A typical first trip here runs about $400 to $525 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Byrek, flaky pastry with cheese, spinach, or meat filling
- Tavë kosi, baked lamb and rice in yogurt sauce; the national dish
- Fresh seafood along the Albanian Riviera, extremely affordable
- Raki, grape or mulberry brandy offered at every social gathering
- Fërgesë, traditional stew of peppers, tomatoes, and cheese
- Dita e Verës (Summer Day, March 14), spring festival with fire jumping
- Gjirokastër Folklore Festival (every 5 years), traditional music and crafts
- Bajram (Eid) celebrations, Albania has a significant Muslim population
- Albania uniquely practiced "Besa", code of honor and hospitality
Albanian is unique, not related to any other language. Italian is widely understood (many Albanians worked in Italy).
English is increasingly common among younger generations. Albanians are famously warm to tourists.
- Besa (keeping your word) is the highest Albanian value, be trustworthy
- Hospitality is sacred, guests are treated with utmost respect
- Albania is an emerging destination, prices are very affordable
- Tipping 10% is appreciated; cash is preferred everywhere
Latest for Albania
Updates for Albania will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.