Albania Travel Costs 2026: Complete Budget Guide for Tirana, Saranda & the Riviera

Albania 2026 – Europe's last hidden gem, but not for long. With tourism surging 34% in recent years and over 11 million visitors arriving in 2025, this Balkan beauty is finally getting the attention it deserves. The good news? It's still remarkably affordable, with daily budgets starting from just €30–40.

In this fully updated 2026 guide, you'll discover real costs for accommodation, food, transport, and activities across Tirana, Saranda, Ksamil, and the stunning Albanian Riviera. Plus concrete money-saving tips – including how to avoid the biggest hidden cost trap that catches most travelers.

Quick Overview: What Does Albania Really Cost?

Budget travelers: €25–45 per day (hostel, street food, public transport, free beaches)

Mid-range travelers: €50–90 per day (3-star hotel, restaurants, attractions, mix of bus and taxi)

Luxury travelers: €120–250+ per day (boutique hotel, fine dining, private tours, resort beaches)

Average 7-day trip for 2 people: €900–1,600 (excluding flights)

What Currency Is Used in Albania?

The official currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL or L). While Albania isn't in the EU, the Lek has remained relatively stable, making budgeting straightforward.

Current Exchange Rate 2026

1 Euro = 96–98 ALL

1 USD = 82–84 ALL

Rule of thumb for quick math: Divide the ALL amount by 100 to get the approximate value in euros.

Example: 1,000 ALL ÷ 100 ≈ €10

Coins and Banknotes

• Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 Lek
• Banknotes: 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 Lek

Which Payment Methods Work Best in Albania?

Albania has modernized rapidly, but cash remains king in many situations – more so than in Western Europe.

Credit & Debit Cards

• Major cities (Tirana, Saranda): Cards accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops
• Tourist areas: Many businesses accept Visa and Mastercard
• Rural areas, markets, small shops: Cash only
• Warning: Many banks charge 1.5–3% foreign transaction fees

When You Need Cash

Always carry Lek for these situations:

• Buses and furgons (minibuses): Almost always cash only
• Markets and bazaars: Cash gets better prices
• Small restaurants: Many lokals don't accept cards
• Tipping: Small tips in cash
• Street food: Byrek, qofte, and coffee vendors
• Entry fees: Some attractions prefer cash

ATMs and Exchange

ATMs (Bankomat):

• Found in all cities and tourist areas
• Withdrawal fee: 700–800 ALL (€7–8) per transaction
• Plus your home bank's fee (often €3–5)
• Tip: Withdraw larger amounts less frequently

Exchange Offices (Kembim Valutor):

• Best rates: City centers, away from airports
• Euros widely accepted and easily exchanged
• No commission at reputable offices
• Avoid: Airport exchange – rates are significantly worse

Pro tip: Bring euros in cash and exchange locally – you'll often get better rates than ATMs after fees. Many tourist businesses also accept euros directly (though at slightly worse rates).

Albania Prices 2026: What Do Things Actually Cost?

Accommodation – From Hostels to Boutique Hotels

Budget stays (hostels, guesthouses):

• Hostel dorm: €10–20 per night
• Budget guesthouse in Tirana: €20–35
• Budget hotel in Saranda (off-season): €20–40
• Family guesthouse in Theth/Valbona: €15–25 (includes meals)
• Recommendations: Trip'n'Hostel Tirana, Hostel Kanina Saranda

Mid-range (3–4-star hotels):

• Good hotel in Tirana (Blloku area): €40–70
• Beachfront hotel in Saranda: €50–100
• Hotel in Ksamil (summer): €60–120
• Boutique hotel in Berat/Gjirokastër: €40–80
• Recommendations: Hotel Colosseo Tirana, Duka's Hotel Ksamil

Luxury (boutique and 5-star):

• 5-star in Tirana: €100–200
• Premium resort in Saranda: €120–250
• Boutique hotel in Ksamil (peak summer): €150–300
• Luxury resort on the Riviera: €200–400

Insider tip: Book shoulder season (May–June or September–October) for 30–40% lower prices than July–August, with equally good weather and fewer crowds.

Food & Drinks – What Dining Costs in Albania

Street food & bakeries (cheapest):

• Byrek (savory pastry): €0.50–1
• Qofte (meatballs) with bread: €2–3
• Sufllaqe (Albanian döner): €2–3
• Fresh bread: €0.30–0.50
• Simite (sesame roll): €0.20–0.30

Local restaurants (lokals):

• Full meal with drink: €5–10
• Tavë kosi (lamb with yogurt): €5–8
• Fërgesë (peppers and cheese): €4–6
• Grilled meat platter: €6–10
• Fresh salad: €2–4
• Traditional meze spread: €8–15

Mid-range restaurants:

• Main course: €8–15
• Dinner for 2 with drinks: €25–45
• Seafood at Saranda/Ksamil: €12–25
• Pizza: €5–10

Fine dining:

• Upscale restaurant in Tirana: €25–50 per person
• Seafood restaurant with view: €30–60
• Wine pairing dinner: €40–80

Drinks:

• Bottled water (1.5L, supermarket): €0.30–0.50
• Macchiato (Albanian style): €0.50–1
• Turkish coffee: €0.50–1
• Fresh orange juice: €1–2
• Local beer (Korça, Tirana): €1–2 (shop), €2–4 (bar)
• Rakı (local spirit): €1–3 per glass
• Cocktail in Tirana/Saranda: €4–8

Supermarkets:

• Weekly shop for 1 person: €25–40
• Budget chains: Conad, Big Market, Spar
• Note: Some imported products can be surprisingly expensive

Transport – Buses, Furgons, and Taxis

Tirana city transport:

• City bus: 40 ALL (€0.40)
• No transfer system – pay per ride
• Taxi base fare: €2.50
• Taxi across Tirana: €5–10
• Airport to city center (taxi): €25–30
• Airport to city center (bus): €4

Intercity buses and furgons:

• Tirana → Durrës (45 min): €2.50
• Tirana → Berat (2.5 hrs): €4
• Tirana → Gjirokastër (5 hrs): €10
• Tirana → Saranda (6 hrs): €12
• Tirana → Shkodër (2 hrs): €4
• Saranda → Ksamil (20 min): €1–2
• Saranda → Butrint (30 min): €2

Note: Albanian buses can be informal – schedules vary, and you may need to ask locals where to catch them. Furgons (shared minibuses) are faster but leave when full.

Taxis & rides:

• Always agree on price before getting in
• Download Speed Taxi app for Tirana
• Typical short ride: €3–5
• Saranda to Blue Eye (round trip with wait): €30–40
• Saranda to Butrint (round trip with wait): €25–35

Car rental:

• Economy car: €20–35 per day
• Fuel: €1.80/L
• Roads have improved significantly
• Parking: Often free, €0.50–1/hour in city centers
• Tip: Best way to explore the Riviera coast

Ferries:

• Saranda → Corfu (Greece): €20–30 one way, 30–45 min
• Useful for combining Albania with Greek islands

Activities & Attractions – What Does Sightseeing Cost?

Tirana attractions:

• Bunk'Art 1 (communist bunker museum): €5–7
• Bunk'Art 2 (secret police museum): €3–5
• National History Museum: €5
• House of Leaves (surveillance museum): €7
• Dajti Ekspres cable car (return): €15
• Skanderbeg Square: Free
• Blloku neighborhood: Free
• Pyramid of Tirana: Free (you can climb it)

Albanian Riviera & South:

• Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër): €0.50 (+ €1–2 parking)
• Butrint National Park (UNESCO): €10
• Lekurësi Castle: Free (restaurant at top)
• Ksamil beaches: Free (sunbeds €5–15)
• Boat to Ksamil islands: €5–10
• Gjirokastër Castle: €3–5

Northern Albania & Alps:

• Shkodër: Rozafa Castle €1.50, Marubi Museum €2
• Komani Lake ferry: €10–15 one way
• Theth National Park: Free
• Valbona to Theth hike: Free (guide optional €30–50)

UNESCO sites (Berat & Gjirokastër):

• Berat Castle area: Free
• Onufri Museum (Berat): €2–3
• Ethnographic Museum Berat: €2
• Gjirokastër Old Bazaar: Free

Tours and activities:

• Walking tour Tirana: Free (tip-based) to €20
• Wine tasting tour: €40–80
• Cooking class: €50–90
• Rafting on Vjosa River: €40–50
• Day trip Berat from Tirana: €40–70
• Butrint + Blue Eye + Ksamil tour: €50–80

Free highlights:

• Ksamil beaches and islands
• Dhermi and Himara beaches
• Walking through Berat's Ottoman quarter
• Gjirokastër old town
• Tirana's colorful Blloku district
• Hiking in Theth and Valbona
• Swimming at the Blue Eye (officially forbidden, but many do)

Additional Costs – Don't Forget These

Beach sunbeds:

• Budget beaches: €5–10 for 2 sunbeds + umbrella
• Popular spots (Ksamil): €10–20
• Beach clubs: €30–50 (includes drinks)
• Many public beaches are completely free

Tips (not mandatory but appreciated):

• Restaurant: Round up or 5–10%
• Taxi: Round up to nearest 100 ALL
• Tour guide: €5–10 per person
• Hotel porter: 200–500 ALL

Internet & Mobile:

• Albania is NOT part of EU roaming!
• German providers: €4.95+ for just 100 MB (!)
• Standard roaming: Up to €1 per MB
• Local SIM: €5–15 for tourist package
• Best option: eSIM from simbye.com – see below!

Complete Budget Overview: 7 Days in Albania for 2 People

Budget Trip: €700–1,100 for 2 People

Accommodation: Hostels and budget guesthouses (€20–35/night) = €140–245

Food: Street food, lokals, occasional restaurant (€20/day total) = €140

Transport: Buses, furgons (€8/day) = €56

Activities: Free beaches, hiking, 2–3 paid attractions = €50

Internet: eSIM from simbye.com (1GB/7 days) = $3

Misc.: Tips, sunbeds, extras = €60

TOTAL: €449–554 + buffer = €700–1,100

Mid-Range Trip: €1,200–1,800 for 2 People

Accommodation: 3-star hotels (€50–80/night) = €350–560

Food: Mix of restaurants & street food (€50/day total) = €350

Transport: Buses, taxis, one car rental day (€15/day) = €105

Activities: Butrint, Bunk'Art, Blue Eye, tours = €150

Internet: eSIM from simbye.com (5GB/30 days) = $15

Misc.: Beach clubs, shopping, tips = €150

TOTAL: €1,120–1,330 + buffer = €1,200–1,800

Luxury Trip: €2,500–4,000+ for 2 People

Accommodation: Boutique/5-star hotels (€150–250/night) = €1,050–1,750

Food: Fine dining, seafood restaurants (€100/day total) = €700

Transport: Private transfers, rental car (€40/day) = €280

Activities: Private tours, wine tasting, cooking class = €400

Internet: eSIM from simbye.com (Unlimited/7 days) = $25

Shopping & extras: Beach clubs, souvenirs = €300

TOTAL: €2,755–3,455 (excluding premium experiences)

The Biggest Cost Trap: Internet & Roaming

Here's what catches most travelers off guard: Albania is NOT part of the EU roaming zone. Your "Roam like at home" benefits don't apply here!

The Roaming Problem

• German Telekom: 100 MB for €4.95 (24h only!)
• German o2: 50 MB for €4.99
• Standard pay-per-MB roaming: €0.99+ per megabyte
• One Instagram story = €5–10 in roaming
• Using Google Maps for a day = €20–50
• 7 days of normal use = €50–200+ in surprise charges

Note: The EU announced plans to eliminate roaming charges with Albania in 2026, but this hasn't been implemented yet. Until then, prepare for extra costs!

Local SIM at the Airport?

• Vodafone, One, and ALBtelecom shops at Tirana Airport
• Basic package: €5 for minimal data
• Tourist package (5–10 GB): €10–15
• Registration with passport required
• You lose your home number for WhatsApp
• Can be time-consuming after a long flight

The Smart Solution: eSIM from simbye.com

An eSIM gives you instant internet without queues, paperwork, or losing your number:

Current Simbye Prices for Albania:

• 1 GB for 7 days: $3 – Perfect for basic navigation and messaging
• 3 GB for 30 days: $8 – Great for a week's vacation
• 5 GB for 30 days: $15 – Best for regular social media use
• 10 GB for 30 days: $20 – For longer trips or heavier usage
• 20 GB for 30 days: $25 – Share hotspot with travel partners
• Unlimited 7 days: $25 – Stream, post, and navigate freely

How It Works:

1. Before your trip, choose your plan on simbye.com
2. Receive the QR code by email instantly
3. Scan the QR code to install (takes 60 seconds)
4. Land in Albania, activate – you're online immediately!

Your Benefits with Simbye:

• ✅ Up to 90% cheaper than roaming
• ✅ Online in 60 seconds – No airport queues
• ✅ Keep your WhatsApp number for messages and calls
• ✅ Fast 4G/5G on Vodafone Albania network
• ✅ 24/7 support via WhatsApp in 12 languages
• ✅ Top-up anytime if you need more data
• ✅ Hotspot included – Share with travel companions
• ✅ No physical SIM – Keep your home SIM for calls

Example calculation: 7 days in Albania with 5 GB data

• German roaming (€4.95/100MB): 50 × €4.95 = €247.50
• With Simbye eSIM: $15 ≈ €14
• Savings: 94%

→ Get Your Albania eSIM Now and Save!

20 Concrete Money-Saving Tips for Albania

Accommodation

1. Travel shoulder season: May–June and September–October offer 30–40% savings with perfect weather
2. Stay in guesthouses: Family-run pensions in Theth, Berat, and Gjirokastër include amazing home-cooked meals
3. Book in advance for Ksamil: Summer prices spike – book 2–3 months ahead for best rates

Food & Drinks

4. Eat byrek for breakfast: €0.50–1 for a filling savory pastry from any bakery
5. Find the local lokal: Away from tourist strips, meals cost €5–8
6. Drink macchiato like locals: Albanian coffee culture is amazing and costs €0.50–1
7. Buy produce at markets: Fresh fruit and vegetables at a fraction of supermarket prices
8. Try homemade rakı: Often offered free at guesthouses!

Transport

9. Master the furgon system: Faster than buses and still cheap – ask locals for departure points
10. Take the airport bus: €4 vs €25–30 for taxi
11. Share taxis for day trips: Split costs with other travelers for Blue Eye or Butrint
12. Rent a car for the Riviera: €25/day gives you freedom to discover hidden beaches
13. Use the Komani Lake ferry: €10 for one of Europe's most scenic boat journeys

Activities

14. Free walking tours: Available in Tirana, Berat, and Gjirokastër
15. Beach hop for free: Skip the beach clubs – public beaches are just as beautiful
16. Hike instead of tours: Theth to Valbona requires no guide if you're experienced
17. Visit Butrint early: Beat tour groups and enjoy peaceful exploration
18. Climb the Pyramid: Free 360° views of Tirana

General

19. Bring euros in cash: Exchange at city center offices for best rates
20. eSIM instead of roaming: Save up to 90% on internet costs → Get Simbye eSIM

Is Albania Really That Cheap?

The honest answer: Yes – but not "cheapest in Europe" cheap anymore.

Albania has seen rapid price increases in tourist areas (12–20% in 2025 alone). However, it remains 30–50% cheaper than Greece or Croatia for comparable experiences. The Albanian Riviera delivers Greek island-quality beaches at a fraction of the cost.

What's Cheaper in Albania Than Western Europe?

• Food: Restaurant meals €5–15 vs €20–40 in Greece
• Accommodation: Nice hotels €40–80 vs €100–200
• Transport: Buses €2–12 for long distances
• Coffee: €0.50–1 vs €3–5
• Beer: €1–3 vs €5–8
• Attractions: Most under €10
• Beaches: Many free, sunbeds €5–15 vs €30–50

What's Comparable or More Expensive?

• Ksamil in peak summer: Prices approaching Greek levels
• Imported goods: Electronics, some groceries
• Beach clubs: Upscale spots charge Western prices
• Rental cars in summer: Demand is high
• Roaming without eSIM: Potentially €50–200 per week

Best Time to Visit on a Budget

Cheapest months: November–March

• Hotels: 40–60% cheaper
• Flights: Significantly cheaper
• Downside: Beach resorts closed, weather cool/rainy
• Upside: Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastër still excellent

Most expensive months: July, August

• Peak beach season (30–35°C)
• Ksamil and Saranda very crowded
• Book 2–3 months ahead
• Prices 50–100% higher in coastal areas

Best balance: May–June, September–October

• Perfect weather (22–28°C)
• Moderate prices
• Fewer crowds
• Sea warm enough for swimming
• Best time for hiking in the Alps

Albania by Region: Quick Cost Comparison

Simbye vs Other Options: Cost Comparison

Conclusion: Albania Is Outstanding Value in 2026

Albania 2026 delivers incredible value – stunning beaches rivaling Greece, UNESCO-listed Ottoman towns, dramatic mountains, and delicious food – all at prices 30–50% lower than Western Mediterranean destinations.

The three most important savings tips:

1. Travel shoulder season: May–June or September–October for best prices and weather
2. Get outside tourist hotspots: Berat, Gjirokastër, and the Alps are cheaper than the coast
3. Get an eSIM: Avoid the roaming trap – the single biggest hidden cost for travelers

While prices are rising with tourism growth, Albania remains Europe's best-value Mediterranean destination. The key is preparing for the roaming situation – your phone bill shouldn't cost more than your hotel!

→ Get Your Albania eSIM from Just $3 Now!

FAQ: Common Questions About Albania Costs

How much does a week in Albania cost for 2 people?

For a mid-range trip (3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, public transport, main attractions), budget €1,200–1,800 for 2 people for 7 days (excluding flights). Budget travelers can manage with €700–1,100; luxury trips start at €2,500+.

Can I pay with euros in Albania?

Many tourist businesses accept euros, but usually at unfavorable rates. The official currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL). For best rates, exchange euros at city center exchange offices or use cards where accepted.

Is Albania cheaper than Greece?

Yes, significantly. Expect to pay 30–50% less for accommodation, food, and activities. The Albanian Riviera offers Greek island-quality beaches without Greek island prices.

How much should I tip in Albania?

Tipping isn't mandatory but is appreciated. Round up at restaurants or leave 5–10% for good service. Tour guides: €5–10. Hotel porters: 200–500 ALL.

Is Albania safe for tourists?

Yes, Albania is generally very safe. Albanians are known for their hospitality (a cultural tradition called "besa"). Take normal precautions as you would anywhere – watch your belongings in crowded areas.

Do I need a visa for Albania?

Most Western nationalities (EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia) can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Check current requirements for your nationality.

Is Albania part of EU roaming?

No! This is the biggest surprise for many travelers. Albania is not part of the EU, so "Roam like at home" doesn't apply. Expect high roaming charges or get an eSIM before arrival.

How much does Butrint National Park cost?

Entry is 1,000 ALL (€10) for foreigners. The bus from Saranda costs €2 each way. Allow 2–3 hours to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site properly.

What's the best way to get from Tirana to Saranda?

Bus: €12, 6 hours, scenic mountain route. Or fly to Corfu and take the ferry (30 min) – often similar total time and cost. In 2026, the road is in good condition.

How much does mobile internet cost in Albania?

EU roaming doesn't apply, so German providers charge €4.95+ for just 100 MB. Local SIM: €10–15 with registration. Best option: Simbye eSIM from just $3 → Get yours here

Are Ksamil beaches free?

Many beaches in Ksamil are free to access. Sunbed rental costs €5–15 for a pair with umbrella. Beach clubs with services are €30–50. You can always lay your own towel for free.

How much cash should I bring?

Bring €100–200 in cash to exchange on arrival. You'll need cash for buses, small restaurants, markets, and tips. In cities and tourist areas, cards are widely accepted.

What's the best area to stay in Albania?

Tirana for city vibes and nightlife. Ksamil/Saranda for beaches. Berat or Gjirokastër for authentic atmosphere. Theth/Valbona for hiking. Most travelers combine 2–3 areas in a week.

How much is a taxi from Tirana Airport?

Taxi to city center: €25–30 (agree price before). Airport bus: €4, runs every hour. The airport is 17km from central Tirana, about 30 minutes by car.

Is the Albanian Riviera expensive?

Prices have risen significantly but remain cheaper than Greece or Croatia. Budget €40–60/day for a comfortable trip in shoulder season; €60–100/day in peak summer for Ksamil and Dhermi.

Online Instantly in Albania – Your eSIM Is Waiting

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Your benefits:

• ✅ Instant activation after landing
• ✅ Up to 90% cheaper than roaming
• ✅ Fast 4G/5G on Vodafone Albania network
• ✅ Your home number stays active
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• ✅ Top-up anytime if you need more data
• ✅ 24/7 support via WhatsApp

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