British daily Metro spotlights Tirana as a vibrant, affordable European getaway

The UK-based newspaper Metro has featured Tirana in a new travel piece, praising the Albanian capital for its mix of history, color, and urban ambition. The article, written after a visit to the city, describes Tirana as “lively at first glance,” noting its giant murals and high-rise buildings as defining features.

Why is this important: Positive international media coverage is crucial for Albania’s growing tourism sector. As Tirana looks to expand its appeal to urban travelers, articles like this reinforce its image as an up-and-coming European destination — blending affordability with cultural depth.

Context: According to the article, Tirana — with its population of nearly 600,000 — is about the size of London’s Brent district but has much bigger development plans.

“With its rich history, Mediterranean climate, and delicious cuisine, Tirana is an ideal choice for an affordable city break,” the article notes.

The piece also emphasizes the city’s communist past, calling it inescapable for visitors exploring the capital. It recalls how post-communist Tirana was dominated by drab, Soviet-style buildings until the early 2000s, when then-mayor Edi Rama launched a campaign to add color to the city’s urban landscape.

A bold future: Metro highlights Tirana’s evolution into a “modern European city with bold development plans.” The article points to the city’s strategic urban vision — Tirana 2030 — which aims to make the capital greener, more sustainable, and more technologically advanced.

Tourist highlights: Among the attractions recommended for visitors it includes the Et’hem Bey Mosque, Mount Dajti while the local cuisine, is described as a flavorful blend of Mediterranean and Balkan influences

The article adds to a growing list of international endorsements positioning Tirana as a must-visit destination for culture-seeking travelers on a budget.