Money, Budget, and Shopping in Albania

Money

Currency

Currency: Lek (100 qindarka)

Banknotes: 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 lekë.

Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 lekë.

Exchange:

Although the lek (plural lekë) is divided into 100 qindarka, the latter are no longer in circulation. Also note that, much like the French used to do with their "old franc," some Albanians still count in old lekë, with 10 old lekë = 1 new lek. So be careful when paying for something.

Exchange

Major currencies, especially the euro, can be exchanged without any problem at exchange bureaus, banks that offer this service (generally open weekdays from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM), or with street money changers. The latter are authorized and can always help in a pinch, though it’s best to be aware of exchange rates and to recount your bills.

In any case, whether with money changers or banks, damaged banknotes may be refused. Finally, you can also withdraw money from ATMs, which are increasingly common in cities and tourist areas.

Which currency to bring

The euro is the simplest option if you’re coming from the eurozone.

Payment methods

You can pay in cash, sometimes even directly in euros (but watch the exchange rate), or by card, though the latter is mostly accepted in upscale or tourist-oriented places. In short, it’s always useful to have some local cash on hand, especially if you venture off the beaten path.

Returning home

While you can exchange leftover lekë before departure (though not easily abroad), the conversion rates are usually unfavorable. The simplest approach is to exchange money as you need it and avoid ending up with a large amount of Albanian currency.

Budget

Although this is changing due to the country’s growing popularity with tourists, Albania still ranks among Europe’s least expensive destinations. This is why you’ll encounter many travelers from neighboring or Eastern European countries, where purchasing power is more limited, preferring Albania over pricier options like Greece or Croatia. Budget roughly 45 € to 60 € per person per day (for two), or even less if you stick to local or basic options.

What can be expensive

Tirana, the capital, occasionally.

Coastal resorts, increasingly so in summer.

What can be inexpensive

Eating, sleeping, and getting around like a local.

Price range

Budget double room: around 25 € to 30 € for two in basic hotels or homestays.

Mid-range double room: 35 € to 50 € offers a good selection of quality options, especially inland.

Local snack or meal: around 5 € or 6 €, with plenty of choices.

Tourist-oriented meal: 12 € to 15 € for a full meal.

Budget car rental: around 30 €/day for a small standard model.

Bus or minibus: roughly 3 € or 4 € per 100 km.

Bargaining and tips

It’s not a strict rule in the country, but you can still negotiate prices for souvenirs at markets, or even for accommodations and rentals if it’s for an extended stay.

As for tips, they’re not a widespread practice among locals. They’re mostly expected in tourist areas or upscale establishments—places frequented by foreign visitors.

Shopping and souvenirs

There’s plenty to buy, starting with local crafts like carpets, embroidery, wooden items, copperware, and silverwork, as well as the traditional Albanian hat. For food lovers, there’s olive oil, local cognac (Skënderbeu), honey from the Albanian Alps, and raki, which comes in various forms and names across the region. Then there are the sometimes kitschy souvenirs from the Enver Hoxha era, ranging from mugs with the dictator’s face to ashtrays shaped like bunkers.