Travel Safety in Albania
Overview
The main security risk in Albania is crime, which is a countrywide problem. Petty crime is concentrated in urban centres and organised crime in rural areas, mainly linked to marijuana cultivation. These rural areas experience intermittent conflict between rival groups and security forces.
Besides the general terrorist risk that European countries face, terrorism in Albania is not a particularly large concern. There is no significant risk of kidnapping.
Demonstrations are a feature in Albanian cities, with the majority taking place in Tirana; some have turned violent in the past.
General infrastructure in Albania is poor in relation to the rest of Europe, and medical facilities are largely inadequate, especially outside of Tirana and coastal resort areas.
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Basic information
Medical:
129 (police) 128 (fire) and 127 (ambulance). Operators may not speak English. Response times and service are likely to be poor.
Money:
The currency is the Albanian lek (ALL).
ATMs that accept foreign bank cards can be found in most major towns and cities.
Credit cards are only accepted in some international hotels, restaurants and higher-end retailers.
Language:
The country’s main language is Albanian. English may be spoken in some tourist areas.
Water:
Tap water is generally not safe to consume.
Connectivity:
4G and 5G available.