Where to Stay in Tirana, Albania: Best Neighborhoods + Hotels

The vibrant city of Tirana is surprisingly not a top spot on most Albanian itineraries. Many tourists breeze through Tirana in a day or don't visit at all – landing at the airport and immediately heading for the coast. However, I highly suggest spending two to three days in Albania's capital to explore the modern cultural and financial hub of the country.

In this article, I'll detail where to stay in Tirana, highlighting the most interesting areas of the city and a few hotels for each budget bracket. From the lively party hub of Blloku to the family-oriented Komuna e Parasit, Tirana offers a little something for every kind of traveler.

The 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Albania

If you've read my previous article on where to stay in Albania, you already know I'm in love with this country. Albania is unique in the Mediterranean world and it's one of my favorite places to travel. Tirana is a big part of that love affair.

While I concede it's not the most beautiful city, however, because I am a digital nomad, I spent more time there than the average visitor to Albania, and the city has definitely grown on me. The people are interesting and kind, the food scene is fabulous, and the city is entirely different than the rest of the country.

When deciding where to stay in Tirana, there are five prominent neighborhoods to consider, each with pros and cons. Thankfully, Tirana doesn't feel like a huge city. It's very walkable, and many of the most famous neighborhoods flow together seamlessly, making getting around the city easy.

Accommodations are also very budget-friendly in comparison to the rest of Europe's capital cities, which is always a plus! Here's a quick peek at the five best areas to stay in Tirana.

Tregu Çam: Located in Tirana city center with nice apartments, cafes, and access to the most famous historical sites and museums.

Zona 1: The hippest place to stay in Tirana, famed for its colorful architecture, cafe streets, and close proximity to Skanderbeg Square and Tirana's museums.

Blloku: The best place for nightlife in Tirana, packed with trendy cafes, boutique shops, and a variety of bars and clubs.

Komuna e Parasit: Adjacent to Blloku (but much quieter), Komuna e Parasit surrounds Tirana's biggest green space, Grand Park. It's great for families with kids and those who love to spend time outdoors.

21 Dhjetori: The most famous neighborhood for backpackers, 21 Dhjetori is centrally located near Skanderbeg Square and Blloku, featuring affordable hostels and guesthouses.

1. Where to Stay in Tirana for First-Time Visitors: Tregu Çam

Tregu Çam is located at the heart of the city center. It's a top place to stay in Tirana for first-time visitors offering a few of the best Tirana hotels and apartments for all budgets.

It's within easy walking distance to main attractions like Skanderbeg Square, the National Historical Museum, House of Leaves, Mosque Et’Hem Bey, the Orthodox Cathedral of Tirana, and BunkArt2.

It's a busy area with all the amenities, including easy public transport, fabulous international and local cuisine, and plenty of other travelers to meet. If you want to be at the center of the action, then this is your neighborhood!

Best Hotels in Tregu Çam

Best Luxury Hotel in Tregu Çam: Capital Suites Center

Capital Suites Center is located across Kavaja Street from Tregu Çam proper and just off the main square. It's a 5-star accommodation that offers free private parking, non-smoking rooms (still a commodity in Albania), and suites with an exposed hot tub.

Many of the suites feature a balcony overlooking the city center, and the hotel offers easy access to all the main attractions, as Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum are literally across the street.

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Best Boutique Hotel in Tregu Çam: 4SeasonsGea

4SeasonsGea is a cozy studio apartment in the heart of Tregu Çam. It features a washing machine, a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, a balcony, and air conditioning.

The property boasts city views and a modern yet warm decor. The apartment can comfortably sleep three with a queen bed in the bedroom and a sofa bed in the living area.

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Best Budget Accommodation in Tregu Çam: Heart of Tirana

Heart of Tirana is a highly rated, one-bedroom apartment with an excellent location. It boasts fast Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, a modern design, and a balcony to enjoy your morning coffee.

With its fantastic location, low price, and modern amenities, the apartment is a great option for digital nomads or long stays in Tirana.

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2. Where to Stay in Tirana for Couples: Zona 1

Zona 1 has emerged as Tirana's coolest neighborhood that draws in a blended crowd. It also provides a central location, stretching across a large area between the Lana River and Skanderbeg Square, but it feels more homey than Tregu Çam.

Zona 1 is famed for its architectural charm with interesting facades draped in colorful decor and large street art. It's a nice mix of touristy and local, featuring Pazari i Ri (The New Bazaar) where you can score fresh fruits and veggies and Mediterranean cuisine staples like honey, olives, and oils.

The bazaar is surrounded by cute cafes, quaint bars, and really good restaurants, all lit up with trendy string lights. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to gather for a glass of wine or Turkish coffee in a nice outdoor setting.

It's also home to the largest fish market in Albania, so there are plenty of great seafood restaurants to peruse. In short, if you're a couple looking for a romantic spot or a foodie, then Zona 1 is your place!

Best Hotels in Tirana's Zone 1

Best Luxury Hotel in Zona 1: Maritim Hotel Plaza Tirana

Outside of Blloku, Zona 1 is the hub for luxury and boutique accommodations, so it's hard to choose the best hotels in the neighborhood, but I'll give it a shot! Just know that if my choices are booked up for your trip, you're spoiled for choice in Zona 1!

Maritim Hotel Plaza Tirana is a 5-star hotel offering a spa, hot tub, and on-site sauna. The property also features a bar, restaurant, and easy access to the Clock Tower and Tirana Opera House.

With full room service, free parking, and an on-site business suite, the hotel suits both families on holiday or those coming to Tirana for work.

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Best Boutique Hotel in Zona 1: Hotel Boka

If you're looking for a truly adorable hotel, you can't do better than Hotel Boka! This pretty pink beauty features a lovely garden, 4-star services, a shared lounge, and a bar.

Most of the rooms in Hotel Boka also have a balcony, allowing you to enjoy evening drinks with a city view.

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The Best Budget Accommodation in Zona 1: Tirana Central Apartment

Tirana Central Apartment is located in the heart of Zona 1 and is one of the best budget options in the area. The accommodation offers multiple apartments featuring easy access to the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car and the attractions of Skanderbeg Square.

The on-site staff offers a shuttle service to guests, making getting around the city a breeze. The apartments feature a full kitchen, a balcony, and comfortable seating areas. Each unit features Mid-Century Modern decor and offers all the comforts of home.

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3. Where to Stay in Tirana for Nightlife: Blloku

Blloku is probably the most famous neighborhood in Tirana. During the communist era in Albania, the district was completely inaccessible to the public. Only members of the communist party and political elites were allowed to reside there.

Today, the restrictiveness of the regime has been replaced with a fun, after-dark culture. The former residence of communist dictator Enver Hoxha is now abandoned and encircled with swanky cocktail bars and moody restaurants.

Blloku is a hip area with a wide range of nightlife spots and a cool vibe. The neighborhood also enjoys the ideal location within walking distance of all the main attractions.

If you want to let loose in Tirana and experience a good time with international travelers and the local crew, then Blloku is undoubtedly your best option!

Best Hotels in Blloku

Best Luxury Hotel in Blloku: Xheko Imperial Luxury Hotel & SPA

Blloku has several of the best luxury hotels in Tirana. While Rogner Hotel Tirana and the Tirana Marriott Hotel are popular choices, I prefer the traditional opulence of Xheko Imperial Luxury Hotel & SPA. It might be my favorite hotel in Tirana.

The massive structure takes up a whole city block and features a rooftop terrace, an on-site bar featuring local wines, lavish furnishings, and suites with French balconies.

The hotel offers 24-hour concierge and room service and every amenity you could ask for. With an indoor swimming pool (one of the few places with this option) and an on-site spa, Xheko is a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city.

The shared lounge features a massive domed skylight with painted glass beckoning you to sit in awe for a while. There is also secured parking and a shuttle service for an additional charge.

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Best Boutique Hotel in Blloku: Metro Hotel Tirana

Metro Hotel is one of the more popular hotels in Tirana due to its handy amenities. The 4-star hotel is half the price of Xheko but offers an on-site bar, free bikes for guests, a large shared lounge, room service, and a complimentary buffet breakfast.

Metro Hotel is highly secure with CCTV and security on site. It also features a car rental service, making day trips outside the city an easy possibility. It's a modern hotel with a central location, perfect for those who prefer an easy, breezy vacation.

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Best Budget Accommodation in Blloku: Vanilla Sky Boutique Hostel

Blloku is admittedly not the cheapest neighborhood in Tirana. There are a few good apartments for around US$40 per night, but the only true budget hotel is Vanilla Sky Boutique Hostel. For about the same price, you can book a double room with a private bathroom in a hotel with a truly unique vibe.

The property provides a shared kitchen and lounge, as well as easy currency exchange for guests. It's quite lavishly decorated for a budget hotel with rich colors and quirky touches.

If you want to be in the heart of the nightlife without spending a fortune, Vanilla Sky is the ideal option!

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4. Where to Stay in Tirana for Families: Komuna e Parasit

Located next to Grand Park and adjacent to Blloku, Komuna e Parasit is a quieter neighborhood with beautiful surroundings. If you want to dabble in the nightlife and foodie scene of Blloku, but not listen to thumping all night long, then Komuna e Parasit is a fantastic place to retreat.

The park's primary feature is Tirana Lake, an artificial lake with a shaded jogging path encircling it. Grab a kayak or take a buggy ride around the lake. It works great for families as it feels safe, and you can take advantage of the free green space and playground.

The area features a nice balance of commercial and residential spaces, with an important amphitheater, a beautiful spa, and some tasty bakeries. I like Le Salon De Paris! If a laid-back adventure fits your personality better, then Komuna e Parasit is your place!

Best Hotels in Komuna e Parasit

Best Luxury Hotel in Komuna e Parasit: Hotel Unik

There are no 5-star hotels in Konuma e Parasit, but the 4-star Hotel Unik sits right on Tirana Lake and is fabulous. The large rooms include comfy beds with high-quality linens.

There's an on-site restaurant and bar, free private parking, and room service. It's beautifully decorated with hip, modern rooms, and offers every comfort you need to enjoy Tirana.

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Best Mid-Range Hotel in Komuna e Parasit: Olimpic Hotel

Olimpic Hotel is a bit older, but it's highly rated as very clean and comfortable. It has a stunning flowered garden at the entry, an outdoor swimming pool, and spacious rooms with balconies and tons of natural light.

The hotel offers an array of breakfast options and a restaurant serving European cuisine as well as a hotel bar.

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Best Budget Accommodation in Komuna e Parasit: Roza's Apartment Tirana Center

If you want a place that feels like home, Roza's Apartment is a good one. The one-bedroom apartment has a full kitchen, a washing machine, and a large balcony. It has a private entrance, modern furnishings, and a comfortable living space. The apartment is within walking distance of Tirana Park and the zoo.

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5. Where to Stay in Tirana for Backpackers and Budget Travelers: 21 Dhjetori

21 Dhjetori is centrally located near Blloku and Skanderbeg Square. It's one of the most popular neighborhoods in Tirana and features not only budget-friendly accommodations but also one of the best cafe cultures in the city.

The population is a nice mix of tourists and locals, and it's a bustling area during the day. It feels more authentic than Tregu Çam or Blloku and is a great place to experience the true charms of Tirana.

If you want to be in the thick of the action and revel in the local flare, then 21 Dhjetori is the best place to stay in Tirana for you!

Best Hotels in 21 Dhjetori

The Best Luxury Hotel in 21 Dhjetori: Mondial Hotel

There are no true luxury hotels in the 21 Dhjetori district, but your closest option is probably the Mondial Hotel. It's a 4-star facility featuring a rooftop swimming pool, sun terrace, and comfortable large rooms.

Hotel Mondial boasts free sauna facilities and a beautiful restaurant that serves daily breakfast. Arched walls and windows add a bit of Mediterranean flair, and the entire hotel is smartly decorated.

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Best Boutique Hotel in 21 Dhjetori: Art Hotel Tirana

For boutique hotels in 21 Dhjetori, I would choose the Art Hotel Tirana. It's a funky space with vibrant colors and fun accessories. It features a business suite, free parking, and a shared lounge, as well as a bar. Enjoy a buffet breakfast in the on-site restaurant. The large rooms feature comfortable beds and room service.

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Best Budget Accommodation in 21 Dhjetori: Tirana Central Apartments

The array of cheap hotels and budget apartments in 21 Dhjetori is fantastic. One of my personal favorites is Tirana Central Apartments.

The apartments have been recently renovated and include fully stocked kitchens, car rental services, and airport transfers. The complex even includes its own mini-mart for those late-night munchies!

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Where to Stay in Tirana – Frequently Asked Questions

⭐ Is Tirana worth visiting?

Tirana is absolutely worth visiting if you're going to Albania. It's the modern cultural and financial hub of the country and features a fun cafe culture, quirky architecture, and some important historical sites.

📅 How many days is enough in Tirana?

For a proper visit to Tirana, I recommend at least two full days. Tirana has wonderful museums and several unique neighborhoods to explore. It's also a great place to meet fun locals and other travelers.

📍 What is the trendy neighborhood in Tirana?

There are a couple of trendy neighborhoods in Albania's capital. Blloku is the vibrant and fun center for nightlife in Tirana, and Zona 1 has emerged as the hippest area of Tirana—filled with adorable cafes and some of the best hotels in the city.

Where to Stay in Tirana – Final Words

I hope this article has gotten you excited about your Tirana trip or convinced you to travel to this unique city. When trying to choose where to stay in Tirana, you can't go wrong with one of these centrally located neighborhoods.

While each has a slightly different vibe, they're all within easy walking distance of Tirana's premier sites and offer something special. Zona 1 and Blloku are my favorite areas, but all five are awesome options!

For more amazing urban holidays, take a look at this list of the most beautiful cities in Europe for some inspiration