Albania
THE BEAUTY AND NATURE OF THE LAND OF THE EAGLES
Albania, located in southeastern Europe, overlooks the Adriatic and Ionian Seas and is a country full of diverse facets. Natural sites, castles, and archaeological areas, along with ancient cathedrals and churches of Greek, Ottoman, and Byzantine origin, offer travelers many opportunities for interesting cultural visits.
This little-known land, largely untouched by mass tourism, is in fact a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. On one side, the sea with its unspoiled beaches and breathtaking views; on the other, artistic cities where you can immerse yourself in the country’s history, culture, and traditions.
Start with a visit to Tirana, the capital, known for its unique blend of Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet architecture. The pastel colors of the buildings stand out, as well as the famous Skanderbeg Square, named after the large equestrian statue in the center. Notable sites include the National Historical Museum of Albania and the Et’hem Bey Mosque, one of the country's most precious buildings.
The people are welcoming and friendly, and it's recommended to stop by one of the many cafés around the city to soak in the typical Albanian atmosphere and get to know local customs and traditions up close.
To enjoy some relaxation and nature, you can head to the Dajti Mountain National Park, a much-loved and popular destination for Tirana residents, perfect for breathing fresh air and walking in the green.
From city to city, Durrës is also worth a visit. Located on the coast, it's the perfect place to enjoy some of the most delicious and traditional dishes of Albanian cuisine. It is the second-largest city and the main port of Albania, where you can savor Mediterranean aromas and flavors. With a variety of venues and restaurants and a vibrant nightlife, it's ideal for those looking for a vacation full of fun and entertainment.
Finally, don’t miss the Lake of Shkodra, the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula—a natural site offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor living and admiring the region’s biodiversity. Activities such as hiking, cycling, kayaking or boat trips, and bird watching make this a truly special place.
Have we piqued your curiosity? Then all that’s left is to choose Albania as the destination for your next holiday!
LANGUAGE: The official language is Albanian, spoken by around six million people. In the southern region, some communities also speak Greek. The most widely understood foreign language is Italian (about 73% of the population speaks it). English and German are less common.
RELIGION: Albania recognizes freedom and equality of religious beliefs. The most practiced religions are Islam and Catholicism.
TIME ZONE: There is no time difference with Italy.
DOCUMENTS: For EU citizens, entry into Albania requires only a valid national ID card or passport, with a validity of more than three months beyond the date of entry. For stays longer than 90 days, a visa must be requested from the appropriate authorities.
CURRENCY: The currency in use is the Albanian Lek.
Curiosity
The Albanian flag features a double-headed black eagle facing both right and left on a red background. It is one of Europe’s most recent flags, adopted on April 7, 1992.
The connection between the eagle and this country is ancient—Albania is called "Shqipëria", which means "Land of the Eagles". Old stories tell that this bird was considered a blessed creature, worshipped by the population.
The intriguing etymology of the country and its people is discussed in the works of Sami Frashëri, especially in "Shqipëria ç'ka qënë e ç'do të bëhet" ("What Albania Has Been and What It Will Become").
The national emblem, during the communist period, was topped with a yellow five-pointed star. Today, it is also called the "Coat of Arms of Skanderbeg", named after Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, the 15th-century Albanian hero who led a rebellion against the Ottoman Empire, winning a brief period of independence for the country.
Our advices
TO READ: "Sguardi di una reporter" by Rosita Ferrato, an Italian journalist who fell in love with the traditions and lifestyle of this nation. She tells the story in a fresh, direct, and captivating way—an ideal travelogue for discovering the geography and essence of this country.
TO LISTEN TO: Classical Albanian music began spreading around the 1920s. Today, rap is a highly popular genre, especially among young people. The country hosts European-level music festivals like the Festivali i Këngës in Tirana.
TO SEE: The beaches along the Mediterranean coast, especially those of Durrës. A visit to Tirana is a must, with its picturesque streets, St. Paul's Church, and the Et’hem Bey Mosque. Don’t miss the National Art Gallery and the Fortress of Justinian. Other cities worth visiting include Durrës, the ancient Gjirokastër, Vlorë, and Sarandë.
TO EAT: Albanian cuisine is typically Mediterranean. Among the most famous national dishes are Dromesat, traditional tagliatelle (called Shtridhelat), Albanian pizza (Byrek), and Tavë Kosi (lamb baked with yogurt).
