When writing about a city and in particular about the capital of a country, it is more likely you'll talk about the city centre. In Tirana's case, as a local, I would not call a friend and say: "Let's meet in the city centre and then decide where to go". I would choose the Pyramid and then start telling them about the history of my country and the importance of dealing with the past.
The Pyramid is located in the middle of Tirana; hence it's close to everything. As such, it is already a meeting point for the locals and an orientation spot for many foreigners who choose Tirana as a tourist destination.
Furthermore, you can also grab a beer and climb it, and after that, you can choose your next spot. If you want to keep it cheaper, the Pyramid is one of the best places to hang out. After that, you can switch to the artificial lake of Tirana, which is not that far from the Pyramid.
The Pyramid also has interesting architecture, which means different things to different people in Albania. Therefore, there has been a lot of discussion from different political points of view on the Pyramid. All in all, it remains a very good orientation point, and it's easily accessible from different parts of Tirana via good public transportation, even though it's not the best. Every time I pass by, it makes me think and critically reflect on the difficult past of my country.
Find your way with 166 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The city's historical significance is represented by the castle walls, which date to the Byzantine era and are still standing today.
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It is the ideal spot to unwind and take in the history and art around you because the house is bright and the interior is quite inviting.
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From music performances to art exhibitions and from workshops to seminars, Tek Bunkeri offers a range of events that cater to a wide range of interests.
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What's interesting is that the names of different cities are inscribed on some of the tiles, making it a fun activity to try and spot them all.
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Aside from the drinks, the pub is known for its excellent music selection, with several DJs spinning anything from old-school hits to the latest singles.
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One of my favorite dishes on the menu is the ravioli mixed with cream and ham. The dish is simple yet flavorful, and the pasta is cooked to perfection.
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With amazing food, warm decoration, and friendly staff, Kripe dhe Piper is a must-visit for anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience in Tirana.
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A narrow hallway just behind the Et'hem Bey Mosque, near the municipal hall, gives the best view of the clock tower that was constructed back in 1822,
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Nila, a charming lady, stands behind the counter of this shop that has been around since 1994. She creates a variety of desserts and pastries on-site.
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Oborri is one of those rare places where time seems to slip away. It's a peaceful oasis surrounded by lemon trees and cat companions.
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166 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
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