Albania is much safer than people think. Here I show you how we see it from up close, every day, and some little tips to make your trip go smoothly.
When people from abroad ask us if Albania is safe, my honest answer is: yes, and much safer than they think. I live and work here, and every day I see how travelers experience our country. In this article, I show you what Albania is really like for a tourist, and some simple tips to make your trip smooth from day one, especially when traveling with family or a group.
Many people still remember the Albania of the 1990s: a closed, poor and little-known country. This impression makes some travelers come with trepidation. But after a few days, almost everyone says the same thing: they didn't expect the people to be so kind and the country to be so peaceful.
Today, in Tirana, Saranda or Berat, the streets are full of families until late at night. Children play in the squares, the elderly drink coffee in the evening and people stop to help you when they see you confused with the map. Hospitality here is not something for tourists. It is part of the way we were raised.
As in any tourist city in Europe, it is worth being a little careful with your belongings, especially in crowded places, like the center of Tirana or the crowded beaches in summer. There is no reason to worry, just a few good habits:
When you travel with our minibus, your bags and suitcases stay in the vehicle all day, and you only travel with what you need.
At the entrance to the airport you will find taxi drivers offering their services. Most are honest, but some try to make a little extra money from tourists, especially late at night when you are tired. It is not a big deal, but it is good to know: ask for a taxi with a meter or agree on the price before getting in. Exchange money at official exchange offices or banks.
For a family or a group, the most peaceful solution is a booked transfer from the airport. The price is fixed in advance, the driver waits for you with a sign with your name on it, and the entire group travels together, with their suitcases, in a single vehicle.
Most of the main roads are good and are being improved every year. However, if you come by rental car, you will notice that driving here has its own pace: the mountain roads are narrow and winding, the signage is sometimes partial, and the distances take longer than they appear on the map. Read also real travel times in Albania.
That's why many families and groups choose not to drive themselves. With a minibus with a driver who knows the routes, you don't have to think about the map, parking or timetable, but only about the view out the window.
Save the address of your accommodation and the emergency number 112 on your phone. With these two things, you can solve almost any situation.
The mountains of Albania are safe for hiking. Albania was officially declared a mine-free country in 2009, so the trails in the north, such as Valbona and Thethi, are completely safe from this point of view. In the mountains, the things to keep in mind are the usual: fast-changing weather, long trails and poor phone reception. Set off early, take plenty of water and, if you are inexperienced, hire a local guide.
On the beaches, there are not always lifeguards. When the sea is rough, don't swim far and keep children close.
Albanians have an honor to protect a friend. For us, a safe tourist is an honored friend.
Many women travel alone in Albania and feel safe. The advice is the same as in other European cities: at night, move around on the streets with people and choose reserved transportation instead of a random car.
For families, Albania is a very welcoming country with children. People will talk to them, smile at them and sometimes even give them sweets. The things that require the most attention are the strong summer sun and long car journeys, so it is worth planning your days off.
Before any trip, also check your country's official travel guidelines. If you are coming from Israel, also read our guide for Israeli tourists.
When there are many of you, it is easiest to have a minibus and a driver just for you. We will meet you at the airport at any time, even when the flight is delayed, with a sign with your name on it. For groups of up to 18 people we have minibuses, while for larger groups we have buses with driver.
Our drivers know the roads, take their time and show you where it is worth stopping along the way. You know the price right from the quote, with no surprises at the end. You can travel with us throughout Albania and the Balkans, with the same minibus even when you cross the border. And if you need anything, our office answers 24/7, even on WhatsApp.
Minibus.al is a licensed company for passenger transport in Albania, the Balkans and Europe. See How does the reservation work?.
Yes. Albania is a peaceful and welcoming country, and crime against tourists is rare. As in any tourist city, keep your phone and wallet in your pocket and your belongings close to you.
Yes. The center of Tirana is lively until late and full of families. As in any city, move around the streets with people and keep your personal belongings close by.
It is possible, but the mountain roads and distances require time and attention. For families and groups, a minibus with a driver who knows the roads is the most comfortable solution.
Yes, many women travel alone and feel safe. The advice is the same as in other European cities.
No. Albania was officially declared a mine-free country in 2009, so the mountain trails are safe from this aspect.
With a minibus with driver. The group travels together, with suitcases, with a driver who knows the routes and with a clear price from the beginning. We also meet you at the airport, at any time.
Airport pickup at any time and tours throughout Albania. We respond 24/7.
Leonard works every day with groups of travelers from all over the world visiting Albania and the Balkans. On the Minibus.al blog, he shares practical tips on transportation, routes and destinations, so that your trip is safe and stress-free.
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