This just in; if you’re looking for an affordable weekend getaway from London, then Tirana, Albania’s thrusting, thriving capital city – is the cheapest destination to fly to from London, with single flights clocking in at just a tenner.
That is one cheap city break, but it’s not just the affordability that should appeal about Tirana. This vibrant city, brimming with culture, history, and a lively nightlife; a veritable hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. If that rather generic introduction (and price point) has done enough to persuade you to open that second tab and fire up the Skyscanner, then let’s dive into the details; here’s our guide to the perfect 48 hours in the city in Tirana, Albania.
Getting There From The UK
You can fly direct to Tirana from Luton International Airport or London Heathrow, with Wizz Air for the former and British Airways for the latter. Flights take around 3 hours. Remember to get your Luton or Heathrow parking booked in advance for the smoothest possible arrival and return.
Alternatively, the Piccadilly Line and the Elizabeth Line both connect Heathrow to Central London. You’ve also got the Heathrow Express train service, which leaves from London Paddington every fifteen minutes. For Luton, a Thameslink train connects London’s St Pancras International station to Luton Airport Parkway.
Day 1: Discovering The Heart of Tirana
Breakfast
Kickstart your day with a traditional Albanian breakfast at Komiteti Kafe Muzeum. This cosy café-cum-museum is known for its unique blend of history and gastronomy. Here, you can savour trahana – a hearty soup made from grain and yoghurt, or byrek – a flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. Pair it with a cup of mountain tea, a popular Albanian herbal tea, and you’re all set for the day.
Morning: Skanderbeg Square
Continue into the heart of the city, Skanderbeg Square. Named after the national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti, the square is surrounded by fascinating buildings like the National History Museum (which we’ll visit in the afternoon), the Palace of Culture, and the Et’hem Bey Mosque. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the equestrian statue of Skanderbeg himself.
Lunch: Oda Restaurant
For lunch on your first day, make your way to Oda Restaurant, just a 15 minute stroll east of the square. Nestled in a traditional Ottoman-style house, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, but the tavë kosi – a baked lamb and rice dish served with a yoghurt sauce, is a must-try. The rustic decor and warm hospitality make it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
Afternoon: National History Museum
After a leisurely lunch, head back to Skanderbeg Square and into the National History Museum for a deeper look. The museum’s facade, adorned with a massive socialist-realist mosaic, is a sight to behold. Inside, you’ll journey through Albania’s rich history, from ancient Illyrian times to the post-communist era
Dinner: Zgara Tirones
After a day of exploring, settle down for a hearty dinner at Zgara Tirones. This popular grill house is the perfect place to sample Albania’s meat-centric cuisine. Try the qebapa – small grilled sausages, or the rostilj – a mixed grill platter. Pair your meal with a glass of raki, a traditional Albanian spirit, for an authentic dining experience.
Evening: Blloku
As the sun sets, make your way to Blloku, the city’s most vibrant neighbourhood. Once an exclusive area for communist leaders, Blloku is now the heart of Tirana’s nightlife. With a great range of groovy bars, clubs, and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to unwind and experience the city’s modern vibe.
Late Evening: Radio Bar
One of those places is Radio Bar. This retro-themed bar is known for its eclectic decor, featuring vintage radios, old televisions, and antique furniture. With a wide selection of cocktails and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a little live music.
Day 2: Exploring The Landscapes, Food & History Of Tirana
Morning: Dajti Mountain National Park
On your second day, take a cable car ride to Dajti Mountain National Park. The breathtaking views of Tirana from the top are worth the early start. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.
Brunch: Restaurant Piceri Era
Worked up an appetite? Head back in to town (around a 45 minute drive from the national park), and to Restaurant Era Piceri for brunch. Open from 11am, this charming eatery – back in Blloku, incidentally – is famous for its traditional Albanian cuisine. Try the fërgesë, a delicious dish made from peppers, tomatoes, and cottage cheese, served with fresh bread. Or, if you have a sweet tooth, go for petulla, small fried dough balls served with honey or jam. Wash it down with a cup of Turkish coffee, a staple in Albanian households.
Lunch: Mullixhiu
Or, if you’re looking for a long, leisurely and languid lunch on your second day, then treat yourself to a feast at Mullixhiu. This upscale restaurant is renowned for its innovative take on traditional Albanian cuisine. Try the ‘pilaf’ – a fragrant rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, or the ‘qofte të fërguara’ – fried meatballs served with a tangy sauce. The restaurant’s modern ambiance and creative dishes make it a culinary hotspot in Tirana.
Afternoon: Bunk’Art
In the afternoon, delve into Albania’s communist past at Bunk’Art. This former nuclear bunker turned museum offers a unique insight into the country’s history. The dimly lit corridors and thought-provoking exhibits create an immersive experience that’s not to be missed.
Dinner: Piazza Piano Bar
On your second evening, head to Piazza Piano Bar for a delightful dinner. This stylish restaurant offers a mix of Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine. Opt for the seafood risotto or the stuffed eggplant for mains, and end your meal with trileçe, a popular dessert made from three types of milk. The restaurant’s elegant setting and live piano music create a perfect atmosphere for a relaxing dinner.
Evening: New Bazaar
End your day at the New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri), a vibrant market area teeming with fresh produce, traditional Albanian food, and local crafts. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink, pick up some souvenirs, and soak up the local atmosphere.
The Bottom Line
Tirana, with its unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, offers an unforgettable experience for travellers. On top of that, it’s just a tenner away. What’s not to love?
For some ideas closer to home, check out these 7 autumn day trip ideas that are 2 hours or less from London. Go on; you deserve a break.