictatorship, with immersive exhibits that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

You might need an hour to go through everything here. The ticket is 500 LEK, which is about 5 euros.

Evening: Castle of Tirana & Dinner at Mullixhiu

As the day winds down, wander to the Castle of Tirana. What was once a fortress is now a lively complex of boutique shops, artisan eateries, and historic charm.

The cobblestone paths lead you to cosy cafes where you can unwind before dinner. You could also dine here. There is a popular shopping mall right next to it.

For a memorable meal, dine at Mullixhiu near Grand Park. Known for its innovative farm-to-table approach, Mullixhiu crafts seasonal dishes using locally sourced ingredients.

Try the wild herb risotto or beef cheek for an authentic taste of Albanian cuisine.

Day 2: Nature, Art, and Tirana’s Modern Spirit or Day trip

You could also choose to head out of the city on a day trip. Here are some recommended day trips below:

Morning: Dajti Ekspres Cable Car Adventure

Start your second day with a ride on the Dajti Ekspres cable car, offering breathtaking views over Tirana and the surrounding mountains. 

The 15-minute ascent takes you to Dajti Mountain National Park, where you can hike, relax, or enjoy the panoramic scenery from the summit cafe.

Midday: Lunch at Ballkoni Dajtit

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ballkoni Dajtit, known for its spectacular views and traditional dishes. 

Savour grilled lamb or fresh trout, both local favourites while soaking in the mountain atmosphere. 

Afternoon: The Pyramid, The Cloud, & Blloku District

Returning to the city, stop by the pyramid of Tirana, an odd yet iconic structure initially built as a museum for Enver Hoxha.

Now, it’s a symbol of Tirana’s resilience and creativity, often hosting cultural events and art installations. You can walk along the entire structure.

Nearby is the Cloud, a modern art installation designed by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto. It’s an open, airy structure inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and engage with Tirana’s art scene.

Stroll over to Blloku, once the exclusive neighbourhood of communist elites, now transformed into Tirana’s trendiest district.

Street art here is vibrant and expressive, reflecting the city’s creative energy. Don’t miss murals that capture Tirana’s colourful character.

Evening: Radio Bar & Castle Dining

Wrap up your Tirana adventure at Radio Bar in Blloku. 

Its retro decor and lively atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a final drink. I have been here a few times, and I love their inventive cocktails.

If you’re still hungry, head back to the Castle of Tirana for a relaxed dinner at one of the charming restaurants, enjoying the blend of history and modern dining.

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Where to Stay in Tirana

When choosing accommodation in Tirana, location is key.

The best areas to stay are near Skanderbeg Square or the lively Blloku district, both offering easy access to major sights, restaurants, and nightlife.

Tirana’s hospitality standards have improved significantly in recent years, with options ranging from budget hostels to luxurious international chains.

Whether travelling in peak summer or during the quieter months, booking ahead is wise, especially in Blloku, which is popular with locals and visitors alike.

Here are some top picks for every budget:

• Maritim Hotel Plaza Tirana: This luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms, a spa, and an excellent location from Skanderbeg Square.
• Sky Hotel Tirana: Perfect for stunning city views, this upscale hotel features modern rooms and a revolving rooftop restaurant.
• Tirana Marriott Hotel: An elegant and reliable high-end option with exceptional service and convenient proximity to the city’s attractions.
• In Center Hotel: This top-rated 3-star hotel, which features views of the city and has air-conditioned rooms, is set 400 metres from Skanderbeg Square.

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Final Thoughts on 2 days in Tirana Itinerary

Tirana is a city like no other, really there is no other European capital city I can think of. From the relics of its communist past to its buzzing modern neighbourhoods, Tirana is unique and quirky.

Two days might feel short, but it’s just enough to discover the city’s charm and quirkiness.

Whether you’re sipping coffee in Blloku, reflecting on history in the House of Leaves, or admiring street art on your way to Skanderbeg Square, Tirana has a way of surprising you.

Travel Tips for Europe

We have many travel guides and tips for Europe— an incredible continent!

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Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed across Europe, and our food map of Europe will inspire your culinary journey.

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Here are 8 things to know about travelling to Eastern Europe and it’s good to know these 7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe too.

These top 6 travel hacks to save money are great to read when planning your travels.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Europe. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual European countries, or consider a regional eSIM for Europe (which covers 39 countries).

If your travels in Europe are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries, offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM. The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. Check out our Group Tours first for any upcoming European departures, or view Tourradar for great deals on group tours in Europe.

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.