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Albania

Intro
Geography
Travel
Embassies & Visas
Currency
Health

Quick Facts

Official name: Republic of Albania
Capital city: Tirana
Official language: Albanian
Population: Around 2.8 million
Currency: Albanian lek (ALL)
Time zone: GMT+1 (summer GMT+2)
Driving side: Right
Highest point: Maja e Korabit (2,764 m)
Climate: Mediterranean along the coast, continental inland

Albania is a small but strikingly diverse Balkan nation, bordered by Greece, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Kosovo, with Adriatic and Ionian coastlines. After decades of isolation, Albania has become an emerging travel destination, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, pristine beaches, and a blend of Ottoman, Roman, and communist-era heritage.

Albania covers a varied landscape, from high peaks in the Albanian Alps to fertile plains and a long coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. The country experiences regular seismic activity, and flash flooding is possible, particularly in low-lying areas. The climate is typically Mediterranean on the coast, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, while inland regions experience cooler, wetter conditions.

Albania has grown in popularity with travellers in recent years, especially for its beaches and mountain hiking routes. Roads are improving but can be challenging, particularly in rural areas. Driving is on the right, and local driving standards can be erratic, so caution is advised. Public transport exists but is limited; minibuses (furgons) are common for regional travel. While violent crime rates have decreased, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in urban areas. Standard precautions are advised.

British nationals can enter Albania visa-free for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A valid passport is required for entry. Other nationalities should check with the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest embassy for current visa requirements.

The official currency is the Albanian lek (ALL). Card payments are increasingly accepted in major towns and tourist areas, but cash is still widely used, particularly in rural regions. ATMs are common in cities but less reliable in remote areas, so carrying some cash is recommended.

No specific vaccinations are required for travel to Albania, but hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies vaccinations may be advised depending on your activities. Healthcare facilities in Tirana and larger cities are improving, but standards can be limited compared with Western Europe, especially in rural areas. Pharmacies may not always stock specific prescription medicines, so it’s best to bring an adequate supply with you. EU and UK travellers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical cover. For the latest advice, check the FCDO travel advice .