Understand
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Elbasan is a key city for visitors to Korca, Pogradec and North Macedonia. All the travellers from Tirana or other parts of Albania must pass through Elbasan to arrive in North Macedonia through the Qafë-Thana border.
Local information
[edit]- website
For more information about Elbasan, including local services, events, and administrative resources, visitors are encouraged to explore the official website of the Municipality of Elbasan.Elbasan city government. Additional travel tips, cultural highlights, and practical guides can also be found through various online tourism portals and digital city guides dedicated to the regionhttps://elbasan.guide/.https://akt.gov.al/elbasani/
Get in
[edit]About 45 minute ride from Tirana with the bus through the semi-finished new motorway that is under construction in 2018. Firstly, you have to go to the Terminal to take the bus that is in front of Faculty of Economics University of Tirana, in the "Qyteti Studenti" area, "Arben Broci" street. There is a motorway from Tirana to Elbasan. Elbasan is 55 km away from Tirana International Aeroport. You can take a taxi from there.
Get around
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Map of Elbasan
On foot
[edit]All the main important places to visit in Elbasan are near the city center, you can only take a walk and visit.
By taxi
[edit]Taxis are located close to the main square at the center of the city.
By bus
[edit]- 1 St. Bashkia stop. To get to the thermal baths (Llixhat) take the bus from here, east of Elbasan Central Palace. The ticket is 50 lek for the 12 km.
- 2 Tiranë-Elbasan (Distance), Lagjja "Aqif Pasha". 06:00-20:00. Elbasan is located approximately 45 minutes by bus from the capital Tirana, making it a convenient destination for daily travel. This close proximity facilitates access to a wide range of services, including higher education institutions, shopping centers, and employment opportunities, contributing to strong social and economic ties between the two cities. 200 lek.
- Tregu i rrobave (Tek kryqëzimi i Cerrikut). The "Tregu i Rrobave" bus terminal, located near the clothes market on the way to the Cerrik intersection, serves as a key hub in southern Elbasan. It facilitates both local routes within the city and its surrounding villages, such as nerbay, as well as intercity travel to other regional destinations.
See
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- 1 Elbasan Castle (right at the city centre). Only two ancient walls remain but the area inside is full of old houses and famous personalities houses, cobblestone streets, and an excellent restaurant. One castle wall is centred around the impressive sahati (clock tower). In the center of the castle are two water sources. The two-thousand-year-old Castle of Elbasan, a Roman construction built as early as the 3rd century BC. Foreigners in the 800s noted that cities like Elbasan no longer existed in Europe. Skampis, as this fortress-town was once called, was founded in 1466 by two strikingly different leaders: the Roman emperor Justinian and Sultan Mehmet the Second.
- The Mosque is in the heart of the Castle and the other Mosque is in the city center [1].
- Elbasan Ethnographic Museum – Located in the centre of the city, not far from the Castle of Elbasan, this museum is housed in a traditional two-story 18th-century house that tells of the culture, folklore and lifestyle in this medieval city.
- Scampa – Theatre is the culture cult of Elbasan, in the entrance of it is a library.
- Shefqet Vërlaçi's house – He was a deputy and a member of the headship of Elbasan who supported the Albanian Independence in 1912.
- The first professional Albanian education school ever opened in Albania in 1909, Normalja Elbasanit. The intellectuals that came out of that school were lay out all around the Albanian areas spreading knowledge and giving Albanian language lessons. Now its the Pedagogical school.
- Kostandin Kristoforidhi house (started as a museum in 1978) – The house where the scholar Konstandin Kristoforidhi was born. Kristoforidhi is well-known in Albania for having set the basis of unification of the two Albanian dialects into a national language. The house doesn't work yet as a museum and isn't visitable on the inside although discussions are being made to turn it into a museum.
- Elbasan Arena – It has a modern architecture. There are over 400 parking spaces, 2 restaurants, 1 conference room and a restaurant for V.I.P. The stadium has a capacity of 15,000 seats. You must have an ID card to enter the stadium.
- 2 Bysheku (Tourist spot), Shushice. Byshek, a tourist place 5 km near Elbasan, on the occasion of Summer Day, all the people from Elbasan organize a picnic, with celebrations and traditional food.
- 3 Ad Quintum (Roman thermal complex), Bradashesh.
Do
[edit]- Take a stroll down the wide brick boulevard leading from the center of town past one of the castle walls and the clock tower. Most evenings right after dusk the boulevard is full of many Elbasan residents out for a nightly walk.
- Visit the Plane Tree and the ruins of the Basilica
- 1 Rafting in Shkumbin river (kind of sport), AST Albania (in the east city), ☏ +355 69 382 5186. 09:00-12:00. Rafting is one of the most popular activities entertainment in Albania, which has been developed here as well river Shkumbin. The Shkumbin Valley has a special beauty rare with cataracts, caves, small beaches which you will if you have the opportunity to visit. In its northern part Shkumbini goes to areas with more radishes by adding speed and making it usable for rafting. Rafting starts from Kamara bridge (via egnatia) and ends near Elbasan city. €20 per person.
- Canyon of Valësh (Valësh Elbasan) (255M+3F2 Kanioni i Valëshit dhe Ura e Valëshit, Komuna, Gjinar). Valësh: Visit the Valësh Canyon and its 22-meter-high waterfall, estimated to be over 300 years old. A quiet, scenic spot for nature lovers.
- Church Shën e Premte (Kisha e Shën e Premtes), Valësh. Located in the village of Valësh, near Elbasan, is a hidden cultural gem nestled in the hills of the Shpati region. This small Orthodox church is not only a peaceful spiritual site but also an important piece of Albanian heritage.
What makes it especially notable is that it contains frescoes attributed to Onufri, one of Albania’s most celebrated icon painters of the 16th century, known for his vivid colors and expressive religious imagery. The church's interior preserves part of his artistic legacy, making it a rare and valuable site for lovers of religious art and history.
Further afield
[edit]- 2 Sotira Waterfall. Visit the caves and waterfalls of Gramsh.
- 3 Hike along Via Egnatia. Via Egnatia was a road constructed by the Romans in the 2nd century BC.
- 4 Belsh Lakes. Visit the numerous lakes near Belsh and take part in the annual Summer Day celebration in mid-March near the Dumreja Forest (to the north-east from the town).
- 1 Holta Springs, Holtë Elbasan. A set of hot springs in a picturesque canyon and surrounding. The main hot pool is 50-100 m after the entrance of the canyon.
- Visit Krasta mountain that is known for its fresh air, the plants and the nature.
- Stop at one of the picturesque villages of Gjinar and Steblevë.
- 2 Gjinar. Tourist place: 24 Km from Elbasan. The municipality, with a population of 3,478 according to the 2011 census, includes the villages of Lleshan, Gjinar, Valësh, Pashtresh, Dërstilë, Llukan, Stërstan, Xibresh, Maskarth, Kafërr, and Pobrat. Situated in the picturesque Shpati mountainous region, this area is a well-known tourist destination, celebrated for its natural beauty, including a vast pine forest. It offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. One of the region's standout features is the Valësh Canyon in the Gjinar area of Elbasan, home to a striking 22-meter-high waterfall, estimated to be around 300 years old. This natural marvel adds to the area's allure, attracting visitors with its breathtaking landscapes and historical significance.
- 3 Tre Bujtinat, Gjinar, ☏ +355 69 920 5805, [email protected]. Open until 10:00 PM. Tri Bujtinat is a charming restaurant and guesthouse located in the picturesque village of Gjinar. This cozy establishment offers a peaceful retreat for travelers looking to experience authentic Albanian hospitality and traditional cuisine. Set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush fields, Tri Bujtinat provides not only delicious food but also breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- 4 Sofra e Shpatit, Gjinar, ☏ +355 69 360 5938. Sofra e Shpatit is a traditional guesthouse and restaurant located in the scenic village of Gjinar, near Elbasan. It offers cozy accommodations with mountain views and serves authentic Albanian cuisine made from local ingredients. Ideal for a peaceful retreat in nature, it combines comfort, local flavors, and warm hospitality.
- 5 Shtëpizat, Gjinar (Shtëpizat Gjinar), ☏ +355 69 721 1616. The cabins in Gjinar, nestled in the scenic Shpati mountains near Elbasan, offer a peaceful escape into nature and are a great example of agrotourism in Albania. Surrounded by pine forests, fresh mountain air, and traditional farms, these cozy wooden cabins provide visitors with a chance to experience rural life, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in seasonal agricultural activities. Ideal for families, couples, or nature lovers, the cabins offer simple but comfortable accommodations in a tranquil setting.
- 6 Bujtina Bezhani, Gjinar (Bujtina Bezhani, Gjinar), ☏ +355 20 196 033. Bujtina Bezhani is a traditional guesthouse located in the picturesque village of Gjinar. Housed on the second floor of a family residence, it offers visitors a cozy and authentic rural experience. The guesthouse is surrounded by lush greenery, fruit orchards, and a beautiful garden, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation. Guests can enjoy homemade meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, immersing themselves in the rich culinary traditions of the region. The host's warm hospitality and the serene environment make it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Albanian countryside experience.
Llixhat
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5 Llixhat (or Llixha) means thermal baths and they are located 12 km south of Elbasan. You can take a dip in the curative thermal waters or stay in one of the hotels and have a whole week of treatments.
- 3 Llixhat bus stop. The bus from Elbasan St. Bashkia stop ends here.
- 4 Pristina bus stop (Memi Reisen), ☏ +355 38 44 45 49, +355 38 242 252, +355 692 111 222, +355 684 222 333. From Pristina: 04:00 and 14:00. Many of the guests here come from Kosovo directly into Llixhat, since the place if very popular with Kosovo Albanians. The bus also goes through Prizren. €10 (one way).
There is a set of pools in the center of town. The rest are hotels from basic to luxurious, €15-25 per person per night, including thermal treatments—try Hotel Debrova ☏ +355 68 309 8892, Hotel Cekrezi Qender ☏ +355 69 657 6322, or Hotel Ylli ☏ +355 69 977 3243. Check and inquire prices beforehand. If you come just for a visit, try Boci/Puka hotel, which might let you in for free for one cure.
There are shops, restaurants, post office and a market in town, so you don't have to bring much.
Note, there is another spa town a few km further south, called 6 Tregan, which has at least 3 central hot springs and around 4-5 big hotels.
Buy
[edit]- Traditional costumes
- Postcards of the city
- Souvenirs with Elbasan castle carved in stones.
- Olive Oil-The Elbasan area, known for its long, sun-soaked hills covered in olive groves, produces some of Albania’s finest extra virgin olive oil. Thanks to its favorable Mediterranean climate and centuries-old traditions, the region offers high-quality, cold-pressed oil with a rich aroma and smooth flavor.
Visitors can purchase olive oil directly from local farmers or small processing facilities (fabrika vaji), especially in surrounding villages. Buying straight from the source ensures freshness and supports local producers, making it a perfect souvenir and a taste of authentic Albanian agriculture. You can find them in a shop close to the city center and near to Scampa theatre.
Eat
[edit]- Bugaçe – A traditional Elbasan breakfast roll found nowhere else in Albania. Smothered in butter and with a dash of salt, this roll is delicious but not for those watching their cholesterol. Depending on the portion of it, bugaçe comes in different prices from 50 lekë to 100 lekë.
- Bukë me qofte – A traditional food made in various kiosks in the city.
- Ballakume – Another Elbasan speciality rarely found elsewhere in Albania. It is essentially a large sugar biscuit. While sold in stores all over the city, the best are always the freshly baked warm cookies. Also Ballokume is a dessert unique to Elbasan and is synonymous with the Summer Day.
- Try the traditional Tavë Elbasani, Fërgesë Elbasani and other yummy specialities.
- Kompeka is a traditional dessert in Elbasan. You can try this delicious food in the first floor of Hotel Skampa, where is a restaurant.
- Revani is also a traditional delicious dessert.
- Fuli is a traditional dessert from Elbasan, Albania, typically prepared to celebrate the birth of a child or a birthday within a family. Made with a simple combination of flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, it is flavored with vanilla or orange zest and baked until golden, creating a crispy outer layer and a soft, moist interior. Often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays, Fuli symbolizes local hospitality and is served in generous portions. This beloved dessert is a cherished part of Elbasan's culinary heritage, reflecting the region’s rich traditions and celebrations.
- 1 Tavë Elbasani me kumbulla (Traditional cooked food with plums), Isak Shehu St.. Goat meat, garlic, onion, rice, sour plums. 350 lek.
- 2 Byrek me mish dhe me gjizë (Traditional cooked food), Isak Shehu St.. A pie is a baked dish which is usually made of a pastry dough casing that contains a filling of various sweet or savoury ingredients. Sweet pies may be filled with fruit (as in an apple pie), nuts (pecan pie), fruit preserves (jam tart), brown sugar (sugar pie), sweetened vegetables (rhubarb pie), or with thicker fillings based on eggs and dairy (as in custard pie and cream pie). Savoury pies may be filled with meat (as in a steak pie or a Jamaican patty), eggs and cheese (such as quiches or British flans) or a mixture of meat and vegetables (pot pie). 50 lek.
Drink
[edit]- Çokollatë e zezë (black chocolate). It's like hot chocolate, but almost as thick as pudding and eaten with a spoon.
- Ashure. A sweet pudding-like drink made with corn and nuts.
- Bozë (kKnd of traditional drink). A type of drink produced by the local population, made of corn flour, yogurt and yeast, sweet and spicy, usually given to pregnant women to produce a lot of milk. 150 lek.
- Lëng thane / shurup thane (conelian tree). Cornelian cherry syrup, known locally as "Lëngu ose shurupi i thanës", is a traditional Albanian drink made from the small, bright red fruits of the thana (cornelian cherry) tree. Popular in the countryside and mountain regions like Elbasan and Gjinar, this syrup is both refreshing and rich in natural health benefits.
The fruit is harvested in late summer and slow-cooked with sugar and water to create a thick, ruby-red syrup. It is typically diluted with cold water and served as a drink, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that's both unique and thirst-quenching. - Narden kumbulle/ Plums juice. Narden plums are a unique variety of plum native to the region. Grown primarily in central Albania, these plums are prized for their rich flavor and are an important part of local agriculture. With a distinctive dark purple color and a sweet, tangy taste, Narden plums are typically harvested in late summer or early autumn.
These plums are commonly used in traditional Albanian recipes, including jams, preserves, and pies. Their juicy flesh and slightly tart flavor make them ideal for turning into plum syrup or being dried for use in winter months. In rural areas, Narden plums are often enjoyed fresh, paired with local cheeses or served as a dessert after meals.
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Elbasan Backpackers, ☏ +355 69 621 3789. This small, family-run hostel actually feels more like a home-stay. As March 2021 there are 2 buildings for guests: A dorm building with 8 beds and a small shed functioning as private room. Wifi available. Communal kitchen (outdoors), shower/WC (outdoors). The family lives on the premises and breakfast is served at the family's terrace. The host (mother) doesn't speak much English but there's always someone around to translate (the son, Eduart, is fluent in English and French). Dorm bed 850 lek.
- Hotel Vila Imperial – 450 m from the centre. Hotel Vila Imperial features a bar, terrace and free WiFi. ☏ +355 69 432 7991
- Hotel Guri – 500 m from the centre. Featuring room service, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The air-conditioned rooms provide a garden view and come with a desk and free WiFi.
- Antique House Elbasan – 650 m from the centre. Antique House Elbasan has a balcony, free WiFi, a garden, as well as a terrace.
- Garden Hotel, ☏ +355 69 354 4091. Check-in: 2:00 PM, check-out: 11:00 AM. Located in the heart of Elbasan, Garden Boutique Hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and traditional Albanian hospitality. Just a short walk from the city's main attractions, including Elbasan Castle and the King's Mosque, the hotel provides easy access to both historical sites and local amenities.
The hotel features 10 allergy-friendly rooms equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast with Italian and halal options, served daily. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, free private parking, a shared lounge, a bar, and a terrace. For those interested in exploring the area, the hotel offers bicycle rentals and can assist with car hire. - 2 Hotel Le Olive, ☏ +355 69 641 6520.
- 3 Real Skampis (Real Scampis, Rruga Xhaferr Kongoli), ☏ +355 69 822 2880. Check-in: 2:00 PM, check-out: 11:00 AM. Set within the ancient walls of Elbasan Castle, Real Scampis Hotel offers a refined stay where history meets comfort. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, a restaurant serving Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine, and a cozy bar and terrace. Surrounded by heritage landmarks, it’s an ideal base for exploring Elbasan’s historic center in a unique and elegant setting.
Connect
[edit]Wireless Internet is widely available in cafés and restaurants throughout the city, although it's a good idea to ask if one is available before you sit down. Free public WiFi is also available around the city through Albtelecom.
Several private phone calling shops with long-distance calling are available.
Mobile telephony providers provide 3G and 4G -5G internet telephony.
Go next
[edit]- Sopot (Albanian: Sopoti) – A small region in north-east Albania. It is also a village (Prrenjas municipality) and mountain with the same name.
- Pogradec – Overshadowed by its glitzy neighbors on the Macedonian side of the lake, the town of Pogradec has been experiencing a revival.
- Berat – One of the oldest towns in Albania, known as the "city of 1001 windows", with a well preserved castle and nearby the world famous Osum Canyon.
- Durrës – One of the oldest cities in Albania. It has the largest amphitheater in the Balkans and a lot of newly explored beaches.
- Korçë – Albania's cultural capital, full of life during the summer when you can find couples and families strolling through the city's main park, Parku Rinia. You can hike to the top of the beautiful mountain Moravia and view the city and its surrounding landscape.
- Përmet – “The City of Roses” in the Vjosa River Valley, approximately 30 km from the Greek border. The city is known for its clean environment and tradition of wine and raki making. And it is famous for its nearby thermal springs, located in a beautiful river valley with an ancient Ottoman bridge.
- Pristina (Kosovo) – Direct buses leave from the spa center LLixhat to Pristina.
- Struga (North Macedonia) – On the northern shore of the lake, Struga is a smaller, quieter, cheaper, but less fun alternative to Ohrid.