Albania, a rising star in the Balkans, is gaining attention for its affordable prices, rich history, and untouched natural beauty. With a significant increase in tourism in 2023, it’s no surprise that many are considering solo trips to this country. If you’re wondering about safety and what to expect, here’s an in-depth look at why Albania is a safe and enjoyable destination for solo travelers, along with practical tips to help you plan your adventure:
- My Personal Opinion and Experience
- Friendly Locals & Welcoming Culture
- Constant Activity
- Safe and Convenient Transportation
- Abundant Accommodation Options
- What to Look Out For in Cities in Albania
- Safety Tips
- Make Friends Before & During Your Trip
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My Personal Opinion and Experience
As a solo female traveler, I felt safe in Albania about 90% of the time. Although I had one uncomfortable experience with a young local man (details below), it didn’t overshadow my overall trip. I met many other travelers who also felt secure in Albania, and I would still highly recommend it as a great destination for solo travel.
Walking alone at night was never an issue because there were always people around. Normally, I get anxious walking in the dark—my heart races, and I worry about pickpocketing or worse. However, in Albania, I never felt like I was in a risky situation, and my anxiety stayed in check. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the country and never felt unsafe again after that one incident.
My Only Negative Experience
This is my personal experience, and I’m not saying it will happen to everyone, but I think it’s important to share so you can be aware. Keep in mind, though, that this type of situation could occur in any city worldwide, so I wouldn’t let this one incident define your entire trip.
I met a young man in his twenties on a bus from Saranda to Berat. We got along well, and I made it clear that I had a boyfriend. He still gave me his Instagram in case I wanted to do activities with him. After arriving in Berat, he kept texting me. At one point, as I was about to cross the street, he drove by (I didn’t recognize him at first), reversed his car, and tried to talk to me. I mentioned I was heading to Berat Castle, and I realized he was following me there. He continued trailing me around the castle, taking photos of me. Later, when I returned to the city, he followed me all the way back to my hostel. Although I didn’t see him again after that, the situation was unsettling. This was the only “bad” experience I had in Albania.
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Friendly Locals & Welcoming Culture
Albanians are incredibly kind and welcoming. Despite their country being isolated from the rest of the world until the late 1980s, this hasn’t negatively impacted their interactions with tourists. On the contrary, this history seems to have shaped them into one of the safest and friendliest countries I’ve ever visited. To my surprise, many locals spoke English quite well, and if you ever have trouble communicating, Google Translate is always a useful option.
Albanian Culture
Albanian culture is deeply rooted in family values, hospitality, and traditions. Guests are often treated with exceptional generosity, as the concept of “Besa” (a code of honor) emphasizes keeping promises and treating visitors with respect. Sharing meals is an important part of their hospitality. Albanians also have a strong sense of national pride and are eager to share stories about their history and customs with tourists.
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Constant Activity
In the high season, cities such as Tirana, Saranda and Berat are filled with tourists, with activity continuing well into the night. Even if you’re traveling solo, you’ll never feel isolated, as there are always English speakers nearby.
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Safe and Convenient Transportation
Getting around in Albanian cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Saranda is relatively easy, though it might require some patience. Public transportation mainly consists of buses and minibuses (furgons), which don’t always follow a strict schedule, making it necessary to ask locals for guidance to find your bus stop. Fortunately, Albanians are very friendly and helpful, so you’ll often receive directions with a smile.
Taxis are widely available and easy to use in cities. While Albania doesn’t have Uber, you can use apps like “Taxi.al” or “Speed Taxi” to book rides. These apps help avoid scams by showing you the fare upfront and offering driver details for added safety.
Travel Between Cities
Traveling between cities in Albania is fairly straightforward. Buses and furgons are the most common methods of intercity transport. For longer routes, like from Tirana to Saranda or Gjirokastër, buses are more comfortable and reliable. You can book tickets online using services like GetByBus or purchase them directly at bus stations. Furgons are quicker but less predictable, as they leave when full and often don’t have fixed schedules.
During my time in the country, buses were generally punctual, and the drivers were friendly and helpful. The routes between popular cities are well-connected, and for coastal towns, you can even explore ferry services, like those from Saranda (Albania) to Corfu (Greece).
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Abundant Accommodation Options
As Albania’s popularity continues to rise, the variety of accommodation options is expanding. Although I tend to favor hostels, there are also many Airbnbs and hotels available in the country’s main tourist destinations.
Why Stay In a Hostel as a Solo Traveler?
These places not only provide a secure place to stay but also foster a sense of community, allowing you to meet fellow travelers. Many hostels organize group activities, tours, and social events, which can be a great way to explore the island safely while making new friends.
The help from the staff is also something you will love about hostels. They often provide valuable local advice, assist with arranging transportation, and offer recommendations for safe activities and places to visit. This level of support can be particularly reassuring for solo travelers, making them feel cared for and secure during their stay.
You’re a Last Minute Traveler like I Am?
Having many options also provides flexibility, allowing you to easily change your plans if needed. If you arrive at a location and don’t feel entirely comfortable, it’s relatively simple to find alternative accommodations nearby. This flexibility gives peace of mind, knowing that you’re never stuck in one place and can always move to a safer or more suitable environment if necessary.
Rating Systems on the Accommodations Apps
Online platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostelworld offer a vast selection of lodgings with detailed reviews and ratings from previous guests. This transparency helps you make informed decisions depending on your priorities and wishes. You can read comments from travelers just like you. There is nothing more relatable than that.
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What to Look Out For in Cities in Albania
While I felt mostly safe in Albania, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be cautious. Like in any country, there are people with bad intentions. There are four main safety concerns to keep in mind:
Insurance
If you plan to rent a scooter or a car, ensure that your travel insurance covers road accidents. Even experienced drivers can face challenging situations on the road.
Pickpocketing
Pickpocketing and theft are common in some parts of Albania, particularly in cities like Saranda, Tirana, and Vlora. Beaches, where people often leave their belongings unattended, are especially vulnerable. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, it’s best not to carry expensive or flashy items. Always keep a close eye on your belongings, even when you’re swimming in the Adriatic or Ionian Seas.
Scams and Tourist Traps
As with any tourist destination, Albania has its share of scams to be aware of. Common scams include overcharging for services, inflated prices in markets, and unlicensed tour guides offering overpriced excursions. To avoid falling victim to these, it’s important to familiarize yourself with typical prices in advance.
- For taxis: If you take a taxi without a pre-arranged fare, always ensure the meter is running before your journey begins. This helps prevent drivers from quoting inflated prices.
- For tours: When booking tours, opt for reputable companies such as GetYourGuide and Viator. If booking in person, be cautious and negotiate prices beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
- For markets: Before making a purchase in markets, compare prices at different stalls or shops. Negotiation is common in larger cities, and vendors may start with higher prices. Don’t hesitate to haggle to get a fair deal.
Currency Exchange and Rates
When exchanging currency, always use official exchange counters or banks. What I highly suggest you do, is either exchange the money before your trip at your local bank, or, get money out of an ATM that has your card logo on it, and refuse the currency rate. That means your local bank will take care of modifying the currency and high chances are you will get a better rate.
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Safety Tips
- Bring a Padlock: If staying in hostels, carry a sturdy padlock for securing your belongings in provided lockers.
- Carry a Personal Alarm: A small, loud personal alarm can deter attackers and attract attention in emergencies.
- Stay Connected: Regularly update loved ones on your whereabouts and share your location via smartphone apps.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, leave immediately. Your safety is paramount.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly and follow local customs to blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
- Avoid Flashing Valuables: Keep expensive items out of sight to reduce the risk of theft.
- Secure Your Valuables: Use a crossbody bag with a zipper, worn in front, to keep your essentials safe.
- Keep Emergency Numbers Handy: Save local emergency numbers in your phone and write them down as a backup.
- Keep Your Phone Charged: Carry a power bank to ensure your phone is always charged.
- Learn Basic Phrases: Know essential phrases in the local language for emergencies and basic communication.
- Get Travel Insurance: Ensure your insurance covers medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations.
For more detailed advice, check out our comprehensive article : Top Safety Tips for Solo Travelers: Stay Safe & Confident.
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Make Friends Before & During Your Trip
Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone the entire time—unless, of course, that’s what you prefer, which is perfectly okay too. Both Jez and I (Léo) have made plenty of friends during our travels, even when we weren’t together. Thanks to the power of social media, it’s easier than ever to connect with fellow travelers and make new friends along the way. Here’s our take on the best and easiest way to do so:
Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are a fantastic resource for meeting other travelers. One of our favorites is called “The Female Solo Traveler Network.” Don’t hesitate to post in these groups, ask for advice, or suggest meeting up with others. You might find someone to join you for part of your trip or even plan an entire journey together! However, always be cautious of potential scams—it’s a good idea to ask for a video call to verify the person’s identity before making any concrete plans.
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