Named after the Albanian national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti-Skenderberg, Skenderberg Square is the central hub of Tirana, the most important square in the city and its heart. The highlight of the square is an equestrian statue of the great Skenderberg himself- a figure cast in bronze, atop a large platform made of blocks of limestone.  

The square abuts some of Tirana’s most well known sights. Chief among these are the Palace of Culture (the country’s largest cultural complex, with a number of restaurants, art galleries, a theatre, and the National Library), and the Museum of National History (the main feature of which is a huge mosaic- the largest in Albania- symbolising the history of the people). Skenderberg is an excellent place to while away time, to sit and watch life in Tirana, and to get a feel of what the city’s all about.

Situated behind the University of Tirana, the Great Park of Tirana is perfect for a quiet and relaxing break. The park has, within its grounds, an artificial lake, a bar, a restaurant and an open-air theatre, where cultural performances are held on and off. Also within the park is a botanical garden and a zoo- suitable place to visit if you've got children along with you.

 One of the oldest and most distinctive buildings in the city of Tirana, the Mosque of Ethem Mey was constructed in 1793; its cupola and slender minaret are among Tirana’s most well known sights.

The mosque actually took a good three decades to construct; it was completed in 1823. It’s worth a visit, even if you’re not a Muslim, simply because its architecture is so pleasing. Next to the mosque- behind it, rather- stands the Clock Tower of Tirana, which also dates back to 1830.

The Cemetery of the Martyrs of the Nation stands outside the main city of Tirana, on a low terraced hill. Dominating the cemetery is the towering statue of a figure known as Mother Albania- a female figure, holding up a star and laurels in her right hand. All in all, a poignant reminder of the bloody war the Albanians have had to wage to get their freedom. Close to the cemetery is the Brigades Palace, which was at one time, the Royal Palace of Albania’s King Zog.

Tirana has a few other sights that you might like to visit; and these are nearly all museums or art galleries. Among them, the more popular ones are the Enver Hoxha Museum and the Archaeological Museum- the latter is particularly good, with an excellent selection of artefacts dating far back to prehistoric times.