Albania is a country in the Balkans. When visiting Europe, most people tend to prefer exploring countries we all know about such as Spain and Italy. Sadly, it makes amazing countries like Albania, that are less known, not often visited. Well, I went and let me tell you that I absolutely fell in love with this country. I didn’t expect much, and I was surprised on so many levels. Here is everything there is to know about Albania to help you prepare for your trip: 

• The people
• Money currency
• When you should go
• What to eat
• How to use your phone / SIM card
• Some facts
• Insurance
• Different accommodation options
• Essential apps to have

The people

Money currency

Albania’s currency is the Lek (L). There is a big fee when getting money out of an ATM at every bank except Credins Bank. Thank me later, but this is the only bank in Albania that doesn’t charge a fee. You will save a lot on ATM fees. 

However, Albania is still a country in Europe, so the euro (€) is widely accepted. Of course, you will generally get better deals if you pay in Lek. The euro is still a good option if you are only staying a couple of days in Albania, and you don’t want to get too much Lek out. You can’t get euros out in Albania, so if you choose this option, go get Euros at your local bank in your country before traveling.

Unlike Canada, there is no tax in Albania. Every price you see is the final price. Also, tipping is not expected. It is never mandatory, but it is always nice to leave a tip if you feel like the person deserves it. 

When you should go

As for the other seasons, as I said, I haven’t experienced them. Therefore, I don’t have anything to say about them, except there will be even fewer tourists. That often means lower prices. + I know for a fact there’s never a bad season to travel in a country in Europe. Even if you choose to go during one of these 3, you will have a good time.

What to eat

In Albania, lunch is typically at 1 pm. It’s the biggest meal of the day. Dinner is late in Albania. It starts around 8:00 p.m. 

Honestly, I didn’t know what the food was to try in Albania before getting to the country. Here are my favorite things I tried: 

• Byrek: stuffed pastry with many choices (meat, potatoes, cheese, veggies, etc.)
• Qofte: Albanian-style meatballs
• Tavë Kosi: Albania’s national dish. Mostly a casserole with lamb and veggies

How to use your phone / SIM card

The most affordable and easy way to have access to your phone is to buy an E-card / pre-paid SIM card. You can buy them online, they are way cheaper than anything at the airport! I bought mine 2 days before I left and it was perfect. The company I used was Holafly and you have multiple options depending on what you want. For example, it’s 50$CAD for 10 days or 69$CAD for 15 days.  

If you don’t want to pay for a SIM card, don’t worry, there’s Wi-Fi everywhere. Most of the time, when I go to Europe, I don’t pay for a SIM card. Instead, I download the maps before I go there (either on Maps.me or Google Maps). If I really need WI-FI, I stop at a grocery store or a mall. 

Some facts

Here are some fun facts about Albania:

Insurance 

Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.

By booking your insurance through our link, we are able to earn a small commission, allowing us to keep inspiring people to travel.

Different accommodation options

Villas/Apartments: Renting a villa/apartment is definitely the most eye-pleasing option. You can find some crazy original stays! Most of the time it is equipped like an apartment, so you will have a fridge and a cooking space. It will be pricier, but you can save on eating out if you cook at your villa. It is a good option for families or if you are a big group of people. You can split the price, and it can be more fun than being all separate in hotel rooms. 

Hotels: Hotels are a classic. There are plenty of them with a huge price range. You will be well welcomed and have access to services you don’t get in a villa. Some hotels have spas, some have yoga classes and so much more. Your room will get cleaned every day, and you will have access to room service. If you are an anxious person, hotels are your best option. You will definitely feel more secure since there is always someone working nearby.

Hostels: If you are a backpacker, this is your cheapest option. It is less luxurious, less comfortable, less a lot of things. But it is an amazing experience to live while you are young. You will have one bed in a shared room with others. This is the best way to meet people if you are traveling solo. Some hostels have group activities to help with that. You are young, your back is not broken yet, and you can sleep in a less comfortable space in exchange for living an incredible experience. 

Essential apps to have

Transport:

• Having access to transport in Albania is easy, but you will need to be resourceful! I actually don’t have an application to recommend to you because there isn’t one. The best way to do it is to ask people around (the staff at your hotel, hostel, people on the streets) and 90% of them will help you and give you directions. 

Others:

• Maps.me: You can download any maps and use them without Wi-Fi.
• WhatsApp: It’s a classic. Everyone in Europe uses WhatsApp to text and call.