Albania Travel Safety

Road safety

Travel by road can be hazardous and difficult. Road signage and road safety are poor throughout the country. Drivers are aggressive and reckless and pedestrians are often found walking along the sides of roads, including on major highways. Wait for police to arrive if you are involved in a road accident, even a minor one. Car rental companies are available in the main cities and offer a variety of services and vehicles. If possible, hire local drivers or taxis. Approved, privately owned vehicles, with drivers, can be hired for travel throughout the country. Pre-negotiate fares and schedules. Travel outside the capital should be carefully planned and undertaken with the assistance of a reputable guide/interpreter or driver. In winter, you may encounter dangerous snow and ice conditions on poorly maintained mountainous roads in northern and southeastern Albania.

Identification

You must carry adequate identification at all times, such as a legible photocopy of your passport. To avoid the loss or theft of your identification documents. Keep your original passport, citizenship card or birth certificate at the safe place, except when travelling from one city to another within Albania.

Landmines

Landmines and unexploded ordnance from the 1999 Kosovo war remain, particularly in hill towns along Albania's northeastern border with Kosovo. These areas are clearly identified in Albanian as danger zones or are surrounded by visible tape. Remain on paved roads and avoid ditches, open fields and the shoulders of roads.

Taxis

Use only yellow taxis, which are normally parked at street corners in specific areas. Taxis only accept cash payment. Buses, minibuses and trains operate between most major cities, but are unreliable, uncomfortable and safety standards are poor.

Women's safety

Women should exercise caution when travelling alone. Avoid secluded areas, parks, bars and restaurants in remote areas, especially after dark.

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs, particularly on public transportation and in tourist areas. Theft from vehicles is common. Never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, and use secure parking facilities, especially overnight. Be vigilant in the northern districts of Has, Kukës and Tropojë. Criminal gangs operate along roads in remote areas, especially in areas bordering Kosovo, Macedonia and Montenegro. Use caution in areas bordering Macedonia, where security is very poor. Violent confrontations between rival organized criminal gangs can also occur. These incidents are normally attributed to internal disputes of a personal, business or political nature.

LGBT

Homosexuality is decriminalised. Anti-discrimination and anti hate-crime legislation is in place. Tirana has several gay-friendly bars and a number of LGBT support groups.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Please avoid indulging in buying or using any kind of drugs.

Illegal or restricted activities

Do not photograph military installations or personnel without proper permission as it is illegal. Charges may be laid or cameras may be confiscated.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is required as a supplement to a valid foreign driver's licence. Laws against drinking and driving are strictly enforced. The legal alcohol limit is 0.05 percent. The use of cellular phones while driving is prohibited. Police have taken drastic measures to decrease the number of accidents. Respect speed limits and the rules of the road to avoid heavy fines and confiscation of your driver's licence.