A beautiful European capital has been named as one of the top destinations for 2026 by Ryanair. The airline has compiled a list of five must-visit locations for this year, as millions of Brits begin to think about where their next voyage might take them.
Europe has numerous stunning holiday spots, meaning that many remain hidden and largely unknown to the majority, including Albania’s hidden gem, Tirana. Whilst the charming city is the country’s capital, it does not welcome quite the number of visitors other European capitals might. Though according to Ryanair, the city is certainly worth visiting for several reasons.
Ryanair said: « Albania’s vibrant capital is a city where colourful streets, lively cafés, and stunning mountain backdrops create an unforgettable travel experience. From its charming mix of Ottoman, Italian, and modern architecture to the bustling Skanderbeg Square and serene Lake Tirana, the city offers a perfect blend of history, great weather, and contemporary culture. »
Tirana has plenty of attractions to explore, from religious landmarks and museums to monuments and a former royal palace. Although its prominent landmark, which, according to Visit Tirana, is « the most special attraction » in the city, is the Pyramid of Tirana.
The site holds historical significance for Albania. It first opened as a museum in 1988 and shortly after, in 1991, became a conference centre after the collapse of communism. During the Kosovo war in 1999, the building was used as a NATO base.
Fast forward to 2018, a new project unveiled plans to turn the pyramid into a youth IT centre for Creative technologies, honing in on computer programming, robotics and start-ups under the name of TUMO Centre Tirana, and the new revamped building was opened to the public in 2023.
It also features bars and restaurants, and visitors can climb up the stairs and experience a unique, panoramic view of the entire city.
One thing that makes the capital stand out is its beautiful pedestrian areas and squares. Skanderbeg Square, the city’s main plaza, is named after the country’s national hero and spans approximately 40,000 square metres.
Visitors can find a number of significant buildings at the square, including the Tirana International Hotel, the Palace of Culture, the National Opera, the National Library, the Clock Tower, the City Hall, the Bank of Albania, Multiple Ministry offices, and the National Historical Museum.
The square is among the top 10 things to do in Tirana according to TripAdvisor. A visitor, on the platform, wrote: « Great square very nice and clean in Tirana. I was amazed at the large amount of different architectural elements that form a colourful maze, and very pleasant to the eye.
« Then under the Christmas period really suggestive decorations! Under the pyramidal staircase colorful and quirky shops frame a vibrant and youthful city with a mixture of cultures and religions. »
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