| Duration: | 8 Hour(s) - 0 Minute(s) |
| Tour Category: | Full Day Tours |
Visit the capital city of Albania, a conglomeration of Ottoman and Italian influences, the Albanian capital of Tirana is always evolving.
We visit the National Museum, Skanderbeg square and its clock, the boulevard, the cemetery of heroes, Etem Bey mosque, and the artificial lake.
The National Museum of History is the country's largest museum and includes the following pavilions: Pavilion of Antiquity, Pavilion of the Middle Ages, Pavilion of Renaissance, Pavilion of Independence, Pavilion of Iconography, Pavilion of the National Liberation Antifascist War, Pavilion of Communist Terror, and Pavilion of Mother Teresa.
Skanderbeg Square is the main plaza of Tirana, at the time of the Albanian monarchy, a statue of Joseph Stalin was erected where today Skanderbeg's statue is located.
The Et'hem Bey mosque is located in the center of the Albanian capital Tirana. Construction was started in 1789 by Molla Bey and it was finished in 1823 by his son Ethem Pasha (Haxhi Ethem Bey), great-grandson of Sulejman Pasha. During the totalitarianism of the Socialist People’s Republic of Albania, the mosque was closed.
On January 18, 1991, despite opposition from communist authorities, 10,000 people entered carrying flags. This was at the onset of the fall of communism in Albania. The frescoes of the mosque depict trees, waterfalls, and bridges; still-life paintings are a rarity in Islamic art.
Departure from your hotel with an English-speaking guide.
Explore More About Tirana:
Albania, and in particular its capital, Tirana, is slowly being discovered by tourists from all over the world. The best way to start exploring this beautiful and underrated country is with our guide to the best things to see and do.
In Tirana, it seems that all roads lead to Skanderbeg Square. Once you’ve been there, you’ll understand why; this main square, named after an Albanian national hero, is the heart of the city. A statue of Skanderbeg sits in the middle of the square. It’s an iconic place, which has recently been renewed and is a must-see for everyone who visits Albania. With an opera house, the National History Museum, and the Et’Hem Bey Mosque along the sides, this huge square is perfect for a stroll.
In a city dominated by cars, this tree-lined pedestrian street is like a breath of fresh air. With no cars and lots of shops and restaurants, Toptani Street, also called Pedonalja, is perfect for a nice walk, shopping, and buying local souvenirs. It is shady and cool, making it an excellent hideout on a hot summer day. During the holiday season, it hosts a wonderful Christmas market. Alongside the street, there is a Millennium Cinema.
