Hostels in TIRANA, ALBANIA

Exploring the Historic City of Tirana in the Albanian Belt

Often called as Tiranë or even Tirona, the city of Tirana has the distinction of being the largest city and also its capital city. It is surrounded by hills while the Tirane River flows through it. It has a distinct Ottoman and Italian influence when it comes to architecture.  And with a majority of people practicing Islam, the city boasts of many fascinating mosques along with some historical churches as well.

History
With modern roots of Tirana city initializing in the 16th century (though fossils provide evidence of it being inhabited since thousands of years), it has played an important role during many empires. The city gets its name most probably because of a 5th century castle named either Tirkan or Therand. With many water bodies like rivers and lakes in and around the city limits, Tirana has flourished into a modern city with dense population and metropolitan amenities.

Accommodation Options
The fact that a large number of football fans throng Tirana from other parts of Albania has enhanced the accommodation aspect. From Tirana budget hotels, guest house facilities to bed and breakfasts, accommodation is available in various budgets. Youth hostel in Tirana are also popular with domestic tourists.

Getting Around
For travelling within the city, buses, taxis, coaches and even minibus are convenient while the Tirana Railway Station provides the railway transportation part. Located towards northwest of the city, the Tirana International Airport (named in honour of Mother Theresa) serves air transportation; the city is well connected to major cities of Europe.  Ferry services to the city are available via the port of Durrës. Bicycles can also be rented for travelling within the city. For tourists visiting Tirana on their own, a travel guide is highly recommended.

Popular Places
The duo of City Park mall and TID tower is one of the most popular venues here with a lot of restaurants nearby that are quite popular especially during the weekends. The concept of sport gardens has gone well with locals. Visiting the beautiful Kavaja Street and the spacious Big Park is a must-do activity here.

Places of Entertainment
Tirana city is considered one of the most important sports centres of the country and with the local club culture flourishing, football matches at Qemal Stafa Stadium and the Selman Stërmasi stadium form the best form of entertainment. Many restaurants offer a good scope to local music, dance and culture via evening parties.

Languages Spoken
Albanian (mixed form of 2 popular dialects - Gheg and Tosk) is spoken by a majority of people. Ethnic minorities prefer Macedonian, Greek etc. dialects. English isn’t a flowing language here.

Currency Used
Lek which gets subdivided into 100 qindarka is the official currency used here. News and updates about Euro and Dollar conversion into local cash is easily available at the nearest airport itself.