Republic of Albania
Tucked between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Albania is a hidden gem of the Balkans – where dramatic mountains meet pristine coastlines and ancient history echoes through lively towns. As one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, Albania offers a captivating blend of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, and Ottoman heritage, all wrapped in genuine hospitality and unspoiled natural beauty. From the cobbled charm of Gjirokastër to the sun-kissed shores of the Albanian Riviera, the country invites exploration at every turn – full of warmth, flavor, and timeless allure.
The Republic of Albania stands proudly as a rising star of the Balkans, where tradition dances with progress and every village has a story to share. Whether you seek cultural discovery, rugged adventure, or a serene escape, Albania delivers with authenticity and heart. As we say, “Be in the Balkans, where every mile gives you a smile.”
- Capital: Tirana
- Largest City: Tirana
- Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
- Population: ~2.7 million (2025 est.)
- Official Language: Albanian (Gheg & Tosk dialects)
- Time Zone: GMT+1 (GMT+2 DST)
- International Dialing Code: +355
- Government Type: Parliamentary Republic
- Major Religions: Islam, Christianity (Orthodox & Catholic)
For more details visit: beinalbania.com
Albanian culture is deeply rooted in hospitality (besa), strong family values, and ancient traditions:
- Cuisine: Grilled meats, byrek, fresh seafood, mountain herbs
- Traditions: Wedding ceremonies, folk music, iso-polyphonic singing (UNESCO)
- Festivals: Tirana International Film Festival, Gjirokastër National Folklore Festival
The country’s blend of Ottoman, Roman, and local customs makes it a treasure trove of cultural richness.
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Albania is a youthful and vibrant nation:
- Ethnic Majority: Albanian (~95%)
- Minorities: Greeks, Roma, Macedonians, Montenegrins
- Diaspora: Over 1 million Albanians live abroad
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Albania features a diverse landscape ideal for adventure tourism:
- Coastline: Over 450 km along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas
- Mountains: Albanian Alps (Accursed Mountains), Mount Korab
- Lakes: Lake Shkodra, Lake Ohrid, Lake Prespa
Albania’s wild beauty is perfect for trekking, kayaking, and paragliding.
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- Illyrian Roots: One of the oldest inhabited regions in Europe
- Ottoman Era: Over 400 years of influence
- Independence: 1912
- Communist Rule: 1946–1991 (isolationist regime)
- Modern Democracy: Ongoing reforms, EU candidate status
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- Official Language: Albanian (Tosk in the south, Gheg in the north)
- Minority Languages: Greek, Romani, Macedonian, Serbian
- Foreign Languages: Italian and English widely spoken
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If you want to learn Albanian language basics for more details visit: beinalbania.com
- System: Free and compulsory between ages 6 – 16
- Top Universities: University of Tirana, Polytechnic University of Tirana
- International Collaboration: Erasmus+ programs and regional exchange
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- Internet Penetration: ~75%
- Mobile Operators: Vodafone Albania, One Telecommunications, Albtelecom
- Media Landscape: Growing digital media sector
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- Airports: Tirana International Airport (TIA)
- Road Network: Expanding highway infrastructure (A1, SH2, SH4)
- Seaports: Durrës (main port), Vlorë, Sarandë
- Public Transport: Mini-buses (furgons), buses, taxis
For more details visit: beinalbania.com
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- Emergency Number: 112
- Tourist Police: Present in key areas
- Medical Facilities: Public hospitals and growing number of private clinics
- Travel Tips: Safe for tourism; always check local advice for mountain or rural regions
More details on Safety and Security in Albania please visit: beinalbania.com
- Government Type: Parliamentary Republic
- President: Head of State
- Prime Minister: Head of Government
- Parliament: Unicameral Assembly of Albania
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- GDP (2025 est.): ~$20 billion
- Sectors: Tourism, agriculture, energy, services
- Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
- Key Exports: Minerals, textiles, medicinal plants, fruits
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- United States – Tirana
- Germany – Tirana
- France – Tirana
- Turkey – Tirana
- Japan – Tirana
- United Kingdom – Tirana
- Italy – Tirana
- Greece – Tirana
- Kosovo – Tirana
- North Macedonia – Tirana
For full list of Embassies and Liaison offices in Albania please visit: beinalbania.com
- Tirana – Colorful capital with arts, culture, and nightlife
- Berat – UNESCO-listed “city of a thousand windows”
- Gjirokastër – Stone town and cultural gem
- Shkodër – Artistic spirit and gateway to the Alps
- Sarandë – Riviera escape near the Ionian islands
For more Albania city details visit: beinalbania.com
The Albanian flag features a black two-headed eagle on a red field – symbolizing bravery, freedom, and strength.
- Independence Day: November 28, 1912
- Honoring the declaration from the Ottoman Empire in Vlorë
For more details about Albania flag, independence day, and anthem, please visit: beinalbania.com
Linking Opportunities
- Discover more Balkan beauty in Albania: beinalbania.com
- Island-hop via Montenegro’s coast: beinmontenegro.com
- Visit Kosovo’s cultural heartland: beinkosovo.com
- Ottoman echoes and rich traditions in Bosnia: beinbosnia.com
- Cross into the hidden gems of North Macedonia: beinmacedonia.com
- For Türkiye, Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia please contact beinbalkan.com via contact form.
Be in Albania. Be in the Balkans – where every mile gives you a smile.