Secure the Best Deals and Cheap Flights to Albania for Your Next Adventure

Summer is the peak season for the Albanian Riviera. Expect hot weather, vibrant nightlife, and higher prices for coastal accommodation.

Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it the perfect time for hiking and visiting historic cities without the crowds.

Autumn is the harvest season, perfect for foodies. The sea remains warm enough for swimming until October, while prices drop.

Winter is the cheapest time to fly. While the coast is quiet, the mountains offer skiing and snowy landscapes.

Brazilian citizens can enter Albania for tourism without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ensure your passport remains valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. While no formal visa is needed, border officials may request proof of accommodation, a return flight ticket, and sufficient funds for your stay. It is wise to carry a printed copy of your travel insurance policy, as healthcare costs for foreigners can be high. This visa-free access makes it much easier to find flights to Albania and plan a spontaneous Mediterranean getaway without the hassle of embassy appointments or long processing times common for other European destinations.

Public transport in Albania relies heavily on furgons, which are privately owned minibuses. These do not always follow strict schedules and often depart when full. For more flexibility, renting a car is highly recommended, especially for reaching coastal spots like Sarande or the Albanian Alps. Be aware that mountain roads can be narrow and winding. In cities like Tirana, taxis are plentiful but ensure they use a meter or agree on a price beforehand. Unlike the extensive rail networks in Brazil, the Albanian train system is limited and slow. For the best experience, use a combination of intercity buses for major routes and car rentals for exploring hidden beaches and remote historical sites across the country.

Albanian culture is famous for 'Besa', a code of honor regarding hospitality. Locals are exceptionally welcoming to foreigners. A unique cultural quirk is that nodding often signifies 'no' while shaking the head side-to-side can mean 'yes', though this is changing among younger generations. When visiting religious sites, including mosques and Orthodox churches, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees. Tipping is customary in restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is appreciated. While Portuguese is not spoken, English is common among youth in tourist areas. Learning a few words in Shqip, like 'Faleminderit' for thank you, goes a long way. Respecting these local traditions will ensure you have a much deeper connection with the people you meet.

Albania is generally very safe for travelers, with low rates of violent crime. Standard precautions against pickpocketing should be taken in crowded areas of Tirana. One local tip is to avoid drinking tap water; stick to bottled water which is cheap and widely available. To explore like a local, participate in the 'Xhiro', an evening walk where residents stroll through the streets at sunset. For the best photos, head to the Kruje Castle at golden hour or the Llogara Pass for breathtaking sea views. TICKETS.COM.BR suggests visiting the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter) early in the morning to beat the crowds and capture the most vibrant turquoise water photos for your travel gallery. Always carry some cash (Lek) as small shops rarely accept cards.