Things to Do in Tirana: A Colorful, Reborn Capital
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Places to visit in Tirana, Albania’s capital: Skanderbeg Square, colorful buildings, the Blloku district, and nightlife.
Things to Do in Tirana
Albania's capital, Tirana, has left behind the gray, cold image of its long years under harsh communist rule. Today, with its buildings painted in vibrant colors and lively cafés filled with young people, it is one of the Balkans' most energetic cities.
1. Explore Skanderbeg Square
The city's vast central square, Skanderbeg Square, should be the starting point of your Tirana tour. Be sure to see the equestrian statue of Skanderbeg in the center of the square, as well as the historic Et'hem Bey Mosque and Clock Tower right beside it. The National History Museum's giant mosaic panel on the edge of the square is also iconic.
2. Have Fun in the Blloku Neighborhood
Once closed to the public and accessible only to high-ranking officials during the communist era, this neighborhood is now Tirana's most popular and modern district. The Blloku area is home to countless stylish restaurants, luxury boutiques, third-wave coffee shops, and lively nightclubs. This is where you can experience the style of young Albanians and the city's energy.
3. Take the Cable Car Up Mount Dajti (Dajti Ekspres)
If you want to see Tirana from above, take the Dajti Ekspres cable car up Mount Dajti. After a pleasant journey of around 15 minutes, you'll reach the mountain summit, where you can enjoy the fresh air in the forest and sip coffee while taking in the view.
4. The Tirana Pyramid
Designed as a museum for former dictator Enver Hoxha but now abandoned, this enormous pyramid is one of Tirana's more unusual landmarks. Local young people often spend time climbing this giant concrete pyramid (you can try it too, as long as you're careful).