Albania Visa Requirements
For ๐ช๐ธ Spain passport holders
Great news! Spain passport holders can enter Albania without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Spanish citizens can enter Albania visa-free for tourism stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Albania is not yet in the EU or Schengen, so this is a separate allowance from Schengen travel.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond intended stay. No visa required. May be asked to show return ticket and proof of accommodation.
Overstaying results in fines and potential deportation. Future entry may be affected.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Hepatitis A recommended.
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Albania is surprisingly safe for tourists. Petty crime is lower than many European destinations. Roads in rural areas can be challenging. Watch out for aggressive driving in cities. The north has improved significantly in recent years.
Money & Costs
Currency
L Albanian Lek (ALL)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $35 ยท Mid: $80 ยท Luxury: $200+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not expected. Round up bills or leave 5-10% for good service. Not leaving a tip is not considered rude.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, F, 230V
Driving
Right side
Emergency
112 (general), 127 (ambulance), 128 (fire), 129 (police)
Getting There
Main Airports
Tirana (TIA)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
June to September offers perfect beach weather on the Albanian Riviera. April-May and September-October are ideal for exploring cities and hiking with fewer crowds. Winter is mild on the coast but cold and snowy in the mountains.
Cultural Notes
Albanians are renowned for their hospitality (besa - code of honor). Refusing coffee or food can cause offense. Family is central to Albanian life. The country has a mix of Muslim, Christian, and secular traditions coexisting peacefully.
Insider Tips
Albania is incredibly affordable by European standards. Cash (Lek) is king outside Tirana. Learn basic Albanian phrases - English is limited outside tourist areas. The "yes" head nod means "no" in Albania (and vice versa). Bargaining is common in markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Spanish citizens need a visa for Albania?
No, Spanish citizens can enter Albania visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Albania is not in the Schengen Area, so this is separate from your Schengen allowance. Just bring a valid passport.
Is Albania safe for tourists?
Yes, Albania is remarkably safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and Albanians are famously hospitable. Roads can be challenging in rural areas, and driving standards differ from Western Europe, but personal safety is rarely a concern.
What is the Albanian Riviera?
The Albanian Riviera stretches along the Ionian coast from Vlora to Saranda. It features stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages like Dhermi, Himara, and Ksamil. It's often compared favorably to Greek islands but at a fraction of the cost.
How cheap is Albania really?
Albania is one of Europe's most affordable destinations. A good meal costs โฌ5-10, local beer โฌ1-2, and mid-range hotels โฌ30-50. Budget travelers can manage on โฌ30-40/day; mid-range travelers on โฌ60-80/day.
What should I see in Albania?
Don't miss: Berat and Gjirokastรซr (UNESCO cities), the Albanian Riviera beaches, Theth and Valbona (Alpine scenery), Blue Eye spring, Tirana's evolving urban landscape, and ancient Butrint archaeological site.