About Tirana
The 1992 elections in Albania ended 47 years of communist rule. The shaking off of the restrictive weight of the communist regime is expressed in the attitudes of freedom and fun found in the Albanian people, and the untamed colour schemes of the newly redecorated buildings here are a visual demonstration of this energetic rebirth. The oppression that stifled life here for years has been discarded and a "new lease on life" attitude is evident in this city.
Tirana itself is an enticing mix of stern Soviet Bloc cement buildings, Ottoman minarets and 1930's Italian architecture, which juxtapose the wild colour schemes of newer buildings that have been redecorated by local artists. The religious buildings in Tirana are a wonderful mix of Christian and Muslim shrines, which speaks to its varied heritage and multi-cultural present. There is also a pulsing nightlife scene and Tirana is famous for its all night café culture.
Activities
Skanderbeg Square
Skanderbeg Square is the social and cultural center of Tirana, this is an excellent place for people watching and absorbing the daily life of the denizens of this city. The famous Equestrian Statue is located on the Southern Side of the Square.
Clock Tower
The tower is the symbol of Tirana and is nicely lit at night. You may climb the stairs for an excellent view of the bustling life in the square below.
Padam Boutique Hotel & Restaurant
Located at Padam Boutique Hotel, the bar offers their guests a wide variety of drinks, ranging from classic spirits to crafted cocktails in a modern setting. In the summer enjoy your refreshing drink in the beautiful outdoor garden and veranda while mingling with friends.
Tips
Good to know
Public Transport
The heart of the city is not too big to explore by foot, but if your feet are sore and you are tired there are a number of intra-city bus lines both going round the city and to and from the shopping centres. The tickets are cheap but keep in mind that the buses don't go fast.
For longer bus journeys there are shared buses/mini-vans called "furgons" that depart for a destination once they are filled with passengers. Because of the ongoing construction in Tirana the bus and furgon depots change regularly, so it is very important to check the locations with your hotel.
Electricity
220 volts, 50HZ AC
