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Travelling the World on a Budget: A Day Trip to Tirana- Exploring Albania’s Capital

 


When I booked a day trip to Tirana from London Luton, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Albania isn’t the usual choice for a short visit, but that’s exactly why it appealed to me. In just one day, I experienced history, culture, delicious food, and the warmth of a city full of surprises.

Getting There

I flew with Wizz Air, with return flights costing £20. The early morning flight gave me a full day to explore. Tirana International Airport (Nënë Tereza) is small and efficient, so I was on the airport bus to the city centre within minutes. The bus fare was just 300 Lek (£2.50) for a 30-minute journey.

Total transport costs:

  • Flights: £20
  • Airport bus: £5 round trip

Exploring Skanderbeg Square

The heart of Tirana, Skanderbeg Square, is where my day began. This vast, open space is surrounded by landmarks like the National History Museum and the Et’hem Bey Mosque. The square’s centrepiece is a grand statue of Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero, on horseback.

I grabbed a coffee at a nearby café (£2) and spent some time soaking in the atmosphere. The square was alive with locals and visitors, and the wide-open space made it feel vibrant yet relaxed.

A Journey Through History at Bunk’Art 2

My next stop was Bunk’Art 2, a museum housed in an underground bunker. The museum dives into Albania’s communist past, with exhibits that are both fascinating and haunting. Walking through the dimly lit corridors, I gained insight into the country’s struggles during this era. The entry fee was 500 Lek (£4.20), and it was worth every penny for such a thought-provoking experience.

Lunch: Traditional Albanian Cuisine

For lunch, I found a family-run restaurant serving authentic Albanian food. I started with byrek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese and spinach, followed by a hearty lamb stew. The flavours were rich and comforting, and the meal, including a drink, cost just 800 Lek (£6.70).

Unwinding at the Grand Park of Tirana

After lunch, I made my way to the Grand Park of Tirana, a massive green space with an artificial lake at its centre. The park was bustling with families, joggers, and couples enjoying the sunshine. It was the perfect spot to unwind and recharge before heading back into the city.

Tirana’s Street Art

One of the unexpected highlights of Tirana is its street art. Wandering through the city, I stumbled upon vibrant murals that added bursts of colour to the streets. The art reflects the city’s creative spirit and was a delightful surprise as I explored.

Evening in Skanderbeg Square

As the day wound down, I returned to Skanderbeg Square to see it lit up. The polished stone reflected the lights beautifully, and the square was alive with locals enjoying the cooler evening air. For dinner, I tried qofte (Albanian meatballs) and a local beer at a nearby eatery, costing just 600 Lek (£5).

Total Costs for the Day

Here’s the breakdown of what I spent:

  • Flights: £20
  • Airport bus: £5
  • Coffee: £2
  • Museum entry: £4.20
  • Lunch: £6.70
  • Dinner: £5

Total: £42.90

Final Thoughts and Why I think you should visit Tirana

Tirana may not be a typical tourist hotspot, but that’s part of its charm. From the history at Bunk’Art 2 to the peaceful Grand Park and the vibrant street art, the city offers a unique experience.

Whether you’re interested in history, food, or simply exploring somewhere off the beaten path, Tirana is a destination worth considering. For just under £50, I had a day packed with memorable moments.

If you’re looking for a unique, budget-friendly day trip, Tirana might just be the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed.


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