Essentials

Language and communication

What locals speak, where English works, and a few Albanian phrases worth knowing.

Albanian (Shqip) is the official language. Italian is widely understood on the coast and among older generations. English is common in Tirana, tourist towns, and with younger staff — less so in rural shops and furgon stations.

Useful phrases: Përshëndetje (hello), Faleminderit (thank you), Ju lutem (please), Po / Jo (yes / no), Ku është…? (Where is…?), Sa kushton? (How much?).

Google Translate offline Albanian works well for menus and signs. Learn numbers 1–10 for markets and taxis.

Taxi drivers and guesthouse hosts often use WhatsApp

a local SIM makes coordination much easier.