Albania for the First Time: What to Know Before Your First Holiday

Are you planning your first holiday in Albania? You may have more questions before your trip than you would when travelling to Croatia, Italy or Greece. What travel documents do you need? What currency is used in Albania? Does EU roaming apply? And is it better to hire a car, or can you manage without one?

The good news is that travelling to Albania is not complicated. You just need to know a few practical things in advance. If you are heading to the coast and planning to stay in Golem near Durrës, here is a concise overview of the most important things to know before you travel.

You Can Travel to Albania with a Passport or ID Card

Czech citizens can travel to Albania with a valid passport or national ID card. The document must remain valid for at least three months after the planned date of departure from Albania.

For a standard tourist holiday, Czech citizens do not need a visa. Visa-free stays are permitted for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

The Official Currency in Albania Is the Lek

The official currency is the Albanian lek (ALL). In tourist areas, euros are also commonly accepted. However, keep in mind that if you pay in euros, you may receive your change in lek, and the amount may be converted using the seller's current exchange rate.

Cash is still widely used in Albania, and many local businesses prefer it. It is therefore a good idea to keep some lek with you, especially for bakeries, small shops, cafés, markets and local transport. If you are travelling into the mountains or visiting less touristy areas, having local currency with you is particularly important.

Card payments are now common in larger supermarkets, restaurants and many other businesses.

If you would like to know how much food, restaurants, groceries or sun loungers cost, take a look at our up-to-date guide: Prices in Albania – Golem and Durrës.

Be Careful with Mobile Data

Albania is not a member of the European Union, and standard EU roaming conditions do not automatically apply.

Before travelling, we recommend checking the roaming rates offered by your mobile provider. Depending on your tariff, a travel package, local SIM card or eSIM may be a more affordable option.

You can find more information in our guide to Mobile Data and Internet in Albania.

Golem Is Around 45 Minutes from Tirana Airport

The nearest airport for a holiday in Golem is Tirana International Airport. The journey to Golem by car or private transfer takes approximately 45 minutes, although heavier traffic during the main summer season can make the journey slightly longer.

If you are travelling with children or carrying a lot of luggage, a pre-booked private transfer directly to your accommodation is usually the most convenient option.

We compare the different options in our guide: How to Get from Tirana Airport to Golem.

Do You Need a Car in Golem?

If you are mainly planning to relax by the sea, you do not need a car. Beaches, restaurants, cafés, bakeries, supermarkets and the evening promenade are all within walking distance in Golem.

You can also visit nearby Durrës without a car. Local buses run between Golem and Durrës, and the journey is also a simple way to experience a little of everyday Albanian life.

Hiring a car is worthwhile if you would like to explore more of the country during your holiday and visit places such as Berat, Krujë, Divjakë–Karavasta National Park or other parts of Albania. If requested, we can also help our guests arrange car hire.

Driving in Albania May Feel Different from Driving at Home

If you decide to hire a car, be prepared for local traffic to feel busier and sometimes less predictable than what Czech drivers may be used to.

That is not a reason to avoid driving in Albania. It is simply a good idea to drive carefully, take your time and remember that even a relatively short distance can sometimes take longer than you might expect based on the number of kilometres shown on the map.

Is Golem a Good Choice for a First Holiday in Albania?

Golem lies on the Adriatic coast, south of Durrës. One of its biggest advantages is its long sandy beach with a gently shelving entrance into the sea, together with a wide range of services within walking distance.

During the day, life revolves around the beach. In the evening, restaurants, cafés and the seaside promenade come alive. Being able to leave the car parked and simply walk to the beach, dinner or the shops makes Golem a convenient choice for families with children as well.

And if you do not want to spend your entire holiday on the beach, Golem is also a good base for a variety of day trips.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Albania?

For a traditional seaside holiday in Golem, the main season runs from June to September. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, while June and September are generally quieter.

Of course, the weather can never be guaranteed. You can find a more detailed month-by-month overview in our article Weather in Albania: When to Visit Golem for a Seaside Holiday.

What Might Surprise You on Your First Visit?

Albania is changing quickly, while still retaining its distinctive Balkan character. Modern hotels and newly built apartment blocks stand alongside small family-run shops, you can start your morning at a local bakery instead of a large shopping centre, and timetables may not always operate with the precision you might be used to in Central Europe.

And that is part of Albania's charm. There is no need to expect everything to work exactly as it does at home. A little flexibility goes a long way.

The Balkan rhythm has a way of winning you over surprisingly quickly. Before long, you may find yourself enjoying the simple pleasure of slowing down, taking your time and not rushing anywhere. Everything has its own pace.

Albania Without Unnecessary Worries

It is completely natural to have questions before travelling to a new country for the first time. Most practical matters can be sorted out before you leave: check your travel documents, roaming conditions, travel insurance and transport from the airport.

After that, all that remains is to pack your swimwear, choose your place by the sea and start looking forward to your holiday.

If you are looking for accommodation in Golem, take a look at our apartments Rehati and Pushim.

Both apartments offer plenty of space for up to six guests, a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, Wi-Fi and sea views. You can book directly without paying booking-platform commission.

Frequently Asked Questions Before Your First Trip to Albania

Do I need a passport to travel to Albania?
No. Czech citizens can also travel to Albania with a valid national ID card.

Do Czech citizens need a visa for Albania?
No. Czech citizens do not need a visa for a standard tourist stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

What currency is used in Albania?
The official currency is the Albanian lek (ALL).

Can I use my Czech mobile data in Albania as I do within the EU?
Albania is not currently part of the standard EU "Roam Like at Home" system. Always check your