What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

Budget travelers will love Albania's many free or low-cost attractions. Hiking in the Albanian Alps offers stunning scenery without breaking the bank. Exploring Berat's historic neighborhoods, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also inexpensive. The beaches along the Albanian Riviera are free to access, though you'll pay for sunbeds and umbrellas. Visiting ancient ruins like Apollonia or Butrint involves a small entrance fee, but the historical significance is well worth it. Many smaller museums throughout the country offer affordable entry.

What are the best hostels in Albania?

Among the hostels in Albania, Stone City Hostel , The Wanderers Hostel and Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel are the most popular ones.

Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Albania?

Tirana International Airport (TIA) is the main airport, handling the vast majority of international flights. There are smaller airports, such as those in Kukes (KUK) and Vlora (VLA), but they serve fewer destinations and generally have less frequent flights.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Albania?

Hotel Legjenda , Hostel Hasta La Vista and Guesthouse Pashko are the best hostels with a pool in Albania.

What currency do you need for Albania?

The Albanian Lek (ALL) is the official currency. While some larger establishments might accept euros, it's best to use Lek for everyday transactions to get the best exchange rate. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns.

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Albania?

The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Albania are Atelier Boutique Hotel , Chicago Hotel and Apartment Baza Hostel .

How easy is it to navigate the roads in Albania?

Driving in Albania can be challenging. Road conditions vary considerably, with well-maintained highways alongside more rugged mountain roads. Many smaller roads are poorly marked. Renting a car can be a good option for exploring independently, but it's important to be prepared for variable driving conditions. Public transportation, including buses, is available but can be less reliable and slower than driving, especially in more remote areas.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Albania?

The best hostels for families and kids in Albania are The Wanderers Hostel , Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel and Mi Casa Es Tu Casa - Shkodra Backpackers Hostel .

How can travelers best respect local customs while in Albania?

Albanians are generally welcoming to tourists, but showing respect for local customs goes a long way. Dressing modestly when visiting religious sites is appreciated. Learning a few basic Albanian phrases demonstrates effort and is well-received. It's considered polite to greet people with a handshake. Being mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, is also important.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Albania?

The best pet friendly hostels in Albania are The Wanderers Hostel , Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel and Mi Casa Es Tu Casa - Shkodra Backpackers Hostel .

Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Albania?

Albania has a rich tapestry of festivals. The Dita e Flamurit (Flag Day) on November 28th is a significant national holiday. Many local festivals celebrate religious holidays or commemorate historical events. Specific regional festivals vary throughout the year, often involving traditional music, dance, and food. The Summer Festival in Tirana features a range of cultural events.

What are the best hostels with parking in Albania?

Stone City Hostel , The Wanderers Hostel and Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Albania.

What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Albania?

For medical emergencies, dial 112. For police assistance, also dial 112. It's advisable to have the phone numbers of your embassy or consulate readily available in case of need.

What are the best areas to spend a week in Albania?

A week allows for a good exploration of different regions. Consider combining the cultural richness of Berat and Gjirokastra with the coastal beauty of the Albanian Riviera (including Dhermi and Himara). Alternatively, explore the northern mountains, hiking in the Albanian Alps and visiting Theth National Park.

What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Albania?

For a short trip, focus on one region. Tirana offers a blend of history and modern life, easily explored in a weekend. Alternatively, the coastal city of Durres provides a relaxing beach getaway. Berat, with its Ottoman-era architecture, is another excellent choice for a weekend escape.

Are there specific regions known for great weather?

The Albanian Riviera enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This region generally offers the best weather for sunbathing and swimming from June to September. The southern coastal areas tend to have warmer temperatures than the northern parts of the country.

Compare Top Hostels in Albania

8.8 29 reviews

Lake Breeze

hostel, Gjokaj

The Lake Breeze offer is a hostel located in Gjokaj, 14 kilometres from Skanderbeg Square and the Former Residence of Enver Hoxha, and 18 kilometres from the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car.
This accommodation provides complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, an on-site bar, and daily vegetarian breakfast, with private bathrooms featuring a shower and hairdryer, and is situated 12 kilometres from Tirana International Airport.

8.5 83 reviews

City Center Hostel

hostel, Shkodër

Hostel Central Shkoder is located in Shkodër, just 48 kilometres from the Port of Bar and 58 kilometres from Podgorica Airport. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness, location and user experience.
The hostel has one bedroom and one bathroom. It offers free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a terrace, parking and an airport shuttle service for a fee.

9.3 1084 reviews

The Bearded Dad Hostel

hostel, Tirana

The Bearded Dad Hostel is located in Tirana, just a short walk from the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, House of Leaves, and Clock Tower, making it a great base for exploring the city centre. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of rooms, all with a patio and garden views. You can enjoy the fresh air on the garden terrace and unwind in the bar, which also offers a range of drinks.

8.5 92 reviews

Hotel Germenji

hostel, Gërmenj

Hotel Germenji, a three-star guesthouse in Gërmenj, offers convenient access to local attractions and amenities; precise distances require further information.
This family-friendly establishment features one bedroom, one bathroom, a restaurant, bar, garden, and parking, plus room service and free WiFi; pets are welcome.

9.0 230 reviews

Hostel Vila H

hostel, Tirana

Vila H, a hostel in Tirana, is located a 12-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square and the Clock Tower Tirana, and 6.1 kilometres from the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car.
This accommodation offers air conditioning, free WiFi, a garden, and valet parking, with private bathrooms and non-smoking rooms available.

9.6 170 reviews

Green Door Hostel

hostel, Tirana

Green Door Hostel, offering a peaceful stay in Tirana, is located a 9-minute walk (approximately 720 metres) from Skanderbeg Square and within easy reach of historical sites including the Tanners' Bridge, Clock Tower Tirana, and Et'hem Bey Mosque.
This accommodation provides air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, and a garden, with some rooms featuring a balcony offering garden views, alongside a shared lounge for guest use.

8.9 348 reviews

North Star Hotel

hostel, Shkodër

North Star Hostel is located in Shkodër, 48km from the Port of Bar and 58km from Podgorica Airport. It has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The hostel offers a range of amenities, including a garden, a bar, and a shared lounge. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and parking, as well as comfortable rooms with city views.

9.1 70 reviews

Happy Corner Guest House

hostel, Shkodër

Happy Corner Guest House is located in Shkodër, just a short distance from the city centre and within easy reach of landmarks like Rozafa Castle and Lake Shkodra. The accommodation has consistently received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
Happy Corner Guest House offers a comfortable and convenient stay with a shared kitchen and lounge area. Guests can enjoy the outdoor spaces, including a garden, terrace, and a shared grill, perfect for relaxing or socialising with fellow travellers.

8.9 624 reviews

Golden Sleep Hostel

hostel, Shkodër

Golden Sleep Hostel is located in Shkodër, just 50 kilometres from the Port of Bar and 56 kilometres from Podgorica Airport. The hostel has been highly rated by guests for its excellent location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel features a shared lounge and bar, providing a sociable space for guests to relax and interact. Amenities include air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a terrace, and a shared bathroom with a bidet and hairdryer, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

9.0 214 reviews

Sisterhood Hostel-female Only

hostel, Tirana

Sisterhood Hostel - Female Only, situated in central Tirana near Rinia Park and the Clock Tower, offers easy access to attractions such as Et'hem Bey Mosque and Skanderbeg Square, all within walking distance or a short taxi ride (approximately 16km from Tirana International Airport Mother Teresa).
This 65 square metre female-only guesthouse features one bedroom, one bathroom, and accommodates one guest, providing a shared kitchen, lounge, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a terrace with city views.

8.4 321 reviews

Guesthouse Pashko

hostel, Theth

Guesthouse Pashko is located in Theth, just a short distance from the entrance of Theth National Park, making it ideal for exploring the stunning trails and waterfalls. The guesthouse has received very good ratings for cleanliness and overall experience, with excellent reviews for its location.
The guesthouse offers a comfortable and convenient stay with a single bedroom and bathroom. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including a restaurant, bar, garden, terrace, swimming pool, parking, and internet access.

8.5 94 reviews

Bujtina Kukaj Guest House Kukaj

hostel, Valbonë

Bujtina Kukaj Guest House, located in the village of Kukaj within Valbonë, offers an authentic experience away from the main tourist routes, with free Wi-Fi and parking available. This guesthouse provides a peaceful retreat with an on-site à la carte breakfast, and is managed by a private host for a personal service, though it is not suitable for parties.

Best Albania hostels with breakfast

Among the 888 hostels in Albania, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

9.1 522 reviews

Atelier Boutique Hotel

hostel, Shkodër

Atelier Boutique Hotel is located in Shkodër, just a short distance from Rozafa Castle and Lake Skadar, offering easy access to the city's top attractions. The hotel has received excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hotel has one bedroom and one bathroom, accommodating up to two guests. Atelier Boutique Hotel offers a range of amenities, including a shared kitchen, a garden, a terrace, and a fitness centre, as well as bike rentals and room service.

8.2 140 reviews

Hotel Sarda

hostel, Vau i Dejës

Hotel Sarda, a hostel in Vau i Dejës, is located 19 kilometres from Rozafa Castle Shkodra and 22 kilometres from Lake Skadar.
This accommodation offers family rooms with air conditioning and balconies, complimentary on-site parking, a bar, a terrace, and free WiFi, with breakfast options available daily.

8.3 83 reviews

Guest House And Hostel Val-mar

hostel, Gjirokastër

Guest House And Hostel Val-mar is located in Gjirokastër, 45 km from Zaravina Lake and 84 km from Ioannina Airport, offering a peaceful retreat just a short walk from the historic Old Bazaar and Gjirokastër Castle. The hostel has consistently received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness and user experience.
The hostel features a single bedroom and bathroom across 30 square metres. Amenities include air conditioning, a garden, a bar, free parking, and a continental or halal breakfast option, providing a comfortable and social stay for travellers.

7.8 63 reviews

Stone House Hostel Elbasan

hostel, Elbasan

Stone House Hostel Elbasan is situated in Elbasan, approximately 42 kilometres from Tirana and its key landmarks such as Skanderbeg Square, Dajti Ekspres Cable Car, and the Former Residence of Enver Hoxha. The hostel provides guests with a peaceful garden, a shared lounge, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary bikes to explore Elbasan and its surroundings.

Top cities

Best Albania hostels with a locker

9.6 117 reviews

Pemaj Hostel

hostel, Shkodër

Pemaj Hostel is located in Shkodër, just 50 kilometres from the Port of Bar and 56 kilometres from Podgorica Airport. This hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel has a 25 square metre floor area and offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. You can enjoy a private garden, a swimming pool, a terrace, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness centre, as well as free Wi-Fi, parking and room service.

8.0 1043 reviews

Tufina Hostel

hostel, Tirana

Tufina Hostel is conveniently located in Tirana, just a short walk from both Sky Tower and Skanderbeg Square, making it easy to explore the city's main attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness, user experience, and location.
The hostel offers a single bedroom and bathroom with a capacity for one guest. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including air conditioning, a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a buffet breakfast. The hostel also features a social lounge and provides evening entertainment, creating a welcoming atmosphere for travellers.

9.3 861 reviews

The Galley Party Hostel

hostel, Shkodër

The Galley Party Hostel is located in Shkodër, just 4.3 km from Rozafa Castle and 6.6 km from Lake Skadar, making it a convenient base for exploring the city and its surrounding natural beauty. It has consistently received excellent ratings from guests for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a choice of rooms with private bathrooms and air conditioning, ensuring comfort and privacy. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, a garden, a bar, and a terrace, providing ample opportunities to relax, socialize, and explore the local area.

8.3 110 reviews

Guesthouse & Hostel Lorenc

hostel, Berat

Guesthouse & Hostel Lorenc is located in Berat, just under 1 kilometre from the UNESCO-protected Mangalem district, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of this historic city. The guesthouse has received very good reviews for its cleanliness and overall experience, with guests particularly praising its excellent location.
The accommodation offers a range of rooms and dormitories, all featuring simple furnishings and bed linen. Guests can enjoy a secluded garden with a furnished terrace, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and bar, and free parking nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Albania

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
Budget travelers will love Albania's many free or low-cost attractions. Hiking in the Albanian Alps offers stunning scenery without breaking the bank. Exploring Berat's historic neighborhoods, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also inexpensive. The beaches along the Albanian Riviera are free to access, though you'll pay for sunbeds and umbrellas. Visiting ancient ruins like Apollonia or Butrint involves a small entrance fee, but the historical significance is well worth it. Many smaller museums throughout the country offer affordable entry.
What are the best hostels in Albania?
Among the hostels in Albania, Stone City Hostel, The Wanderers Hostel and Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel are the most popular ones.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from Albania?
Tirana International Airport (TIA) is the main airport, handling the vast majority of international flights. There are smaller airports, such as those in Kukes (KUK) and Vlora (VLA), but they serve fewer destinations and generally have less frequent flights.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Albania?
Hotel Legjenda, Hostel Hasta La Vista and Guesthouse Pashko are the best hostels with a pool in Albania.
What currency do you need for Albania?
The Albanian Lek (ALL) is the official currency. While some larger establishments might accept euros, it's best to use Lek for everyday transactions to get the best exchange rate. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Albania?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Albania are Atelier Boutique Hotel, Chicago Hotel and Apartment Baza Hostel.
How easy is it to navigate the roads in Albania?
Driving in Albania can be challenging. Road conditions vary considerably, with well-maintained highways alongside more rugged mountain roads. Many smaller roads are poorly marked. Renting a car can be a good option for exploring independently, but it's important to be prepared for variable driving conditions. Public transportation, including buses, is available but can be less reliable and slower than driving, especially in more remote areas.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Albania?
The best hostels for families and kids in Albania are The Wanderers Hostel, Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel and Mi Casa Es Tu Casa - Shkodra Backpackers Hostel.
How can travelers best respect local customs while in Albania?
Albanians are generally welcoming to tourists, but showing respect for local customs goes a long way. Dressing modestly when visiting religious sites is appreciated. Learning a few basic Albanian phrases demonstrates effort and is well-received. It's considered polite to greet people with a handshake. Being mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, is also important.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Albania?
The best pet friendly hostels in Albania are The Wanderers Hostel, Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel and Mi Casa Es Tu Casa - Shkodra Backpackers Hostel.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Albania?
Albania has a rich tapestry of festivals. The Dita e Flamurit (Flag Day) on November 28th is a significant national holiday. Many local festivals celebrate religious holidays or commemorate historical events. Specific regional festivals vary throughout the year, often involving traditional music, dance, and food. The Summer Festival in Tirana features a range of cultural events.
What are the best hostels with parking in Albania?
Stone City Hostel, The Wanderers Hostel and Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Albania.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Albania?
For medical emergencies, dial 112. For police assistance, also dial 112. It's advisable to have the phone numbers of your embassy or consulate readily available in case of need.
What are the best areas to spend a week in Albania?
A week allows for a good exploration of different regions. Consider combining the cultural richness of Berat and Gjirokastra with the coastal beauty of the Albanian Riviera (including Dhermi and Himara). Alternatively, explore the northern mountains, hiking in the Albanian Alps and visiting Theth National Park.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Albania?
For a short trip, focus on one region. Tirana offers a blend of history and modern life, easily explored in a weekend. Alternatively, the coastal city of Durres provides a relaxing beach getaway. Berat, with its Ottoman-era architecture, is another excellent choice for a weekend escape.
Are there specific regions known for great weather?
The Albanian Riviera enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This region generally offers the best weather for sunbathing and swimming from June to September. The southern coastal areas tend to have warmer temperatures than the northern parts of the country.

Best Albania hostels with air conditioning

9.7 1928 reviews

Stone City Hostel

hostel, Gjirokastër

Stone City Hostel is situated in Gjirokastër, a short walk from the city centre and within easy reach of Zaravina Lake and Ioannina Airport. The hostel has been highly rated by guests for its excellent location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel features a shared kitchen, a garden, a terrace and a bar, offering a relaxed and social atmosphere for guests. There are also a range of amenities and activities available, including air conditioning, free WiFi, a fitness centre, and hiking opportunities in the surrounding area.

9.1 62 reviews

Guesthouse Kristi & Mari

hostel, Vlorë

Guesthouse Kristi & Mari in Vlorë offers a self-catering apartment, a 4-minute walk from Vjetër Beach and 2.7km from Vlorë's city centre and Independence Square.
This excellently-rated 20-square-metre apartment features a bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, air conditioning, a terrace, free Wi-Fi, and free on-site parking; ideal for families.

9.4 152 reviews

Villa Mehmeti

hostel, Sarandë

Villa Mehmeti is located in Sarandë, a short distance from the city centre and approximately 1.8 km from Saranda City Beach. The hostel has received excellent ratings for cleanliness and user experience, as well as a very good rating for its location.
Villa Mehmeti offers a shared lounge for socialising with other guests, as well as a garden and a children's playground. The hostel also has a bar, a swimming pool, a terrace, air conditioning, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, free parking, and internet access.

9.1 1831 reviews

Mi Casa Es Tu Casa - Shkodra Backpackers Hostel

hostel, Shkodër

Mi Casa Es Tu Casa - Shkodra Backpackers Hostel is conveniently located in the centre of Shkodër, a short walk from the historic Rozafa Castle and the lively pedestrian zone. This hostel consistently receives excellent ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of communal areas for guests to relax and socialise, including a shared terrace with barbecue facilities. Guests can also enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, a fitness centre, and a bar.

Best Albania hostels with laundry available

9.4 276 reviews

Xhou's Home

hostel, Shkodër

Xhou's Home is a family-friendly hostel located in Shkodër, just 50 kilometres from the Port of Bar.
The hostel offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, a shared kitchen with a fridge, and a terrace with city and mountain views.

8.6 52 reviews

Vila Kastriotet-hotel

hostel, Lezhë

This aparthotel in Lezhë is located 37 kilometres from Rozafa Castle Shkodra and 39 kilometres from Lake Skadar, offering convenient access to local attractions.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom aparthotel provides air-conditioned accommodation with a kitchen featuring a fridge and dishwasher, a terrace, garden, bar, and on-site parking, with a user rating of very good.

8.6 181 reviews

Topo Hostel

hostel, Tirana

TOPO Hostel in Tirana is located approximately 1.5km from Skanderbeg Square, offering easy access to the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, the National Museum of History, and Tanners' Bridge.
This single-bedroom guesthouse provides air conditioning, a fridge, microwave, and terrace; it sleeps one guest and includes a shared lounge, garden, and free Wi-Fi.

9.3 1054 reviews

Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel

hostel, Gjirokastër

Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel is situated just a short distance from the centre of Gjirokastër, within easy reach of the historic Old Town and the impressive Gjirokastër Castle. This guesthouse has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The guesthouse has a garden, terrace, bar, and shared lounge, creating a relaxed and sociable atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a bicycle rental service.

Find hostels in Albania at the best prices

888 Hostels in Albania

Lake Breeze

City Center Hostel

The Bearded Dad Hostel

Hotel Germenji

Hostel Vila H

Green Door Hostel

North Star Hotel

Happy Corner Guest House

Golden Sleep Hostel

Sisterhood Hostel-female Only

Guesthouse Pashko

Bujtina Kukaj Guest House Kukaj

Best Albania hostels with breakfast

Atelier Boutique Hotel

Hotel Sarda

Guest House And Hostel Val-mar

Stone House Hostel Elbasan

Top cities

Best Albania hostels with a locker

Pemaj Hostel

Tufina Hostel

The Galley Party Hostel

Guesthouse & Hostel Lorenc

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Albania

Best Albania hostels with air conditioning

Stone City Hostel

Guesthouse Kristi & Mari

Villa Mehmeti

Mi Casa Es Tu Casa - Shkodra Backpackers Hostel

Best Albania hostels with laundry available

Xhou's Home

Vila Kastriotet-hotel

Topo Hostel

Friends' Guesthouse & Hostel