Custom Walk in Tirana, Albania by peter_ehrig_c6966 created on 2025-06-15
Guide Location: Albania » Tirana
Guide Type: Custom Walk
# of Sights: 10
Tour Duration: 17 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 48.4 Km or 30.1 Miles
Share Key: XQJ6X
Guide Type: Custom Walk
# of Sights: 10
Tour Duration: 17 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 48.4 Km or 30.1 Miles
Share Key: XQJ6X
How It Works
Please retrieve this walk in the GPSmyCity app. Once done, the app will guide you from one tour stop to the next as if you had a personal tour guide. If you created the walk on this website or come to the page via a link, please follow the instructions below to retrieve the walk in the app.
Retrieve This Walk in App
Step 1. Download the app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" on Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Step 2. In the GPSmyCity app, download(or launch) the guide "Tirana Map and Walking Tours".
Step 3. Tap the menu button located at upper right corner of the "Walks" screen and select "Retrieve custom walk". Enter the share key: XQJ6X
1) Colorful Painted Building in Bllok
Tirana has experienced a significant makeover, evolving into a vibrant display of bright colors and daring designs, all thanks to the creative vision of its former mayor, Edi Rama. Before his tenure as mayor began in 2000, Rama gained international recognition for his artistic talents, which he skillfully applied to rejuvenate Tirana's urban environment. Once known for its dull and uniform architecture typical of former Communist states in Eastern Europe, Tirana now stands out with its lively and colorful facades.
The decision to paint Tirana's buildings with vivid colors was more than just about appearance; it was a strategic effort to imbue the city with a sense of warmth and hospitality. Rama, drawing on his artistic instincts, opted for a palette of vibrant hues such as blue, green, orange, purple, red, and yellow to breathe new life into the city's aging apartment buildings and Soviet-style structures. This choice not only enhanced Tirana's visual appeal but also symbolized a departure from its dreary and oppressive history.
One striking example of this transformation is the painted building in Bllok, hailed as Rama's masterpiece, which epitomizes his vision of the city as a canvas for artistic expression. Bllok, once off-limits to the general public and reserved for the Communist elite, now serves as a showcase for Tirana's urban revitalization.
Rama's initiatives extended beyond mere painting. Shortly after taking office, he launched a comprehensive urban renewal campaign that involved removing illegal constructions, establishing new public parks, and notably, embellishing the city's buildings with colorful designs.
The decision to paint Tirana's buildings with vivid colors was more than just about appearance; it was a strategic effort to imbue the city with a sense of warmth and hospitality. Rama, drawing on his artistic instincts, opted for a palette of vibrant hues such as blue, green, orange, purple, red, and yellow to breathe new life into the city's aging apartment buildings and Soviet-style structures. This choice not only enhanced Tirana's visual appeal but also symbolized a departure from its dreary and oppressive history.
One striking example of this transformation is the painted building in Bllok, hailed as Rama's masterpiece, which epitomizes his vision of the city as a canvas for artistic expression. Bllok, once off-limits to the general public and reserved for the Communist elite, now serves as a showcase for Tirana's urban revitalization.
Rama's initiatives extended beyond mere painting. Shortly after taking office, he launched a comprehensive urban renewal campaign that involved removing illegal constructions, establishing new public parks, and notably, embellishing the city's buildings with colorful designs.
2) Former Residence of Enver Hoxha in Blloku
The Former Residence of Enver Hoxha in Blloku is a three-story home that once belonged to Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha. The interior is now closed to the general public, but a walk along the street shows the communist architecture that was so prevalent at the time.
Hoxha lived in this home for many decades until he was assassinated in 1985. During his life, the entire area around the home was sealed by police and secret agents, making it a mystery to citizens of the city. Hoxha's wife continued to live there for a number of years even after his death.
The interior of the home continues to carry the appearance that it did during Hoxha's life. The walls have socialist realist art. The doors to the bedrooms are still clad in soundproof cushioning. There is a pool in the basement and an escape door leading to an underground bunker.
Numerous televisions are located throughout the home. It is said that Hoxha and his wife would use these televisions to watch the torture of political opponents.
The home has been kept in place until a decision can be made about what to do with the location. Some have suggested using it as a museum while others are considering razing the structure to make way for a new era.
Hoxha lived in this home for many decades until he was assassinated in 1985. During his life, the entire area around the home was sealed by police and secret agents, making it a mystery to citizens of the city. Hoxha's wife continued to live there for a number of years even after his death.
The interior of the home continues to carry the appearance that it did during Hoxha's life. The walls have socialist realist art. The doors to the bedrooms are still clad in soundproof cushioning. There is a pool in the basement and an escape door leading to an underground bunker.
Numerous televisions are located throughout the home. It is said that Hoxha and his wife would use these televisions to watch the torture of political opponents.
The home has been kept in place until a decision can be made about what to do with the location. Some have suggested using it as a museum while others are considering razing the structure to make way for a new era.
3) BunkArt 2 (must see)
BunkArt 2 is located in a large bunker in the center of Tirana near Skanderbeg Square. This bunker was intended for the Ministry of Internal Affairs during the communist regime. The museum exhibits life in the Albanian military and the work of the communist police. There is a strong focus on prisoners and work camps.
The bunker was constructed between 1981 and 1986. It consists of 24 rooms and one apartment to be used by the minister of the interior. It also has a large meeting hall that is now used to display exhibits. The bunker was code-named "Pillar Object" through the end of communist rule.
BunkArt 2 is just one of many bunkers built by Enver Hoxha. It is thought that he built more than 150,000 bunkers throughout the country. His fear of invasion from the United States and the Soviet Union caused him to have these bunkers built throughout his rule. It is thought that BunkArt 2 is the last of these.
Tourists are confronted by an audio recording when they enter BunkArt 2. This voiceover provides names of political prisoners who were victims of communist rule. The museum also has photographs and equipment that show the persecution of 100,000 Albanians under the communist regime.
BunkArt 2 offers three historical exhibits covering dates from 1913 to 1939, 1939 to 1944 and 1944 to 1991. There are also artistic installations throughout the bunker. Tourists will also see rooms dedicated to surveillance and investigation. Investigation could be conducted on anyone who was thought to be an enemy of the state; the type of room that was used for interrogation is part of the tour.
The bunker was constructed between 1981 and 1986. It consists of 24 rooms and one apartment to be used by the minister of the interior. It also has a large meeting hall that is now used to display exhibits. The bunker was code-named "Pillar Object" through the end of communist rule.
BunkArt 2 is just one of many bunkers built by Enver Hoxha. It is thought that he built more than 150,000 bunkers throughout the country. His fear of invasion from the United States and the Soviet Union caused him to have these bunkers built throughout his rule. It is thought that BunkArt 2 is the last of these.
Tourists are confronted by an audio recording when they enter BunkArt 2. This voiceover provides names of political prisoners who were victims of communist rule. The museum also has photographs and equipment that show the persecution of 100,000 Albanians under the communist regime.
BunkArt 2 offers three historical exhibits covering dates from 1913 to 1939, 1939 to 1944 and 1944 to 1991. There are also artistic installations throughout the bunker. Tourists will also see rooms dedicated to surveillance and investigation. Investigation could be conducted on anyone who was thought to be an enemy of the state; the type of room that was used for interrogation is part of the tour.
4) Clock Tower of Tirana
The Clock Tower of Tirana, known in Albanian as Kulla e Sahatit, is a 115-foot tall clock tower built in 1822. The tower is located near Skanderbeg Square, between Lulishte Park and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. It offers a unique and beautiful vista of the city from its viewing platform.
Construction of the tower was completed in 1822 by Etehem Bey Mollaj in the Islamic style. It was the tallest building in Tirana at the time it was built. The clock was assembled by watchmaker Ismail Tufina. The Tufina family continued to oversee the clock through 1973 when the communist regime forcibly removed them.
The clock was severely damaged in 1916 during World War I. A new clock was not installed until 1928, which was also installed by the Tufina family. An additional construction and new roof were required in order to install this new, larger clock face. These upper floors were once again destroyed during World War II. The clock has been replaced twice since 1946. Today, it holds a Chinese clock that was added in 1970.
Renovations over the years have allowed the public to access the viewing platform by climbing a narrow case of 90 wooden stairs. Access to the Clock Tower of Tirana is free.
Construction of the tower was completed in 1822 by Etehem Bey Mollaj in the Islamic style. It was the tallest building in Tirana at the time it was built. The clock was assembled by watchmaker Ismail Tufina. The Tufina family continued to oversee the clock through 1973 when the communist regime forcibly removed them.
The clock was severely damaged in 1916 during World War I. A new clock was not installed until 1928, which was also installed by the Tufina family. An additional construction and new roof were required in order to install this new, larger clock face. These upper floors were once again destroyed during World War II. The clock has been replaced twice since 1946. Today, it holds a Chinese clock that was added in 1970.
Renovations over the years have allowed the public to access the viewing platform by climbing a narrow case of 90 wooden stairs. Access to the Clock Tower of Tirana is free.
5) New Bazaar
The New Bazaar is a vibrant and historic neighbourhood located in the heart of Tirana. This area, known for its bustling groceries marketplace, is situated east of the central boulevard and is an integral part of Tirana's Old Town, alongside the Mujos area. It stands as one of the oldest sections of the city, rich in history and culture. The New Bazaar's significance is further accentuated by the presence of the Kokonozi Mosque, an old historic mosque dating back to Ottoman times, adding a layer of historical depth to the area.
Originally built in 1931 on the same grounds as the historic Old Bazaar, which stretched all the way to what is now Skanderbeg Square, the New Bazaar has long been a focal point of commerce and daily life in Tirana. Before its reconstruction in 2016, the bazaar served as a testament to the city's evolving nature while retaining its historic roots. The renovation and reconstruction efforts in 2017 have rejuvenated the area, making it not only a place for locals to shop for daily necessities but also a potential tourist attraction, blending the old with the new in a dynamic urban setting.
The market within the New Bazaar is a treasure trove of local produce and goods. It offers a wide array of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the surrounding regions of Tirana, alongside fish, meat, and a selection of regional Albanian wine and raki. The bazaar is enveloped by colorful buildings, restaurants, and bakeries, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike. This recent push to enhance the bazaar's appeal to tourists reflects a broader interest in celebrating and sharing the rich cultural and historical heritage of Tirana.
Originally built in 1931 on the same grounds as the historic Old Bazaar, which stretched all the way to what is now Skanderbeg Square, the New Bazaar has long been a focal point of commerce and daily life in Tirana. Before its reconstruction in 2016, the bazaar served as a testament to the city's evolving nature while retaining its historic roots. The renovation and reconstruction efforts in 2017 have rejuvenated the area, making it not only a place for locals to shop for daily necessities but also a potential tourist attraction, blending the old with the new in a dynamic urban setting.
The market within the New Bazaar is a treasure trove of local produce and goods. It offers a wide array of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the surrounding regions of Tirana, alongside fish, meat, and a selection of regional Albanian wine and raki. The bazaar is enveloped by colorful buildings, restaurants, and bakeries, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike. This recent push to enhance the bazaar's appeal to tourists reflects a broader interest in celebrating and sharing the rich cultural and historical heritage of Tirana.
6) BunkArt 1 (must see)
BunkArt 1 is an anti-nuclear bunker built by the communist regime in 1978. It is a five-floor palace, built entirely underground. It has 106 rooms that include an assembly hall that is now used as a center for art and historical learning. BunkArt shows what Albanian life was like during 45 years of communist rule.
BunkArt 1 has a historical exhibition that covers five areas of life in Communist Albania. These five areas are Albania Under the Fascist Italy, Diplomacy During the War, Albania Under the German Invasion, The After War: Hope and Disappointment and Albania After Liberation.
Visitors can see both Enver Hoxha and Mehmet Shehu's shelters. Enver Hoxha was the supreme commander of armed forces when the bunker was constructed. Mehmet Shehu was the prime minister and supervisor of the bunker's construction. Both of these areas include an anteroom, an office, a bedroom and a bathroom.
A standard officer's room is on display as well. It contains authentic officer uniforms and military equipment. The chief of staff's shelter can also be toured. This was meant to be used as a place for meeting in case of war. It includes a gathering area, a waiting room and living quarters.
Another feature of BunkArt 1 is the Inter-communication Museum. Separated from the rest of the tunnels for unknown reasons, this area was meant to be the base of communications. Original communication devices used by the Albanian army are on display in the Inter-communication Museum.
BunkArt 1 is located outside of the center of Tirana but it is still easily reached and a must-see spot in the city. It is open seven days per week from 9:30 AM to 5 PM.
BunkArt 1 has a historical exhibition that covers five areas of life in Communist Albania. These five areas are Albania Under the Fascist Italy, Diplomacy During the War, Albania Under the German Invasion, The After War: Hope and Disappointment and Albania After Liberation.
Visitors can see both Enver Hoxha and Mehmet Shehu's shelters. Enver Hoxha was the supreme commander of armed forces when the bunker was constructed. Mehmet Shehu was the prime minister and supervisor of the bunker's construction. Both of these areas include an anteroom, an office, a bedroom and a bathroom.
A standard officer's room is on display as well. It contains authentic officer uniforms and military equipment. The chief of staff's shelter can also be toured. This was meant to be used as a place for meeting in case of war. It includes a gathering area, a waiting room and living quarters.
Another feature of BunkArt 1 is the Inter-communication Museum. Separated from the rest of the tunnels for unknown reasons, this area was meant to be the base of communications. Original communication devices used by the Albanian army are on display in the Inter-communication Museum.
BunkArt 1 is located outside of the center of Tirana but it is still easily reached and a must-see spot in the city. It is open seven days per week from 9:30 AM to 5 PM.
7) Dajti
Dajti Mountain near Tirana offers stunning natural beauty and recreational activities, rising over a mile high. This mountain is particularly cherished for its snow-covered peaks—a rarity in Albania—that attract both locals and tourists alike. Renowned as the most accessible mountain in the country, Dajti offers a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with many visitors indulging in the local tradition of enjoying spit-roast lamb lunches amidst its scenic landscapes.
The journey to Dajti's heights is made memorable by the Dajti Express, an Austrian-engineered cable car that offers a 15-minute scenic ride to an elevation of 1611 meters, stopping just shy of the mountain's summit. While the area near the upper cable-car station may initially disappoint with its simplistic offerings of family-friendly activities and a less-than-pristine environment, venturing beyond reveals the mountain's true splendor.
Past the initial distractions and abandoned structures, visitors find themselves surrounded by serene beech and pine forests, with numerous walking trails crisscrossing the mountainside. These paths offer a mix of shadow and sunlight, though the inconsistent trail markings suggest that hiring a guide might be a prudent choice. Local hostels often organize day trips for hiking or mountain biking, catering to those eager to explore Dajti's natural beauty more intimately.
For those who prefer a more relaxed visit, the area just beyond the upper cable-car station offers ideal spots for picnicking, while the cable-car station restaurant boasts a wide terrace where guests can savor roast lamb alongside breathtaking views.
The journey to Dajti's heights is made memorable by the Dajti Express, an Austrian-engineered cable car that offers a 15-minute scenic ride to an elevation of 1611 meters, stopping just shy of the mountain's summit. While the area near the upper cable-car station may initially disappoint with its simplistic offerings of family-friendly activities and a less-than-pristine environment, venturing beyond reveals the mountain's true splendor.
Past the initial distractions and abandoned structures, visitors find themselves surrounded by serene beech and pine forests, with numerous walking trails crisscrossing the mountainside. These paths offer a mix of shadow and sunlight, though the inconsistent trail markings suggest that hiring a guide might be a prudent choice. Local hostels often organize day trips for hiking or mountain biking, catering to those eager to explore Dajti's natural beauty more intimately.
For those who prefer a more relaxed visit, the area just beyond the upper cable-car station offers ideal spots for picnicking, while the cable-car station restaurant boasts a wide terrace where guests can savor roast lamb alongside breathtaking views.
8) House of Leaves (Museum of Secret Surveillance)
The House of Leaves is a historical museum that honors those innocent people who were spied on and persecuted under the communist regime. It is dedicated to those who were convicted, tortured and executed in the name of communism. The museum is also known as the Museum of Secret Surveillance.
The House of Leaves is located in a two-story villa that was built in 1931. It was formerly an obstetrics clinic, but it was converted into a housing for the Gestapo during German occupation. Later, when communists took over the country, it was used as the headquarters for the Directorate of State Security, otherwise known as the Sigurimi.
The Sigurimi's stated goal was to maintain security in Albania. However, the Sigurimi's practice was much more sinister. The security, intelligence and secret police service that made up the Sigurimi worked to suppress political activity. They did this by spying on citizens, arresting them and, often, executing them if they were accused of non-conformity.
The 31-room museum opened in 2017. Visitors can see exhibits that cover listening devices, the story of the house, the laboratory, a view of everyday life and voices of the past, among others. The House of Leaves was given the European Museum of the Year Award by the Council of Europe in 2020.
The House of Leaves is located in a two-story villa that was built in 1931. It was formerly an obstetrics clinic, but it was converted into a housing for the Gestapo during German occupation. Later, when communists took over the country, it was used as the headquarters for the Directorate of State Security, otherwise known as the Sigurimi.
The Sigurimi's stated goal was to maintain security in Albania. However, the Sigurimi's practice was much more sinister. The security, intelligence and secret police service that made up the Sigurimi worked to suppress political activity. They did this by spying on citizens, arresting them and, often, executing them if they were accused of non-conformity.
The 31-room museum opened in 2017. Visitors can see exhibits that cover listening devices, the story of the house, the laboratory, a view of everyday life and voices of the past, among others. The House of Leaves was given the European Museum of the Year Award by the Council of Europe in 2020.
9) Big Market on Myslym Shyri
Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, has rapidly evolved into a bustling metropolis, now home to nearly one million residents. Amidst its urban sprawl, Tirana boasts an impressive array of shopping venues, from modern shopping malls and centers to elegant and upscale shopping boulevards. Among these, Myslym Shyri Street stands out as a premier destination for those who appreciate the charm of high-street shopping.
Nestled in the heart of this shopping haven is the Big Market, a testament to the street's reputation for diverse shopping experiences. True to its name, the Big Market on Myslym Shyri Street offers an extensive range of products, including food, beverages, perfumes, and home accessories, all at reasonable prices. Shoppers are frequently treated to special offers, making it an ideal spot for finding deals on a variety of items.
Myslym Shyri Street and its environs are more than just a shopping destination; they reflect the city's cultural vibrancy. The street is lined with unique boutiques, authentic stores, and specialty shops offering crafts and pottery, inviting shoppers to explore and discover.
Nestled in the heart of this shopping haven is the Big Market, a testament to the street's reputation for diverse shopping experiences. True to its name, the Big Market on Myslym Shyri Street offers an extensive range of products, including food, beverages, perfumes, and home accessories, all at reasonable prices. Shoppers are frequently treated to special offers, making it an ideal spot for finding deals on a variety of items.
Myslym Shyri Street and its environs are more than just a shopping destination; they reflect the city's cultural vibrancy. The street is lined with unique boutiques, authentic stores, and specialty shops offering crafts and pottery, inviting shoppers to explore and discover.
10) Myslym Shyri Road
Myslym Shyri Road, located in Tirana, is one of the city's most vibrant and bustling thoroughfares. This street is renowned for its lively atmosphere, lined with a diverse array of shops, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Stretching from the central Skanderbeg Square to the bustling Blloku area, Myslym Shyri Road offers a mix of modernity and tradition, reflecting the dynamic evolution of Tirana's urban landscape. Visitors can stroll along the pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, soaking in the energetic ambiance and admiring the eclectic architecture that ranges from historic buildings to contemporary structures.
The street is particularly famous for its shopping scene, offering an abundance of stores selling everything from high-end fashion brands to locally crafted souvenirs. Visitors can explore boutiques, shoe shops, jewelry stores, and more, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
In addition to shopping, Myslym Shyri is a culinary hub, with numerous cafes and restaurants serving both traditional Albanian cuisine and international fare. Whether visitors crave a hearty Albanian meal, a quick snack, or a leisurely coffee break, they'll find plenty of options to satisfy their appetite.
At night, Myslym Shyri comes alive with the buzz of nightlife, as bars and clubs open their doors, offering entertainment well into the early hours of the morning. The street's vibrant ambiance, coupled with its proximity to other popular nightlife spots in the Blloku area, makes it a prime destination for those looking to experience Tirana's thriving after-dark scene.
Stretching from the central Skanderbeg Square to the bustling Blloku area, Myslym Shyri Road offers a mix of modernity and tradition, reflecting the dynamic evolution of Tirana's urban landscape. Visitors can stroll along the pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, soaking in the energetic ambiance and admiring the eclectic architecture that ranges from historic buildings to contemporary structures.
The street is particularly famous for its shopping scene, offering an abundance of stores selling everything from high-end fashion brands to locally crafted souvenirs. Visitors can explore boutiques, shoe shops, jewelry stores, and more, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
In addition to shopping, Myslym Shyri is a culinary hub, with numerous cafes and restaurants serving both traditional Albanian cuisine and international fare. Whether visitors crave a hearty Albanian meal, a quick snack, or a leisurely coffee break, they'll find plenty of options to satisfy their appetite.
At night, Myslym Shyri comes alive with the buzz of nightlife, as bars and clubs open their doors, offering entertainment well into the early hours of the morning. The street's vibrant ambiance, coupled with its proximity to other popular nightlife spots in the Blloku area, makes it a prime destination for those looking to experience Tirana's thriving after-dark scene.
