How much money is it to go to Albania? - 2026 Guide

How much does it cost to go to Albania?

Albania is shockingly cheap compared to the rest of Europe. The estimates below cover accommodation, dining, and transportation in popular hubs like Tirana, Sarandë, and Ksamil. You can get by on a shoestring here without sacrificing quality, but spending a little more unlocks serious luxury.

Is Albania expensive to visit?

Albania is easily one of the most affordable places you can visit right now. Travel costs here are considerably lower than in most Western European destinations, offering exceptional value. Your money stretches further in Albania compared to neighbors like Croatia or Greece, where accommodation and dining prices are higher, making it a dream for budget travelers.

What is the average daily budget for a trip to Albania?

• Budget travelers can get by on approximately €40 per day on necessities like hostels and public transit.
• If you want a bit more comfort, budget around €100 daily to cover nice hotels and restaurant dining.
• For a luxury experience with premium services, private transport, and high-end meals, expect to spend over €250 per day.

Albania Travel Cost Breakdown

What currency is used in Albania?

The official currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL). While you might see prices in Euros, the Lek is the only currency accepted at most local shops and cafes. You'll get better value paying in Lek.

Should you bring cash or use credit cards in Albania?

Cash is king in Albania. Don't expect to use your card much once you leave Tirana. High-end hotels and large supermarkets in the capital might take digital payments, but Albania runs on cash. Small guesthouses, local eateries, and public transportation services require Albanian lek. You won't get far with just a card, so hit the ATM as soon as you arrive. Speaking from experience, keeping a stash of small bills handy is a lifesaver here.

How do ATM fees and withdrawals work in Albania?

Most ATMs charge a fixed fee for withdrawals with international cards. Expect a fee of around €5 per transaction. To avoid racking up fees, withdraw the maximum daily limit each time.

Credins Bank often has lower fees, though you should verify current rates locally. Pull out a big chunk of cash at once to keep the fees down.

Why should you use an eSIM for travel in Albania?

Using an eSIM prevents excessive roaming charges while visiting Albania. Your carrier back home will likely charge a fortune for international data, which increases overall travel costs. You can grab a dedicated eSIM card for Albania instead to secure affordable and reliable internet access.

Digital eSIM cards mean you won't have to mess around with tiny plastic chips and keep your primary SIM safe. It works the moment you land, saving you the stress of hunting for a SIM card shop with your luggage in tow.

How much does accommodation cost in Albania?

Rates in Tirana remain stable throughout the year, but coastal destinations like Sarandë, Vlorë, Durrës, and Himarë see sharp price increases during the peak summer tourist season.

What are the prices for hostels and guesthouses?

Hostels and traditional guesthouses offer excellent value, with rates hovering between €18 and €50 per night. A bed in a shared hostel dormitory costs between €18 and €25 depending on the season. Private rooms in family-run guesthouses average around €50 per night. This means you can stay comfortably in historic cities like Berat and Gjirokastër without overspending.

How much do luxury hotels and resorts cost?

Luxury hotels and resorts charge nightly rates exceeding €100, particularly during peak summer months. Prices in coastal areas like the Albanian Riviera, Sarandë, and Vlorë are substantially higher than inland options. Everyone wants to be in Ksamil, so expect prices to skyrocket there. If you have your heart set on this spot, book well in advance.

If you're after luxury, plan to spend between €100 and €250 per day to cover these expenses. You're paying for perks like private beaches, swimming pools, and superior views. Rates for 5-star establishments double in July and August compared to the shoulder seasons.

What are the transportation costs in Albania?

Public transportation relies on furgons, privately operated minibuses that connect major cities. If you want flexibility, you'll want a rental car, while taxis serve urban centers. While furgons are dirt cheap, renting a car—though pricier—is the only way to truly explore the hidden beaches of the Riviera.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Albania?

Renting a standard vehicle costs between €25 and €35 per day. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the Albanian Riviera and the historic stone city of Gjirokastër at your own pace. Most visitors collect their vehicles at Tirana International Airport immediately after landing. This lets you build your own schedule while keeping costs lower than relying on private taxis for long distances.

Is public transportation affordable in Albania?

Public transportation is the most budget-friendly way to navigate Albania. Furgons are the main way to get between cities. Intercity fares average around €5 per trip, making them accessible for all travelers. Routes connecting major hubs like Tirana and Sarandë cost between €4 and €8 depending on the distance.

This is much cheaper than renting a car. But travelers trade comfort and strict schedules for these savings. Furgon schedules can be irregular, and vehicles are sometimes crowded. It’s a bit of a chaotic adventure, but honestly, that is part of the charm.

What are the costs of taxis and airport transfers?

A standard taxi ride from Tirana International Airport to the city center will run you between €20 and €25. This fixed rate applies to official airport taxis, which are yellow with red logos. If you just want to get to your hotel without the hassle, this is the best bet to avoid navigating bus schedules with luggage.

Short taxi trips within Tirana range from €4 to €7 depending on traffic. Most legitimate taxis use meters, though agreeing on a fare before departure is common for longer routes. Taking private transfers will blow your budget. Transfers to coastal cities like Sarandë or Vlorë can exceed €150, taking up a substantial part of the budget.

How much does food and dining cost in Albania?

You only need a modest budget for food in Albania. This amount covers three substantial meals, making the country one of Europe's most affordable culinary destinations. Dining out is cheaper here than in neighboring nations, so you can feast on great local food without breaking the bank.

What is the cost of a meal in a local restaurant?

Expect to pay between €5 and €10 for a sit-down meal in a traditional restaurant. This usually includes a main course, salad, and bread. Local specialties offer the best value, with dishes like Fërgesë and Tavë Kosi priced around €4 to €6.

Grilled meatballs, known as qofte, are an even cheaper option available in nearly every town. While restaurants in Tirana may charge slightly more, dining in historic locations like Berat remains exceptionally affordable. You can eat authentic meals every day for next to nothing.

How much are groceries and street food?

Street food is your cheapest bet, with prices rarely exceeding €5. Byrek, a popular savory pastry, costs between €0.30 and €1 and makes for a filling breakfast or snack. My personal favorite is the spinach and feta version, which is perfect for a quick start to the day. Fast food alternatives like gyros or souvlaki range from €2 to €4. Sticking to these will keep your food bill tiny.

Buying groceries from local markets offers additional savings, as fresh produce and bakery items are inexpensive. Qofte sandwiches are another staple that provides a substantial meal for just a few dollars. Eating these quick bites is the best way to save cash while you explore urban centers.

What is the price of alcohol and coffee in Albania?

Coffee and alcohol are exceptionally affordable compared to Western Europe. A traditional espresso costs just €0.60 to €1.20 in most cafes. This deep-rooted coffee culture is a major part of daily life in cities like Tirana. You should definitely take the time to sit and people-watch like a local.

Alcohol prices are similarly low, with local beers priced around €1.50 to €2.50. A glass of house wine runs from €2 to €4 in local taverns. You can enjoy a night out without spending much. Prices in tourist hotspots like Sarandë and Ksamil may rise slightly during peak season.

What are the costs for sightseeing and activities?

Sightseeing in Albania is very budget-friendly. Travelers allocate a small daily amount for entertainment and culture. Many significant landmarks are free, while entrance fees for historical sites remain low. You can see and do a lot without spending much.

How much do sunbed rentals cost in Ksamil and the Riviera?

Sunbed rentals in coastal destinations like Ksamil range from €10 to €25 per day depending on location and season. While most costs in Albania are low, beach amenities in the Albanian Riviera are a notable exception.

Prime spots facing the Ksamil Islands or luxury beach clubs in Sarandë charge premium rates exceeding €30 for two beds and an umbrella during July and August. Prices in nearby towns like Himarë average between €10 and €15 daily. Finding free public beach space is difficult in these areas, so you'll pretty much have to pay for a bed.

What are the entry fees for museums and national parks?

Entry fees for top attractions are reasonable and usually stay under €15 per person.

• The UNESCO-listed Butrint National Park costs about €10 for international visitors.
• History enthusiasts visiting the Bunk'Art museums in Tirana pay around €9 for tickets.
• The Dajti Ekspres cable car, offering views over the capital, costs about €14 for a round trip.
• While walking through the historic centers of Gjirokastër and Berat is free, entering their castles costs just €3 to €5.

These low costs make cultural exploration accessible for budget-conscious travelers.

How much do flights to Albania cost?

Round-trip flights from the United States to Albania range between $550 and $956. Prices go up and down depending on when you fly and booking timing. Tickets to Tirana International Airport are most expensive during the peak season, particularly in July and August when demand peaks.

November, however, is the cheapest month to fly, offering substantial savings. Visiting during the off-peak season secures lower airfare, which brings your total trip cost down. Booking flight deals well in advance is the best way to keep the price down near the $550 minimum.

How does the season affect travel costs in Albania?

When you go makes a huge difference to the price. Prices during the peak season of July and August surge due to high demand. Accommodation prices along the Albanian Riviera double during these months compared to the rest of the year. Sunbed rentals and coastal dining also get much more expensive.

The off-peak season from October to March offers the most economical rates. Hotels in major cities like Tirana lower their rates by up to 50% during January and February. Visiting during the shoulder months of May, June, and September gives you the best of both worlds: good weather and lower prices.

How can you save money on your trip to Albania?

• Reduce expenses by visiting during the off-peak season when accommodation rates drop by up to 50%.
• Use public transportation to save money compared to private transfers. Riding local furgons costs a fraction of renting a car or hiring taxis.
• Eat traditional street food like byrek to keep daily food costs between €1 and €5.
• Search for package deals on tours to secure better rates than booking individual activities.
• Get good travel insurance to avoid unexpected medical or cancellation fees that could derail your budget.

Sources

• https://patoko.com/blog/atm-fees-in-tirana-albania/
• https://visitalbania.zenith.travel/blog/the-cost-of-living-in-albania-in-2025
• https://albaniatourguide.com/tirana-bus-terminal-national-international-buses-2025-update/