Albanian Travels

Albania is often perceived as a dangerous country, especially by those who have never visited. This reputation comes from several factors: its past under a closed communist regime, its association with organized crime in some films and media, and a general lack of knowledge about the country. But what is the reality? Is Albania a destination to avoid, or is it actually safe for travelers?

Spoiler : I’ve been here 2 months and feel safe !

1. Why Is Albania Perceived as Dangerous?

A Past Marked by Isolation and Dictatorship

Until 1991, Albania was under the dictatorship of Enver Hoxha, a highly isolated regime that cut the country off from the rest of the world for decades. This period left deep scars: limited infrastructure, poverty, and economic setbacks. For those who remember or have heard of this time, the image of a struggling country has persisted, even though modern Albania is vastly different from what it was 30 years ago.

Association with Organized Crime

Albania is sometimes portrayed in films and TV series as a hub for gangs and traffickers. The movie Taken, in which Albanians are depicted as international criminals, reinforced this stereotype. In reality, like in many countries, organized crime exists but does not affect tourists. In the last 2 months, we have not even seen what could resemble gang members.
Albania is actually much safer than many major European cities in terms of street crime.

Also, even though it may be off topic, I feel like it’s important to talk about how nice Albanian people are. They might look « closed » because of the fact that they don’t always smile… once you start talking to them, they are extremely kind and caring. For most of them : they are happy to help, happy to see you…

Lack of Awareness About the Country

Albania remains a lesser-known destination among Western tourists. The unknown often triggers fear, leading many to assume the country is unstable or unsafe simply due to lack of familiarity. However, those who do visit are often surprised by the warm hospitality of Albanians and the peaceful atmosphere in both cities and rural areas.

2. Is Albania Actually Dangerous?

Low Crime Rates Against Tourists

Incidents involving tourists, such as thefts or assaults, are rare in Albania. Albanians are generally very welcoming, and respect for visitors is a strong cultural value. Unlike in some major European cities, you can walk around without worrying too much about pickpockets or scams targeting foreigners.

You can see Albanians pull out their cash in front of everyone like it’s no bother… seriously, they’re very honest people…
And if you start questioning their honesty, they might not take it well (beware!), because it seems to be a very big value for them.
To be honest, I’ve never had a feeling of being robbed, being fooled or anything like that.

The Real Risks: Road Safety and Infrastructure

The most significant danger in Albania is reckless driving. The roads can be in poor condition, and some drivers do not always follow traffic rules. If you rent a car, be extra cautious, especially at night.
But overall, we have not felt unsafe on the road. We have however, drove into a few wholes in the road.

Medical infrastructure outside major cities seems to be limited, so it is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.

Natural Risks

Albania is located in a seismic zone, and earthquakes can occasionally occur. While rare, it is something to keep in mind. Here, you’ll find some informations on what to do in case of an earthquake.

3. Comparison with Other European Countries

Accurate crime data for Albania is limited. However, according to a 2005 report by the International Centre for Prison Studies (ICPS), Albania had an incarceration rate of 12.1 per 100,000 inhabitants, which is lower than in many European countries. While this does not directly reflect crime rates, it can provide an indication of the country’s overall security level.

Additionally, reports from travelers and expats frequently highlight that Albania feels much safer than many Western European cities in terms of street crime and personal safety. And honestly, I’d second that.

4. Safety Tips for Traveling in Albania

• Follow basic precautions: As with anywhere, avoid displaying valuables unnecessarily and stay aware in crowded places.
• Be cautious on the road: If driving, adjust your speed and avoid driving at night on poorly lit roads.
• Use common sense: Albanians are very hospitable, but if a situation seems suspicious, trust your instincts.
• Check your insurance: A good travel insurance policy can be essential in case of medical emergencies or accidents. You’ll find our article about insurance here.

5. Conclusion: Should You Be Afraid of Albania?

No, Albania is not a dangerous country for tourists. Its negative reputation is mostly due to outdated stereotypes and a lack of awareness about the modern reality. Travelers who visit Albania often find a safe, welcoming country that is much calmer than some major European cities.

So, if you were hesitating to visit Albania due to safety concerns, rest assured—this country is definitely worth exploring beyond the clichés!