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Albania has been described as the hidden treasure in Europe waiting to be found by tourists. Albania has everything tourists, explorers, adventurers and holiday makers seek. From high mountains (the Albanian Alps), beautiful coastlines and swimming beaches (Adriatic and Ionian Seas), rivers and lake-filled valleys, ancient castles, hidden villages, archaeological sites and relics from the past, natural beauty and a welcoming population – most of whom speak English, Albania has something for everyone. Perhaps the most alluring aspect of Albania is that, compared to the popular, well-trodden, established European destinations, tourism in Albania represents excellent value for money, with sensible prices, few crowds and with plenty of attractions waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.
But don’t leave your visit for too long – the secret is getting out and it won’t last for long!
All our tours are completely private and customised for your needs.
To avoid the intense Summer heat, May to mid-July and then September to October.
No, provided you remain in the country for less than 90 days. You must carry your passport or official ID with you at all times. Your passport must have at least 6 months until its expiry from the date you begin your return leg of travel (from any country) to Australia.
No, just your passport, provided you remain in-country for less than 90 days.
The LEK.
Extremely unlikely. The LEK is a closed currency and not used in any other country.
Euros are readily accepted in most, but not all, retail outlets, hotels, petrol stations, etc.
Yes, in most towns.
Yes, provided your Australian bank approves. Recommend you liaise with your bank before departure from Australia. Most hotels, supermarkets, restaurants, petrol stations, etc. will accept credit cards but not usually taxis.
Generally, much cheaper whether in supermarkets or restaurants, but check prices in up-market establishments, night clubs, etc., where prices can be similar to Australia.
Fuel is more expensive in Albania. 95 Octane and diesel are approx AU $3.03 per litre (as at Nov 24).
Not expected but always appreciated.
Recommended: Tetanus, Hepatitis A and B, Rubus, Tick-borne Encephalitis.
Hospitals and medical facilities are modern and responsive in built-up areas, less so in the country, but you will definitely need medical cover as part of your insurance.
Albania has many motorways which are safe and offer efficient travel. However, there are also many narrow and mountainous roads and side lanes, where extreme caution has to be taken with regard to speed and negotiating the highways with other users. Experienced drivers should feel safe at the wheel.
Probably as safe as any other country in Europe, but do not take any more risks with potentially dangerous situations or environments than you would in Australia.
Drug laws are strict and penalties can be severe.
Yes, but not McDonald’s.
Yes, their own stores, selling similar goods.
Yes. The national drink is raki – fermented grapes or plums. Alcoholic beverages are commonly available in pubs, hotels, restaurants, etc.
Yes, in most places, but it is recommended you drink bottled water to avoid any stomach upsets due to unfamiliar chemical content.
Albanian, but a large proportion of the population speaks reasonable (or better) English.
Albania is a secular country with many religions and atheists (from the Communist era) living peacefully alongside each other. Soft Muslimism is the dominant religion.
Because tourism is still relatively new in Albania, the locals are generally very friendly and helpful to tourists.
Same-sex relationships are allowed by law but not widely tolerated by the public at large.
No, but the country has applied for membership.
230 volts, 50Hz (same as Australia). You will need plugs/adaptors for Type C (2x round pins) and Type F (2x round pins and two earth clips on each side).
It is prohibited by law but not strictly enforced. However, be careful of camping on private land where you may upset the owner.
Excellent. There are many signed and unmarked routes to follow. Trekking in the North of Albania is very rewarding with excellent views en route.
