Looking for cheap summer destinations in Europe? Why not travel to Albania?

Must see places in Eastern Europe

If you're considering a trip to the country and wonder where to go, Tirana Albania is a great starting point to your vacation, and one of the top eastern European cities to visit.


Find out below how to get there and popular things to do in Tirana Albania:

Traveling to Tirana Albania

One of the advantages about traveling to Tirana Albania it’s that citizens such as US citizens, Australians and Canadians don’t require a visa. In fact, one of the few requirements to get into the country it’s the entry and departure tax which comes down to around 20 Euros.

Must do Things in Albania

Booking flights to Tirana Airport

Tirana Airport (Rinas International Airport) is actually serviced by quite a few popular airlines like Virgin Travel, British Airways and Albanian Airlines, which offer charter flights during the summer season.

If you’re looking at booking a flight to the city of Tirana Albania, you’ll be landing at Rinas International Airport, the only airport in Albania. The airport is actually located just 9 miles from Tirana's city center (around 20 minutes by car).

Rinas International Airport has many modern amenities like free wireless internet, duty-free shops, restaurants and banks where you can exchange some money.

Getting to Tirana

Once you land at the airport, you have three transportation options to get to Tirana's city center:

- Airport Taxis. Which are yellow in color and cost around $15 (17 Euros) for a ride to the city center.

- Car Rental. There are around four car rental companies at the airport which include Europcar and Avis car rental.

- Buses. Buses run hourly to and from the airport and it is the most affordable way to get to the city center costing around $2 (4 Euros).

Things to do in Tirana Albania: Outdoor Activities

One of the most popular things to do in Tirana Albania it’s to explore the nearby Dajti National Park, as well as exploring nearby towns like Durres and Kruje where you can visit the Skenderbeg Museum.

Dajti National Park

Dajti National Park is an excellent place to hike and explore wildlife while enjoying some animal spotting.

The park has also many amenities like recreational areas, restaurants, cabin accommodation rental and picnic areas, which makes an ideal place for spending a couple of days close to nature.

When visiting Dajti National Park, you also don’t want to miss riding the popular Dajti Car Cable for amazing panoramic views.

Day Trip

Adding a day trip to your itinerary is something else worth considering. One of the most popular day trips from Tirana Albania, it’s to ferry out of Durres to southern Italy.

Durres Albania is just 15 miles for Tirana’s city center and can be reached either by car (around 35 minutes) or by train.

For instance, from Durres you could ferry out to nearby Bari Italy, Brindisi Italy or Manfredonia Italy.

Things to do in Tirana Albania: Places of Interest

Skenderbeg Square

The main focal point in the city it’s Skenderbeg Square which surrounds many of the city’s attractions. In the center of the square, you’ll also see Albania’s National hero Skenderbeg.

Et'hem Bey Mosque

The Et'hem Bey Mosque, located opposite the Municipality of Tirana, was constructed in the 18th century and it is a lovely example of Islamic architecture in the country.

Tirana National Museum

If you’re interested in history, the Tirana National Museum (Kombetar Museum) can easily be the highlight of your trip here.

The museum features around eight rooms with different exhibits such as a Middle-Ages room where you can see ancient artifacts like weapons, gold coins and documents.

Municipality of Tirana

If you’re visiting the city for the first time, a visit to the Municipality of Tirana (Bashkia e Tiranes) is one of the best things to do in Tirana Albania.

It acts as a visitor center, and you’ll be able to find out more information about the city, events, etc.

Outside of Tirana Albania

Petrela Castle

Petrela Castle is located just 5 miles (10 minutes drive) south of Tirana Albania, near Petrele. The castle used to be a fortified castle in the 13th century but have been now turned into a lovely restaurant.

Apart fro enjoying a nice meal, you can take amazing panoramic pictures from the castle and the castle itself, so it’s worth the visit.

Konti Castle

Konti Castle is located 5 miles northwest of Tirana’s city center, nearby Kristal University (10 minutes drive), and has been turned into a luxury hotel.

Whether you book yourself at the hotel or not, Castle Konti hotel makes for a wonderful picture-taking opportunity.

Things to do in Tirana Albania: Shopping

If you love retail shopping, there are plenty of shopping opportunities at the city’s shopping centers.

For instance, in the city center you have Galeria Mall and Casa Italia featuring a range of mid-size shops.

QTU and City Park shopping centers offer a better range of shops that include supermarkets. They are located outside of Tirana’s city center, along Tirana-Durres highway (around 10 minutes drive).

If you’re looking to grab a bargain, head to one of the city’s open-air markets like the popular Turkish Market.

The Turkish Market sells many leather goods like bags, jackets and shoes as well as electronics and that kind of thing.

Things to do in Tirana Albania: Nightlife & Entertainment

You’ll be glad to know that Tirana Albania has a lively night scene with discos and bars offering live entertainment like karaoke nights.

One popular street where you can find bars and restaurants is along Rruga Ded Gjo Luli.

Entertainment-wise, there are cinemas, and a couple of theaters near Skenderbeg Square. For instance, the Puppet Theater which features children’s shows, while the National Theater is a great place to catch interesting shows like dramas and musicals.

See. Best Party Beaches in Europe
Beaches in Bari Italy
Tourist Sights in Macedonia

Top 5 places to visit in Venice
Interesting places to visit in Slovakia
Places to visit in Lithuania
Interesting places to visit in Slovenia
Interesting places to visit in Poland
Places to visit in Macedonia
Interesting places to visit in Estonia
Interesting places to visit in Latvia
Interesting places to visit in Serbia
Places to visit in Moldova
Places to visit in Montenegro

Must see places in Eastern Europe

Seeing so many good articles on top destinations in Western Europe, I thought to create a list of some of the top Eastern European cities to visit, and tell you why I think they’re great destinations. In no particular order, five of the top Eastern European cities to visit on your next vacation include:

Constanta, Romania

If you’re planning a cheap beach vacation like no other, look no further than Constanta Romania.

Located along the western coast of the Black Sea, Constanta Romania offers lively resorts, beautiful sandy beaches and centuries old remains and ruins from past cultures. Another reason why Constanta Romania is one of the top Eastern European cities to visit, it’s because of its affordability and accessibility. The airport is just minutes from the heart of the city center, and with hundreds of charter flights available, airfare bargains are easy to come by.


Budapest, Hungary

Most people that travel to Budapest Hungary for the first time don’t know what to expect of the city. Perhaps, one of the most striking things about the capital city of Budapest Hungary it’s the city’s architecture, with its many bridges and statutes, as well as amazing cultural scene. The music scene is diverse and they’re plenty of music events happening all year-round to keep you busy. Budapest Hungary is also one of the most popular cheap summer destinations in Europe, when you consider the small price you’ll pay for foods, eating out and entertainment.

Varna, Bulgaria

Varna Bulgaria is another popular summer destination in the Black Sea, located on the same stretch of coast as Constanta Romania. If you’re looking to do day trips, the city of Varna offers daily ferry connections to cities along the Black Sea coast, including Istanbul Turkey. The thing that makes Varna Bulgaria one of the top Eastern European cities to visit it’s its lovely attractions and the many things to do that can be enjoyed by all. For instance, you’d love a visit to the popular Sea Garden Park which boasts a dolphin theater, planetarium and more.

Kusadasi, Turkey

Kusadasi Turkey is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey, in par, with places such as Ibiza in Spain and Ayia Napa in Cyprus, but with its distinctive Turkish vibe. If you’re looking for a lively beach vacation and vibrant nightlife, without breaking the bank, Kusadasi Turkey has some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean to head. Apart from exciting beach and nightlife, Kusadasi Turkey is one of the top Eastern European cities to visit because of the famed Ephesus ruins.


Brno, Czech Republic

Located southeast of Prague, Brno Czech Republic is one of the few places in the country where you can still get a taste of the real Czech Republic. If you’ve always wanted to visit a medieval city, the city of Brno Czech Republic is one of the best places to visit Europe where you can do this. From beautiful architecture like churches, castles, medieval streets and UNESCO sites, there is really a lot to do in the city. Another plus about traveling to Brno Czech Republic, it’s that the city is just 70 miles north of Vienna Austria.

See. Things to do in Eastern Europe
Beautiful places in Europe
Best unknown European cities

The good news about traveling to Mykonos Greece, it’s that most travelers won’t require a visa. For instance, travelers from Canada, United Kingdom, United States and New Zealand don’t require one, if traveling as a tourist and staying less than three months in the island.

Without having to worry about visa fees or the visa being rejected, planning a vacation in Mykonos Greece is almost stress-free.

Perhaps, the only inconvenient about a vacation in Mykonos Greece, it’s that non-EU travelers won’t be able to get a direct flight to the island.

You’ll have to get either a transfer flight in Athens Greece or choose the option of catching a ferry from Rafina port to Mykonos Greece.

Be in the know also that non-EU nationals don’t pay duty, so you can bring back home more of Mykonos’ fine wine!

Best time to visit Mykonos Greece

Mykonos Greece is a popular summer destination in Europe and can be enjoyed pretty much all year-round, but be aware that in late fall some attractions, restaurants and hotels would be closed as Mykonos tourism dies down by then.

June through August is the absolute peak season, so expect plenty of crowds, busier attractions and inflated prices.

I guess, this is the thing about traveling in the summer months to some of the most popular holiday destinations as touristy areas and tourist resorts hike-up the prices.

The best time in my opinion for a vacation in Mykonos Greece, it’s either before or after the summer months. Preferably, either May or September as weather is still magnificent, most of the large crowds would’ve almost disappeared and prices are more reasonable with cheaper airfare and hotel discounts.

Arriving in Mykonos Greece

If you arrive to Mykonos Greece by plane, you’ll be landing at Mykonos Island National Airport, which is a small airport without many airport facilities.

Having said this, this is not much of a problem since the airport is so close to downtown Mykonos (around 5 minutes car ride), and most hotels include airport transfer so, you won't have to worry about transport.

Mykonos Greece is a small island but car rental is, perhaps, one of the best ways to enjoy your stay in the island, although buses are certainly the cheapest mode of transport.

Another plus point of car rental, it's that it will give you the freedom to explore the island on your own terms, which is always a plus if you’re the type of traveler who wants to take charge of their vacation.

Alternatively, hotels do offer bus excursions which include a guide, so if you don’t fancy hiring a car, you can still have a fun time.

Final thoughts on Mykonos Greece

Mykonos is truly an amazing place, and if you’re on a vacation in Mykonos Greece for the first time you’d love it here and will want to come back again.

Mykonos Greece is a great spot for a family vacation, but be in the know that the island is also very popular with hedonistic parties and nudist beaches.

For instance, beaches such as Elia and Paranga are nudist beaches, while some family beaches include Agos Ioannis, Agios Stafanos, Agia Anna, Megali Ammos, Kalo Livadi, Tourlos, Kalafatis and Korfos.

Also, just like in San Francisco CA, the gay scene in Mykonos Greece is also hot with many gay bars, discos and gay beaches such as Paradise.

See. Interesting places to visit in Serbia
Best Party Beaches in Europe

Best Vacation Spots in Croatia

The city of Dubrovnik Croatia is along Pula Croatia and Hvar Croatia, one of the most beautiful cities along the Adriatic Coast, and one of the most popular places to visit in Croatia.

Dubrovnik is popularly known for its marble streets and the stunning Dubrovnik Beach which attract the rich and famous.

Dubrovnik Croatia is also home to a rich history and beautiful Renaissance architecture such as the Sponza and Rectors Palaces, as well as 15th century Trsteno Arboretum, which is the oldest arboretum in the world.


Apart from the many things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia, the city is an ideal holiday base for exploring Italian cities such as Manfredonia, Bari Italy and Andria Italy.

Things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia: Outdoor Activities

Island-Hopping

The Croatian Islands are some of the most numerous in the world, and exploring one or two is one of the most popular things to do.

The closest Croatian Islands to Dubrovnik Croatia are the Elaphite Islands, which consists of three islands (Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan).

The Elaphite Islands are some of the less touristy of the Croatian Islands but offer an ideal getaway for those looking for a relaxing time.

Ferries depart from Dubrovnik to the Elaphite Islands on a daily basis and Kolocep Island can be reached in just ten minutes.

Dubrovnik Wine Tour

Taking a Dubrovnik Wine Tour is another popular thing to do in Dubrovnik, specially if you are visiting the city in the summer months.

A typical wine tour can take you on the Elješac peninsula where you can explore the region’s famed wine cellars and vineyards, and sample one of the finest red wine in Europe.

Things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia: Beaches

Banje Beach

Banje Beach (Dubrovnik Beach) is one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia and offers marvelous views of the cities Old Town.

Banje Beach attracts many famous people so it is also one of the busiest beaches in Dubrovnik Croatia.

Copacabana Beach

Copacabana Beach, located in the Babin Kuk area, is one of the best beaches in Dubrovnik in terms of water-sport rentals and facilities.

Apart from being popular among windsurfers, Copacabana Beach is also popular with families as the waters are shallow and the beach features slide chutes and toboggans for the little ones.

Things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia: Places of Interest

Old Town of Dubrovnik

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is considered one of the most beautiful cites in Europe and classified as a World Heritage Site.

Historic sites you must see in the Balkans

A visit to the Old Town is a step-back in time, and taking a stroll along the charming streets is one of the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia.

Trsteno Arboretum

One of the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia is to visit the Trsteno Arboretum, which is home to two stunning five-hundred year old trees standing over sixty meters high.

Also, within the arboretum, there is a beautiful Renaissance park which contains hundred of different exotic plants as well as Renaissance statues.

6 Things You Must Do in Croatia

Monastery of the Friars Minor and Museum

Those interested in Croatian history and architecture will enjoy a visit to the Monastery of the Friars Minor, which is home to the oldest-operating pharmacy in Europe.

The monastery also features a museum where you can see old pharmacy items, manuscripts and paintings.

Things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia: Shopping

The shopping scene in Dubrovnik ranges from local markets and boutiques to shopping malls. In fact, souvenir shopping is one of the most popular things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia.

One of the most popular souvenirs to shop for in Dubrovnik markets it's handmade embroidered items such as table cloths and aprons. For instance, the Gunduliceva Square market is a great place for souvenir and local produce shopping.

Those of you interested in mall shopping, the city of Dubrovnik is home to a few shopping malls. For instance, DOC Kerum shopping center (the biggest one in Dubrovnik) features many popular department stores, as well as restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a fun day out.

Things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia: Nightlife & Entertainment

Most of the nightlife in Dubrovnik can be found in the Old Town of the city, where you will find all sorts of bars and restaurants playing live music.

For instance, Stradun is one of the most popular streets, in the Old Town, where most people hang-out, and it is also where you’ll find most of bars, restaurants and cafes in Dubrovnik.

If you are looking for a livelier nightlife, the Babin Kuk area is home to a handful of discos and nightclubs such as the popular ‘Exodus’ club. Also, Copacabana Beach is in the area and it is also another popular spot to hang-out.

At night, Copacabana turns into a vibrant and fun place as the beach fills with small bars and small discos.

Things to do in Dubrovnik Croatia: Festivals & Events

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival

The Dubrovnik Summer Festival, held in July, is one of the most popular cultural events in Dubrovnik where you can enjoy a myriad of musical and theatrical performances such as the prestigious Hamlet play.

Dubrovnik International Film Festival

The Dubrovnik International Film Festival, held in May, is another popular event and last for five days. At the event you can enjoy local and international Indi movies, as well as film-related competitions.

See. Beautiful places in Europe
Six Things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Beaches in Bari Italy
Things to do in Eastern Europe
Must see places in Eastern Europe

Top 5 places to visit in Venice
Places to visit in Genoa Italy
Places to visit in the French Riviera