Is it safe to travel in Albania? - frequently asked questions and answers

Writer: Helena Bergström

Updated: August 2026 | Albania has quickly become one of Europe's most talked-about travel destinations. At the same time, many people still wonder how the country works in practice. Is it safe? What are the roads like? Do they speak English? We traveled around the country by camper van for several weeks and the answers are based on both our own experiences and practical tips for the trip.”

Traveling in Albania

Albania is located on the Balkan Peninsula and has quickly become one of Europe's most talked-about travel destinations. The country attracts with dramatic mountains, a beautiful coastline on the Ionian Sea and a price level that is still relatively low compared to many other Mediterranean countries.

How are the roads?

The roads are generally of fairly good quality. However, there are exceptions and in some places you may encounter bumps in the road. Some roads go steeply along the mountains or narrowly through small villages. In addition, you must be prepared to encounter cows, goats and dogs.

There are motorways on some stretches and these are often of good quality, although you may occasionally encounter donkeys and fruit sellers here too. You should definitely not worry about driving in Albania – but you do need to be careful.

READ MORE: Driving in Albania – our best tips for cars and campervans

Is it difficult to get petrol?

On the contrary, we don't think we've ever seen so many gas stations! Fuel is also relatively cheap. In addition to gas stations, you'll see car washes just everywhere. Lavazho (car wash) was actually the first word we learnt in Albanian!

Are there campsites and pitches?

Yes, it does, but they are a bit unevenly distributed across the country and of different standards. In the tourist areas there are quite a few campsites, while in other parts of the country they can be more sparse. A few campsites are of a high standard, while others are simpler.

Most campsites have access to toilets, water, electricity and WiFi. When it comes to emptying grey and black water, the organization has come a long way.

READ MORE: Campsites and pitches in Albania

Can you fricamp?

Free camping is generally allowed and accepted in Albania. Please note that there are restrictions, for example, free camping is often prohibited in national parks and on private land you must ask the landowner for permission.

Is it criminal?

We perceive Albania as a very peaceful and safe country to travel in, but of course crime occurs in all countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs writes that Albania is generally a safe country to travel in, but advises to exercise caution in the evenings as streets may be poorly lit, and pickpockets are common.

Are there any other risks?

Traffic is risky. The quality of the roads varies, and there are risky overtaking. In addition, it must be borne in mind that the quality of healthcare in different parts of the country can vary.

Are there any special considerations when travelling here?

Albania is not part of the EU. Make sure you have travel insurance and, if you are traveling by car, bring the green insurance card. Also, keep in mind that you do not have free roaming.

What is the price level?

The price level in Albania is still lower than in many other countries in Europe. This means that you can stay in a hotel or campsite, or eat out in a restaurant, at a significantly lower price than in many Mediterranean holiday resorts.

What are the people like?

Everyone we meet is incredibly nice and accommodating. The people feel relaxed, simple, open and easy to start a conversation with.

Do you need to think about religion or dress codes?

Albania is a secular country where different religions live side by side. In seaside resorts and cities, most tourists do not notice any special dress codes.

Is it possible to speak English?

In tourist areas, it is usually easy to speak English. Almost everyone can speak English to some extent, and some speak it fluently. In smaller towns, English skills may be more limited, but we rarely experienced any major problems making ourselves understood.

How is the service?

Albanians are incredibly friendly and service-minded. As soon as we jump out of the camper at a campsite or parking lot, someone greets us and shakes our hand, introduces themselves by name and asks how they can help. When we bought a case of beer in a Market, they carried it all the way to the car for us.

Are there other tourists?

Albania has established itself as a popular travel destination and during the summer there are plenty of visitors in seaside resorts like Ksamil and Saranda. At the same time, there are many parts of the country where it is still much quieter.

Albania has established itself as a popular travel destination and during the summer there are plenty of visitors in seaside resorts like Ksamil and Saranda. At the same time, there are many parts of the country where it is still much quieter.

The tourists we have seen come mainly from Italy and countries such as Macedonia, Montenegro and Romania. The campervan tourists are primarily from Italy, but you also encounter campervans from Germany and Poland.

How is the food?

In Albania you can expect to find restaurants serving seafood and grilled meat, often accompanied by French fries. In the tourist resorts it is also common to find both Greek and Italian dishes.

READ MORE: Albanian Food – 20 Classic Dishes to Try

Which currency is used?

Albania has its own currency called leaky. In many places it is also possible to pay with euros. Our experience is that it is easier to have fun because you don't have to count.

How do mobile and Internet work?

Albania is not included in the EU's free roaming rules, so you have to be careful about using your regular subscription. You can either get an e-SIM or buy a local SIM card on site in Albania. You can also use WiFi, which you can find in hotels, restaurants and campsites, for example.

Why should you travel in Albania?

Because nature is staggeringly beautiful and dramatic, because the beaches are beautiful but not too crowded, because the sea is turquoise blue, because you get so much for your money, because the people are so friendly... simply because travelling in Albania makes you happy!

Tips on things to see and do in Albania

Albania is a beautiful and exciting country. Here you will find suggestions and reports with tips for your trip:

• Saranda
• Ksamil
• Livadhi Beach
• Lake Shkodra Resort
• Albanian food – dishes to try