Best Currency to Use in Albania: Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
If you’re planning to explore Albania, one of the first things you’ll wonder is: what’s the best currency to use in Albania? Whether you’re backpacking along the Riviera, exploring mountain villages, or road-tripping in a camper van, handling money the smart way makes a big difference. Here’s a practical guide to help you stay on top of your travel budget.
1. What Is the Official Currency in Albania?
The official currency in Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL). You’ll see prices listed in lek almost everywhere – from cafes and local shops to bus stations and street markets. Euros are accepted in some tourist areas, but lek is the safest and most cost-effective currency to carry.
Currency Code: ALL
Common Bills: 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 ALL
Current Exchange Rate (as of 2025): 1 EUR ≈ 100-105 ALL
2. Should You Bring Euros or Lek to Albania?
Bring Euros, but plan to exchange them into lek once you arrive.
Do not bring US dollars or other currencies unless you’re traveling from a country that uses them — they’re rarely accepted and not ideal for exchange.
If you’re already in the EU, Euros are easy to exchange and give you better rates than withdrawing directly in lek abroad.
3. Where to Exchange Money in Albania
Banks – Safe, reliable, and offer fair exchange rates.
Official Exchange Offices (Këmbimore) – Fast and often with better rates than banks.
Airport Exchanges – Convenient, but usually with less favorable rates. Best for small amounts on arrival.
ATMs – Widely available in cities and tourist areas. They dispense lek directly.
💡 Tip: Avoid exchanging large sums at border crossings or unmarked kiosks.
4. Card Payments and Cash Use
Cash is king in Albania, especially in rural areas and smaller businesses.
Credit/debit cards are accepted in big hotels, supermarkets, and restaurants in cities like Tirana, Saranda, and Durrës.
Always carry some cash for daily expenses, public transport, local cafes, and outdoor markets.
5. ATM Tips & Currency Safety
Use bank-affiliated ATMs to avoid high withdrawal fees or scams.
Notify your bank about your trip to prevent card blocks.
Split your cash and keep small notes for everyday use.
Apps like XE Currency or Wise can help you track real-time rates.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to the best currency to use in Albania, the clear answer is the Albanian Lek. Bring euros, exchange wisely, and keep a mix of cash and card for flexibility. With the right planning, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and focus on enjoying the beauty Albania has to offer.
Leave a Reply