Experience in Tirane, Albania by Julia

What is it like to live in Tirane? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Tirana is a very lively city with a lot of opportunities for entertainment and cultural events. There is great weather - sun almost 300 days of the year - and being close to nature and other nice cities makes it a perfect city for people who like to hike and adventure.

What is the student lifestyle like in Tirane?

Tirana has a lot of universities therefor there are a lot of students and young professionals. It is easy to meet new people from different backgrounds in the many coffee, bars and pubs frequented by students.

How much does it cost to live in Tirane?

Living in Tirana is quite cheap when compared to other Western capitals, although this reflects on some aspects of public services.

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

It is not more difficult than any other capital to find accommodation although it would be good to start searching in the summer before the academic years starts and students come to find accommodation from all over Albania.

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

The culinary culture in Tirana and Albania is very rich and people like to eat healthy and bio foods. I would suggest traditional dishes such as byrek (various kinds and stuffings), fergese, tave kosi, etc.

What places would you recommend visiting in Tirane?

Skanderbeg Square, Mother Teresa Square, Zogu I Boulevard, the lake park, the National Gallery of Art, Dajti mountain, Peza, etc.

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

Eating out in Tirana is very good and there are many cuisines offered. My favourite spots are Era, Luga e Argjendte, Vita 99, Mulliri I Vjeter, etc.

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

The nightlife in Tirana is very active, there are a lot of pubs and clubs. Good to go to Nouvelle Vague, Salt,, Radio, Folie, etc.

What advice would you give future students heading to Tirane?

Be prepared to face all sorts of oddities and have a lot of fun.