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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Albania - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Albania due to crime .

Country Summary : Law enforcement’s ability to protect and assist travelers is limited in some areas, especially in remote regions. There has been targeted violence associated with illicit drug networks and organized crime countrywide. Travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and the extent of police and emergency services in their area.

Read the  country information page for additional information to Albania.

If you decide to travel to Albania:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Albania.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

At least three months from the date of arrival

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for U.S. citizens. If you are a U.S. citizen and intend to stay more than one year in Albania, you will need to apply for a residency permit. residency permit .

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. A list of those countries can be found by visiting the World Health Organization (WHO) .

1,000,000 lekë (approximately $9,500 USD, though the rate can fluctuate) or equivalent.

1,000,000 lekë (approximately $9,500 USD , though the rate can fluctuate) or equivalent. For more information you can visit Albanian Customs website .

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy tirana.

Rruga Stavro Vinjau, 14 Tirana, Albania Telephone:  +(355) (0) 4-2247-285 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(355) (0) 4-2247-285 Fax:  +(355) (0) 4-2374-957; +(355) (0) 4-2232-222 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Visit the  Embassy of Albania’s website  for the most current visa information.

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months from the date of your arrival.
• You may enter the Republic of Albania as a tourist without a visa. 
• U.S. citizens may stay up to one year in Albania without applying for a residency permit. If you wish to stay in Albania longer than one year, you may apply for a residency permit once you enter the country. For more information on residency permits in Albania, please see the Embassy  website . Prospective residents or those wishing to remain in Albania for longer than one year or who intend to work or study must apply for a residency permit at the office of the Regional Directorate of Border and Migration Police with jurisdiction over their place of residence.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Albania.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Some terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Credit card fraud is common in Albania, and you should exercise caution by not letting your card out of sight when making a transaction. Visitors need to be very careful when using ATMs. Be alert for strangers looking over your shoulders at the PIN number, and also for any interference with the machine itself that could indicate a camera or card scanner that steals your details when you scan your card.

Carjacking is rare in Albania, but vehicle theft may occur. Make sure your vehicle is locked and keep your possessions well hidden in the trunk.

Recent crime statistics indicate a decrease in numerous violent crime categories to include attempted murder, robberies by force and armed robberies. Street crime is common in urban areas, predominantly at night. The most notable are burglaries, theft, and domestic violence claims.

Attacks using small improvised explosive devices and targeting individuals in contentious disputes have occurred. Remain vigilant when parking in unattended parking areas, avoid parking overnight in non-secure areas, and inspect vehicles for suspicious items. If you find something strange, do not tamper with it and contact the Albanian Police immediately.

Law enforcement’s ability to protect and assist travelers is limited in some areas, especially in remote regions. There has been targeted violence associated with illicit drug networks and organized crime countrywide. Travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and the extent of police and emergency services in their area.

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(355) 4 224 7285. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy.

See our webpage on help for  U.S. victims of crime overseas .

The Embassy may be able to assist crime victims with the following:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S .
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is regulated, but rules may be unevenly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage. Professional and certified staff may not be available to support some organized activities. In the event of an injury, access to appropriate medical treatment may be sporadic due to limited hours or physical distances. Outside metropolitan areas, it may take more time to reach first responders or medical professionals who can stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be fined, arrested, imprisoned, or deported. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws.  You may have to pay fines or give up such goods if you bring them back to the United States. In Albania, the import and export of goods that infringe on intellectual property rights is prohibited by law . See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Special Circumstances:

• Albania's customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning import or export of particular items from Albania, including weapons, endangered wild fauna and flora, and narcotics, among others. Contact the  Embassy of Albania  in Washington, D.C. in the United States for  customs requirements .
• Albanian law allows for dual citizenship. Albanian citizenship may be acquired at birth in certain instances, including if the child has one Albanian citizen parent and other circumstances are met. The Ministry of Internal Affairs, Department of Citizenship, handles citizenship issues. Foreigners can submit the requirements for obtaining citizenship to Albanian embassies abroad or to the regional police in the district they reside in Albania. For full details, please visit the website for the Agency for the Delivery of Integrated Services Albania: https://www.adisa.gov.al/albanian-citizenship/ .
• Albania is a cash economy. Credit card acceptance is limited but ATMs are widely available in cities.
• Sporadic blackouts throughout the country can affect food storage capabilities.
• Tap water is not safe to drink. Air pollution is also a problem throughout Albania, particularly in Tirana.
• Establishing a business in Albania has been made easier through the establishment of the National Business Center, as a single one-stop shop for providing business registration and licensing services. These administrative services are done through simple electronic procedures, in a short time and with symbolic tariffs.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Albania. Albanian law does not permit same-sex marriage and does not legally recognize other countries’ same-sex marriage certificates. The government does not prosecute or discriminate against same-sex relationships. Same-sex married couples cannot apply for family residency permits, but they may register individually. Despite the law and the government’s formal support for LGBTI rights, homophobic attitudes remain.

See   our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information   page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Albania prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, intellectual, or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities in newer buildings. Many public buildings remain inaccessible. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Outside of Tirana, accessibility is limited. Aids, equipment, and devices, and rental, repair, or replacement services, have limited availability. Service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants, have limited availability. Contact the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation for more information.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Albania, dial 112 for an ambulance. Dial 127 or 128 for the Fire Department. Not all operators have English, or may have limited ability in English, but will attempt to connect you with an English-speaking responder when possible.

Ambulance services are not widely available and the training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend you obtain  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for visitors to Albania.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality : Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.  Air quality varies throughout Albania. Pollution can be a problem particularly in Tirana, and during certain times of year – such as winter, when wood or coal may be burned for heat.

Health Facilities:  The U.S. Embassy maintains information on doctors and hospitals  here . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

• Adequate health facilities are available in Tirana and other cities but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics lack many basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always accepted.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Medical staff may not speak English.
• Generally, public hospitals are minimally staff overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.

Pharmaceuticals:     

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Albanian law prohibits the import and export of narcotic medications and psychotropic substances. For more information, visit the General Directorate of Customs website .

Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas In Albania, while many medicines are available without a prescription, certain pharmaceuticals may require a prescription from a physician and are sold only at specialized pharmacies. Some medications may not be available locally. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments recommended by a physician.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy : If you are considering traveling to Albania to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .

Water Quality:  Tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are safe, although many restaurants and hotels may serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.  

Adventure Travel:  Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Driving conditions in Albanian can differ significantly from those in the United States. Reckless driving is common. Many drivers do not pay attention to traffic regulations, signals, lane markings, pedestrians, or other drivers. The number of fatalities from traffic accidents is high compared to other European countries. Road conditions vary and are especially poor in rural areas in winter months and during inclement weather. Older sections of the roadway system are poorly lit. Minor traffic disputes can quickly escalate, especially as some motorists could be armed.

• All international driving permits (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention are accepted. An international driving permit can only be used for one year. If you wish to drive in Albania for more than one year, you must apply for an Albanian license.
• In Albania,  driving is on the right-hand side of the road . Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seat belt. Mobile phones can be used while driving, but only with a hands-free set. Third-party insurance is required.
• Be aware emergency response services are inadequate. First responders have limited medical training and equipment. Accident victims are often transported to the nearest hospital in the car of a passerby.
• Do not travel at night. Travel outside of urban areas is particularly dangerous.
• Fuel and repair services are common in populated areas, but there is no formal roadside assistance. Tires and replacement parts may not be available.

Traffic Laws:  You may be asked to show your passport in addition to a U.S. or international driver’s license if stopped. Police should provide you with a written ticket citing any fine issued. While procedures may vary by district, you should not generally pay fines directly to police officers; these will be collected at a local police precinct or court.

• If you have an accident, do not move your car, and wait for police to arrive.
• Disregard for traffic laws is widespread.
• You can use a U.S. or  international driver’s license  while in non-resident status in Albania. U.S. citizens remaining in Albania longer than one year must register and apply for resident status and must also apply for an Albanian driver’s license.
• It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol at any detectable level.  Albania practices a zero-tolerance policy.  The police will seize your driver’s license and vehicle if caught. You may also be fined or receive up to six months in prison.
• It is against the law to use a mobile phone without a hands-free device while driving. You will be fined if caught.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation options are limited and not generally recommended for visitors. However, marked taxis are considered safe and recommended for use.

• There are no commercial domestic flights.
• Rail conditions are poor, limited, and service is unreliable.
• Private buses travel between most cities almost exclusively during the day on variable schedules.
• Intra-city transit is an unofficial system of privately-owned vans operating without schedules, set fares, or, occasionally, government permission. Many of these vans do not adhere to accepted safety and maintenance standards or driver training. Consider the condition of the van before traveling in one.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Albania, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Albania’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Albania should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Albania .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.”

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Albania travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

Much overlooked in eastern europe, albania has beaches, unique history, lush sunshine and a scene low on tourists, article bookmarked.

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Louise Thomas

Simultaneously mountainous and coastal, beloved by devoted hikers and sun-worshippers alike, on the face of it Albania seems like a cultural melting pot with Greek, Italian and Turkish influences leaving traces over the centuries. But delve a little deeper and let the Ancient Illyrian land and language reveal itself; it’s one of strength, resilience and contagious joie de vivre .

With the second largest Islamic population in Europe after Kosovo (around 60 per cent of Albanians are Muslim), the country is also the poster child for religious tolerance, with stunning mosques and cathedrals built side by side in the cities and towns of the Balkan nation. It was a stronghold of the Islamic Ottoman Empire for over 500 years and still home to some incredible architecture of the age, despite the best attempts by 20th century dictator Enver Hoxha to destroy it. A visit is sure to be met by very friendly and welcoming locals and some of the most affordable prices in the continent.

Travel restrictions and entry requirements

As of 1 May 2022, all Covid-19 related travel requirements have been lifted. Travellers no longer need to show proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test in order to enter Albania.

Best time to go

With a similarly balmy climate to neighbouring Greece, Albania is one of the sunniest countries in Europe, with sun-drenched hours peaking between April and October. The best time for hiking in the mountains are the quieter spring and autumn months, but thanks to the high altitude, summer also works if you don’t mind more crowded trails. Summer is of course the best time for exploring the beaches of the Riviera, but temperatures do soar, so if exploring the cities and Ottoman towns is high on your agenda, spring or autumn are also preferable.

• Why you should swap packed Greece for the beautiful, quieter beaches of Albania

Top regions

Tirana was a quiet inland town until the capital was moved here in 1912. The considerate 20th century town planning gifts pleasant leafy, wide streets with plenty of shade from the soaring summer heat. The city’s epicentre is the recently pedestrianised Skanderbeg Square, a grand space, home to the beautiful 18th-century Et’hem Bej Mosque, and the angular communist era Opera House and National History Museum. Around the corner, market Pazari i Ri is lined with food stalls and restaurants, but it’s Blloku you’ll want to graze in ‒ this buzzy corner of town was formerly a residential neighbourhood for the governing communist politicians, and is now a vibrant hub of cafes, bars, restaurants and clubs.

Shkoder and the Albania Alps

Established by Ancient Ilyrian tribes in the 4th century BC, Shkoder has seen some action in its time. The gateway to Albania if you’re arriving from northern Europe by bus or car, it’s a peaceful, atmospheric little city ‒ so give it some of your time, as it’s more than just a jumping off point for the mountains. Rent a bicycle and ride out to the lake, dig through the hidden flea markets and find yourself moved by Marubi National Museum of Photography. When moving on, minivans go up to Theth National Park every morning where you can try shorter, local hikes or follow the popular day-long trail to Valbonës, where vans will drive you back down to Shkoder the next afternoon.

Gjirokaster

Famous for its fantastically well preserved, sophisticated Ottoman-era architecture, the winding cobblestoned streets of Gjirokaster are Unesco-protected for good reason. Set back from the coast and nestled up in the hills, the stunning architecture of the old town was once home to one of the biggest hubs of Sufism (a mystical, meditation based school of Islam) outside of Turkey. While only a fraction of the religious sights survived Enver Hoxha’s purge, churches and mosques still live side by side here, as they have done for centuries. Gjirokaster Castle is undoubtedly one of the best in the country (competition is stiff as there are over 150) with glimmering white stone and great fortress walls.

• Tirana city guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Albania’s capital

The Riviera

The 120km coastal stretch from Vlore to Sarande known as the Albanian Riviera, comprises of picturesque hillside villages and majestic pale blue hues as the Ionian Sea laps its pebble beaches. Popular stops are festival hub Dhermi and backpacker favourite Himare, or go high end at the luxurious cluster of tiny islands in Ksamil. One highway goes along the coast, served by a handful of buses per day in either direction ‒ take this road to explore the lesser trodden beaches along the way, hiring a car or moped, or if you’re feeling brave, do as the young Albanians do and hitch-hike. The crystal clear waters of the riviera are unexpectedly cold, even in the heat of the summer, thanks to springs of water flowing out from the mountains and under the sea bed.

Underrated destinations

Berat and osumit canyon.

Just as impressive as Gjirokaster, but often overlooked in its favour, is fellow Ottoman-era town Berat. Known as the city of a thousand windows, Berat’s glass panes dazzle the viewer, from the banks of the river bend right up into the hills. The Citadel dates to the 13th century with a fantastic little Byzantine, churches inside ‒ pop to St Mary’s for show stopping mosaics. There are of course gorgeous mosques here, too ‒ Berat’s great example of the religious tolerance that Albania is so good at. Take a day trip from here to Osumit Canyon where you can wade through the river past the rock faces and scoop up mud from the riverbed to use as a nourishing face mask.

Butrint Archaeological Park

Greek, Roman and Byzantine ruins all grace this former metropolis, perched on the edge of the Riviera. Butrint is undoubtedly home to the best ruins in Albania and indeed the West Balkans but is often bypassed on the way to the beach. It’s a sprawling site with buildings dotted around the lagoon, (imagine Pompeii in the middle of a bayou), including Roman baths, a Greek amphitheatre and Venetian towers. Prepare to spend the day there and wear extremely comfortable shoes. There’s a later Ottoman addition that’s worth the hike too; infamous leader Ali Pasha built a fortress here to keep an eye on Napoleon, who’d taken nearby Corfu.

Home of Albania’s crisp local lager, Korçë is set amidst picturesque mountains and immersed in nature, yet less trodden by tourists than other parts of the country. Hiking is top of the list of things to do here, but the city is also brimming with fantastic architecture and cultural institutions. "Gjon Mili" Photography Museum gives a glimpse into 20th century life here, while the Medieval Museum, doing what it says on the tin, is one of the country’s best. The show stopping, orthodox Resurrection of Christ Cathedral gets the most attention but tiny Iliaz Bej Mirahori Mosque is also unmissable, as one of the country’s oldest.

• Why Gjirokaster is Albania’s best-kept secret

Best things to do

Take a beautiful hike.

Hiking from Theth to Valbonës, through the Albanian Alps (or the Accursed Mountains as they are sometimes called) tops everyone’s bucket list for a reason. Views this stunning rarely come on such a manageable hike ‒ and it is, with the right footwear, manageable for novice trekkers, as long as you’re able to walk 16km, which takes six to nine hours. This trip takes at least three days on an itinerary, typically with two overnights ‒ it’s a travel day each end as minivans go from Shkoder to either Theth or Valbonës every morning and back in the afternoons, with a full day of hiking in the middle.

Swim in pools and rivers

Take a cold water dip in the unusual sights of natural beauty that Albania has by the dozen. The top three are the Blue Eye, a turquoise pool of chilly mountain spring water (usually around 10-13° Celsius) en route to Gjirokaster; the aforementioned Osumi Canyon near Berat, where you can raft or water hike along the River Osum; or the most intrepid (the road from Shkoder isn’t great) will love swimming in the River Shalë, which flows inside the Albanian Alp range.

Search out the flea markets

These exist in every town and city, rarely marked on mapping apps, but ask a local where the nearest one is and you will be rewarded beyond your wildest, vintage loving dreams.

Getting around

Car or moped hire is comparatively cheap in Albania but if you prefer to use public transport, get ready to embrace a mildly mysterious but fully functional bus network that spans most corners of the country. Use local site Gjirafa to check the long distance bus times and schedules, although the service may leave a bit earlier or later, a definite go with the flow attitude needed. There’s no pre-booking app or sites, you pay the driver so have roughly the correct change ‒ prices are listed on Gjirafa usually too.

How to get there

There are regular direct flights from London to Tirana on Wizz Air, which is both the cheapest and quickest option. But there are a number of flight-free routes, too, depending on the time you have to hand. The quickest flight-free way would be to take trains to Bari in Italy (via Paris, Milan and Rome) and hop on the daily ferry over to Durres on the northern coast of Albania. Or if Balkan buses appeal more than the ferry, take the train as far as Belgrade (via Zagreb) and bus down into Shkoder from there.

Money-saving tip

Albania is remarkably cheap, compared to the majority of other European nations, but if you’re really on a shoestring, take your own tent with you and utilise one of the countless, fantastic campsites that are dotted around the length and breadth of the country.

What’s the weather like?

Albania is blessed with approximately 300 days of sunshine a year, so spring and autumn are fantastic times to go. The summer sees temperatures soar into the 40s so stick to coastal destinations in the height of July and August.

What time zone is it in?

What currency do i need.

Albanian Lek.

What language is spoken?

Albania (aka Shqipërisë ) is home to Albanians ( Shqipëri ) who speak Albanian ( Shqip ).

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Albania Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Albania

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Albania entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Albania from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Albania.

Can I travel to Albania if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Albania without restrictions.

Can I travel to Albania without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Albania without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Albania?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Albania.

Can I travel to Albania without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Albania?

Mask usage in Albania is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Albania?

Restaurants in Albania are open. Bars in Albania are .

Albania Covid Travel restrictions, PCR testing and Coronavirus

Over the past month, I have received so many questions about the Covid travel restrictions in Albania, where to book a PCR test before traveling home, and how the situation is in Albania with regards to Coronavirus. Therefore, I decided to write a helpful blog post about it, to help you plan your travel.

Are there entry restrictions in Albania during Covid-19?

Here is an overview of the travel restrictions and entry requirements in place in Albania, in order to prevent the spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19):

Albania Entry Requirements UPDATE 1 May 2022:

From the 1st of May 2022, the Albanian Government has removed all COVID entry requirements .

On the 1st of May the Albanian Ministry of Health confirmed that Albania has lifted all the COVID entry requirements:

• you do NOT need any vaccination passport to enter Albania
• you do NOT need a test certificate to enter Albania
• you do NOT need a recovery certificate to enter Albania

“ Effective 1 May 2022, if travelling to Albania, whether by land, sea or air, there are no specific documents required, in terms of Covid-19.” Quote from Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Albania ( source )

Are the commercial flights to Albania operating?

All the commercial flights to Albania are operating.

All the Albanian land borders are open

All the Albanian land borders are open.

All the Albanian maritime borders are open

All the maritime borders of Albania are open.

CORFU-SARANDA FERRY UPDATE:

The Corfu-Saranda Ferry is fully operational.

The ferry companies that are operating the ferries are Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways. You can book online up to 24 hours before departure, you can also reserve by email or you can pay for your ticket at the ticket office in the port of Saranda or the port of Corfu.

Corfu is a Greek island, you can find the Greek Covid entry requirements here:  https://travel.gov.gr

Is a negative PCR test required for entry to Albania?

You do NOT need a negative PCR test to enter Albania.

Some travellers may need a negative PCR test to travel home after visiting Albania or to travel onwards. If your next destination requires you to take a PCR test in Albania before you travel home, scroll down for more information below.

Do I have to quarantine upon entry to Albania?

When you enter Albania, quarantine is not required. As of the 1st of May 2022, Albania does not have any Covid entry requirements anymore.

Where can I do a PCR test in Albania?

You may need to do a PCR test in Albania before you travel back to your country (or onwards). Because your next destination requires you to present a negative PCR test at the border upon entry.

In order to get tested on COVID-19 by the Albanian public health authority, you must have symptoms and a recommendation from an Albanian family doctor. Therefore, as a foreigner, the only option is paying for a PCR test at a private clinic.

You can do a PCR test in Albania at Tirana International Airport right before departure or at one of the below six private clinics. All these clinics have been authorized by the Albanian government to perform PCR tests.

1. PCR test at Tirana International Airport before departure

NEW UPDATE 07 June 2021: You can now do a PCR test at Tirana International Airport just before your airplane departure.

There is a new PCR testing center outside the Arrivals hall at Tirana International Airport.

If you go for a PCR test at the airport, your test will be done at the airport and results will come from the laboratory at the airport as well.

Here is what you need to know about PCR testing at Tirana International Airport:

1. You must arrive at Tirana International Airport 3 hours before your flight departure.

2. The PCR test results at the airport will take 90 minutes to process.

3. You will receive the test results in the English language.

4. The airport PCR tests will cost you 35 Euros.

5. The Tirana International Airport testing center is open 24 hours a day.

Just FYI, it is not possible to do an antibody test or an antigen test at the airport. Tirana International Airport only offers the PCR test.

For more information click here: https://www.tirana-airport.com/d/297/pcr-testing-center-for-departing-passengers-at-tirana-international-airport

2. The American Hospital Laboratory (ALNET)

UPDATE: The American Laboratory Network (https://alnet.al/) now offers a PCR test result in 6 hours. If you take a PCR test with the American Laboratory Network in Tirana, you will get the result of your test in 6 hours. The test costs 6500 Leke (53 euros). And you will get the test result in both English and Albanian. You can walk in, no need for a reservation.

In all other locations outside Tirana, the PCR tests results take 24 hours.

Here is a list of the locations, where you can go for a PCR test in Albania:

Tirana city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory Lab Center at Pazari i Ri Rr.Kostandin Kristoforidhi, në krah të Poliklinikës Qendrore, Tiranë

Tirana city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Spitali Amerikan 2 Rruga e Dibrës, Tiranë 1000

Tirana city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Center 21 dhjetori Lagjja 21 Dhjetori, pallati Gora ,prapa Poliklinikës nr. 9, Tiranë

Tirana city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, AMC Kamez Rr.Venecia, në krah të Poliklinikës dhe stadiumit, Kamëz, Tiranë

Fier city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Center Fier Përball Kishës, në krah të Poliklinikës, Fier

Fier city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, AMC Fier Rr Çamëria, Fier

Vlore city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Center Vlore Lagjja 15 tetori, përballë Spitalit Rajonal, Vlorë

Shkoder city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Center Shkoder Rruga “Kole Heqimi, nr 1301, Skanderbeg,Shkodër

Durres city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Center Durres Lagjja nr.3, rruga Fetah Bllaca, Durrës

Lushnje city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Center Lushnje Lagjja Xhevdet Nepravishta, shëtitorja Kongresi i Lushnjes, p.22, Lushnje

Elbasan city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Center Elbasan Lagjja Kongresi i Elbasanit, rruga Bedri Xhomo, Elbasan

Gjirokaster city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, AMC Gjirokaster Në krah të Spitalit Rajonal-Gjirokastër

Berat city PCR test American Hospital Laboratory, Lab Center Berat, perballe Spitalit rajonal Lagjja Kushtrim, rruga Rilindja, përballë Spitalit rajonal, Berat

The PCR test results take 24 hours. You will receive the PCR test results by email in the English language.

For more information, you can check this website: https://alnet.al/ or call +355 4 222 5640.

3. Biocheck Diagnostic

Biocheck Diagnostic is located in Tirana. They offer a COVID testing package for 9500 Albanian Lek (77 euros). You can contact them at [email protected] or call them on +355 4 2 427 025. More information can be found on their website: www.biocheck-al.com .

4. Genius Lab

Genius Lab has laboratories in Tirana, Kavaje, Shkoder, Lezhe and Pogradec. They offer a PCR test in all locations and the results will be ready in 3 hours. You will receive the results in both Albanian as well as the English language.

UPDATE: If you visit the Central location of Genius Lab (Address: Rruga e Kavajes, Kompleksi Delijorgji), you will get your PCR test results in only 90 minutes!

Lezhe City PCR test GeniusLab Lezhe Rruga Kosova 4501, Lezhë

Pogradec City PCR test GeniusLab Pogradec Rruga Kristaq Kacka 18, Pogradec

Shkoder City PCR test Genius Laborator Shkoder Rruga Studenti, 4001, Shkodër

Kavaje City PCR test Genius Laborator Kavaje

You can find more information on their website http://geniuslab.al/index.php or call +355 69 303 3026.

5. German Hospital International

The German Hospital in Tirana also performs the PCR test. The price for the PCR test is 8500 Albanian LEK (70 euros). For more information or a reservation, you must call +355 67 200 4282 or +355 67 500 42 82 . And you can check the website of the German Hospital for more information: https://spitaligjerman.com/

6. Intermedica

Intermedica is a laboratory and clinic in Tirana. They perform PCR tests for 6500 Albanian Leke (53 euros) and the results are ready in 6 hours. There is no need to reserve for a PCR test,  you can simply walk in on their two locations:

Intermedica Qendrore Rruga: Panorama (Pranë Institutit Harry Fultz), Tiranë, Albania

Intermedica 15 Kompleksi Dinamo, Rruga e Kosovarëve pranë ish, Tirana 1001, Albania

You will receive the PCR test results in 6 hours by email in the English language with a QR code to scan.

You can contact them by email at [email protected] or [email protected]. And you can check the website of Intermedica for more information: https://www.intermedica.al/

Question: Where can I do a PCR test in Sarande?

You can do a PCR test at Intermedica Sarande (Address: Onhezmi, Përballë Spitalit “Petro Nako”, 9701 Sarandë). The PCR test costs 7300 Leke (60 euros). You will receive the results in 6-12 hours. You can call Intermedica Saranda on: +355 69 702 9737

7. Salus Hospital

The Salus Hospital has been authorized to perform the PCR test. The hospital is located in the center of Tirana. The test costs 8000 Leke (65 euros). And you will receive the test result within 24 hours. You can get in touch with Salus Hospital by emailing [email protected] or calling 355 68 205 3180. More information on their website: https://salus.al/

Where can I take an antibody covid test in Albania?

There are four laboratories in Albania that offer antibody testing for Covid-19, in order to determine whether you have had the Coronavirus infection before.

The American Laboratory Network (ALNET)

American Laboratory Network (ALNET) offers an antibody test for 3200 Leke (26 euros). The American Laboratory Network has locations in Tirana, Durres, Elbasan, Shkoder, Lushnje, Fier, Berat, Vlore, and Gjirokaster. You can find the list of addresses here: https://alnet.al/kontakt/

Although the American Laboratory Network offers PCR testing at Tirana International Airport. They do not offer Antibody testing or Antigen testing at the airport.

Intermedica

Intermedica is a laboratory in Tirana, which offers the antibody test as well. The price for the antibody test is 3000 Leke (25 euros). If you have any questions you can reach out to them, because they usually respond to emails within 24 hours. You can find their contact details here: https://www.intermedica.al/kontakt-2/

Biocheck diagnostic

Biocheck diagnostic offers the antibody test for 4000 leke (32.50 euros). Biocheck diagnostic is located in Tirana in the Boulevard Gjergi Fishta. You can call them on +355 4 2 427 025.

Salus Hospital

Salus Hospital offers an antibody test for 4000 leke (32.50 euros). The hospital is located in Tirana. Their address is: Rruga “Vidhe Gjata” 16, Mëzez-Kashar, Autostrada TR-DR, Tirana, Albania. And you can contact them by phone on +355 68 20 53 180 or +355 4 23 90 500​. Or reach out to them by email at: [email protected] .

Where can I take an antigen test in Albania?

American laboratory network (alnet).

You can take an antigen test at the American Laboratory Network (ALNET). The American Laboratory Network has locations in Tirana, Durres, Elbasan, Shkoder, Lushnje, Fier, Berat, Vlore, and Gjirokaster. You can find the list of addresses here: https://alnet.al/kontakt/

Intermedica is a laboratory in Tirana, which offers the antigen test as well. The price for the antibody test is 3000 Leke (25 euros). If you have any questions you can reach out to them, because they usually respond to emails within 24 hours. You can find their contact details here: https://www.intermedica.al/kontakt-2/

What measures are in place in Albania to limit the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Here is an overview of the safety measures put in place by the Albanian government to limit the spread of Coronavirus in Albania:

You do not need to show a vaccination passport or negative covid test to visit restaurants or hospitality in Albania

Albania never required any proof that you do not have covid to enter a restaurant or other hospitality outlet. Foreign travellers asked this question as this was practised in their home country, however, Albania never required such documentation to enter a restaurant or hospitality outlet.

No restrictions on movement in Albania

There are no restrictions on movement in Albania. This means that travel between cities or areas in Albania is allowed. Moreover, public transportation and taxis are operating as normal.

Public transportation is operating normally in Albania

All public transportation and taxis are operating as normal. Of course, wearing a face mask is mandatory for everyone, except for children under the age of 11.

Wearing a face mask is mandatory

As of the 1st of June 2021, wearing a face mask outdoors is no longer mandatory.

However, it is still mandatory to wear a face mask indoors. 

Children under the age of 11 are exempt, however, any person 11 years old or above must wear the mask. If you do not wear the face mask, you may be fined up to 3000 Albanian Leke.

All facilities are open normally in Albania

The facilities are operating as normal:

• The beaches in Albania are open.
• Museums and libraries are open.
• Malls and shops are open in Albania.
• Hairdressers and dentists are open.
• Indoor activity centres are open and outdoor exercise is permitted.

Events or gatherings outdoors are allowed for up to 50 individuals

As of the 15th of June 2021, it is allowed in Albania to have an event or gathering outdoors with up to 50 participants.

Where can I find more information about Travel restrictions in Albania?

You can find the most up-to-date information about the Albanian travel restrictions on the government websites:

• The website of the Albanian Ministry of Health and Social Protection is: https://shendetesia.gov.al/
• The website of the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is: https://punetejashtme.gov.al/
• The website of the Albanian Institute of Public Health is: http://www.ishp.gov.al/

However, the Albanian government websites are in the Albanian language only. And therefore, I recommend the below English language website for foreign travellers.

• The website of the US embassy in Albania: https://al.usembassy.gov/updates_covid19/

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania . I arrange your transportation and I am your English speaking guide. So that, you get to experience the most beautiful places in Albania! Kind regards, Manon

Welcome to Albania!

I am a tour guide in albania.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania .

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• COVID-19 travel restrictions: Albania
• < Travel restrictions

Travel restrictions

By Kiwi.com April 20, 2022

By Kiwi.com | April 20, 2022

Last update: April 21, 2022

This article was published on April 20, 2022, and all the information in the article is correct as of this time. Before you book your trip, we highly recommend that you also check official sources for the most up-to-date travel requirements, as they are subject to constant change.

Can I enter Albania?

You can enter Albania now. Nevertheless, please note that some local COVID-19 restrictions are in place.

Can I enter Albania if I am vaccinated?

You can enter Albania if you are vaccinated. You are considered fully vaccinated 14 days after the last dose in your vaccination schedule.

As of March 2022, the following vaccine drugs are approved in Albania:

• AstraZeneca / Oxford 
• Pfizer 
• Coronavac 

Travel documents if I am vaccinated

If you are vaccinated, you have to present:

• A document confirming your vaccination status

Can I enter Albania if I am unvaccinated? 

You can enter Albania if you are unvaccinated. 

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated 

If you are unvaccinated, present one of the following documents:

• A negative PCR result taken no more than 72 hours or a negative antigen test result taken no more than 48 hours before entering Albania
• Documentation of recovery from covid no more than 180 days old 

Can I leave Albania?

You can leave Albania regardless of your vaccination status. Please take your time to learn the entry requirements of your destination country. 

Can I leave Albania if I am vaccinated?

Vaccinated travelers can leave Albania.

• A certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19 in paper or electronic format

Please ensure to learn the requirements concerning a negative test result of your destination in advance. 

Can I leave Albania if I am unvaccinated?

Unvaccinated travelers can leave Albania.

Travel documents if I am unvaccinated

• A certificate of recovery from COVID-19 (no more than 180 days old before the day of crossing the border of a particular country)
• A negative COVID-19 test result (the relevant period and kind of test may vary, please check the requirements of the destination country )

COVID-19 situation in Albania currently

The COVID-19 situation is moderate in Albania. International travel to Albania is becoming safer due to a vaccination program and local regulations. 

Is it safe to travel to Albania right now?

Your trip to Albania will be safe if you follow local regulations:

• Wearing masks and keeping social distance in public places is mandatory 
• Bars and restaurants open until 23:00
• Night clubs are closed now

Is Tirana open for travel?

Currently, Tirana is open for travelers. COVID-19-related restrictions in the capital are the same as in the rest of the country.

Do I have to quarantine if I go to Albania?

As of March 2022, you are not obliged to undergo quarantine upon arrival in Albania.

How do I get a health pass to travel to Albania?

• For travelers from the EU and Schengen Area — the EU Digital COVID Certificate is valid in Albania
• For travelers outside of the EU and Schengen — please carry your paper documentation with you

Useful link:

• Updated information on COVID-19 in Albania

Visit our   Travel Restriction section at Kiwi.com Stories   to read   more travel restrictions articles

Albania COVID-19

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Albania Travel Restrictions COVID-19

• May 18, 2021

Table of Contents

COVID-19 Albania Travel Advice

• Albania has confirmed more than 130 859 cases of positive COVID-19 cases.
• Current airlines operating in Albania can be found here https://www.tirana-airport.com/c/63/airlines
• Starting from April 12, 2021 direct flight schedule with United Kingdom has resumed
• Preschools and kindergartens reopened.
• All cultural events and other large public gatherings in Albania are currently not possible.
• Professional sporting events have resumed, with no spectators allowed to attend.
• Malls and shops are open with strict social distancing guidelines in place.
• Hairdressers and dentists are opened with strict social distancing guidelines in place.
• Restaurants and cafes are open.
• All indoor activity centres are currently open.
• Beaches are open.
• Outdoor exercise is permitted
• Libraries and museums are open.
• Public transportation has resumed.
• All maritime and air borders have reopened
• The government is pushing with the massive vaccination so that we can prepare in time for the upcoming tourist season.
• The Albanian Government has approved 4 vaccines to be used in the general population.
• Currently there is a massive vaccination taking place in Albania and 4 vaccines administered such as: Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca-Oxford, Sputnik V and Sinovac.
• So far 800 000 vaccinations have been administered as of June 2021.
• 100 000 thousand Albanian citizens have received two doses.
• Albania has currently 730 000 vaccine doses available in the country.
• The bi-weekly incidence is halved for every 100 000 inhabitants.
• Hospitalizations are decreasing in frequency
• 419 246 vaccine doses have been administered to citizens above 60 years of age.
• Until know Albania has secured 1.6 million doses for 800 000 citizens through its agreement with the COVAX program, Pfizer, Astra Zeneca and Sinovac.

Covid-19 Testing in Albania

• PCR and/or antigen tests are available for all foreign citizens visiting Albania
• Covid negative test results are available within 24 hours
• American Hospital Laboratory (Tel: +355 4 222 5640)
• Biocheck Diagnostic (Tel: +355 4 242 7025)
• Genius Lab (Cell: +355 69 303 3026)
• German Hospital International (Cell: +355 67 200 4282)
• Intermedica (Tel: +355 4 220 0600)
• Noval Diagnostic (Cell: +355 68 804 2045)
• SALUS Lab (Cell: +355 68 205 3180)
• The average cost for testing is: (PCR = 8,500 ALL ) – (Antigen = 4,000 ALL ). 

Albania Entry and Exit Requirements for COVID-19

• Foreign citizens are permitted to enter Albania. There is no restriction in place.
• Commercial flights have resumed since June 25, 2020. For more information, please check with Tirana Airport https://www.tirana-airport.com/c/63/airlines
• No PCR or Serology test is required upon entrance to Albania
• Albanian’s borders are opened for travel, but further restriction might be in place in the neighbouring countries.

The Albanian Government has issued the following protocol to all foreigners who will visit Albania in 2021.

For all citizens travelling through the albanian territory by land:.

• Since June 1, 2020 Albania has opened its borders so all travellers are free to visit the country.
• No quarantine rules apply except in special cases according to local health authority notifications
• No specific documents are required to enter the Albanian territory in all land border crossings.
• In all land border crossing temperature check is required and must not exceed 37.5 grade. In case of a higher temperature the passenger is not allowed to travel to Albania.
• All travellers have to be informed about Albania’s neighbouring countries entry regulation in case of transit.
• All travellers should consult with their respective Embassies in their home country in case of transiting Albania to one of Albanian’s neighbouring countries.

For all citizens travelling to Albania by sea:

They should consult the Albanian official representatives in the country from which they depart, or they can contact the Albanian Embassies in one of these countries.

For all citizens travelling by air:

For those citizens travelling from a third country by air and using as a transit one of the International Airports, they will not be allowed to exit the Airport Transit Area and they will not be allowed to travel to the next destination if that destination is a country within the Schengen zone. Because this way of travelling is not considered transit but entrance to Schengen area.

All those citizens who are allowed to enter the territory of the Republic of Albania need to respect the following rules:

• Everyone is required to wear masks when entering the terminal of Mother Theresa Airport.
• Children under the age of 6 and other persons with underlying medical conditions do not need to wear a mask so they are exempt of this rule.
• Masks need to be changed every 4 hours or when they are damaged since they lose their effectiveness.
• Travellers are expected to reduce the touching of the face and wash or disinfect their hands frequently.
• In case the passenger shows signs of covid-19 symptoms he/she will not be allowed to enter Albania.
• Mother Theresa Airport has designated areas where you can find masks and disinfectants.
• All passengers entering the Mother Theresa Airport have to pass through a disinfecting tunnel in the terminal.
• After checking in all passengers have to sign a declaration regarding their health condition in relation to COVID-19 before boarding the plane.
• All passengers either entering or exiting Mother Theresa Airport have to undergo a mandatory temperature check which should not exceed 37.5 degrees otherwise they will not be allowed to travel.
• During the stay in the Airport all passengers are expected to maintain physical distance of 1.5 meters from one another at all times.

While in Albania

• Bars, restaurants and night clubs are closed from 22.00 until 6.00 except delivery services.
• Gatherings of above 10 people are not allowed outdoors.
• Wearing masks is obligatory in public areas and institutions but not in bars and restaurants.

We are updating continually this list. 

Travelling to Albania during COVID_19

Current infection numbers are low according to the Albanian Ministry of Health and the government is doing its best to insure everyone get vaccinated as soon as possible.

The Albanian government’s current target is to vaccinate 1 million (out of 3 millions) Albanians with the first dose by June – July 2021.

Travel is not restricted so foreigners wishing to travel to Albania are welcomed. The tourist summer season has started so the government is welcoming everyone who is thinking to spend their summer vacations to Albania.

Everyone who is currently working in Tourism in Albania has been offered COVID_19 Vaccine by the government in order to create a safer environment for the upcoming tourist season.

Can I travel to Albania from UK now?

From 17 May, the ‘Stay in the UK’ regulation will cease and international travel will be allowed to restart, governed by a new traffic light system.

As the virus is still spreading in many parts of the world, according to FCO advice people should not be travelling to amber or red countries which includes Albania .

Albania is included in the Amber list of countries and territories. Check the list here

Passengers who have visited or transited through an amber country will be required to fill in the passenger locator form, provide a valid notification of a negative test result prior to travel, quarantine at home for 10 days, and take a test on day 2 and day 8 after arrival.

Sondor Travel understands that the COVID19 pandemic has changed the travel industry. This means it will offer help to all the individuals and ensure safe touring with us.

We all know the healing power of nature and the outdoors –. And we all know that engaging in our favorite recreation activity – boating, hiking, climbing, motorcycling, camping, fishing, biking, or whatever – does wonders for our health and well-being. However, we have to be smart about getting outside in this public health emergency.

We offer outdoor tours which are great for the ones who want to travel during a pandemic.

Dear Sir , i am shah Nawaz Ali and i want to visit Albania for tourism.

in these days we are on tour of Istanbul. and from Istanbul we also want to visit Albania

we want to submit E visa for tourism for 1 week.

to apply for E visa we need complete tour arrangements like hotel , a tour operator , and return tickets for 1 week .

kindly guide us with proper information and tour arrangement prices.

i shall be thankful to you for your proper feedback

Shah Nawaz Ali

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[email protected].

Coronavirus: Situation in Albania & the Western Balkans for Travellers

As of may 3rd 2022, all covid-19 travel restrictions in the western balkans (albania, kosovo, montenegro and north macedonia) have been lifted. 🎉, there is no need for proof of vaccination/recovery or a recent test when crossing borders..

We recognize that you will have questions regarding the impact on existing and future bookings with us. So that you can make the right travel decisions for you, we are providing factual, balanced and pragmatic information with links to primary, trusted sources.

We understand that each person will be feeling a range of emotions with regards to Coronavirus / COVID-19, the steps put in place by the world governments and how it might affect travel plans to Albania and the Balkans this year. We take that responsibility to our clients, team and society to comply and protect as best as we can. When travel restrictions are lifted and for travel in the future, it is for you to decide and feel comfortable and supported in your decision.

Current Situation in Albania and the Balkans

🟢 Albania: All entry restrictions have been lifted.

🟢 Kosovo : All entry restrictions have been lifted.

🟢 Montenegro : All entry restrictions have been lifted.

Frequently updated, reliable information is available on the websites of the German and American embassies of the respective countries. 

Austria | Belgium |  Germany |   Netherlands |   United Kingdom   | United States | Switzerland  

Zbulo! Discover Albania’s Advice

• Like everyone else we are closely monitoring the situation, have taken steps to protect our guests and have assemble sound advice how to minimize risk. We’re happy to answer any questions this article may leave.
• While remotely the entire Zbulo team is working as usual to provide the service and quality you expect.
• With widespread travel advisories in place and a rapidly changing situation, please contact us by writing to [email protected] or calling +355 69 6731 932 should you be unable to travel so that we can arrange postponement – read on about options in the next chapter.
• Check your flights itinerary to see if any border closures/restrictions have been put in place. Updates are published on the International Air Transport Association website .
• As we always do, we strongly encourage you to take out travel insurance that will provide adequate cover.
• If you want or need to cancel your plans, see the options below and contact your insurance to see if it covers your reason for cancellation. See more under insurance below.
• Once you have booked a trip with Zbulo! Discover Albania, our terms and conditions apply for any cancellation or postponement of your trip.
• While dashed travel dreams are certainly disappointing, the impact on the individuals and businesses whose livelihoods depend on income generated by tourism promises to be devastating as described by Forbes .
• For more information please read the following chapters.

Your Current Travel Options with Zbulo

We want to be clear and transparent, so that you know exactly where you stand if you have booked a holiday with us or are planning to do so.

Change of date In order to give you ultimate flexibility and time to decide, we’re offering the option to postpone your trip up to 7 days prior to departure to a future date and as many times as necessary for as long as government travel restrictions remain in place. This includes moving back to your original departure date if conditions allow it to run earlier than expected. To further help your decision making, we will waive the standard administration charges on date and itinerary changes. This “credit on future tours” is valid for travel dates up to the end 2022. Please note that an itinerary change to a higher priced tour may result in additional charges due to complete the change.

Cancellation Deposits on scheduled groups are fully refundable up till 30 days prior to travel and can be converted to credit for future tours up to 7 days prior to travel. Deposit fees are used to cover the cost of cancellations if less time remains. Deposits for private tours remain non-refundable, should you wish not to use your deposit as “credit on future tours”, we will amend our terms and conditions to offer a 50% refund. Please note that different terms may apply to bookings placed through third parties and platforms.

Cancellations from our side Zbulo does not typically cancel trips, however, local restrictions beyond our control may force us do so. We we will consider cancelling a trip in the 30 days prior to the tour start date based on the current information available. Deposits are automatically converted into “credit on future tours”.

Steps We’re Taking to Protect Travellers on Our Tours

Our client’s health and safety is of the utmost importance to us and with that in mind you will see below the steps that we are taking to protect you and mitigate the risk of contracting & spreading Coronavirus / COVID-19 while you are travelling on our tours.

• Each van will be thoroughly sanitized at start and end of the trip. 
• Your van will be provided with hand sanitiser and tissues. 
• We will dispose of any rubbish bag with tissues at the end of every day. 
• We use the sanitizing spray to wipe down van surfaces daily.
• Notify your guide if you are feeling unwell at the earliest opportunity.
• Meet and greet your guide and other participants with the namaste gesture.
• Avoid unnecessary personal contact (hugs, kisses, high-fives etc.) and passing around of objects. 
• Please make the effort not to touch your face and follow the personal hygiene recommendations.
• Wash your hands properly and often.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough and sneeze.
• Put used tissues into a bin and wash your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Avoid close contact with people who are not well.
• Stay at home if you are sick to help stop the spread of whatever infection you may have.

DON’T:

• Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean.
• Do not share objects that touch your mouth – for example, bottles.
• Do not pass your phone or camera to others.

Above all we want to be as respectful of each of our client’s feelings and concerns surrounding Coronavirus / COVID-19 and we would request that if you are travelling with us, that you make your feelings known in an understanding and respectful way to your guide, so that they, in turn, can make any necessary adjustments and relay information as appropriate to the group.

COVID-19 PT-PCR Test Centers in the Balkans

Please find below a selection of test centers ordered by location. Click to access further details like website, contact information, location and pricing. In June Tirana Airport launched a test center outside the terminal, simply arrive at least three hours prior to your flight, queue up and receive your result within 90 min. For tests completed at the Tirana Central labs of Intermedica, ALNET and Genius until 18:00, results are guaranteed within the same day. The expected turn-around across the country is 3-8 hours.

As a Zbulo client, ask us or your guide for further details. Testing at your hotel can also be arranged with prior notice. This allows to complete the test upon return to the city in the afternoon and travel with the results on the next day. If you’re not staying overnight in one of the below listed locations before flying out (a place where testing is not available) we recommend adding an extension night in Tirana or arriving early to the airport.

Staying Healthy While Traveling on Our Tours

• Frequent and thorough hand-washing with soap for at least 20 seconds is a key method of avoiding contracting and spreading any germs while travelling and is seen as particularly important to avoid Coronavirus / COVID-19. If hand washing and soap are not available then hand sanitizer is recommended.
• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose unless your hands are clean.
• Avoid close contact with people that look or feel unwell, their personal items and any surfaces they may have touched. Maintaining a distance of over 1m is recommended by the World Health Organisation.
• If you are on any medication, then pack additional supplies should your return home be postponed.
• The World Health Organisation understand that the virus is spread via droplets and those droplets landing on surfaces. It is not airborne and therefore cannot be transmitted through being on the same airplane.
• Bring extra medication in case you are delayed returning home due to quarantines or border closures.

T he World Health Organisation website answers frequently asked questions , provides general advice to the public and   daily updates on the situation , which we’re closely following.

As always it is important that you have adequate travel insurance which covers your specific needs, including any known medical conditions or activities you plan to do.

It is also worth checking the detail of the policy around travel disruption including delays or cancellations as policies do vary.

If any restrictions were put in place by government, the impact of this is likely to be covered by your travel insurance policy, however, you should check this with your provider. Insurance does not usually cover “disinclination to travel” where Government does not advise against travel. You may be able to pay a premium for cancellation for any reason but you must speak to your insurance company about this. 

What to do if you Feel Unwell on the Trip

The symptoms of Coronavirus / COVID-19 are:

• A dry cough
• A raised temperature (over 37.3 C)
• Shortness of breath

While this does not necessarily mean that you have the virus, the local government and national health services advice is that you call 0800 40 40, a free 24/7 hotline, if you suspect you have symptoms. They can also advise about travel restrictions and other measures in place.

It is requested that you do not visit a doctor’s surgery, hospital or pharmacy. For medical emergencies first call 127 in order to receive instructions before visiting any hospital. For any other forms of urgent support the police will be at hand at 129.

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Warnings and insurance

Before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Albania due to limited healthcare options. 

Albania (PDF 212.58 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 127 or go to the hospital.

Traffic police

Sea emergencies, advice levels.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Albania.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Albania due to limited healthcare options.

• Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorists have targeted European cities, including transport hubs and tourist locations. Take official warnings seriously.
• Political protests could take place in central Tirana. Most demonstrations are peaceful, but they can turn violent. Monitor local media for the latest updates. 
• Theft from vehicles is common. Petty crime occurs. Take care of your belongings on public transport.
• Severe weather occurs from December to February and may cause flooding, particularly in northern Albania. Monitor the local media and stay in touch with friends and family.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Take care in forests and rural areas where ticks carry encephalitis. Ticks are active from spring to autumn. Check your body for ticks and remove them as soon as possible.
• Sandflies are active along the coast. They carry diseases. Use insect repellent and make sure your accommodation is insect-proof.
• Tuberculosis, typhoid, hepatitis, brucellosis and rabies are common. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Medical facilities don't always have access to equipment, medicine and specialist doctors, and ambulances are limited. Organising a medical evacuation can be expensive and difficult. Make sure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Always carry identification. It's the law.
• It's illegal to take photos of military sites and personnel.
• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties are severe and can include jail sentences and heavy fines.
• The Albanian Government considers you an Albanian citizen if you were born in Albania or have an Albanian parent. If you're a man, you may have to do military service.
• Same-sex relationships are legal in Albania but aren't widely accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You can visit Albania for 90 days without a visa. You'll need a visa for longer stays. 
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Albania for the latest details.
• Watch out for landmines in the north-east border areas, particularly near Kosovo. Look for and obey warning signs.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Albania. For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Rome, Italy.
• The British Embassy in Tirana can provide limited help but can't issue Australian passports.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension.

Political protests take place regularly in central Tirana.

Demonstrations can occur with little or no warning.

Most demonstrations are peaceful. However, public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• monitor local media and other sources
• avoid areas where these events may happen
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Albania, they can still happen. 

Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Theft from vehicles is common.

Take care of your belongings on public transport. Petty crime happens.

More information

• theft and robbery

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

More information: 

• Kidnapping  

Climate and natural disasters

Severe weather.

Albania may experience  severe weather  from December to February.

Severe weather can cause flooding, particularly in northern Albania. It may also disrupt local travel and transport services.

Heavy snowfall in mountain areas can affect travel.

Monitor local media for updates.

Forest fires

Forest fires often occur during dry and hot weather, usually from April to October. Forest fires can be unpredictable and dangerous. Smoke from fires can reduce air quality and can be harmful to your health.

Causing a wildfire or a forest fire is a criminal offence in Albania. Penalties could result from fines to imprisonment.

Earthquakes

Earth tremors are common. Significant  earthquakes  can also occur.

Significant earthquakes can cause: 

• landslides or avalanches
• damage to infrastructure, homes and property

If a  natural disaster  or severe weather occurs:

• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• stay in contact with friends and family

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Albania. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
•   Medication

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Ticks in forests and country areas can carry encephalitis. Ticks are active from spring to autumn.

Diseases spread by sandflies are common in coastal regions. Sandflies can carry:

• sandfly fever
• leishmaniasis  (World Health Organisation)

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

During and after travelling in forested areas:

• check your body for ticks
• remove ticks from your body as soon as possible

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other  infectious diseases  are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• tuberculosis
• brucellosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• boil drinking water or drink bottled water
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't go near dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Standards of hygiene and medical facilities are lower than in Australia.

There's limited access to medical equipment, medicine and specialist doctors.

Medical facilities outside Tirana are limited.

Medical facilities can rarely handle serious trauma or major medical care cases.

Ambulances are limited. Patients often take taxis or other vehicles to the nearest major hospital.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be expensive and hard to organise.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They can include jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Carrying or using drugs

You must always carry identification.

It's illegal to photograph military installations and personnel.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual nationality

The Albanian Government considers you to be an Albanian national if:

• you were born in Albania, or
• you have an Albanian parent

You may be subject to compulsory military service if you're a male Australian-Albanian dual national. Contact the  embassy or consulate of Albania  for details before you leave Australia.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal in Albania but aren't widely accepted.

Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You can visit Albania for 90 days without a visa. You'll need a visa for longer stays.

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Albania  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply for transit or short stopovers.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with X gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL).

You must declare if you're carrying amounts equivalent to $US 20,000 when you arrive or leave. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

ATMs and credit card facilities are available in larger cities and in tourist areas.

Many shops and service providers prefer cash.

You can change major currencies at banks and authorised exchange bureaus.

Credit card fraud can happen. Take care not to expose your PIN. Check your bank statements often.

Local travel

Landmines are a hazard in the north-east border areas of Albania.

They are a particular hazard in hill towns along the north-eastern border with Kosovo.

To protect yourself from landmines:

• avoid locations displaying landmine or unexploded weapons warning signs
• seek advice from local authorities

Driving permit

To drive in Albania, you need both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted)

Get your IDP before leaving Australia. 

• Driving or riding

Road travel

Driving in Albania can be dangerous. Hazards include:

• aggressive driving
• poorly maintained roads
• poorly lit roads
• power outages
• icy and slippery roads

If you plan to drive in Albania:

• check if your travel insurance will cover you
• know the local road rules
• use snow chains in winter

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines.

Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you.

Avoid flagging down taxis in the street.

Sit in the back seat.

Public transport

Bus and rail travel is unreliable.

Safety standards on  public transport  can be poor. 

Before boarding a ferry or boat, check whether appropriate safety equipment is available.

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

There are no commercial domestic flights within Albania.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, you could contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Albania.

If you need consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Rome, Italy.

Australian Embassy, Rome

Via Antonio Bosio 5  00161 Rome, Italy Phone: +39 06 85 2721  Email:  [email protected] Website:  italy.embassy.gov.au   Facebook:  Australian Embassy, Italy   X:  @AusAmbRome

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

You can get limited consular assistance from the British Embassy in Tirana. However, they can't issue Australian passports.

British Embassy  Rruga Skenderbej 12  Tirana, Albania Phone: (+355) 42 34 973 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Albania?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

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Source: World Tourism Organization UNWTO

Source: https://www.unwto.org/tourism-data/unwto-iata-destination-tracker-easy-travel

Source: Ministry of Health and Social Protection: https://shendetesia.gov.al/

Measures to contain COVID-19 remain in effect, including night-time curfews from 11pm to 6am, and mandatory face masks indoors and on public transport.

All land borders are open and there is no restricted movement around the country.

All foreign nationals over the age of six must have one of the following: proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test taken less than 72 hours before arrival, a rapid antigen test taken less than 48 hours before arrival or evidence that you have recovered from COVID-19 within the last six months.

More information   here .

Source: The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs - https://punetejashtme.gov.al/

Protocol to be followed by visitors entering the territory of Albania during the Covid-19 pandemics 2021

• The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs informs all foreign citizens interested in travelling to Albania, that there are no general entry restrictions, neither the Covid-19 test nor a special document is required.
• For all citizens transiting through the territory of Albania by land or who travel by sea:
• Citizens traveling by land to Albania should obtain prior information at the Embassies of the countries through which they have to transit,so they can be informed about the rules set by these countries in the framework of the pandemic or relevant entry/transit regulations.

• Citizens traveling from third countries by air and using one of the International Airports for transit should know that:

They will be allowed to leave the airport transit area and/or will not be allowed to continue their journey if the next destination is another country of the Schengen Area, as it will not be considered a transit but entry into the Schengen Area. Therefore the airport authorities will return them to the departing countries.

• All passengers who are allowed to enter the territory of the Republic of Albania, in addition to complying with the protocols about airline international standards worldwide, must also follow and respect the rules listed below:
• The passengers can access automated points at the airport which can provide them masks (which is mandatory indoors) and disinfectants;
• In case passengers manifest symptoms, they will be asked to discontinue their travel and to comply with the rules of their domicile state.
• For more information:   https://www.tirana-airport.com/c/116/measures-and-rules/
• Keep in mind the local measures that are currently in force:
• Based on Order no. 218, dated 04.06.2021, on an amendment to Order no. 169, dated 05.06.2020, “The implementation of the Operation Protocol in air, road and sea transport in the framework of preventing COVID-19 pandemic for the tourist season 2021, aims to guarantee the well-being of tourist activity and to prevent the risk of COVID-19 infection, inside and outside accommodation structures”.
•   Starting from 15 st   of June 2021 :
• 28 summer health centers are opened in the tourist areas of Albania, which in addition to qualified staff, will be equipped with rapid tests and will come to the aid of suspected cases.
• Outdoor gatherings will be allowed up to 50 people, following the protocol of rules and social distance, set by the Institute of Public Health Albania.   http://www.ishp.gov.al/
• Restricted public movement between 11.00 P.M to 06.00 A.M, except for health reasons or emergencies. The same restriction for bars and restaurant, except the delivery service.
• The rule for mandatory masks outdoors is lifted but is still in force for indoors and public transportation. Night clubs remain closed, music is allowed till 10:00 P.M.
• Starting from 01 st   of July 2021:
• Restricted public movement between 00.00 A.M to 06.00 A.M, except for health reasons or emergencies. Music remains allowed till 10:00 P.M.
• Sports championships, the activities of theatres, artistic, cultural performances, and conferences will be allowed with the presence of fans, with a reduced capacity of up to 30% according to the IPH protocol.
• Please visit the page of the Civil Aviation Authority Albania, for more information regarding flights and list of countries:  http://www.aac.gov.al/
• For more information about the Covid-19 data’s in Albania:   https://bit.ly/3xtMuJ7  
• For further information on COVID-19 visit   https://shendetesia.gov.al/category/lajme/   or call local numbers 127. For psychological support call the green line 0800 40-40.

Further information: https://punetejashtme.gov.al/en/services-and-opportunities/the-covid-19/protocol-to-be-followed-by-visitors-entering-the-territory-of-albania-during-the-covid-19-pandemics-2021&amp;page=1

Source: Albanian National Tourism Agency - http://albania.al

COVID 19 INFORMATION

Important information about the covid-19 situation in albania, ministry of health and social protection, ministry of tourism and environment.

The Protocol of anti-COVID 19 Measures during the Summer Season

Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs

COVID-19 Announcements and Measures taken by the Diplomatic Represantations

Tirana International Airport

Measures and Rules - COVID-19 Coronavirus Update

In order to contact the family doctor, or for any other information about Covid19, the Ministry of Health has provided the green line ‪0800 40 40‬ to the citizens.

Further information: http://albania.al/traveling-information/  

Source: Albania’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection

Updates from Albania’s   Ministry of Health and Social Protection : (original language)

Informacion i përditësuar mbi COVID-19

Klikoni në titull për të lexuar informacionin

• Informacion i përditësuar për COVID-19
• Covid-19, pyetje dhe pergjigje!
• Vaksina AntiCOVID pyetje-përgjigje
• Disa mite mbi Koronavirusin
• Rregullat për t’u mbrojtur nga Covid-19
• Vendimet për parandalimin e COVID-19
• Plani i Veprimit për parandalimin, përgatitjen dhe përgjigjen kundër COVID-19
• COVID-19 Strategjia e rihapjes
• Strategjia e pergjigjes vjeshte dimer 20-21
• Thirrje për Vullnetar: DUA TË KONTRIBUOJ PËR COVID-19

Source: https://shendetesia.gov.al/koronavirusi-i-ri-dhe-masat-ndaj-tij/

Source: General Directorate of Customs

In terms of the situation created by the pandemic of COVID- 19, the customs authority has taken measures not to interrupt the supply of goods at all border crossings. Passenger crossings are prohibited, while the movement of goods is functional in each customs branch.

The Customs Authority continues to implement the Order No.30098 of the DPD Customs, date 06.12.2019 for the operation 24/7 of the border customs points with the CEFTA countries , a measure envisaged to precede the Balkan Schengen, a measure which has been suspended for the time being as it has not been implemented by other border parties. Also, in accordance with this measure, a reconciliation of other structures operating at the border is required.

As part of the pandemic, the customs personnel were provided with protective measures and the disinfection of the premises was carried out at all points of the crossing. Currently, despite the fact that we are working with reduced staff the continuation of the work of the customs service at all its points is guaranteed.

Also, in the framework of measures and based on the order of the Ministry of Health No.131 date 08.03.2020, the export of medicines and medical equipment and medicines from our territory has been banned.

At the central level, the work with reduced staff is being administered by offering some online services with the staff working from the residential premises but by offering every convenience provided in the customs legislation.

Information is currently being exchanged between the CEFTA Parties through the SEED platform for international exports and transit. Electronic alerts have been implemented in the SEED system. They are functional for both customs and AKU personnel.

UNCTAD experts have reflected in the AW Central Server the changes in the transit declaration for box 36, enabling the selection in the declaration of the codes ‘EG - Essential Goods’ and ‘NEG - Non Essential Goods’. This modification is also reflected in the SEED Server, enabling the generation of XML messages for the exchange of data in this field with other CEFTA parties in transit.

DPD  through the point of contact has made a daily report 7/7 at the Permanent Secretariat of the Transport Community for the time of crossing and the flow at the border crossing point  Kakavijë, Durrës, Morinë, Qafë Thanë, Hani Hoti.

All tightening and facilitating measures in import, export, transit, have been published on the Customs Web site.

The General Directorate of Customs has approved several orders as measures taken for the current situation as follows:

• Order No. 6697 date 3.04.2020 on the exclusion from the rule of territorial jurisdiction of foodstuffs (flour, sugar, oil, pasta, bread, cake, biscuits, rice, cheese, butter, yogurt, salt, water, milk, eggs) ) in order to accelerate the import procedures of these items within the measures to cope with the situation of natural disaster. Based on this order, the economic operators who import the above goods are enabled to perform the customs clearance procedures directly at the border, regardless of the place of performing the activity, saving time / cost for the transition to the internal customs terminals.
• Based on the European Commission Guide on Customs Issues during the Emergency during the COVID- 19 Crisis Period with Reference of TAXUD 1813731 date 30.03.2020 and the letter of the EC no. TAXUD / 2110517/20 date 31.03.2020, addressed to all countries parties to the Pan-European Mediterranean Convention, in relation to the presentation of evidence of preferential origin during the CoVid19 period, the GDC approved Order No. 6895 /1 date 09.04.2020 “On the procedures for accepting the certificate of preferential origin during the COVID-19 crisis”.

This order provides that until a second Order, after the completion of the natural disaster situation, in order to implement preferential tariff treatment, the certificate of preferential origin issued by EU countries will be accepted even in cases where it occurs. As a copy of the original EUR-1 certificate signed and stamped as well as when the EUR-1 certificate is issued electronically. Only agrarian products with tariff quotas are exempt from this order .

• Based on the Verbal Note of the Italian Embassy addressed to the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs ( letter No. 1077 Prot, date 03.04.2020) which raises concerns about the impossibility of issuing certificates of non-preferential origin from the Chambers of Commerce and Italian Industry during this period of the COVID- 19 crisis. DPD issued Order No. 9, date 07.04.2020 "On the procedures for accepting the certificate of non-preferential origin during the COVID- 19 crisis".

This order provides that up to a second Order, in order to implement the customs legislation, the certificate of non-preferential origin issued by the Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Italy, will be accepted even in cases when it is issued electronically.

• The GDC has approved Instruction No. 4, date 15.06.2020 "On the determination of the goods of the first need in the transit declaration" on the basis of which for the goods considered as the first need "essential goods", according to the agreed list with CEFTA member countries, Hani Hoti, Morina-Kukës, Qafë Thanë border customs offices take all necessary measures to give priority in terms of accelerating the movement for entry / exit to / from the customs territory as well as customs procedures for the customs destination designated by their host.
• The GDC has drafted Order No. 16, date 21.04.2020 "On the implementation of measures to facilitate the transport and trade of priority goods", for customs branches, on taking logistical measures to identify green lanes and practical guidelines for prioritizing customs control procedures of goods of primary need.

At the Customs checkpoints, there were no additional problems for the situation, taking into account the fact that there are no vehicles / buses and passengers and all the staff is focused only on performing customs procedures for goods.

All the freight transport, international and domestic ones, by road, railway, sea and air, are all allowed to operate.

All the ferry lines with Italy and Greece for passenger transport are suspended until an undefined date.

All the airlines with Italy and UK are interrupted for an undefined period of time. The other airlines are still operating in Tirana International Airport, depending on the restriction measures of the destination airports.

Remarks from the International Road Union

As from 15 June, maritime and air borders have re-opened, while public transport operations are banned until further notice. Since 1 June, land borders with all neighbouring countries are open. Taxi services are allowed for a maximum of two passengers from the same family per vehicle. More information can be found   here .

Source: OECD

From 23.59 of 22/3, the following applies: 

• Tirana airport suspends all flights to and from Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Hungary. Very limited connection to Istanbul is maintained.
• Movement of people outside their home/household is strictly limited from 05.00h -13.00h.  People can leave their home only for professional interests and for buying goods or medical supplies. From 13.00h until 05.00h of the next day, only authorised personnel can leave their home.
• International and domestic passenger transport is forbidden.
• Transport of goods and medical supplies is exempted from the provision, prior to authorisation.

Source: ANALTIR

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Albania Travel Guide 2024 – Everything You Need to Know

Last Updated on August 7, 2024

This Albania travel guide is updated every month to give you the best and most up-to-date information on travelling Albania .

Not only that but I’m also a full-time resident on the ground and run the leading Albania travel blog so you get everything from a local perspective.

As Albania’s tourism is slowly increasing the demand for information is increasing too.  Unfortunately, as tourism is still so new, it can be hard to come across factual and up-to-date information. 

For example, bus timetables can change with a click of the fingers, and the only people who would know would be the locals.

Therefore, I have created this full Albania travel guide with all the information you need if you plan to visit Albania for the first time, or the next time! 

💾 Albania is full of beautiful surprises.

I have lots of great information for you to use during your travels to Albania so make sure you bookmark this page so you can come back to it again and again.

Here’s your full Albania Travel guide!

Why should you trust my information?  I have lived in Albania since 2017, so I have a great knowledge of the dos the don’ts, the best local spots to visit and the ones you should avoid! 

Also, I have an extra local insight as my partner is Albanian.

Every month, I try to update this Albania travel guide, sometimes more often as new information comes up or as I explore new places.

If you like this Albania travel guide, then go grab a physical copy of my 170+ page comprehensive downloadable Albania guide here.  

Read more: 11 lessons I have learned from living in Albania

Where is Albania?

Great question, and one that I’m often asked when talking to foreigners outside of Albania.  Where the heck is Albania?!

Albania lies in South-Eastern Europe.  Its neighbours are Greece to the south, Montenegro to the north and Kosovo and Macedonia to the east(ish).

Albania sits on the coast of the Adriatic Sea and is home to some of the best beaches in Europe.

Some of the best beaches are found in the Albanian Riviera which stretches from the city of Vlora (Vlore in Albanian) and the popular tourist city of Saranda (Sarandë in Albanian), where I have lived for 5+ years.

How to get to Albania

Albania can be reached in many ways by air, bus and ferry.

Flying to Albania

There is one international airport which is Tirana International airport, also called the Rinas International Airport or Nënë Tereza.

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There is another currently being built in Vlora but who knows if/when that will be finished.  I’ll keep you updated!

Flights in and out of Tirana can be expensive, however, Wizz Air and Ryanair have started a service which means sometimes you can grab budget-friendly flights to and from Tirana throughout the year which is great news for tourism.  Check the latest prices and availability of flights to Tirana here.

Overland from Greece

You can easily catch a bus from Athens to Saranda .  

It takes about 9 hours and costs around €35.  You can also catch a bus from Ioannina which stops at Gjirokastër from there you can catch a bus elsewhere in Albania.

I have caught this bus a dozen times.

If you take snacks and download some entertainment on your phone, it’s not that bad. They do also stop a few times for snacks, lunch and coffee so it really isn’t that bad.

Ferry from Greece

Another incredibly easy way is Corfu!  The island of Corfu is only a 25-minute ferry ride from Saranda.

The prices and times will vary depending on the season. You can find them here.

If you do decide to catch the ferry, especially in the summer, make sure you book a few days before because they can get booked fast and you may miss out.

Corfu does direct flights to a bunch of other European countries.  If I want to fly to the UK I will fly out of Corfu as EasyJet does cheap and direct flights from there!

This can be a great way to get to Albania with a quick stopover in Corfu. 

Usually, you will have to stay in Corfu the night depending on when your flight is but it’s a good excuse to explore the island as it’s very beautiful too.  Check the prices and availability of flights to Corfu here.

Read more : How to get from Corfu to Saranda

Overland from Montenegro

If you’re coming from Montenegro there are buses between Kotor and Podgorica to Shkodër and Tirana. If you want to head towards the south, you will have to change buses in Tirana.

Overland from Macedonia

There are 3 buses from Skopje to Tirana (8:10am, 8:45am and 9pm).  Please check with your accommodation that these are still the times that the bus leaves as in the Balkans bus timetables frequently change!

Overland from Kosovo

If you are coming from Kosovo there are regular buses from Pristina to Tirana.  Then if you want to visit other places around Albania you can go to the regional bus station and catch a 2nd bus to wherever you want to go.

Boat from Italy

You can catch a boat from Durres to Bari and Ancona. 

There are several crossings per week but it’s best to contact the ferries themselves as crossings and prices change from month to month.

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If you can weirdly transport yourself to Albania using time travel then I don’t have any information for you, but congratulations, that’s an awesome skill to have!

Recent History of Albania

Albania’s history is beyond fascinating compared to some other countries in the world. 

From 1941 to 1992 Albania was under the strict communist regime of the leader Enver Hoxha. 

Everything was controlled, from food to housing and jobs.

Some compare it to North Korea, but only those who lived through communism will know. 

There were labour camps where political prisoners were sent if they said something that the communist leader did not like. 

The prisoners built the infrastructure that Albania sees today.

After the collapse of communism, Albania saw itself as a democracy.

Unfortunately, in 1997 the government collapsed after a dodgy pyramid scheme. 

Over 2/3rds of the population invested their life savings into this scheme which meant most people lost everything they had worked hard for all those years.

The civil unrest saw a lot of anger and violence from the citizens of Albania, many fled from the country for a better life.

The civil unrest went on for 6 months and when visiting Albania, you will see for yourself that Albania is still recovering.

There is still a lot of corruption within government sectors today. It seems every day there is a new person whose corruption has been exposed.

Ancient history of Albania

Many only discuss communism and the civil war as the history of Albania but the real history dives way older than that. 

If you move to Albania, you will find yourself in many conversations with locals about ancient Albania and the Illyrians who many believe are older than the ancient Greeks.

There is so much that hasn’t been uncovered and publicized about Albania’s ancient history.

The ancient site of Apollonia which is in Fier and is a popular site to see if anyone who loves ancient history, is less than 5% excavated.

One of the biggest ancient graves have been found near Korca in 2018 which archaeologists believe are more than 5000 years old!

Butrint National Park is also a great UNESCO site to visit if you want to learn more about the rich history in Southern Albania.

Read more: 5 Best Albania UNESCO Sites to Visit

Language of Albania

Shqip is one of the most fascinating languages I have come across and one of the hardest to learn (in my eyes!).  It’s an Indo-European language that relates to no other language in the world, it has its own roots.

The North and South speak different dialects.  In the south they speak Tosk, and, in the north, they speak Gheg.

Usually, the two different parts can understand each other a little. 

I found myself in a hostel in Kosovo with a girl from the north and a girl from the south and they were speaking English together because they could not speak Albanian together!

The younger generation in Albania mostly knows some English as they are taught in school.  The older generation you will find speak none such as the adorable Albanian grandmothers.

You don’t have to worry about the language barrier when you travel to Albania as you can always get past it with some English and sign language.

If you really want to impress the locals when you come to Albania it’s a great idea to learn a few words.  Albanian people love it when people try and speak the Albanian language. 

It’s always met with a smile and a little giggle.

• Pershentdejte – Hello
• Faleminderit – Thank you
• Gazuar – Cheers or Salut!

Capital of Albania

The capital of Albania is Tirana. 

There’s a lot to see and do in Tirana and it’s fast becoming a tourist mecca of trendy cafes and bars and a great place to learn about the recent history of Albania.

I have a full Albania travel guide on the best things to do in Tirana as well as my recommendations on restaurants and hotels below.

The capital city is a great place to base yourself while doing the odd day trip around the local area because there’s SO much to see in this part of the country. Click here to read about the best daytrips from Tirana.

Read more: 19 best things to do in Tirana

When should I visit Albania?

I have a full article on the best times to visit Albania below. 

My favourite time is spring because in the south especially, the beach bars start to open, the sun is out and in full swing, and it’s just a little quiet.

Plus if you’re on a budget, then this is a great time before the prices rise in the summer.

Albania has the ol’ Mediterranean climate so during the summer it can get very hot and dry.

Below I go into detail on the pros and cons of travelling at any time of the year.

Read more: The best time to visit Albania

Travel insurance in Albania

If you’re going to travel in Albania, I personally would look into SafetyWing Travel Insurance, you can read more about it here .   They have two great plans whether you are on a budget or want a more comprehensive insurance plan. 

No matter where in the world you are from, or where you are going, they can hook you up with the best deal!

➡ Get an instant travel insurance quote here

Albania Holidays and celebrations

1st January – New Year’s:   As Albanians generally don’t celebrate Christmas like elsewhere in Europe and other parts of the world, they go all out for New Year’s!

They usually gift presents and see the New Year in with their family then go out and party until the sun rises.

Apparently, this tradition came from communism as all religion was outlawed and the only holiday that isn’t religious is New Year’s.  So, because of that, Albanians only could celebrate one holiday a year.

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14th March – Dita e Verës (Summer Day): This is one of my favourite days in Albania, as it’s the start of spring, is always a great day!

This is the biggest pagan holiday and an important holiday for Albanians and throughout the Balkans.  It celebrates the first day of the Albanian ancient calendar as well as the end of winter and the start of summer and the rejuvenation of nature.

If you want to celebrate this day then head to Elbasan.  Here is the centre of celebrations with concerts and festivities for the day. People also make and eat ballakume – a sweet cookie.

You will notice people wearing a 2-string red and white bracelet named ‘verore’ which many start to wear March 1st.  After dita e vere is over they then tie the bracelet to a tree for good luck.

28th November – Flag and Independence Day: This is the day that Albania declared its independence from The Ottoman empire.  It was proclaimed in Vlore in 1912.

Only 6 days later the first government of Albania was created and led by Ismail Qemali.

A prominent moment was when Ismail waved the first flag of independent Albania from the balcony of the assembly of Vlora.  This flag was inspired by Skanderbeg’s (a national hero) flag which had been used 400 years beforehand.

29th November – Liberation Day: The day after Independence Day Albanians also celebrate liberation day.

This day celebrates when the country was liberated from Nazi Germany during World War 2.

25th December – Christmas Day: Albanians don’t celebrate Christmas day like other countries.  New Year is more celebrated.

On Christmas day all the shops run as normal and the day continues like any other day.  However, New Year’s is a different story.

Read more: Festivals in Albania

Prices in Albania

Albania is an incredibly affordable destination.  This is the reason why many choose Albania as their holiday destination.

You can grab a beer for about €1-2 and a meal between €5-10.  A hostel bed with breakfast and a beer can cost as low as €10 and a hotel room for around €20-50.

There are many great options for all budgets, whether you’re a backpacker and want to stay in the best hostels , are in the mid-range and want nice hotels that don’t break the bank or prefer a more luxurious holiday within these must-stay luxury Albania hotels .

If you want more of an adventure and plan to hike around the country, here are the top campsites in Albania to stay in!

If you are thinking of a more permanent move then you check out my article where I go through the prices of renting, food and utilities.

It’s also helpful if you are just visiting as it gives you an idea of what you should pay for different things.

Read more : Cost of Living in Albania

Read more: Getting a long-term visa in Albania

Best places to stay in Albania

There are several accommodation options for travellers coming to Albania. 

In each of my destination Albania travel guide, I recommend the best places to stay in that city or town.

You can book easily through Booking. 

Here are some quick links to destination, hotel and activity guides that will be helpful during your stay in Albania:

Tirana travel guides

• The Most Incredible Hotels in Tirana
• 15 best bars in Tirana to check out
• 16 best restaurants in Tirana
• Top 12 day trips from Tirana to try

Saranda travel guides

• 20 Incredible Hotels in Saranda
• Best things to do in Saranda
• Best restaurants in Saranda

Ksamil travel guides

• 17 best Ksamil beaches to visit
• 10 best hotels in Ksamil

Berat travel guides

• 12 hotels in Berat to stay in

Northern Albania travel guides

• Things to do in Theth, Albania – Home to the famous Albanian Alps
• Kruja Guide
• Cape of Rodon (Durres) Guide

Southern Albania travel guides

• Best things to do in Gjirokaster
• 7 best hotels in Dhermi to stay in
• Qeparo Guide
• Himara Guide
• 13 Amazing Things to do in Korca, Albania
• 8 Things to do in Permet, Albania – Full Travel Guide
• Ali Pasha Castle (Butrint)
• Visiting the Beautiful Blue Eye, Albania (Syri i Kalter)

What it’s like to travel to Albania

Travelling in Albania is something you may have never expected. 

Many expect Albania to be dangerous, not friendly and ugly but people are surprised that none of those is true.

Albania is safe for tourists.

The Albanians are some of the friendliest and most welcoming locals in the world.  They will treat you like one of their own.

Albania is far from ugly. The pristine beaches, mountains and people confirm that. Albania tourism is thriving!

When you travel to Albania, you shouldn’t plan too far ahead.  Everything is flexible, from bus timetables to itineraries.

I would suggest having a rough plan but the option to be a little flexible with it.

Read more: 35 Unique Things to do in Albania

Where to go in Albania

Albania is full of scenic, historic and interesting places to visit. 

You can see the article below which goes into detail of the best places to visit including tourist and local spots which most tourists don’t even know about.

• Read more: 24 Incredibly beautiful places to visit in Albania
• Read more: 10 incredible cities to visit in Albania
• Read more: Theth- Valbona hike: Best hike in Albania!
• Read more: 14 most must-visit castles in Albania
• Read more: 5 best hikes in Albania

The best beaches in Albania

My favourite part of Albania are the beaches.  It’s what made me fall in love with Albania in the first place.

I have tried and tested just about all the beaches in Albania and all the beaches located within the Albanian Riviera .

Below you can check out the ones I recommend visiting.

Read more: 17 of the most beautiful beaches in Albania

Holiday Itineraries for Albania

Below you can read how to spend 1 week in Albania and how to spend 10 days exploring the country! You can get more holiday itineraries in Albania by purchasing my itinerary pack here.

Read more: How to spend 1 week in Albania

Read more: South Albania Itinerary: 10 Days in the Albanian Riviera!

What to pack for Albania

If you’re stuck on what to pack for your trip to Albania, check out my Albania packing list before you start jetting off on your holiday!

Otherwise read below for my must-have top picks for any holiday.

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Facts about Albania

There are many interesting things to learn about Albania. 

I have included them all in the article below.  Click to check them out!

Read more: Facts about Albania

Health and safety in Albania

Is Albania safe?  This is such a popular question and one of my most viewed articles on Albania answers just that and goes into detail (read below).

Yes, Albania is a safe country to travel whether you’re a family, couple or a solo traveller (female and male).  Petty crime like pickpocketing is non-existent.

You will notice that Albanians have the best hospitality, maybe in the world!  Everyone is very helpful and if you’re very stuck in a situation there will most likely always be someone to help you.

If any other Albania travel guide tells you otherwise, they’re wrong!

The only thing you have to watch out for is taxi drivers as most of the time they will try and charge you 2 or 3x the regular price.

Read more: Is Albania safe?

Wi-Fi in Albania and getting a sim card

Believe it or not, I have found Albania to have better Wi-Fi than in New Zealand. It’s fast and reliable.

As I now live in Albania, I have a Wi-Fi router which was free to set up and cost me 2000 lek per month.  Most accommodation options and restaurants will have Wi-Fi.

If you would like to get a sim card you can do so at any of the Vodafone shops around.  There’s one at the airport if you fly into Tirana. 

They will get you set up on a local sim fast and easily.

For under €10 you can get 5MB of data and I have found that you will most likely get another 5MB free!

Can you drink the water in Albania?

I wouldn’t recommend drinking the water in Albania.  The water throughout the country has high levels of chloride and heavy metals. 

I used to drink the water myself but noticed after a couple of months I started to experience bad stomach pains. 

Then, I found that none of the locals drink the water, that’s when you know to not drink it!

Cultural norms in Albania

Staring: In Albania, it’s totally normal and encouraged to stare.  You may find at the start it might be a bit uncomfortable, but you will have to get used to it!

I have had old men stop in the middle of the street to just stare at me.  Nowadays I just try and laugh and give a good old stare back!

Expressing: Albanians are very expressive.  They love to move their hands when they talk.

Albanians are also very loud.  Most of the time they are just having a conversation but sound like they are arguing.

The headshake: In some parts of Albania, they will shake their head side to side for a yes and up and down for a no.

They also shake their head side to side when they are listening in a conversation.  It can get very confusing, especially if you’re asking a question and the answer is yes but their head is saying something else.

Grunting: Upon my observations, while living in Albania, I have noticed that Albanians grunt a lot.

In fact, I have listened to a whole conversation once with just grunting and noises instead of words.  Super interesting.

Communication: If you want to know about how your weight is doing, ask an Albanian.  Don’t be offended if Albanians say that you look thin or fat.

Weight is not something that’s a taboo subject to them.  I still struggle with this if I’m honest.  Although, when I’m having a skinny day, it’s the best confidence boost.

Dress:   you’re welcome to wear whatever you like during your time in Albania.  The women make a big effort when it comes to dressing up.

They love to wear big high heels and dresses that I would only wear once in my lifetime, to the local club.  I always feel underdressed at a club or sometimes even walking down the street.

The older men usually wear suits, yes suits!  Just for having a coffee!  Pretty impressive huh.

You may notice that most of the older women in Albania are wearing all black. There is a reason for this.  This is to pay respects to loved ones that have passed.  They usually wear this for as long as 10-20 years after that person has passed away.

Greetings: Albanians will usually greet you with a kiss on each cheek or a handshake.

When older women greet younger women, you will normally get a million kisses, a pinch on the cheek and squeezed until you can’t breathe.

Dating:  Some families still arrange marriage but nowadays this not common at all.  Sometimes the family will be open to their son/daughter dating a foreigner.  I have only heard from one girl I met that it was a problem for her, and she wasn’t accepted into the family.

From personal experience, I have an Albanian boyfriend and his family have welcomed me like I’m their daughter.

However, dating is not really something that Albanians do.  But saying that, if you’re looking for an Albanian boyfriend you will easily find one.

If a single man goes out with a single woman, it’s usually considered that they are together.

So, ladies, if you do go to dinner with a man make it clear that you want to get to know each other and going for dinner doesn’t mean you’re boyfriend and girlfriend.

Men generally don’t like women who have dated many other men in that city/town too.

Albanian men will do anything for their girls and can usually be quite possessive.  They will get jealous easily if you do have guy friends.  Don’t take offence to this though, it just means they care and they will openly tell you that.

Gender roles:   Albanian women generally look after the house and the men work for the family.

This is how most families work in Albania but today it’s now common for women to be working too.  Gender roles are still very much prominent in Albanian society.

As unemployment in Albania is very high, a lot of men will sit in coffee shops for much of the day.

Albanian flexy time:  If someone says to meet at a particular time it usually means at least half an hour after that.  It’s considered polite to be late.

Even Dr/dentist appointments are merely suggestions.  No wonder nothing gets done in Albania quickly.

Albanians don’t like commitment so arranging things ahead of time probably won’t end well.

Superstitions in Albania

I’m currently constructing an article on Albanian beliefs.  In the south, there are many things that Albanians believe in.  For example:

• If you have finished a glass of raki and you order another, the waiter will pour the raki into the cup you are already using.  They will never give you a new cup.  This is because if you change the cup, you can lovers!
• You may notice stuffed toys hanging outside houses/apartments.  This is to ward off bad spirits.

Corruption in Albania

I try to be very honest in this Albania travel guide when it comes to corruption. Unfortunately, corruption in Albania is still alive and well. 

It’s not something that you really have to think about unless you do something that’s illegal. 

Corruption is slowing down though if you compare it to five years ago, or maybe it’s that you just can’t see it as obvious anymore.

Things are slowly changing for the better.

Driving in Albania

If you visit Albania it can be a great idea to hire a car in Albania . That way you will see more of the country and get to stop at all the great hidden spots most tourists would completely miss.

🤫 Insider Tip: The best way to explore Iceland and get off the beaten track is to hire a rental car and explore the area 🚗 Our #1 recommendation is Discover Cars which caters to over 145+ countries around the world. Click here to get an instant quote .

When it comes to driving in Albania, it should come with caution as signs and road laws seem to be merely suggestions for Albanians.

Speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, overtaking on blind corners etc is very common. 

When driving in Albania always drive with caution and beware of all sides of the car as people can and will overtake you without your knowledge.

You MUST put your lights on when driving in Albania. 

There is a law that states it.  Whether the law is followed through, that’s another story.  Better to leave them on than not.

Another thing that they are very tough on is always carrying your drivers’ license. 

Albanians can be put straight into jail if they don’t have their license on them when an officer asks.  This applies to foreigners.

I have had friends who didn’t have their licences on them and it was a horrible experience.  There was a lot of shouting, taken ‘hostage’ in a police station and a huge hassle! 

So please, always carry your licence.

Read more: How to Hire a Car in Albania

Religion in Albania

Talk to just about any Albanian and they will tell you that religion doesn’t matter.  They don’t care what you believe in, it’s your choice.

Albania is a Christian country, then after the Ottoman empire, it became predominately Muslim. 

However, during communism, all religion was banned so it became the first atheist country. 

Nowadays many online articles say that the Albanian population is predominantly Muslim, which is somewhat untrue.

If you do come across someone who is a Muslim you probably won’t even notice because pork is eaten, alcohol is drunken, and no one follows any sort of rules.

Drone flying in Albania

You can fly your drone everywhere except near Tirana airport of course and military spaces. 

As of now, there are no laws on drone flying in Albania.

There was speculation that there was, but my partner has personally checked with officials and you can fly anywhere that’s not airspace.

Transportation

I have a full article on transportation below!  The most popular way of getting around is by public transportation which only consists of busses.

You can also hire a car if you feel comfortable enough to drive.

Backpackers quite often hitchhike through the country which is completely safe.  Albanians often hitchhike themselves so it’s very common.

Read more: Getting around Albania

Read more: Albania bus timetables

What to eat in Albania

There are many delicious foods you should try during your time in Albania.  Albanian cuisine is fresh, healthy and very delicious.

They use a lot of olive oil, white (feta) cheese and eat lots of fruit. 

Albania also does great Italian food. Many Albanians moved to Italy after communism and the civil war, and brought back their skills of Italian pizza and pasta. 

Greek food is also readily available.

In the south and along the coast of Albania they eat a lot of seafood.

What I love about Albanian food is that everything is fresh and comes from the local garden, so you always feel full and amazing after a meal!

Read more: 39 Delicious Albanian Dishes to Try!

What to drink in Albania

Raki is the national drink.  It’s an alcoholic spirit which can be between 20-80% and the dangerous thing is, you never really know how strong it is.

Many families brew their own raki.  You will see old men with their glass of raki with their morning coffee.  They use it for health and to ‘keep strong’.

They also use raki in hospitals as a serializer for wounds. 

If you have a cough or cold, someone will probably recommend that you drink Raki.

Albania also has its own beer.  There’s one called Korca and one called Elbar.

There are also some delicious Albanian wine and great wineries to visit in Albania. 

There are 3 around the town of Berat.  My favourite is Çobo.  You can go there for a tasting and for €14 taste 4 wines and a little food platter with olives, cheeses and bread!

Join my travelling Albania Facebook group!

I have created a group on Facebook called ‘Travelling Albania’.  It’s a great group where we help each other with any questions you may have about travelling or living in Albania.  Make sure you join below!

🌍 Join the Facebook group here

If there’s something else that you didn’t find in this Albania travel guide then let me know in the comments so I can be sure to add it!

I try to create as much new and valuable content for this Albania blog as possible.

Other Albanian articles you will love:

• How to Find an Apartment to Rent in Saranda, Albania
• 17 best Albanian souvenirs to buy
• 9 Reasons Why You Need To Visit Albania
• Backpacking Through the Balkans: From Bosnia to Albania

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31 Comments

Thank you for all your insight into Albania! You are living the dream! I find myself drawn to this area of the world more and more.

Question: my partner and I will be in Athens in May and would like to travel along the coast north. I appreciated your post about taking the bus to Sarande (and this one about renting a car in the Albania). Have you ever seen/heard of the possibility of renting a car to drive from Athens/Sarande through Montenegro to Croatia? Thanks!

Hi there! Thanks for a great and informative read. I’m also a fellow kiwi and my partner and I are about to cross from Corfu to Albania! I was curious as to where this new market is in Tirana you spoke of? Google maps hasn’t provided me much insight. Your help would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks!

Hey Georgie, the market is called ‘Pazari i Ri’ in Albanian 🙂

I have a question I hope you’ll be able to answer. I’m visiting Albania this August with my boyfriend. We plan on backpacking through the country. I’ve read and heard that Albanian people tend to be quite racist towards black people. My boyfriend is black so this concerns me. Can you tell me more about racism in Albania?

Thanks in advance!

Hey Maxime, Thanks for your comment! I’m glad that you have chosen Albania as your holiday destination. To be completely honest, I have heard both positive and negative stories about racism in Albania. As I don’t have any personal experience myself I don’t think I am equipment to answer that question, but I highly recommend joining my Facebook group ‘travelling Albania’ and asking in the forum as there might be people in there who have had some personal experiences! 🙂

Thanks for your reply! I can’t seem to find your facebook group. Can you maybe post the link? Thank you!

Hey Maxime, you can find it here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travellingalbania/

Hello! I travel to Albania all the time since I know a lot of Albanian people there. So very very much to explore and I do that both with my Albanian friends and with Swedish tourists who I bring to share it with. I should say that the water is very clean and the best possible to drink, at least in the northern regions like Dibra and Tropoja. You can fill your bottle with cold fresh water directly from the mountains at a lot of places along the road, even around Gjirokastër in the south. Also when you buy coffee you often get a glass of water. Don´t be afraid to drink that! I guess only in the biggest cities you should be better off buying your water, which is very cheap but sadly do contribute to the plastic bottle consumption.

Hey Ingrid, yes you’re right! If you can get water straight from the mountain then it’s amazing! Unfortunately nearly all over Albania, it’s not advised to drink water from the tap. There have been tests done in Tirana and Saranda by people I know and they have come back unsafe to drink. I try to get water from the local spring just of Saranda but unfortunately, I do have to buy most of my water when I can’t get there 🙁 Hopefully, Albania can provide fresh drinking water from the tap for their citizens soon!

In my native town Tepelena, we drink from the tap, is good.

Hi Anita – thanks for the wonderful guide. Regarding driving, is it expected to have an international driving permit, or a regular drivers license (in my case the US) okay?

Trying to avoid a situation like the one you mentioned!

Hey Shawn, yes as you are from the US you will need an international drivers license. You can only use your own license if you are from the EU 🙂

Anita, thank you, thank you, thank you! Your guide is helping me a lot!! The information is very valuable. Next week I’ll be there, yuhu!

Hey!! Major thanks for this guide! You helped me a lot!! Although, I always thought Kukër airport is international too, no?

Yes, there is but as far as I know they do not do commercial international flights. I read somewhere that they might start opening it to some low-cost airlines in autumn 2019

Hello, thank you for this wealth of information! I have been fascinated with Albania for years. However, I need your advice, I am in Croatia now, looking into traveling through Albania. But I am concerned about road conditions, and running buses, especially after the recent earthquake. Would you advise me to try this trip, or avoid it for the time being? Thank you for your time and consideration! Tom

Hello! Thanks for the inspiring stories! I do not find any information about grave and burial culture. In each of the countries I visit, I’m visited a some cemetery. I find it interesting to know about other different traditions. What would you recommend to visit? Best regards!

Hi FAB information thanks for the Blog after reading it really looks and sounds perfect. I have just started my nomad journey this year but stuck in two countries due to awful Covid situation. Albania sounds perfect. Being EU citizen I have read up on the 1 year temporary residence visa which I may apply during my 90 days. Please can you please advise as some requirements are not fully detailed on the government webpage. 1. Do I need my birth certificate? (as this would take me long time to arrange) or only passport? 2. I note I need a medical certificate from Armenian Hospital, I am unable to find the full listed details of the tests. What does the health examination entail please? Is it just general health check or a full health screening blood work (what tests) , X Ray etc. 3. Is it easy to obtain / register for a tax number? 4. Would I need to start a business LLC in country, to provide support in my application? (even though my online work is still fledgling as I live on savings and rental income) 5. How long does the process take, normally I am plan to travel early January Thank you very much jo

I would like to visit Albania for the first time as a digital nomad but I’ve heard that there are frequent power cuts. Is that true?

Your blog is a treasure! Thank you so so much. I’m hoping to travel to Albania at the end of this May. Any recommendations on traveling to Albania during the pandemic? Thank you so much!

Dear Anita, Thanks for all the information about Albania, knowing the conuntry sounds amazing! My wife and I want to spend 3 weeks all around the country in July, focusing on the beaches, but I am afraid about the influx of people and covid precautions on them. As you live there, how full use to be the albanian riviera beaches during July? We would appreciate too your recommendation on “special beach places”.

Thanks in advance, Warm regards!

Read your blog with interest Can you advise some acco near prespa lake Not in Podugorce Or a trip for 3 days from kasmil to Prespa Thank you swarup Kumar

Hi Anita, I just found your blog and am very impressed so far. I find myself with the unexpected opportunity of staying in Finiq near Saranda for a while, and wanted to check in to see whether you have done any posts about crafts and artisans in Saranda and surrounding areas, or at least any coverage of souvenirs unique to the area or wider Albania? My primary interest is in the ethnographic and photographic documentation of traditional skills, so I am researching what potential there may be. Also, can you advise me on the importation and use of drones in Albania, and whether places such as Butrint need permits or advance permission? Thanks!

Your travel guide to Albania looks amazing. My friend and I are thinking of going to Albania, we are both in our 70’s but are fit and like travelling. Can I pick up a hard copy of your guide in UK? I can see Amazon sell it in the US but cannot find it in Britain? Thanks Louise

Wow! What a fantastic resource, thank you! I’m a travel writer in Canada, and we’re heading to Albania in autumn – can’t wait to put your advice into practice.

An absolutely fabulous article. Thanks.

Hello! We are traveling Albania in september. Will rent a car in Dubrovnik and drive thru Montenegro an Albania. Do you know if there is any restriction to get into Albania with a rental car from Croatia? or restrictions from Croatians? Thanks!

Heya! This is something you will have to talk about with your car rental company in Croatia. You can normally get a special card from them (you will pay extra) so that you can enter multiple countries but again, this is something your rental car company will allow or not 🙂

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Albania Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Albania.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Albania, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Albania. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Albania include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Albania’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Albania may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Albania, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Albania for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Albania travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: August 7, 2024 17:13 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, albania - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Albania.

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Petty crime

Crimes of opportunity and petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occur. Thieves could target foreigners, particularly in crowded public areas such as:

• airports and public transportation facilities
• hotel lobbies
• restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés
• tourist sites and attractions

While travelling:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• don’t keep your passport and other types of ID in the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• avoid deserted streets at night
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur. Burglars may target rental accommodations or houses and apartments owned by foreigners.

• Choose well-secured accommodation
• Make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Car theft and break-ins occur. Rental and luxury vehicles are a target of choice.

• Familiarize yourself with your route before starting the trip
• Keep your windows and doors locked at all times
• Keep your belongings out of reach
• Use secure parking facilities, especially overnight
• Never leave belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk

Violent crime

Organized crime-related violence occurs. Criminals may use firearms. In some instances, they have used improvised explosive devices.

While violent incidents don’t typically target foreigners or tourists, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime also occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Use sound judgment when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet
• Never click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance

Albania declared its landmine-free status in 2009. However, some areas remain clearly identified as dangerous zones or are surrounded by visible tape, especially along Albania’s northeastern border with Kosovo.

If you plan on visiting or hiking in these areas:

• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines
• stay on paved roads
• avoid open fields, road shoulders and unmarked trails
• report anything suspicious to local authorities

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Soccer matches and sports events

Sports events sometimes lead to rowdy behaviour and violent incidents.

Be vigilant if you attend soccer matches and sports rallies.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone in some rural areas may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

If you are a victim of sexual assault:

• seek medical assistance, even if you do not appear to have been physically harmed
• contact the local police immediately and ensure they file a report
• inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous.

In the fall and winter months, waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.

• Be cautious when walking on the shore
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Always consider warning flags at beaches
• Don’t dive into unknown water, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all water activities such as jet-skiing, water-skiing, diving, swimming or fishing
• don’t overload your boat capacity
• carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Water safety abroad

Mountain activities

Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if unprepared. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

If you intend to go hiking or climbing:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re properly equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out
• do not venture off marked trails

Power outages

Power outages occur regularly, including in Tirana. They may affect the provision of essential services such as heating and water supply.

• Verify the schedule of power cuts with local authorities
• Make sure your phone is always charged
• Keep supplies of food, water and fuel on hand in case of lengthy disruptions
• Carry a flashlight

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Major roads are passable, but secondary roads lack maintenance.

Driving conditions may be hazardous during winter, particularly on mountainous roads in northern and southeastern Albania. Heavy rains and landslides can hamper overland travel. Roads, including major routes, may become impassable. Power outages can also affect street lighting and traffic signals. Low-speed farm equipment, horse-drawn carts and wandering livestock are also common hazards.

Drivers are aggressive and can be reckless. They don’t always respect traffic laws.

If you plan on driving in Albania:

• always drive defensively
• be vigilant for pedestrians walking along roadsides, including on major highways
• carefully plan any travel outside the capital
• use a four-wheel-drive vehicle if travelling outside of urban areas
• inspect rental vehicles thoroughly
• ensure the rental company provides assistance in case of mechanical problems
• pre-negotiate fares and schedules

Public transportation

Buses, minibuses and trains operate between most major cities, but are unreliable. Safety standards are generally poor and petty crime is common.

There are ferries connecting Albania with Italy and Greece. Weather conditions and strong winds may lead to cancellations or delays.

• Pay attention to pre-departure notices from your carrier
• Double-check the departure schedule before heading to the port

Official taxis are generally safe.

• Use only officially marked taxis
• Negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Albanian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Albania.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period

You may apply for certain types of visas through the online visa portal.

• Visa regime for foreign citizens - Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
• E-Visa application system - Albanian Government
• Children and travel

The Albanian government may consider children born to an Albanian parent to be Albanian citizens even if they were born in Canada and have a Canadian passport.

Children under the age of 18 are only allowed to leave Albania with both parents or with the consent of both parents. Upon exiting Albania, the absent parent must provide a statement of parental consent to travel, notarized by Albanian authorities.

If your children will be travelling to Albania alone or with one parent, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Albania in Canada before departure to ensure that they meet entry and exit requirements.

• Travelling with children
• Foreign representatives in Canada

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre

* It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers. Celebrations which include the slaughtering of animals and contact with their blood and/ or tissues may increase the risk of exposure to the virus.  

Protect yourself from tick bites and wear gloves or other protective clothing if you are in contact with the blood and tissues of  animals, particularly livestock. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Access to medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and specialists is limited. Government hospitals often lack basic drugs and equipment and have poor hygiene standards.

Ambulance services are very limited. In case of illness or injury, you may consider taking a taxi or private vehicle to go to the hospital rather than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Albania are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Albania to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Albania authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Authorities may request to see your ID at any time. You must also present a passport upon check-in at a hotel or to rent a car.

• Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Photography

Photography of military installations and critical infrastructure is regulated.

Request permission from local authorities before taking photographs of such installations.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Albania.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Albania, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Albania.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Albania, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Albanian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Albania to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Albanian law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an international driving permit.

The legal alcohol limit is 0.05 percent.

Police have taken drastic measures to decrease the number of accidents. They strictly enforced:

• laws against drinking and driving
• speed limits
• other traffic laws

Respect the rules of the road to avoid heavy fines and confiscation of your driver’s licence.

If you are involved in a road accident, even a minor one, wait for the police to arrive.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Albania is the lek (ALL).

Credit cards are accepted in major cities. Cash is required for small purchases and for purchases over 1000 lek. Carry cash in rural areas.

You must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have more than €10,000, or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum includes:

• money orders
• traveller’s cheques
• any other convertible assets

Cash declarations - Customs of Albania

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains, particularly during winter, can cause flooding and landslides including in Tirana. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Bulletin on natural hazards - Institute of Geosciences (in Albanian)

Earthquakes

Albania is located in an active seismic zone.

Earthquakes occur frequently and may disrupt communications, particularly the mobile telephone network.

Familiarize yourself with earthquake security measures in public and private buildings.

If you’re in or around an affected area:

• monitor local media for the latest developments
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Earthquakes - What to Do?

Forest fires are common during the summer. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a significant fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• follow the advice of local authorities

Air pollution

Smoke haze and other types of air pollution can be hazardous in Albania. Heavy construction in urban areas may contribute to poor air quality. Air pollution levels can change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

• limit your outdoor activities, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or have pre-existing medical conditions
• monitor local media

Air pollution in Tirana - World Air Quality Index

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 112:

Other emergency services:

• police: 129
• medical assistance: 127
• firefighters: 128

Consular assistance

Albania, Malta, San Marino

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada to Italy, in Rome, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• Full Restrictions

Full Restrictions:

All travellers.

As of 1 May 2022, all COVID-19 related travel requirements have been lifted.

Travellers no longer need to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative PCR test in order to enter Albania.

All passengers who are allowed to enter the territory of the Republic of Albania, in addition to complying with international airline standards and protocols, must also adhere to the rules listed below:

• only travelling passengers can enter the airport building
• passengers must maintain social distancing of 1.5 meters during their entire time in the airport
• priority is given to the elderly, people in need and families with children (minors)
• for more information, see the Tirana International Airport website .

Transiting Albania if you’re travelling to neighbouring countries

You can transit Albania on your way to another country without showing proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative PCR test.

All land borders are open. Neighbouring countries may have different entry and exit restrictions on their side of the border. Check FCDO travel advice for the countries you plan to visit before travelling.

Regular entry requirements

British citizens can enter and remain in Albania for a maximum of 90 days in every 6-month period without a visa. The Albanian authorities require anyone staying longer than 90 days to apply at a local police station for a residence permit.

As of 9 September 2021, British citizens who have a valid residence permit in the Republic of Albania can apply to be issued with a Biometric Card for foreign citizens. The design of this card is very similar to the National ID Card issued to Albanian citizens.

Holding this card enables registration on the e-Albania platform, providing access to the services that the platform offers for foreign citizens.

In order to apply you should buy a coupon at the nearest Albanian Post Office and visit the ALEAT office located at the Border and Migration Directorate (the same office which issues residence permits) to submit your application in person.

You can find further information on the Albanian Ministry of Interior website .

Passport validity 

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 3 months from the date of entry into Albania.  

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website .

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People-environment relations following COVID-19 pandemic lifestyle restrictions: a multinational, explorative analysis of intended biophilic design changes

• Open access
• Published: 02 September 2024
• Volume 5 , article number  229 , ( 2024 )

Cite this article

You have full access to this open access article

• Kalterina Shulla 1 ,
• Bernd-Friedrich Voigt 2 ,
• Salim Lardjane 3 ,
• Kerstin Fischer 4 ,
• Piotr Kędzierski 5 ,
• Giuseppe Scandone 6 &
• Thomas Süße 7  

1 Altmetric

The study analyzes the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions for the human–environment relations through the lenses of biophilic design. The mixed-method quantitative and qualitative explanatory research combines contextual and personal variables, such as, among others, country, age group, gender, overcrowding, time spent outside, access to nature/food and the exposure to biophilic elements, during and after the lockdown. The results indicate that psychological pressure on individuals caused by pandemic restrictions imposed early 2020, triggered changes in human-environmental relation. More precisely, our comparative analysis of six European countries (Italy, Germany, Poland, Spain, Denmark and Sweden) indicates that people-environment relations do not depend on the objective severity of country-wise restrictions, but rather on the individual perceptions of these restrictions. The results complement the lack of the research for the role of biophilic design in understanding and enhancing human–environment relations during the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and thereafter.

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Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

1 Introduction

The power of nature for physical and mental well-being and the healing role in stressful conditions is undeniable, as human aesthetic, intellectual, cognitive and spiritual cravings are fulfilled [ 1 ]. Exposure to real or simulated natural views can quickly trigger restorative activity in the brain and reduce stress levels [ 2 ]. Contemplating a nature-integrated urban environment can enhance positive emotions [ 3 , 4 ] as deprivation from it can worsen negative states [ 5 ]. In early 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic imposed worldwide restrictions that were unique because of their variety and differing severity which ultimately resulted in graduated states of psychological pressure on individuals [ 6 , 7 ]. However, when people are forced to cope with crises in unusual circumstances, changes are triggered in their patterns of living and working toward a more sustainable and resilient lifestyle [ 8 ]. “Worry” can divert life priorities, but a strong self-concept of nature can serve as a buffer for a moderate impact on environmental values [ 9 ], enabling “salutogenic” experiences out of stress and psychological states even in extreme environments [ 10 ]. The restrictions of the COVID-19 global pandemic highlighted an attention towards Biophilic Design, as it embraces elements of direct and indirect experience of nature.

As personal growth is attributed to societal dynamics and changes in norms [ 11 ], the way people use and perceive the environment can be encouraged or limited by such norms and cultural contexts [ 12 ]. Ironically, despite its far-reaching negative effects, the pandemic also created a new environment for self-reflection and changes in personal perceptions and actions toward its natural surroundings [ 13 ] and the individuals’ lifestyle choices, such as choice of food, housing, mobility, etc.; factors which are mainly not beyond individual control [ 14 ]. While the ecological footprint and environmental impact of the crisis have been widely considered in research of sustainable design practices [ 15 ], biophilic design (BD) encompasses the mutual benefits of connecting with nature to both humans (physiological and psychological benefits) and the environment [ 16 ]. Therefore, this study aims to understand the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on changes of people-environment relations considering objective as well as perceived severity of lifestyle restrictions. Beyond this, the research aims to depict a pattern of predictive variables regarding the likelihood of integrating BD in future life. We do so in combining a country-comparative research approach, explorative quantitative and qualitative analysis of intended BD changes.

2 Conceptual background

The term ‘biophilia’ (love of life), composed of the ancient Greek words for “life” (bio) and “love” (philia), describes harmonious relationships between humans and the biosphere [ 17 ]. The term was first used by Erich Fromm in “The Heart of Man” (1964) and later by Edward Wilson in “Biophilia” [ 18 ]. The individual’s physiological and psychological response to nature enables the effects of BD elements such as the direct experience of nature in the built environment (natural light, air, plants, animals, water, landscapes), the indirect experience of nature (contact with the representation or image of nature, natural materials, etc.) and the experience of space and place (spatial features of prospect refuge, etc.) [ 19 , 20 ].

The human response to design stimuli allows BD elements to improve quality and sustainability by enhancing health and well-being, productivity, biodiversity, circularity, and resilience [ 21 ]. The green building movement in the early 1990s enforced the link between improved environmental quality and worker productivity [ 22 ] through the use of BD to connect with the indoor environment. Additional benefits include addressing workplace stress, student performance, patient recovery, and community cohesiveness [ 23 ] and improving well-being in prisons [ 24 ]. The BD elements in the landscape (even those not perceived as such) enable the incorporation of diverse strategies into the built environment [ 25 ]. In urban settings, these elements, the new “Hanging Gardens of Babylon”, are indicators of sustainability and resilience. When there is freedom to choose for home or workplace environment relations, the choice is often dominated by a viewpoint with a generous prospect, elevated position, open, savanna-like terrain, proximity to a body of water, etc. [ 26 ].

BD research is mainly related to two theoretical concepts from environmental psychology: The first is Stress Reduction Theory (SRT) [ 27 , 28 ] which explains the extent to which contemplating nature can trigger restorative activity in the brain, which in turn is responsible for reduced stress levels and positive emotions. The second explanatory concept comes from Attention Restoration Theory (ART) [ 29 ], which states that a lack of concentration as well as mental fatigue, which can be attributed to a prolonged direct attention span, can be positively influenced by a visual or physical stay in nature and the increase in concentration can be achieved through restorative processes with less energy-draining attention [ 30 ]. When a person is facing an unpleasant and stressful change in its person-environment relation because of a perceived external behavioral control, patterns of BD (see Annex 2) and biophilia values [ 31 ] can trigger individual restorative responses [ 10 ]. These responses might ultimately result in an adjustment of the environmental surroundings, or at least enhance a person`s motivation to do so by effecting the likelihood of using BD. Mindsponge Theory [ 32 ] conceptualizes this relation of perceived behavioral control in nature and models it with intentions towards behavior change [ 33 ]. A crucial part of this systemic conceptualization of the person-environment relation is the element of “perception of external information by the sensory systems, such as visual or auditory information” [ 34 ].

Literature shows that pandemic restrictions have divergent but socioeconomically moderate psychological effects (either positively or negatively related to states of stress) and that enforced restrictions can be perceived differently (i.e., at the individual level). In addition, deprivation from one of the domains can have such great importance that it can dominate the totality of the measures and, as a consequence, can result in a perceived stronger severity of the measures despite the moderate or weak objective status of the country [ 35 ]. The severe restrictions imposed in Europe and all over the world (although differing across countries), especially during the first wave of the pandemic (March–June 2020), limited life choices [ 36 , 37 ]. These restrictions were accompanied by psychological distress and a decrease in psychological well-being in the general public [ 38 ], among others, due to limited access to physical activity, lack of blue/green landscapes, views of nature from home [ 39 ] and remote interactions, which caused loneliness, especially for women and younger adults [ 40 ]. During this period in Italy, the lack of adequate space, terraces and gardens resulted in increased stress and aggressiveness [ 41 ], where the correlation with the “home satisfaction” factor in those conditions was related to spatial features of adequacy, flexibility, and crowding [ 42 ]. As human risk perception can lead to immediate action, in France, hours and days before the lockdown, people moved from their homes to other places, closer to family, or with better living conditions in terms of size, crowding, landscape, etc. [ 43 ]. Additional challenges in the living environment were also due to the necessity of adapting to working from home [ 44 , 45 ]. During the first wave, for instance, more than 60% of the workers in Germany were obligated to work from home, confronting the lack of a separable home-office working space and triggering a large-scale invasion of work into the private sphere [ 46 ].

The related post pandemic research has analyzed the role of biophilic features for recovery from COVID-19. Afacan (2021) explores the role of biophilic design in enhancing psychological resilience during the pandemic, related to recovery tension mood, depression and anger [ 47 ]. Furthermore, integrating natural elements into both residential and public spaces, especially in times of crisis, can significantly improve mental and physical health and foster a sense of community and connection [ 48 ]. BD principles are vital for enhancing post-pandemic living spaces, through maximizing natural light and ventilation, incorporating plants and green spaces, using natural materials, and designing flexible, multi-functional spaces. These approaches not only create aesthetically pleasing environments but also support well-being and sustainability, making living spaces more adaptable and resilient to future crises [ 49 ]. Incorporating natural elements into architectural design not only create aesthetically pleasing environments but also encourage deeper connections with nature, leading to healthier, more resilient living spaces, and better mental and physical health [ 50 ]. Furthermore, investigations on the relevance of various influential factors for the efficiency and effectiveness of working from home, for physical and mental well-being have been conducted [ 51 , 52 ]. There is a need for coordinated cross-disciplinary research to address COVID-19's mental health impacts and understanding the pandemic's psychological effects during and after the pandemic [ 53 ]. However, the role of BD as an indicator of enhancing connection between nature and humans triggered by lived experiences during the pandemic is under-researched. This study aims to fill this gap, by analyzing people-environment relations following COVID-19 pandemic lifestyle restrictions, through a multinational, explorative analysis of intended BD changes.

3 Systematization of restrictive measures during the pandemic in Italy, Germany, Poland, Spain, Denmark and Sweden

The restrictive measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic for most of the countries, consists on establishing lockdowns, declaring state of emergency, ban on outside activities, border and travel/international flights, and events. The Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker (OxCGRT) defines the stringency of the measures in eight domains: school and workplace closings, canceling public events, restrictions on gathering size, close public transport, stay-at-home requirements, restrictions on internal movement and international travel [ 54 , 55 ]. These restrictions were considered as basis for defining the comparative groups, contrasting case/country selections: (1) countries that experienced strong/moderate restrictions (Italy, Spain, Germany and Poland) and ‘(2) countries with relatively weak restrictions (Denmark and Sweden). Countries are used as proxies, not considering internal differences (i.e., Italy, “in November 2020, was divided into three zones (red, orange, and yellow)) depending on the severity of the outbreak, with different restrictions applied in each zone.

The six selected countries were affected differently by the pandemic, as reflected by the varying severity of the measures taken. During the first wave of the pandemic, the state of emergency was declared in Italy, Spain, and Denmark. The lockdown was implemented in Italy, Spain and Poland, partially in Germany, while Denmark and Sweden had no national lockdowns (see Table  1 , below) for an overview of the restrictions considering the above domains, plus the lockdown status and the state of the emergency in the six countries). Sections  3.1 . and 3.2 . display detailed illustrations of the restrictive measures in the groups.

3.1 Countries with strong/moderate restrictions, Italy and Spain

Italy, one of the first countries in Europe to be heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, took a series of strict measures to curb the spread of the virus, with a significant impact on citizens, among the positioned in the group of countries with more self-protective measures [ 56 ]. The Italian government declared a state of emergency on January 31st, 2020 (which lasted until 1st of April 2022), and a nationwide lockdown on March 9th, 2020, closing all nonessential businesses and allowing people to leave their homes for essential reasons, such as buying groceries or going to the doctor [ 57 ]. Face masks were mandatory in all public spaces, and social distancing was enforced. In the summer of 2020, restrictions were gradually lifted, and people were allowed to travel within the country for tourism purposes. However, new restrictions were imposed in the fall due to a rise in cases; nevertheless, these restrictions were less severe, although social distancing was still enforced. Vaccination campaigns were underway, and people who were fully vaccinated had more freedom, such as attending events and travelling abroad. The pandemic resulted in an increase in remote work, with many companies allowing their employees to work from home [ 58 ]. This consequently led people to move out of cities toward smaller towns and villages with more affordable housing and space. The pandemic has accelerated the trend of suburbanization in Italy, with more people looking for larger homes with outdoor spaces [ 59 ]. According to the Digital Innovation Observatories of the School of Management of the Politecnico di Milano, in 2022, there were approximately 3.6 million remote workers, almost 500 thousand fewer than in 2021, with a decrease in particular in the Public Administration (PA) and Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs); however, there is slight but constant growth in large companies, which, with 1.84 million workers, accounted for approximately half of the total smart workers. Despite this, there is increased awareness and action in organizations to create workspace environments that motivate and give meaning to work in the office. Approximately 52% of large companies, 30% of SMEs and 25% of PAs have already carried out interventions to modify the environment or are doing so in recent months. In the future, these initiatives are planned or under evaluation for 26% of large companies, 21% of public administrations and 14% of SMEs [ 60 ]. Furthermore, during the pandemic parks and public gardens have become more important as places for people to exercise and relax while maintaining social distance. A study conducted in Italy during the first COVID-19 pandemic wave (April–May 2020) highlighted the fact that restrictions influenced citizens’ perceptions of urban green spaces, with a consequent increase in general interest in parks and public garden [ 61 ].

Spain was one of the European countries with the highest incidence during the first wave [ 62 ], and in the global context, Spain experienced one of the worst situations [ 63 ]. The government imposed a nationwide lockdown by mid-March 2020, which included the prohibition of nonessential transit and blanket recommendations for WFH. Easing measures started later in May through several phases. Having high heterogeneity across the territory, the lifting of limitations would progress through the phases as rearranged during the process, making the progressive lifting of the restrictions challenging due to the highly decentralized system [ 64 ]. First, outside exercise was allowed, but borders remained closed, and no travel between different territorial units was permitted. Face masks were highly recommended both on public transport and outside. Afterward, shops, food markets and restaurants reopened with social distancing and reduced capacity, while public transit reopened with full service but reduced passenger numbers. The country entered a ‘new normality’ in late June, where travel between provinces was also allowed again. These restrictions were difficult to implement because of the conflicted political environment, which resulted in some territorial administrations taking preliminary measures at the subnational level in an uncoordinated manner [ 65 ]. Apart from the economic impact, the lockdown measures also had a significant social impact in Spain. Official data indicate an increase in gender-based violence (a 48% increase in calls for gender violence helplines during the first weeks of April 2020 compared to before the lockdown) [ 66 ]. Regarding WFH in Spain, nearly 83% of professionals were not granted the opportunity to WFH in 2020, whereas only 9.8% were telecommuting. In 2021, however, there was an increase in home office use to 25.2%. During the first month of the pandemic, there was a 38% reduction in physical activity [ 67 ].

Germany has taken a medium amount of protective measures during the pandemic [ 56 ]. The first contact restrictions were already announced in March 2020, followed by restrictions on travel and the closing of small shops and schools. In April, the obligation to remain in quarantine for 2 weeks when returning from another country and the recommendation to wear a face mask were lifted. Soon after, face masks were required for public transportation. In May 2020, schools and small shops opened slowly again. Contact restrictions depended on the number of cases in the district. In October, there were increasing lockdowns and contact restrictions introduced across the country, which lasted until January 2021. In August 2021, shops, restaurants, etc., are increasingly being opened for people who have gone through an infection, have been vaccinated twice or have a recent negative test. In December, these opportunities held wide only for people who were fully vaccinated or had recovered. The pandemic resulted in intensified suburbanization in Germany during 2020, although this process has steadily increased due to internal migration because of the lowest rates since the mid-1990s [ 68 ]. The residential green spaces attached to residential buildings, mostly designed with “semi-public access”, were appreciated by residents as creating refugia in challenging times and were more actively used than they were in prepandemic times, especially when sitting in parks was not allowed [ 69 ]. During the pandemic in Hamburg, a larger number of visitors were recorded in protected nature areas and local nature reserves, to an extent causing considerable problems for the wildlife there. For instance, in the nature reserve Duvenstedter Brook, many people nature parks more as urban recreational areas, chasing deer or playing badminton on protected stretches of heath.

Poland experienced a relatively mild first phase of the pandemic compared to other European countries, where the first case was identified a month later than in Germany and France. The government declared lockdown and enforced self-isolation measures (24 March 2020) and even applied measures that were not yet recommended by international institutions; for example, the first EU country to shut down its external borders, including those with other EU Member States. Factors slowing the progression of the initial phases of the pandemic include the relatively younger population compared to the most affected European countries, the larger population living in rural areas and the low rate of mobility domestically and internationally among the Polish people [ 70 ]. The impact of COVID-19 also resulted in changes in real estate and suburbanization in Poland, driving a wave of people to buy property (houses with land plots) to escape the dread of living in apartment buildings, either occasionally or permanently [ 71 ]. In addition, the pandemic fostered many measures by the Polish government related to the economy, taxes, employment and extraordinary changes in court proceedings and the system of justice.

3.2 Countries with weak restrictions, Denmark and Sweden

In Denmark, the anti-COVID-19 measures taken were comparatively brief [ 72 ]. Denmark was indeed in the group of countries in which there were fewer self-protective measures [ 56 ]. Starting in the middle of March 2020, schools, public institutions, hairdressers, restaurants, shopping malls, etc., were closed down, but on April 20th, 2020, these were opened again, with fitness centers and swimming pools being the last ones to open again on June 1st. Over the course of the summer, face masks were first recommended and then needed, first for public transport and later for restaurants, shops and public institutions. In northern Jutland, seven municipalities were completely isolated from their environment due to an outbreak of a new variant on some mink farms. Apart from those restrictions, no mobility restrictions were imposed within the country. This changed shortly before Christmas 2020, when schools, restaurants, public institutions, theatres, etc., were closed for almost two months; starting on February 28th, the country started opening everything again. On May 21st, almost all restrictions were lifted. Furthermore, many Danes have their own houses, gardens and/or summer houses. In 2020, 2.7 million Danes lived in detached houses, whereas 1.6 million lived in multiunit houses where they did not own themselves; this relationship has not changed between 2021 and 2022 [ 73 ]. Given the short period in which public life was restricted and given access to nature for a large proportion of the population, it can be expected that the impact of COVID-19 measures on the Danish population’s attitude towards the environment is not very pronounced.

Sweden chose a different strategy during the pandemic, mainly based on voluntary measures and citizen behaviors and recommendations rather than restrictions, and a complete lockdown was never implemented (Sweden country snapshot: public health agencies and services in the response to COVID-19, according to World Health Organization WHO. No state of emergency was declared because the Swedish Constitution does not provide for a state of emergency during a public health crisis. This less rigid approach focused more on mitigation measures for slowing, but not stopping, the pandemic and relied on existing high levels of institutional and interpersonal trust. The affected geographical regions or households were not under enforced quarantine, and facemasks were not recommended outside health care [ 74 ]. Recommendations consisted mainly of “staying at home even with the slightest symptom of an infection, physical distancing, enhanced hygiene measures, avoiding public transportation, and working from home if possible” [ 75 ]. Physical distancing was recommended in public spaces but mandatory in bars, restaurants and events. A maximum of 50 people was allowed to gather. In some opinions, this was considered to have caused less serious consequences than did the severe policies used in most countries [ 76 ]. WFH, which accounts for approximately 40% of the total workforce in Sweden and is independent of previous work experience, influences the establishment of new habits [ 77 ]. Studies suggest that workload, performance and well-being decreased during the pandemic [ 78 ].

Assuming positive effects on well-being through a stronger connection between individuals and the natural environment while also considering the unusual circumstances of the world pandemic, this study addresses individuals’ likelihood of using BD after the pandemic. More precisely, the research interest stretches out to identify contextual variables (country, overcrowding, time spent outside, and access to nature/food,) and personal variables (age group and sex) influencing the likelihood of using BD by focusing on the following:

Individuals’ exposure (during and after the lockdown) to several BD elements intentionally or unintentionally, including indoors (color, water, air, sunlight, plants, animals, natural materials, views and vistas, façade greening, geology and landscape, habitats and ecosystems) and outdoors (location, green neighborhood, wide prospect, proximity to natural resorts, etc.), as reported through a questionnaire to test whether the severity of the lockdown restriction of the COVID-19 pandemic fostered stronger people-environment relations, as valued by the likelihood of using BD elements.

The role of the context of (strong/weak) restrictions in several European countries (Italy, Germany, Poland, Spain, Denmark and Sweden) to test whether people-environment relations differ according to the objective and/or perceived severity of the measures in a country context.

The study design was exploratory, mixed-method, cross-sectoral and comparative. The data were collected through a survey directed to European countries via an online Google form conducted from 30 January to 28 February 2023 (see Annex 1). Following a random, uncontrolled sampling strategy, the survey was shared with learning networks such as the Bosch Alumni Network (an international network across 140 countries currently hosting more than 8000 members), the network of European RCEs (Regional Centers of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development), and the COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) action networks of Indoor Air Pollution and Circular city, as well as with practitioners of several universities in Europe. The questions were closed and open (with the purpose of revealing the unexpected elements of change) and organized into four sections: (1) background questions containing variables such as age (different generations have different attitudes and approaches to restrictions), gender and countries (which are used as proxies); (2) questions about exposure to BD elements (color, water, air, sunlight, plants, animals, views and vistas, geology and landscape, habitats and ecosystems) indoors and outdoors, before and after the lockdown; based on the indoor and outdoor elements of the BD [ 80 , 81 , 82 ], from the framework of 14 Biophilic Patterns [ 31 ]; (3) questions about flexibility and adaptation of the living environment after the lockdown concerning the elements of BD; and (4) additional information on any major changes incentivized by the lockdown restrictions concerning lifestyle and wellbeing.

The data were processed through mixed methods, namely, descriptive statistics, statistical model building and testing and a thematic analysis [ 83 ] of the qualitative data using affinity diagramming (Lucero) [ 84 ]. Table 2 provides an overview of the methodological approach.

To facilitate quantitative correspondence analyses [ 88 , 89 ], numerical variables were recorded in three modalities (less, same, more) or (low, intermediate, high). Data visualizations were derived as two-dimensional planes using the FactoMiner package [ 85 ] of R statistical software [ 90 ]. Finally, a logistic model of the included variables was estimated to explain the likelihood of including BD using R statistical software.

The qualitative data were analyzed using affinity diagrams [ 84 ] to identify the categories that emerged. Affinity diagramming is a variant of thematic analysis [ 83 ]. In this process, all the comments were printed in different colors depending on the country and were clustered and labeled in several iterative steps so that the categories emerged bottom up in several different steps: (a) initial familiarization with the data, (b) creating initial codes, (c) collating codes with supporting quotes, (d) grouping codes into themes, (e) reviewing and revising themes, and (f) writing up the narrative based on the categories emerging. This thematic analysis process was carried out using the affinity mapping technique by creating large visual representations of the data points (chart making and ‘walking the wall’). Affinity diagrams allow identifying patterns in participants’ answers, illustrating what consequences of the restrictions on their lifestyles they were foregrounding themselves. For the quantification of the comments, the instances in each category per country were counted and divided by the total number of comments for each country, in line with the recommendations provided by Lucero [ 84 ]. For instance, seven Swedish participants made a comment that reported a change toward a healthier lifestyle, which corresponds to 16.7% of the total number of comments (42) made by the Swedish participants.

5.1 General descriptive analyses

The 403 participants in the survey were mainly from European Union countries and the United Kingdom (89%), such as Italy (17%), Germany (16%), Sweden (14%), Poland (11%), Denmark (9%), Spain (9%), the UK (3%), France (2%), and other EU countries (8% Czech Republic, Belgium, Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, The Netherlands, Portugal and Lithuania). The rest were from EU neighboring countries (9%, Albania, Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Belarus, Moldova and Turkey) and from other countries in the world (2% United States of America, Canada, Cameroon, Jordan, Kenya and Saudi Arabia). Ninety percent of the respondents had a level of education as a graduate/postgraduate from different fields. The majority of respondents belong to the 90-ties and 80-ties (37% and 27%, respectively). The rest were born on 70-ties (16.5%), 60-ties (9.5%), and 2000s (6%) in the 50-ties (2%). A total of 58% of the respondents were female, 41% were male, and 1% other.

The perceived severity of the restrictions from the respondents corresponds with the objective severity of restriction in Italy and Spain (strong) and in Germany and Poland (moderate) for Sweden (weak); for the Danish participants, the restrictive measures are perceived as moderate and strong by the majority of the respondents in contrast with the countries’ weak objective status. Table 3 displays objective restrictions (based on the criteria followed by the Oxford Covid-19 government response tracker; as also displayed in Table  1 ) and subjective restrictions as perceived by the respondents of the six countries. In total, 403 participants in this survey perceived the restrictive measures taken in their countries as strong and moderate.

The descriptive statistics revealed that the most influential variables were (1) overcrowding/limited space discomfort (58%), (2) difficulties to work (50%), and 3) difficulties accessing green spaces (33%). Although no significant limits were reported for the choice of food (only 10%), the respondents reported changes in their nutritional status after the pandemic related to: the use of regional products (52.7%), switching to organic products (48.7%) and growing their own vegetation through urban gardening or farming (43.3%). Approximately 80% of the respondents considered visual and nonvisual connections with nature after the pandemic to be very important.

A comparison of the “time spent outside in nature”, “during” and “after” the pandemic with that “before” the pandemic revealed that “during”, for 43% of the respondents is “less”, and “after” for, 60% of the participants is “more”. One-quarter of the participants had a steady attitude “same” for “before” and “after” the pandemic.

Figure  1 shows the “Likelihood of including Biophilic design” in relation to the “Time spent outside”, indicating that this is more likely for respondents who have spent “more” or “less” time outside. The graph was generated using the data from the six selected countries: Denmark, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Sweden.

Likelihood of including biophilic design in relation to “time spent outside” during the pandemic

Figure  2 shows the exposure to BD in the living environment before and after the pandemic, specifically to the following elements: balcony/terrace; private garden/common garden; green roof/façade; views and vistas from home, green or blue; plants/vegetation growing in home gardens/roofs/vases; glass surfaces, sunlight illumination (dynamic & diffuse light); orientation, ventilation, thermal and airflow variability; natural materials (natural wood grains; leather; stone, fossil textures; bamboo, rattan, dried grasses, cork, organic palette. There were no major changes in the specific elements of BD in indoor living environments despite slight increases in the amount of vegetation growing in home gardens/roofs/vases and in vistas from home and glass surfaces, sunlight and illumination. Nevertheless, the majority of respondents reported that they would like to include these BD elements in the future.

Exposure to BD elements before and after the pandemic: balcony/terrace; private garden/common garden; green roof/façade; views and vistas from home, green or blue; plants/vegetation growing in home gardens/roofs/vases; glass surfaces, sunlight illumination (dynamic & diffuse light); orientation, ventilation, thermal and airflow variability; natural materials (natural wood grains; leather; stone, fossil textures; bamboo, rattan, dried grasses, cork, organic palette. Axes x- represents the BD elements. Axes y-represent the % of survey participants

Furthermore, the likelihood of BD outdoors when changing habitation is considered important, especially linked to proximity to urban gardens/green areas (53.1%), proximity to a water body (sea, lake, river, etc.) 45.1%, proximity to rural areas/suburbs (natural terrain with trees and vegetation) 42.7%, proximity to city centers and services (39.1%), proximity to relatives or family (36.7%), and elevated position (i.e., looking downhill or a viewpoint with a wide prospect) by 22.7% of respondents. Other changes are related to working habits, where 65% of respondents preferred flexible virtual/office presence time, 44% fewer working hours, 21% preferred to switch to a full-time home office and only 8% preferred full-time presence. One-quarter of the respondents had changed jobs/occupations after the lockdown. As a result, 63% of participants reported having adopted their home to create space for home office and 39% for recreational activities.

Only a small percentage (11%) of respondents reported having created an indoor individual space for Prospect (an unimpeded view over a distance for surveillance and planning), Refuge (withdrawal from environmental conditions or the main flow of activity, in which the individual is protected from behind and overhead), Mystery (partially obscured views or other sensory devices that entice the individual to travel deeper into the environment) and Risk (an identifiable threat coupled with a reliable safeguard). Furthermore, these elements are considered very likely to be included in the future by the majority of the respondents. Fifty-three percent of the respondents reported other changes, especially related to activities in nature, meditation and self-reflection, work, nutrition towards a more vegetal diet and taking a pet.

5.2 Statistical analysis

A first logistic model was estimated using all the available data (all countries) (see Table  3 ) to evaluate the effect of variables on the high vs. low/moderate Likelihood of including BD elements in the environment”. Variables that have significant descriptive power can be described by three cluster types: age and sex; variables pertaining to the severity of the experience lived during lockdown (overcrowding, limited choice of food, and time spent outside during lockdown); and variables reflecting the need for interaction (pet). The most significant variable is undoubtedly the degree of “overcrowding” experienced during lockdown, which may, as the time spent outside during lockdown, act as a proxy for the experienced severity of the restrictions (as distinguished from the perceived severity and from the objective severity of the restrictions-) see Table  4 ).

Based on these overall results, we conducted narrower correspondence analyses to focus the dependence of the “likelihood” on the above identified variables with respect to the subsample of the six selected cluster countries. Figures 3 , 4 and 5 show the results for the variables “Age”, “Time spent outside during the pandemic” and “Overcrowding”.

Correspondence Analyses factors maps for the likelihood of using biophilic design related to the variable: age

Correspondence Analyses factors maps for the likelihood of using biophilic design related to the variable: time spent outside during the pandemic

Correspondence Analyses factors maps for the likelihood of using biophilic design related to the variable: overcrowding

Figure  3 indicates a moderate “Likelihood of including BD in the environment” for males, while females and individuals who chose the “other” option have more extreme points of view (either low or high likelihood). Figure  4 indicates that the “Likelihood of including BD elements in the environment” is high for respondents who went outside “less” during the pandemic but also for those who went outside “more”. The other dependencies are as follows: the more severe the effect of the lockdown is, the higher the “Likelihood of including BD elements in the environment” as shown in Fig.  5 , for the dependence on overcrowding. An analysis of the variable “Choice of food” did not reveal relevant additional information.

Based on these insights, we ran further analyses on the subsample of 6 countries, aggregated by country. We included objective variables, such as the severity of the restrictions and country. However, neither variable showed a significant influence. After recursively discarding the nonsignificant factors, the final logistic model obtained is displayed in Table  5 .

Two factors appear to correlate the most with the” Likelihood of including BD in the environment” (which was also found by the descriptive analysis):”Time spent outside during lockdown” and the “Will to change the environment”. In particular, it was found that (1) having spent “less” time outside or “more” time outside during lockdown was positively correlated with the likelihood of including BD in the environment, and (2) the higher the willingness to change the environment after experiencing COVID-19 lockdown restrictions was, the higher the likelihood of including BD in the environment. Those who spent “less” time outside during lockdown had approximately two times greater chances of including BD in their environment in the future than those who spent the “same” amount of time outside. Those who spent “more” time outside during lockdown had approximately four times greater chances of including BD in their environment in the future (than those who spent the “same” amount of time outside). Those for whom the “Will to change the environment” is “high” have approximately seven times more chances to include BD in their environment in the future (than those for which the “Will to change the environment is “low”). Those for whom the “Will to change the environment” is “moderate” have approximately the same chances of including BD in their environment in the future (as those for whom the “Will to change the environment” is “low”) (Figs. 6 , 7 and 8 ).

Causal structure diagram explaining the likelihood of including biophilic design in person-environment relation

Lifestyle changes as reported by the survey participants by country. Axes y represent the % of survey participants and Axes x represent the reporting lifestyle changes

The relative role of lifestyle changes as reported by the participants

The strongest combination of factors appears to be: “Will to change the environment”- “high” and “Time spent outside during lockdown”- “more”. For this combination, the probability of including BD in the environment in the future is estimated to be 91%. The weakest combination of factors appears to be: “Will to change the environment”- “low”, and”Time spent outside during lockdown”- “same”. For this combination, the probability of including BD in the environment in the future is estimated to be 24%. Finally, these two variables may act as proxies for the severity of the restrictions experienced (as a subjective indicator of severity rather than objective severity by lockdown measures, as indicated through indices of the Oxford COVID-19 government response tracker).

We conducted further analysis to explain the motivation to include BD elements in the future environment by running a Bayesian causal analysis [ 88 , 89 ] using the R package bnlearn [ 90 ]. The dataset included the six cluster countries. A first Bayesian network representation of the joint distribution of all variables coded at two levels (high vs. low or moderate, more vs. less or same) was obtained and gradually modified to account for causal dependencies while not degrading the fitness measure retained (BIC criterion). For the final model, two main causal factors explain the” Likelihood of including BD elements in the future environment”: “Importance given to BD” and” “Importance of spending time outside”. Moreover, following the causal path, the lockdown had a causal impact on these two factors, mainly through the experience of “Overcrowding during lockdown”, which may be considered a good proxy of the perceived severity of restrictions. The obtained causal structure can be summarized by the following diagram:

As indicated, individuals who experienced strong overcrowding during lockdown are more likely to attach high importance to BD elements in their environment and hence are more likely to change their environment through BD elements and to value spending time outside. Interestingly, people who are less willing to change their environment, give less importance to BD in general and are less likely to have experienced overcrowding during lockdown. Furthermore, people who experienced more overcrowding during lockdown may have had fewer opportunities to go outside during lockdown and may have had problems accessing food, and being “stuck at home”, which explains the relevance of these variables in our logistic regressions. We confirmed this insight by running the following contingency Tables 6 and 7 :

5.3 Qualitative analyses

Altogether and across countries, 32 comments concerned a healthier lifestyle, which amounted to 16.4% of the total number of comments (195). The qualitative analysis of a total of 210 qualitative comments from the Danish, German, Italian, Polish, Spanish and Swedish participants yielded 12 different thematic categories, while participants were free to write as much as they wanted; most participants made exactly one point; only three comments were assigned to two different categories. First, there is one group of 20 comments that seem to refer to the time during the pandemic, not afterwards. In the following, we disregard these comments, leaving us with 193 valid data points. In addition, 44 comments (mostly by the Swedish participants) suggested that there were no changes in their lifestyle due to the pandemic.

The next largest category comprises comments in which participants describe how they perform more outdoor activities. For instance, participants reported on longer walks, spending time in the garden and enjoying fresh air; for example, participants wrote “ I spend more time in my city’s park ”, that they “ try to integrate exercise and fresh air ” or that they “ take time to enjoy nature .” Relatedly, eighteen participants reported having resumed a healthier lifestyle, eating less meat, performing more physical activity and cooking more at home. One participant writes, “ The COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown were starting points for changing what I don’t like in my life. The years after the lockdown were full of news in my life and radically changed myself. ” An additional ten participants reported doing more sports, for instance, “ starting fitness at home ”, “ doing more sports ” or doing “ more physical activities outdoors ”. In addition, eleven participants reported more attention given to their mental health. Many have taken up regular meditation exercises, while others report more awareness and appreciation of the small things of life; for instance, some simply take “ more time for meditation ”, another wrote, “ The overwhelming anxiety forced me to become more meditative ” and again, others state that they prioritize time for themselves now and value time alone, outside or time for recreational purposes more.

Like those with greater appreciation of life and nature, ten participants also reported greater appreciation of social connections; one participant reported moving into the city because the countryside was lonely. More generally, participants described spending more time with friends and family; many stated that they go out more often and “ spend more time with family ” organize “ weekly potlucks with my friends to create a sense of community ” or “ think about friendship in a new way ”.

Eighteen participants also reported changes in their homes; several had obtained a pet or more plants, i.e., “ took a pet and changed home ”, but some also described creating a separate space for a home office; for instance, “ I created a home office with a good amount of daylight and a view outside ”. Some even bought a house or moved into the countryside—one even changed country. Eight participants reported on improvements to their homes: “ cleaning my room more often and having less things there, making it a productive space ” or “ general home and garden improvements ”. Furthermore, participants reported that they improved the efficiency of their work or achieved a better work-life balance, i.e., by means of “ smart working ” or the use of “ new technologies that allow me to rest better ”. Eight participants had found a new job or changed careers. Three reported new skills that they acquired during the pandemic. Finally, three participants state that they are still careful and attend to social distancing; for instance, they say that they are still “ careful ”, “ keep distance from people ” and “ pay more attention to hygiene in public spaces ”. A family in Poland sold their apartment to buy a house in the suburbs, which they had never considered before the pandemic, to obtain more living space and better air quality, with a sizable plot of land, a vegetable garden, and a small orchard.

Participants’ qualitative data thus align with the quantitative survey data, suggesting that the pandemic indeed had an effect on lifestyle choices such that they became more attentive to nature, value nature and outdoor activities in the sun and fresh air. For some, these new preferences have led to changes in habitation. Regarding the differences among the six countries under consideration, the Polish participants reported more career changes than did the participants from other countries and less than the effect of the pandemic on their outdoor activities and attention to mental health and physical activity; however, they seem to have used the pandemic widely to change their eating habits. Among the Swedish, Polish and Danish participants, many reported no changes; especially among the Swedish participants, 38.1% stated that there were no changes at all. These results are in line with the severity of the restrictions imposed in these countries during the pandemic. Furthermore, extended social distancing effects were mentioned only by German and Swedish participants. In all other respects, participants from all six countries reported similar changes in lifestyle; this is interesting in its own right since across countries, people seem to have used the pandemic to rethink their lifestyles, where many of the changes reported are towards a more biophilic and sustainable lifestyle. However, it needs to be stated that these conclusions do only apply for those participants who responded to the qualitative part of the questionnaire.

The qualitative analysis added further insights to the interpretation of our quantitative analysis because it indicated that whether people changed their lifestyles was related to the severity of the country lockdown measures, but how and what changed depended to some extent on the respondents’ personal circumstances. There are also other changes that are not related to BD concepts, such as new jobs, increased efficiency, and new education.

6 Conclusions

The study background reinforces the idea that the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and lockdowns were accompanied by general discomfort due to alterations in livelihood, work, and activities in nature and in-person social interaction. Based on the findings of this study, it can be argued that the severity of restrictive measures (strong/moderate/weak) imposed by countries during the global COVID-19 pandemic influenced the likelihood of including BD for changes in people-environment relationships. However, this effect occurs mainly when restrictions are individually perceived or experienced as severe due to personal circumstances. Our findings suggest that pandemic restrictions triggered a motivation to include BD and by this to change the person-environment relation. In this regard, individual-level perceived severity of restrictions appears to be a stronger proxy of the intended environmental behavior change than country-level objective indictors. These findings underline the relevance of the element of individual environment perception within the systemic reasoning of mindsponge theory [ 22 ]. It can also be concluded, that, in times of perceived crisis of the person-environment relation, the restorative effects of BD proposed by SRT [] and ART [] may serve as an explanation of an individual`s intention to change the lifestyle towards more natural surroundings. The mixed method analyses conducted at different sample levels revealed that, despite drastic social distancing measures, the experienced discomfort created by “Overcrowding” was identified as the most influential variable in relation to the “Time spent outside nature”, independent of other variables such as country, gender, and age. Likewise, the comparative data evaluation between Italy, Spain, Germany, Poland, Sweden and Denmark does not reinforce the assumption that people-environment relations differ according to the severity of the measures in a country context but rather according to individual responses to crises.

Experienced restrictions (mainly defined by “Overcrowding” and “Time spent outside in nature”) influence the likelihood of including BD elements in the future. Individuals who experienced changes in their individual person-environment relations through pandemic restrictions by having “more” or “less” access to nature were more likely to change their behavior, as indicated by the use of BD elements, both indoors and outdoors, compared to individuals who experienced “same” (unaffected) nature access. However, “Overcrowding” here is also subjective to individual perceptions (unrelated, for example, to the official definition for person/sqm2) and may have created more discomfort for individuals who were less likely to have had the opportunity to go outside during lockdown and may have had problems accessing food, being “stuck at home” or “difficulties to work”, as also explained by the role of these variables in the logistic regressions.

The COVID-19 pandemic appears to have influenced the trend toward relocation in proximity to urban gardens/green areas, water (sea, lake, river, etc.) or to rural areas/suburbs and not so much in specific elements indoors (as supported by the suburbanization statistics in the 6 countries). Often, the desired changes contradict with possibilities, as the results indicate an appreciation of natural elements but not always being possible to change, linked with “whenever is freedom to choose”.

To conclude, there is a post pandemic tendency toward greater connection with nature and healthier habits regarding nutrition and lifestyle within the freedom of individual choice. The likelihood of changing the environment through BD elements is related to experienced and perceived changes during the pandemic. Individuals who were experiencing “Overcrowding” are more likely to place high importance on BD elements in their environment now and hence are more willing to change their person-environment relationships. Given these preconditions, respondents revealed higher likelihood of including BD elements in the future, while a relatively unchanged routine during the pandemic did not result in post pandemic changes or increased attention to BD elements, both indoors and outdoors.

7 Limitations and implications for theory and practice

This is a cross-sectoral and not longitudinal survey-based data collection study due to the impossibility of starting a survey during the pandemic. Thus, we referred to people recalling, considering the survey time in early 2023, when the pandemic had not yet officially ended. For the purpose of this study, the survey questions that relate to the perceived severity of the restrictions are limited to discomfort by overcrowding, difficulties working, access to green spaces, exposure to BD elements and choice of food, excluding other elements, for example, travelling (local and international), and access to social events and contacts.

Regarding the lifestyle changes reported by the participants, it must be considered that all those who did not complete the open question in the survey may not have actually changed anything (the reason for not providing information on lifestyle changes is not known). Furthermore, when reporting on their lifestyle changes, the participants had recently been primed to consider biophilic lifestyle changes since they were asked about those changes in the questions before. The order in which the questions were asked may thus have introduced a certain bias regarding the reporting of biophilic lifestyle changes, meaning that these changes may have occurred, but people may have been less inclined to report on other kinds of changes.

Our study relies on data of a specific demographic group, particularly educational background, which may not be representative of the general population. The survey was distributed among participants from particular organizations or institutions, and 90% of the respondents had a higher level of education which may not mirror a generalization for the broader population. Therefore, our evaluations must be interpreted in light of the preferences of this specific demographic group. Furthermore, our conclusions consider the data of only six countries. While the country selection was specifically motivated by a classification of objective severity of measures, we understand, that a different or extended set of countries may have resulted in different results and interpretations. Future research can extend the range and heterogeneity of the data based on country and further demographic variables to enhance generalizability of conclusions. At the same time, this may serve as an evaluation of our conclusion, that it is the perceived severity (at most over-crowding) rather than the objective severity of restrictions that has the stronger impact on the likelihood of including BD in future life. To this regard, a shift of level of analysis towards regional or local surroundings may provide further insights on the relevance of (perceived) overcrowding for the likelihood of BD in person-environment relations. This will ultimately help extending the scope of this research approach beyond effects related to COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic highlighted the value of nature in cities and the living environment for the health and well-being of citizens and it uncovered the unhealthy aspects of current urbanization and living-working styles. Our qualitative data underline the general finding that the pandemic has increased the trend of suburbanization, stressing that accessible urban nature is a key component of creating sustainable urban communities and human health and well-being. However, we need to point out, that the majority of respondents in our study wishes/plans for changes rather than does. As such, our results emphasize that proper societal structures and long-term measures are important for enabling larger-scale changes in people-environment relations. Future longitudinal studies will have to find out if such measures will be effective.

Data availability

The datasets generated during and/or analyses during the current study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

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Acknowledgements

The study is the third part of the project “Publication series: Sustainability in post pandemic society”, funded by the International Alumni Centre Berlin (iac), a center of excellence funded by the Robert Bosch Stiftung for impact-oriented alumni work and networks in philanthropy.

Open Access funding enabled and organized by Projekt DEAL.

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KSH and BFV contributed to the conceptualization and design, writing and revision and methodological framework, the SL contributed to the statistical analyses, the KF contributed to the qualitative analyses and country background, and the PL, GS and TS contributed to corresponding countries’ background and introduction. All the authors contributed to the data collection.

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Correspondence to Kalterina Shulla or Bernd-Friedrich Voigt .

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Ethics approval and consent to participate were obtained from all the participants.

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The research does not involve human research participants. The survey was anonymous.

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The authors declare no competing interests.

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1.1 Survey: changes in people-environment relations in a post-pandemic society

2.1 three categories of the 14 biophilic patterns according to browning, ryan and clancy [ 67 ], rights and permissions.

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Shulla, K., Voigt, BF., Lardjane, S. et al. People-environment relations following COVID-19 pandemic lifestyle restrictions: a multinational, explorative analysis of intended biophilic design changes. Discov Sustain 5 , 229 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-024-00423-y

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Received : 16 May 2024

Accepted : 16 August 2024

Published : 02 September 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-024-00423-y

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