Ryanair names Tirana top destination for 2026

The beautiful Albanian capital, Tirana, has everything a traveler needs for an authentic and lively experience, writes Holly Kintuka in an article published in the British newspaper Daily Express.

The European capital has been named one of the top destinations for 2026 by the airline Ryanair, reports ATSh, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

The airline compiled a list of the five best places to visit this year, as millions of British tourists plan their next trips. Europe has many stunning holiday destinations, which means that many remain hidden and largely unknown to most tourists, including Albania’s hidden gem, Tirana.

According to Ryanair, the beautiful European city is worth visiting for several reasons:

“Albania’s vibrant capital is a city where colorful streets, lively cafés, and breathtaking mountain views create an unforgettable travel experience,” said Ryanair.

“From traces of Ottoman, Italian, and modern architecture to the bustling Skanderbeg Square and the peaceful Tirana Lake, the city offers a perfect blend of history, beautiful weather, and contemporary culture.”

Tirana has many attractions to explore, from religious monuments and museums to historic buildings and a former royal palace.

Its most famous landmark is the Pyramid of Tirana, a unique attraction in the city.

The site has historical significance for Albania. The pyramid first opened as a museum in 1988 and later, in 1991, became a conference center after the fall of communism. During the Kosovo War in 1999, the building served as a NATO base.

In 2018, a new project revealed plans to transform the pyramid into an IT center for youth focused on creative technologies, programming, robotics, and startups under the name TUMO Center Tirana, and the renovated building opened to the public in 2023.

The pyramid also contains bars and restaurants, and visitors can climb its steps to enjoy a unique panoramic view of the entire city.

Another feature that makes the capital stand out is its pedestrian-friendly areas and squares.

Skanderbeg Square, the main square of the city, is named after Albania’s national hero and covers approximately 40,000 square meters.

Visitors can find many important buildings in the square, including the Tirana International Hotel, Palace of Culture, National Opera, National Library, Clock Tower, City Hall, Bank of Albania, offices of several ministries, and the National History Museum.

Skanderbeg Square is among the top 10 places to visit in Tirana, according to TripAdvisor.

“A wonderful, very beautiful, and clean square in Tirana. I was amazed by the different architectural elements that form a colorful and delightful labyrinth for the eye,” said one visitor.

As reported by CE Report, during the Christmas period, the decorations are especially charming. The colorful shops create a lively, youthful city with a blend of cultures and fashion.