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Kruje

(Krujë) — ancient city of the national hero Skanderbeg. It consists of beautiful mountains; Skanderbeg's castle is now a museum. Kruje also contains an old style bazaar with shops selling traditional goods amid cobblestone streets. Kruje is known for it's carpet craftworks.

16km

41.51666719.8

Durrës

Durrës is an Albanian Adriatic port city. It has ferries to Bari in (Italy). Alternative spellings of the city's name are Durazzo (Italian), Drač (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or Dyrrhachion (Δυρράχιον, Greek).

42km

41.32319.441

Shëngjin

A growing beach town located in northwest Albania known for its Adriatic Sea views.

47km

41.8119.59

Berat

Thought to be one of the oldest towns in Albania, it is a new member of the UNESCO world heritage list. Berat has long been known as the "city of 1001 windows" because of its unique Ottoman/Albanian architecture. It has a well preserved castle with residents still living inside its protective walls.

54km

40.719.95

Northeastern Albania

Northeastern Albania is a region of Albania.

61km

41.9520.11

Shkodra

the biggest town in Northern Albania. Shkodra is considered the capital of Albanian culture. In Shkodra is located "Migjeni" theatre, the first in Albania and also was held the first cyclic race and also the first football match and the first photograph was developed (by Marubi). The Rozafa Castle is a major tourist attraction here,but also "The Great Cathedral", "The mosque Ebu Beker" etc.

71km

42.066719.5

Vlorë

Lively seaside city, nice beaches south of town. Passenger ferries to and from Italy dock here.

80km

40.466719.4897

Thethi

Thethi is a village surrounded by Thethi National Park, up on Albanian Alps, in Northeastern Albania, in Shkodra District.

88km

42.39583319.774444

Prokletije

Prokletije or (Albanian: Alpet Shqiptare or Bjeshkët e Nemuna), sometimes called the Accursed Mountains are a range in northeastern Albania and northwestern Kosovo.

92km

42.44166719.8125

Dhërmi

one of the finest of the many beaches along the coastal road between Vlore and Saranda, perfect for camping.

101km

40.1519.6333

Ohrid

city in North Macedonia

110km

41.11694420.801667

Podgorica

capital city of Montenegro

111km

42.43972219.266111

Gjakova

city in Kosovo

111km

42.382520.4355556

Korca

Korçë (Korça) is the principal city in the district of Korçë in Southeastern Albania.

120km

40.616720.7667

Prizren

City in Kosovo

123km

42.2220.71

Resen

town in North Macedonia

133km

41.0888888921.01222222

Skopje

capital city of North Macedonia

187km

4221.4333
Sights (71)

Pyramid of Tirana

The now-derelict pyramid was built in 1987 according to the design of Enver Hoxha's daughter and was opened as a museum dedicated to her father. In 2007 US President George W. Bush gave a speech in front of this building. The building was the most expensive erected under communism, and there are plans for future changes into it. The more adventure-minded can climb its side to get a view of the surrounding city center.

108m

41.3234111119.82124722

Fortress of Justinian

This is a castle in Tirana. Its history dates back before 1300 and is a remnant from the Byzantine-era. The fortress is the place where the main east-west and north-south roads crossed, and formed the heart of Tirana. About all that's left of the fortress above ground is a 6-m-high Ottoman-era wall, covered in vines. The recently uncovered wall foundations were incorporated into the pedestrianised Murat Toptani Street, while a mosaic commemorating the 100th Anniversary of Albania's Independence was unveiled near the Albanian Parliament

289m

41.3263888919.82194444

Taivani

This beautiful place in the heart of downtown Tirana. It includes restaurants, casinos, bars, a club, etc. It is surrounded by a huge lit water fountain with a glowing bridge that reaches to the restaurant, and is an ideal place for all ages. Children enjoy gourmet ice cream and iced European soft drinks, whilst adults and teens can enjoy fun casinos. This is an excellent tourist attraction, and many Albanian celebrities can be found in the area.

317m

41.3244444419.8175

Skanderbeg Monument

bronze sculpture

358m

41.327519.8188

Et'hem Bey Mosque

Construction of this mosque took about 28 years and finished in 1821. It is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Albania with very interesting decorations and art-work within it. It is under repair.

363m

41.3277777819.81916667

Kapllan Pasha Tomb

372m

41.3277777819.82166667

Resurrection Cathedral, Tirana

This cathedral features fascinating architecture and rich interior iconography. The church covered with a 23-m-high dome

383m

41.3263888919.8175

Skanderbeg Square

Tirana's city centre. A statue of Albanian hero Skanderbeg stands in the square with the Albanian flag on the side. Renovations have made the square pedestrians and public transportation friendly. Government buildings featuring Italian architecture and some structures outlined below are all right off this square.

444m

41.3283333319.81833333

Ish-Blloku

Among the apartment blocks, one can find some of Tirana's trendiest cafés, shops, and restaurants. Here is also located the villa of the former dictator, Enver Hoxha. During communism, the area was reserved solely for government officials and was not allowed to be entered by the commoner. It was opened to the public in 1991 and since became the number one spot for Tirana's youth. At night the area gets full of people especially on weekends when most night clubs are full. The streets, especially in summer afternoons, are filled with Tirana's citizens and expensive cars cruising around. From the Block you can go almost anywhere for less than 10-15 minutes. If you need to have a coffee or relax while taking a look at the parade of trendy and elegant people, the block is a perfect place for you. In the Block you can buy trendy clothing items and French delicacies. You can also get taxis.

496m

41.3208333319.81638889

Mother Teresa Square (Tirana)

Located at the southern side of Deshmoret e Kombit Boulevard, this square features typical fascist architecture. Buildings include the University of Tirana, Archaeological Institute, Academy of Arts and the National Stadium.

496m

41.317919.8213

Tanners' Bridge

cultural Monument in Albania

527m

41.3319.82

Kokonozi Mosque

749m

41.3301388919.825

Tanners' Mosque

902m

41.326719.8281

Grand Park of Tirana

People have picnics and have fun, and the natural beauty allows it because of the huge trees, open spaces, and mountains surrounding them. An artificial lake lies in the middle of the Park. It is popular with locals and tourists as a place to walk around and enjoy a lunch or coffee at one of the restaurants or cafés. Over 120 types of plants. A popular swimming pool complex is nearby.

936m

41.3127777819.82222222

Natural Sciences Museum Sabiha Kasimati

national museum

1.6km

41.3270277819.80569444

Tirana Zoo

Visiting this zoo is an odd experience; there are few animals but you will see them at remarkably close range. Nearby is the Botanical Garden featuring the best of Albania's fauna.

1.8km

41.30780619.809389

Petrelë Castle

This is one of Albania's best preserved castles. It is known as an ancient settlement 2000 years old and was commanded by princess Mamica, the sister of the national hero, Skanderbeg.

6.9km

41.25519.854

Dajti Castle

Dajti Castle is a 1.12 hectares archaeological site in Albania, comprising the ruins of a Roman fortification and several dwellings. It belongs to late antiquity, probably having been built over Illyrian foundations. It lies at 1,200 metres (3,900 ft) altitude on top of a hill, west-side of Mount Dajti, close to Tirana. It was discovered in 1963 and eventually was inscribed in the list of the Cultural Monuments of Albania. In 2008 a three-year restoration project began, aiming to conduct further archaeological searching and surveys and to improve the nearby infrastructure for visitors and tourists.

11km

41.3536111119.92222222

Dajti National Park

1,612-m-high (getting to the topmost point is not possible because of a restricted area with antennas and a military zone). Offers great views of Tirana. A very relaxing area, mount Dajti can be reached through an Austrian-built express cable car (one ride takes more than 15 minutes so is worth the cost even if you don't stay atop the mountain). To get to the bottom station of the cable car, take the bus line "Qender - Linze" that starts east beside the Skanderbeg place behind the mosque. In the bus tell the conductor "Teleferik" and he will show you the station to get out of the bus. From there it is a short 5-minute walk guided by direction signs (the cable car is closed on Tuesdays). In the top station of the cable car, there is a hotel (€30 for a double room [2013]) and a tourist agency offering various activities like horse riding, trekking, excursions, sky sports, ski etc. The area has a limited number of hotels and restaurants, but it is great for taking a breath of fresh air, mountain sports, or to just get out of the city for a while.The Pellumba Cave in the area is worth a visit. Unfortunately, litter is becoming a problem on Mount Dajti. This detracts from the experience somewhat, but the beautiful scenery still makes the trip worthwhile. Don't forget to visit the spectacular Erzeni Canyon along the Erzeni River south of the park near the dam.A new tourist information center was opened by the Albanian Agency of Protected Areas (AKZM) near the TV and Radio antennas in Fushe Dajt. The administration of the national park is shared between AKZM and Tirana Municipality Parks and Recreation Agency.

12km

41.3658333319.92555556

Lake Bovilla

lake in Tirana County, Albania

12km

41.44419.886

Albanopolis

city in Epirus Nova, Roman Macedon

13km

41.4752777819.77638889

National Museum Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu

Krujë

15km

41.507519.7939

Prezë Castle

This 15th-century castle is on the picturesque hills of Preze village west of Rinas airport.

18km

41.43119.672

Fatih Mosque, Durrës

Built in 1503.

41km

41.3111111119.44583333

Great Mosque of Durrës

41km

41.313219.4455

Royal Villa of Durrës

This used to be the most luxurious crib in all of Albania, but it was looted in the 1997 uprising and isn't open to visitors now. Reportedly prince Leka has plans to renovate the villa "in the near future", but this has been reported for quite some time. Endure the steep climb up the hill for one of the most spectacular views over the city.

42km

41.314719.4387

Castle of Rodon

Roman amphitheatre in Durrës, Albania

46km

41.585819.4482

Berat Castle

It was mostly built in the 13th century, but with origins going back to the 4th century BC. A very beautiful place with great views of the surrounding area. Getting to the Kala requires a steep walk up a cobbled path - take care, the stones are worn and slippery. The citadel is still inhabited, with many churches, and there are a couple of bars and shops in the Kala area.

53km

40.70819.945

Hysen Pasha Mosque

53km

40.7061111119.94027778

Red Mosque, Berat

53km

40.707319.9457

King Mosque, Berat

53km

40.705619.9521

Bachelors' Mosque

53km

40.70468919.950051

Lead Mosque, Berat

54km

40.704519.9554

Kosmaç

village in Albania

62km

41.9938888919.55583333

Shurdhah Island

It is in the Vau i Dejës Reservoir, which is fed and drained by the river Drin. It is accessible by tourist boat in summer from the Vau i Dejës dam or Rragam. It contains the ruins of the medieval town of Sarda. You can visit the ruins of the 11th-century medieval castle, which includes two rings of defensive walls and towers (some submerged in the lake), the remains of a Byzantine church and other early medieval walls. The setting on the steep rocks rising from the lake is especially impressive.

64km

42.0719.65305556

Lead Mosque, Shkodër

69km

42.046519.4995

St. Stephen's Cathedral, Shkodër

70km

42.0652777819.52

Drisht Castle

A ruined castle, the earliest traces of Frost Castle's fortifications date to the late Neolithic era. The walls and towers date to 1396-1478 during the Venetian era.

70km

42.123519.6112

Ebu Beker Mosque

70km

42.067519.51388889

Shkodër Orthodox Cathedral

70km

42.0686111119.51472222

Shkodër

city in northwestern Albania

71km

42.0666666719.5

Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

The Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park is a national park in eastern Albania adjacent to the border with North Macedonia. It encompasses 339.277 square kilometres (33,927.7 ha) and is specifically marked by a mountainous landscape supplied with glacial lakes, valleys, dense coniferous and deciduous forests and alpine meadows and pastures. Elevations in the park vary from 300 metres to over 2,200 metres above the Adriatic at the peak of Shebenik and Jabllanica, hence the name. It dwells a number of endangered species that are fast becoming rare in Southern Europe, including the brown bear, gray wolf and balkan lynx. The abundance in wildlife can in part be explained by the variety of vegetation types and remote location.

76km

41.1666666720.5

Flag's Square

- Independence Monument - a massive socialist-realist monument celebrating the independence of Albania from the Ottoman empire in 1912

80km

40.470719.4913

Muradie Mosque

80km

40.46904919.490932

Kaninë Castle

Built in the old center of Vlore in the 3rd century BC. This castle has an area of 3625 ha. It was rebuilt by Emperor Justinian in the 5th century BC. In Anna Komnenes' notes, she talked long about her father, Emperor Aleks', war against the Norman army.

81km

40.44319.52

Çorovodë

main city of Skrapar District, Albania

82km

40.520.21666667

Korab

mountain range

89km

41.7902777820.54666667

Korab (mountain)

89km

41.7911111120.54777778

Orikum

municipality of Albania

92km

40.3333333319.46666667

Oricum

Ancient theatre of Orikum (1st century BC), Church of Marmiroi (Kisha e Marmiroit) - Here is also a small hotel

95km

40.3188888919.42861111

Labovë e Madhe

village in Albania

100km

40.2069444420.13611111

Canyon of Gjipe

100km

40.1436111119.67027778

Kardhiq

Village in Albania.

103km

40.1216666720.0275

Tushemisht

Village in Korçë, Albania

106km

40.9002777820.71916667

Porto Palermo Castle

fortification

106km

40.06219.791

Vithkuq

municipality in Korçë District, Albania

108km

40.5166666720.58333333

Zekate House

It is the most visited of Gjirokastër's monumental stone houses. It is one of the largest of its kind, featuring three floors spread over two large towers. The house was recently restored again (having undergone earlier restorations during the Communist era) and is kept open by its owners as a museum house. In addition to providing an interesting primer of the characteristic architectural elements of the city's tower houses, it offers a beautiful view of the city below.

110km

40.0748420.13229

Gjirokastër Ethnographic Museum

Once Enver Hoxha's house, it is a well-restored Ottoman house which displays clothing, kitchenware, tools and other cultural artifacts. The guided tour (available in Albanian, English, and German though availability should be checked in advance).

110km

40.0755555620.13472222

Gjirokastër Fortress

The historical and geographical center of the city, the Castle is billed as the second largest in all the Balkans, and is worth a look. The Armaments Museum is located in the castle (separate 200 leke entrance) and contains a collection of mostly post-War era weapons, photographs and artwork: the main gallery, with its eerily lit corridor, contains two columns of large German and Italian field guns, remnants of WWII. The Castle also contains two Bektashi tekes, the stage for the internationally-renowned Gjirokaster National Folk Festival, a prison (now part of the Armaments Museum and available with an extra charge) and numerous chambers, some in ruins, open to exploration. A second museum gallery, the Zenebishi Gallery, features occasional free art exhibits. Underneath the castle is the underground bunker built in the Cold War.

111km

40.07420.141

Rugova Mountains

mountain region in northwest Kosovo

119km

42.70120.162

Andon Zako Çajupi Theatre

121km

40.618720.7771

National Museum of Medieval Art (Albania)

Fantastic collection; if the door is locked during opening hours, ring the buzzer.

122km

40.615820.7837

Boboshticë

village in Korçë, Albania

123km

40.5541666720.76444444

Birra Korça

Famous throughout Albania, sponsors a week-long Beer Festival in the summer.

123km

40.611220.7907

Lëkurësi Castle

125km

39.865920.02567

Blue Eye, Albania

125km

39.92361120.192778

Fir of Drenovë National Park

125km

40.5833333320.8

Prespa National Park

One of Albania's national parks, Prespa, is mostly located within Pustec Municipality. The park covers 27,750 hectares (68,570 acres), consisting of Albania's share of the Prespa region. Established in 1999, it aims to conserve the wildlife of Prespa including rare species of bird like the white pelican, the white stork, and the Dalmatian pelican. Almost half of the area of the national park is forest.

131km

40.7520.91666667

St. Mary's Church, Maligrad

This Orthodox cave church was built in 1369 by Serbian nobleman Kesar Novak, though there is an older preserved inscription in the apse of the church dating from 1345. A fresco on the interior depicts Novak's family. The western facade was painted in 1607. The church is built within a cave overlooking the lake.

131km

40.79220.9317

St Mary's Church, Tuminec

Located east of Tuminec just inside the border with North Macedonia, this monastery got its present appearance in 1888, although a cave church of the same name just 100 meters (110 yards) north of the monastery complex dates from the 14th century. The cave church stands 10 m (33 ft) tall and contains many large frescoes. The monastery has not had monks since 1898.

133km

40.886920.9731

Butrint

135km

39.7455555620.02055556
Nature

we will see

Tirana

Albania
Someday we will visit Tirana or begin to dream about going there! However, for now its not on our radar. Let us know in the comments if you think that should change!

Tirana

Tirana (Albanian: Tiranë) is the bustling and modern capital of Albania.

Tirana is an important center for music, film, theatre, dance and visual art. The city is host to the largest cultural institutions of the country, such as the National Theatre and the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, the Natioan Archaeological Museum, the Art Gallery of Albania, the Sciences Museum of Albania and the National Historical Museum. Among the local institutions are the National Library, that keeps more than a million books, periodicals, maps, atlases, microfilms and other library materials. The city has five well-preserved traditional houses (museum-houses), 56 cultural monuments, eight public libraries. Since 2011, a Tourist Information Office was opened, located behind the National Historical Museum, with useful information about Tirana and Albania.

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Climate

Average temperatures

Jan

11.6°C1.8
Precipitation: 143 mm

Feb

12.9°C2.6
Precipitation: 132 mm

Mar

15.6°C4.5
Precipitation: 115 mm

Apr

19°C7.9
Precipitation: 104 mm

May

23.8°C12.1
Precipitation: 103 mm

Jun

27.7°C15.6
Precipitation: 68 mm

Jul

30.7°C17.2
Precipitation: 42 mm

Aug

30.7°C16.9
Precipitation: 46 mm

Sep

27.3°C14.1
Precipitation: 78 mm

Oct

21.8°C10.1
Precipitation: 114 mm

Nov

17.1°C6.3
Precipitation: 172 mm

Dec

13°C3.2
Precipitation: 148 mm