Background

Skanderbeg Square: The Heart of Tirana

Experience the vibrant heart of Albania in Skanderbeg Square, Tirana: where history, culture, and modern life converge in a dynamic public space.

4.5

Skanderbeg Square, the central plaza of Tirana, Albania, is a vibrant hub named after the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu. This expansive square is surrounded by significant landmarks and serves as a focal point for cultural events, offering a blend of history, architecture, and modern city life.

A brief summary to Skanderbeg Square

  • Plaza Tirana, Sheshi Skender Beu, Tirana, 1001, AL

Local tips

  • Visit the National History Museum on the square to delve into Albania's past, from ancient times to the communist era.
  • Admire the intricate frescoes and Islamic architecture of the Et'hem Bey Mosque, a historical landmark on the square.
  • Climb the Tirana Clock Tower for panoramic views of the city.
  • Check for local events, festivals, or concerts happening in the square during your visit.
  • Explore the underground gallery beneath the square for a unique cultural experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Skanderbeg Square is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most locations in downtown Tirana. From the National Art Gallery, walk north along Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard, and the square will be directly ahead. From the Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar), walk south along Rruga e Barrikadave, then turn right onto Sheshi Skënderbej. Admission to the square is free.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve Skanderbeg Square. From Tirana East Gate shopping center (TEG), take bus line 2 or 8 to the city center and ask the driver to be let off near Skanderbeg Square. From the Dajti Ekspres cable car, take the blue 'Porcelan' bus from near the Clock Tower. A single bus fare is 40 Lekë.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Tirana. A taxi ride from the Dajti Ekspres cable car to Skanderbeg Square typically costs between 700 to 1000 Lekë, but be sure that the driver puts on the meter. A ride from Tirana International Airport to Skanderbeg Square is around 160 EUR.

Unlock the Best of Skanderbeg Square

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Skanderbeg Square

Skanderbeg Square, the symbolic heart of Tirana, Albania, reflects the nation's complex history and vibrant present. Named after the Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, the square is dominated by an equestrian statue honoring his legacy of resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. The square's history is layered, with its original design dating back to the Italian occupation in 1939. During the communist era, the square was further shaped with the addition of significant buildings like the National History Museum and the Palace of Culture. In 2017, a major restructuring transformed Skanderbeg Square into a vast pedestrian zone, one of the largest in the Balkans, emphasizing green spaces and a human-centered design. Today, Skanderbeg Square is a dynamic space where locals and tourists gather. It is surrounded by important landmarks such as the National History Museum, known for its large mosaic facade depicting Albania's history, the Et'hem Bey Mosque, and the Tirana Clock Tower. The square hosts various events, from morning prayers to evening concerts, reflecting the city's ever-evolving character. The square also features an underground gallery and an innovative water management system.

Popular Experiences near Skanderbeg Square

Popular Hotels near Skanderbeg Square

Select Currency