10:35 pm
+1h from you
Weather in Albania
Albania
13°
Slight rain
Sun
8
13
Mon
7
11
Tue
6
13
Wed
8
12
Thu
6
12
SPF level in Albania
Recommended: SPF 50
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 50
Autumn
SPF 30
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in Albania
Tipping in Albania
Tipping is appreciated in Albania, especially for good service, but it is not mandatory. A small tip can go a long way.
Restaurant
5-10% for good service
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount
Taxi
Rounding up the fare
Hotel Porter
100-200 ALL per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 ALL per day
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price, depending on the quality
Safety & security in Albania
Tips for British travellers
Albania is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Watch out for pickpockets and bag thieves in tourist areas, on public transport and at major transport hubs.
Penalties for drug-related crimes are severe, including long jail sentences and heavy fines for possession, use or smuggling.
Use licensed water sports centres, complete paperwork, and heed warning signs, lifeguard instructions, and beach flags.
Carry a green card as proof of vehicle insurance if driving your own car and check your hire company's requirements if renting.
If involved in a traffic accident, even a minor one, remain at the scene until the police arrive to avoid fines or charges.
Bonus tips:
Do not light fires or barbecues except in designated and marked areas, as causing a wildfire is a criminal offence with penalties.
If detained, you may insist on your right to contact the British Embassy in Tirana, as local authorities do not always inform them of arrests.
Driving in Albania
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.01%
Remember: Albania drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
129
Ambulance
127
Fire
128
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Albania
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Cards & payments
Card payments are becoming more common, especially in larger establishments in cities and tourist areas, but cash is still preferred in many smaller businesses.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Albania
Widely available in cities and tourist areas, less so in rural areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are the most convenient way to get cash. Ensure your card is enabled for international use. Be aware of potential transaction fees.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your UK mobile provider for roaming charges in Albania. Roaming charges can be high, so consider a local SIM card if you plan to use mobile data extensively.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 1500 ALL (~£12)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Vodafone Albania, ALBtelecom, One Telecommunications
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants, especially in cities and tourist areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
WiFi is a decent option for staying connected. Mobile internet can be expensive when roaming. Check the Wifi speed before committing.
Health & vaccinations
As a UK resident, your access to healthcare in Albania may not be free. While Albania isn't in the EU, it's advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, and any pre-existing conditions. Ensure your policy covers the duration of your stay and any activities you plan to undertake. Although the GHIC/EHIC card is not valid in Albania, adequate travel insurance is a must for peace of mind.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues. Medical facilities in major cities are generally adequate, but may be limited in rural areas. Bring any personal medications you require, with a copy of your prescription.
Calling Albania
Country code
+355
To call Albania from the UK, dial 00 355 followed by the local number (without the leading 0 if there is one).
To call the British Embassy in Tirana from the UK, you would dial 00 355 4 2244973.
The country code for Albania is 355. When calling from abroad, drop the leading '0' from the local area code.
UK Embassy in Albania
British Embassy Tirana
Rruga Skënderbej 12, Tirana, Albania
Airport in Albania
Frequently asked questions about Albania
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.