Experience in Tirane, Albania by Gerta

How much does it cost to live in Tirane?

I must say Tirana is not expensive, especially compared to other Europian countries. Of course it depends on everyone budgets; however some basic prices for you to create a general idea are : Alcohol at bars: 200-800 Lek per glass. Fast Food per meal: 200-500 Lek. Cigarettes: 150-500 Lek. Food supply per month (home cooking): 20000 Lek. Food at restaurant: more expensive than preparing it yourself, depending on the type of restaurant you choose. Coffe: 60-200 Leke per cup.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Tirane? Is there any advice you can give?

I could suggest some hostels which I think are nice and not very expensive, such as "Propaganda", "Destil", and "Backpacker". In addition, students can rent flats or studio apartments and the price varies on the chosen area. We have a newspaper, called "Celsi", which is available online as well, and there are usually published house renting/selling notes at a special sector.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is very delicious. We are mostly known about meat dishes. I am a vegetarian, so I am not suggesting anything :P Some traditional dishes are: Byrek (with spinach, or tomatoes and meat), kukurec (the intestines of animals), meat on a spit, ballokume, sheqerpare etc

What places would you recommend visiting in Tirane?

I will put on the list: The National Museum. Sky tower (a bar that spins around and gives you the opportunity to see the whole city from above). Dajti mountain. Artificial Lake. Gallery of Arts

Is it good to eat out in Tirane? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

My foreign friends that have come here have enjoyed the taste of meatballs, so I recommend you to enjoy the food of some places called "Zgara", or "Zgara Korcare". You can also find other restaurants with traditional food at "Rruga Kavajes" Street.

Is the nightlife good in Tirane? Where is good to go?

The fun part about living in Tirana is that there is always a party for you to enjoy. We have an area near center, called "blloku", and it is full of clubs of different style and various music. Of course the streets are more alive and noisy during weekends, but there are always opened clubs with good music all night. My two top favorite places to go to on a night out are "Libraria" and "Ironbrush".

What advice would you give future students heading to Tirane?

Chill and enjoy :)