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Albania FAQ

Is tipping customary in Albania?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Albania but it’s common to round up the bill in a restaurant and a tip of 5-10% for good service will always be appreciated.

What is the internet access like in Albania?

Albania’s cities and tourist centres have plenty of Wi-Fi hotspots and internet access is available in pretty much all hotels. Outside of the major towns, access is less reliable but most towns will have an internet café.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Albania?

Mobile phone coverage may be limited outside of major centres. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in Albania?

Albania’s toilets are usually of the flushing kind, but don’t be surprised if you come across the occasional squat toilet. Expect to pay a small fee when visiting public toilets.

What will it cost for a...?

Cup of coffee in a cafe = 100 ALL
Beer in a bar or restaurant = 200 ALL
Simple lunch = 300 ALL
Dinner in an inexpensive restaurant = 750 ALL

Can I drink the water in Albania?

Tap water may not be safe to drink in Albania. Instead bring water purification tablets or equivalent. For environmental reasons, try to avoid bottled water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found as some hotels provide this.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Albania?

Only the major hotels in Tirana accept credit cards and outside the capital they’re unlikely to be accepted. Be sure to carry multiple methods of payment.

What is ATM access like in Albania?

ATMs are becoming more and more common throughout Albania. In most towns you should have access to a machine. Always be prepared by having enough cash just in case.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Albania?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Albania?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Mar 7 Orthodox Christmas Day
Mar 15 Summer Day
Mar 21 Nowruz (Persian New Year)
Mar 29 Good Friday
Apr 1 Easter Monday
May 1 Labor Day
May 5 Orthodox Easter Sunday
Aug 8 Lesser Bairam
Oct 15 Greater Bairam
Oct 19 Beatification of Mother Teresa Day
Nov 28 Flag and Independence Day
Nov 29 Liberation Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/albania/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Albania?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

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Albania at a glance

  • 1
  • Tirana (population 300,000)
  • 3.2 million
  • Albanian
  • ALL
  • (GMT+01:00) Sarajevo, Skopje, Warsaw, Zagreb
  • Type C (European 2-pin), Type E (French 2-pin, female earth)
  • +355

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