Currency in Albania – should you bring euros or lek?

What currency is used in Albania? Learn more about the Albanian lek and the best ways to pay during your trip.

Albania has become a popular destination for Swedish travellers looking for sunshine, beaches and a holiday that is often more affordable than in many other parts of Europe.

But what currency is used in Albania? Can you pay in euros, or should you exchange money for Albanian lek?

The official currency of Albania is the Albanian lek, with the currency code ALL. Euros are accepted at some hotels, restaurants and tourist destinations, but lek is the best option for most everyday payments.

What currency is used in Albania?

The Albanian lek is used throughout the country, from the capital Tirana to popular destinations such as Durrës, Vlorë, Himarë and Ksamil.

Prices are usually displayed in lek, although some hotels, tour operators and accommodation providers may quote prices in euros.

Albania is not a member of the EU and therefore does not use the euro as its official currency.

Can you pay in euros in Albania?

Euros are accepted by some tourist-oriented businesses, particularly in popular holiday resorts and larger hotels.

However, this does not necessarily mean that paying in euros is always the best option. Businesses often set their own exchange rates, which may make your purchase more expensive. You may also receive your change in lek.

For smaller restaurants, cafés, taxis, markets and local shops, Albanian lek is usually more practical.

Cash or card in Albania?

Card payments are becoming increasingly common in Tirana and at larger hotels, shops and restaurants. However, cash is still widely used, especially in smaller towns and local businesses.

It can therefore be useful to have:

• Albanian lek for smaller purchases and local transport
• a payment card for hotels and larger purchases
• a small reserve in euros
• more than one payment option during your trip

Always choose to pay in Albanian lek if a card terminal asks whether you want to pay in Swedish kronor or the local currency. Paying in Swedish kronor may result in a less favourable exchange rate.

Currency in Ksamil and other holiday resorts

Ksamil is known for its beaches and clear water and is one of Albania’s most popular holiday destinations.

At larger hotels and restaurants, it may be possible to pay by card or in euros. However, cash in lek may be required at smaller beach bars, restaurants and for local transport.

The same applies to other coastal destinations such as Himarë, Dhërmi and Vlorë. Access to ATMs may be more limited outside larger towns, so it is wise to plan your withdrawals in advance.

Is Albania affordable?

Albania is often considered a relatively affordable destination compared with many other European holiday destinations.

However, prices can vary depending on the location and season. Popular places such as Ksamil can be considerably more expensive in July and August than during the rest of the year.

Always check whether a price is quoted in euros or lek before ordering food, booking an excursion or taking a taxi.

Withdrawing money in Albania

ATMs are available in Tirana and in larger tourist destinations such as Durrës, Vlorë and Ksamil.

Both the local bank and your Swedish bank may charge withdrawal fees. Always check the fee before confirming the transaction.

Whenever possible, use an ATM operated by an established bank and always choose to withdraw money in Albanian lek.

Should you bring euros or lek to Albania?

Albanian lek is the best option for most payments in Albania.

Euros may be accepted at some hotels and tourist businesses, but they are best used as a backup. A combination of lek, a payment card and a small amount of euros will usually give you the greatest flexibility.

By having several payment options available, you will be better prepared whether your trip takes you to Tirana, Durrës, Ksamil or one of Albania’s many beaches.

You are warmly welcome to visit Tavex to view current exchange rates and plan your travel money before your trip.