Discovering Albania 17 Things You May Not Know

Now let’s dive into some facts about Albania that are sure to get you interested in this unique country.

#1. There Are More Albanians Outside the Country Than in It

One of the strange facts about Albania is that there are only three million Albanian citizens, whereas outside the country there are an estimated seven to ten million Albanians. That’s mainly because it can be harder to find a good-paying job here, so it’s just easier for some to move to another country. 

After communism fell in Albania, the country witnessed the largest emigration in Europe since World War II.

#2. Mercedes and Only Mercedes!

A random fact about Albania is that the large majority of Albanians drive a Mercedes, or at least have had one once in their lives. 

When Albanians started coming back from emigration, they often brought back Mercedes-Benz cars to sell in the domestic market. Therefore, Mercedes became the most popular type of car around, in part because they are perfect for the road conditions in Albania. 

#3. The ‘’Xhiro’’ Tradition

Among the interesting facts about Albanian culture is definitely the ‘’Xhiro’’. After finishing work or school, many Albanians religiously go for a pleasant walk down the beach or some of the main city roads, and all over the country, that walk is known as xhiro.

In some towns, a few roads are left entirely for pedestrians, meaning no cars are allowed, so they can enjoy their night walks as much as possible. 

It’s a chance to just relax and catch up with their friends and family. People take summer evening xhiros very seriously, as they have become a tradition and an indispensable part of their daily routine!

#4. Yes Means No, and No Means Yes!

Okay, this one might be one of the most confusing facts about Albania. If you wish to agree with someone in Albania, you should shake your head side to side and not up and down, like in most cultures, as that would actually mean no in this country. 

It might take a while to get used to, so until you get the hang of it, make sure you use your words!



#5. The First Atheist Country in The World

During the communist era, under the reign of Enver Hoxha, Albania’s dictator, religion was strictly banned in the country. This made Albania the first atheist country in the world. 

Ironically, nowadays Albania is among the most religiously tolerant countries in the world, with people of all faiths and beliefs living together in harmony. 



#6. Good Luck Trying to Learn "Shqip’’!

A fun fact about the Albanian language is that it’s one of the hardest languages to learn as a foreigner. It’s called Albanian, or "shqip", as the natives say. It is an Indo-European language, but it has no close “relatives” whatsoever. 

It’s pretty hard to learn as it has many long words that are difficult to pronounce. Some common phrases are Pёrshёndetje, which means "Hello,’’ and Faleminderit, which means "Thank You’’!

Also, the first ever written record in Albanian is called “Meshari,” from Gjon Buzuku, an Albanian Catholic priest. Meshari was a translation of a part of the Bible into Albanian. 

#7. Raki is the Answer to Everything!

Considered Albania’s national beverage, Raki is the most famous hard liquor in the country. It’s usually made from grapes and is typically served as an aperitif. Albanians serve it for all occasions, both joyful and sad. 

Don’t overdo it, though, as it has an alcohol percentage of around 40–50%, and it’s sure to go straight into your head!



#8. It’s the Birthplace of Many World Famous Artists

Apart from the many talents that are famous in Albania, this country is the birthplace or origin of numerous world-famous artists, such as Dua Lipa, Bebe Recha, Rita Ora, and more. 

They have visited Albania several times, acknowledging their roots and appreciating their culture. 



#9. There are Siestas!

One of the funniest facts about Albania is that during the hottest parts of the day, which is between 2 pm and 5 pm, most shops and bars close to have essentially “siestas”! This mainly happens on the Albanian Riviera, especially in the cities of Sarandё or Vlorё, where some of the best beach hotels in Albania are. 

During this time, people usually drink something and chat, or just do absolutely nothing and enjoy the weather!

#10. Espresso is an Albanian’s First Love

Just about any Albanian likes to start their day with coffee. If you take a stroll around Tirana, you’ll see that every cafe is full of people enjoying their coffee and chatting with one another. 

There are countless coffee shops in every corner of Albania, and you’ll notice this as soon as you arrive. 



#11. You Can’t Enjoy a Big Mac in Albania

Albania is one of the few countries in the world that doesn’t have a McDonald's. There are other fast food chains like Burger King or KFC, but no McDonald’s. 

They haven’t even bothered extending their chain to Albania. Some say it’s because in Albania they have no money to license the trademark, while others say it’s due to the fact that they can’t find a reliable source for the meat, cheese, or other products in order to keep the product up to their standards. 



#12. It’s Home to the Last Wild River in Europe

Vjosa is a river that goes through northwestern Greece and southwestern Albania. It has a total length of about 280 kilometers, and it is the last wild river in Europe, which means that it’s designated by the government to be kept untouched with all its natural values intact. It was recently declared a national park by the Albanian government. 

It has a very rich and diverse environment, including a wide variety of wildlife, such as otters, microorganisms, vultures, and countless species of plants.

#13. Albania’s Dictator Had a Weird Obsession With Bunkers

During the communist era in Albania, the dictator Enver Hoxha ordered that 750,000 bunkers be built across the country. They were supposed to be there for an upcoming war, but since the war never came, no one really knows the real reason why they were built.

The only time they were actually used was during the Civil War in 1997.

Nowadays, there are about 160,000 bunkers left, with some being repurposed into cultural museums, such as Bunk’Art.

#14. About 70% of the Country is Mountainous Terrain

If you ask someone about what Albania is famous for, some will say the amazing beaches, but most of the country’s terrain is, in fact, quite mountainous. The highest peak in Albania is Mount Korab, with an elevation of 2,764 meters. 

It might come as a surprise to those who have primarily heard about the amazing beaches of the Albanian Riviera, but these mountain terrains also have a lot to offer. 

Mountains allow you to take beautiful and highly rewarding hikes and enjoy the views of breathtaking nature. 



#15. Do Not Trust Google Maps in Albania!

Driving in Albania is not that hard, as the main roads are mostly in good condition and new highways are being built almost every year. However, there are many twists and turns in various areas, which might cause you to get lost. 

In any case, we do not advise relying on Google Maps while in Albania, as more often than not, this service might end up making your journey more difficult. You might find yourself following the directions only to realize that the road they lead you down no longer exists. 

The whole country, especially Tirana, is developing fast, and most of these developments don’t seem to be updated frequently enough in the app. 

So next time you’re not sure which road to take, you’ll be better off just asking a friendly local for help!

#16. There Were Very Few Cars in Albania in 1991

One of the very surprising facts about Albania is that for the population of three million people in 1991, there were only about 4000–7000 cars in the entire county. That’s because under communist rule, owning a private car was banned, and only high-ranking government officials could own one. 

The rest of the population used horse-drawn carriages, public transport, or bikes to get around.



#17. Street Art Everywhere You Go

Tirana, the capital of Albania, is full of colorful installations and public art on walls all across the city and in different buildings. They are very unique, often evoking different emotions and sending meaningful messages to the public. 

If you visit Albania, you are sure to find splashes of color everywhere in its capital. This stands in stark contrast to the communist era, when Enver Hoxha banned all forms of art and the city was mainly green and plain. 

After the fall of communism, Albanians tried their best to leave their dark past behind and focus on meaningful artistic expressions. 



Travel With Kalemi to Albania

1. Tirana Walking Tour

The welcoming and energetic city of Tirana is a very popular tourist destination, and you can properly explore it by participating in Kalemi’s Tirana Walking Tour. Firstly, you’ll meet with your guide next to Et’hem Bey Mosque, for which you’ll also get some historical background.

Then you’ll take just a few steps and arrive at the Clock Tower. The entry ticket to the Clock Tower is actually not included, but after the tour you can get to the top and admire vows of the city.

The next stop is Pazari i Ri, where you’ll get to wander around all the chic bars and restaurants, and look at cute souvenirs and antique shops. Then you’ll visit the Castle of Tirana, a very populated area, with lots of restaurants and shops.

Next you’ll walk to one of the most popular neighbourhoods of the city, Blloku, a very exclusive neighbourhood, with all the best clubs and bars. Before you reach Blloku you’ll pass by the Pyramid of Tirana, a very unique structure, built during communism.

And finally, you’ll get to visit the National History Museum, where you can learn all about Albania’s history, through old documents, relics, and artifacts, from the period of antiquity, to communism and modern times.



2. Multi Day UNESCO Tour

In this tour you’ll get to visit three very popular UNESCO sites in Albania, Gjirokaster, Butrint, and Berat. Your first stop will be “The Stone City”, Gjirokastra. There you’ll visit Zekate House, Gjirokaster Castle, and the Gjirokastra Bazaar. All these sites have a large significance and perfectly represent the beautiful Ottoman architecture, preserved to this day.

After a night in Gjirokaster, you’ll get to Butrint, the second UNESCO site. Along the way to Butrint, you’ll also visit the amazing Blue Eye, an amazing freshwater spring, surrounded by vibrant greenery. The next stop will be the grand Butrint National Park, among the most important archaeological sites in Albania, allowing you to explore antiquity through its beautiful relics.

The third and final stop is Berat, or else known as “the city of a thousand windows”. You’ll get to visit the Castle of Berat, along with the Byzantine Churches & Ottoman Mosques. You’ll then get to the neighbourhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, from where you can admire views of the city.

After that you’ll finally return to Tirana, where you’ll visit the National Iconographic Museum of Onufri. There you can admire all his paintings and works of art.



3. Full-Day Tour Durrës and Kruja; A Historical Getaway from Tirana

This tour will get you back to the medieval times, through the cities of Kruja and Durrës. Your first stop will be Kruja Castle, a very significant monument to Albania, being the place where Skanderbeg resisted the Ottoman forces.

Inside the castle you’ll also find the Gjergj Kastrioti Museum, where there are countless documents, objects, and artifacts showcasing the rich history of Albania. Then you’ll head to Pazari i Vjeter, with its beautiful cobblestone streets and small souvenir shops.

The next stop is the coastal city of Durrës, where you’ll visit the famous Roman Amphitheatre, the largest ever built in the Balkan Peninsula. Also in Durrës, you’ll get to visit the Venetian Tower, otherwise known as Durrës Castle. It was built in the 15th century, and it’s now turned into a museum witha restaurant on the terrace. 

4. Full Day Tour From Tirana to Gjirokaster, Blue Eye and Saranda

 This tour is the perfect chance to explore the historical side of the Albanian Riviera, visiting a very significant UNESCO site. You’ll start your tour in Tirana, where you’ll meet with your guide and travel to the charming town of Saranda.

It’s a very picturesque ride, providing amazing views of the coastline and beaches. After a stop in Saranda, you’ll head to your next destination, The Blue Eye. It’s a marvelous freshwater spring, beautifully resembling the human eye when seen from above. It’s perfect for pictures, but think twice before jumping in; the water is ice cold!

Your third and final stop will be Gjirokaster, otherwise known as “The Stone City”. It’s among the best preserved medieval towns, with its beautiful Ottoman architecture. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its historical significance.

You’ll wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the houses, and visit the Bazaar, where you can buy all kinds of cute souvenirs to remind you of your trip.



5. Kruja Day Tour From Tirana

Kruja is one of the most important cities in Albania, being the National hero Skanderbeg’s hometown, and also the place where he built the resistance against the Ottomans. After meeting with your guide in Tirana, you’ll reach Kruja after a one-hour drive. You’ll firstly get to the Kruja Bazaar, a very authentic neighborhood, where you can buy cute souvenirs.

Then you’ll visit Kruja Castle, which is located on top of a hill, overlooking the city. It’s a symbol of perseverance and authenticity, with a large historical significance. Inside the castle you’ll find the National Gjergj Kastrioti Museum, where you’ll get to learn all about Skanderbeg’s life and importance.



6. Berat Full-Day Tour from Tirana

Your ticket back to antiquity, Berat is among the best-preserved Ottoman cities in Albania. During this day-tour you’ll get to visit every renowned place in the city, starting from the National Iconographic Museum Onufri.

There you’ll admire the icons of the mysterious painter Onufri, as well as the Cathedral of Saint Mary. Then you’ll get to Berat Castle, one of the oldest castles in Albania, dating back to the fourth century.

Your next stop will be the Gorica Bridge, which connects the old neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica. They stand out thanks to their unique byzantine architecture, also being part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

Key Takeaways

Albania is a beautiful small country in the western Balkans, with a population of about 3 million people. Although it’s relatively small, there are countless facts about Albania that are sure to leave you wanting to find out more. 

Albania is often portrayed as a bleak and unfriendly country in movies and books, but the reality is diametrically different from that. 

Once you get the chance to visit Albania, you’ll be able to see for yourself that it’s a warm and inviting country, full of beautiful places and friendly people, so make sure to visit and make some lasting memories.