I lived in Tirana for a little more than one year. I got to experience their cafe culture firsthand. Albania is a treasure trove of dog-friendly places. The city of Tirana is the vibrant heart of the country. It caters well to dogs. My dog, Watson, who weighs only 4 kilograms, went everywhere with me.
I found that the Top Dog Friendly Restaurants and Cafes in Tirana make this city special. Albania records the highest number of cafes per person in the world. People here meet for tiny espresso shots or Turkish coffee multiple times a day.
Every corner has a place to sit and watch the world go by. I discovered that the best restaurants in Tirana often have beautiful patios. My goal is to share my experience so you and your pet can enjoy the best restaurants in albania too.
The Vibe of the City
First of all, I must mention the atmosphere. Tirana is a walkable city. The Mediterranean climate is prime for outdoor dining. Most of the year is pleasant for sitting outside. Though it gets hot in the peak of summer, many places have shaded patios.
At that time, I would scope out the chairs. Comfortable chairs are a priority for me. I do not understand why a business would have uncomfortable chairs. I always look for big cushions. On top of that, greenery adds a lot to the vibe.
Many cafes that are dog friendly have lush plants and trees. Therefore, the environment feels peaceful even in a busy city.
Similarly, some people think travel with a dog is hard. I found it very manageable in Albania. I used buses and taxis without many issues. However, some locals are afraid of dogs. They often warn children that a dog will bite.
Therefore, I am always respectful of their space. Gradually, the culture is changing. People start to understand the love for pets. One restaurant owner even described dogs as angels. Plus, the government recently changed the laws to protect animals. 37,527 citizens signed a petition to criminalize animal cruelty in 2017.
Finally, in 2019, the Parliament passed these amendments. It was a defining moment for animal law in the country.
My Favorite Cafes in Tirana
I spent many mornings searching for cafes that allow dogs. I found some amazing spots. Mulliri Gourmet in the Blloku neighborhood is my absolute favorite. It is a chain, but the coffee is excellent. This location has a fully outdoor patio with a dozen large umbrellas. It provides ample shade for every table. The chairs are top tier.
They have big comfy cushions on the seat and the back. Additionally, they have soy milk. Most cafes in Tirana do not have plant-based milks. I always buy their coffee beans before I leave. It opens very early at 6:30 am. On the contrary, it gets very busy on Sundays.
Another great spot is MUGO Tirana, which is right next door to Mulliri. It is a trendy spot with a leafy atmosphere. In the morning, it is a serene cafe. Later, it turns into a bar with delicious cocktails.
The outdoor patio is small, but they open the windows to make the whole building feel like a patio. The service is great. I love their avocado toast and English breakfasts. On top of that, it is one of the tirana best places to eat for an upscale brunch vibe.
The Unique and The Traditional
If you like a retro vibe, you must visit Radio Bar. It is also in the Blloku area. It features colorful communist-era furniture. The space is full of old transistor radios and sewing machines. It feels like a 1960s Albanian living room.
They serve coffee and tea in an outdoor shaded area. Similarly, KINO is a popular bar with a lot of history. It is located across the street from where the dictator Enver Hoxha lived. It once housed the cinema of the country. It has a unique garden for morning coffee.
However, some places are hidden gems. Hana Corner Café is a welcome addition to the scene. It offers a bohemian and free-spirited vibe. The coffee is high quality and the pastries are artisanal. Plus, they have a thrift shop with vintage items. Vegans will find plenty of non-cow milk options here. Another spot I love is The Tea Room.
As you could guess, they focus on tea. It is a serene place for writers and artists. The flowery wallpaper and unique cups are very charming. I once visited dog friendly restaurants in topsham, but this tea room has a special rustic feel.
Top Dog Friendly Restaurants and Cafes in Tirana
When it is time for a meal, I look for cafes that are pet friendly and serve the best food in tirana. Artigiano at Vila is a cozy Italian restaurant. They welcome pets in their outdoor garden. I heard a story from a local named Dajana. She brought her lab, Max, for lunch. The staff brought him a bowl of water before they even ordered.
This made them feel right at home. On the contrary, Salt Restaurant & Bar is a bit more upscale. They welcome pets in their spacious outdoor lounge. It is a great choice for a date night. Just make sure to call ahead to reserve a pet-friendly table.
Additionally, ODA Garden Café is a peaceful escape. It is tucked away on a quiet street. It is one of the few places that keeps dog treats at the counter. My dog was very excited. The owner, Eriona, decided to be pet-friendly because pets are part of the family.
She even hosted a birthday party for a beagle once. I also recommend Smoke House Bar & Grill in Blloku. They offer an American-style BBQ menu. You can eat burgers and ribs while your dog enjoys the lively patio.
Casual and Cool Spots
First of all, Stephen Center Café is a calm garden space. It is near the Blloku area. The team is very friendly. Remote workers love it because they have free Wi-Fi. You can work with your furry assistant by your side.
On top of that, Bitter Bistro is an expat favorite. It is centrally located on Zogu I Boulevard. The owner is a super nice American guy. They have a great menu for brunch and dinner. My favorite thing there is the bottomless mimosas. The portions are generous. They also have vegetarian and vegan food.
Later, I discovered Tony’s Coffee Shop & Restaurant. The menu looks like it is from the US. They have pancakes, waffles, and Tex-Mex. You must order the hash browns. They are the best I have ever had. One location is at the Pyramid.
You can climb the Pyramid and then have a nice breakfast. Similarly, TeDuKtu has a very creative menu. I had salty pancakes with salmon and avocado. There is a big outdoor terrace in the back. Therefore, it is a quiet spot to work online.
Shopping and Modern Perks
Tirana is becoming more modern every day. TEG (Tirana East Gate) is the first pet-friendly shopping mall in Albania. It opened its doors to four-legged friends up to 15 kilograms. You must keep your dog on a leash or in a carrier.
Additionally, look for the “Pet Friendly” sign on store doors. The mall has a pet supermarket called Oreo & Tony on level -2. It offers food, toys, and accessories. There is also Plusito Pet Shop on level -1. These spots make it a top pet-friendly destination in Tirana.
However, pets are not allowed in the Food Court area. You must also clean up after your pet. This initiative is a big step forward for the city. It shows that the capital is becoming livelier. I found that many dog friendly restaurants in the east of the city are near the mall area. Therefore, you can shop and then find a nice place to eat nearby.
Exploring the Parks
Tirana has plenty of green spaces for long walks. Grand Park of Tirana is the most popular spot. It is in the heart of the capital. It features a large artificial lake and shaded paths. I made it a habit to walk there at least once a week.
The park has several drinking fountains that dogs can use too. Early mornings or late evenings are the best times to visit. This park has many trails that make you feel like you are in the woods. On top of that, there are many cafes and bars along the trails.
Additionally, Rinia Park is a centrally located spot. It is often called the “Youth Park”. Though it is smaller than Grand Park, it has a dedicated dog park. Watson made many new furry friends there. It is a relief to have a place where dogs can play off a leash.
Plus, it is near many pet-friendly cafes. On the contrary, Dajti National Park is a mountain adventure. You can take a cable car to the top. Dogs are allowed on the cable car for an extra 4 euros. The cooler mountain air is a nice break from the summer heat. Some hiking trails are challenging, so be careful.
Practical Advice for Travelers
Travel with a dog requires planning. Entry requirements for Albania are clear. Your dog must be microchipped. A valid rabies vaccine is required. Albania only recognizes the 1-year rabies vaccine for entry.
Additionally, you need a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel. This document must be endorsed by your government vet. A parasite treatment is also required 24 to 72 hours before you arrive.
First of all, let us talk about transport. BS Taxi is a great option in Tirana. They do not charge extra for dogs. The driver just asks that the dog stays on the floor. Taxi Landi and Taxi Gazi Tirane are also pet-friendly.
On the contrary, buses are tricky. Small dogs in carriers are usually allowed. Large dogs on leashes are often rejected by bus drivers. Therefore, I recommend renting a car for longer trips.
Pet Care and Supplies
Vet care in Albania is very affordable. I took Watson to a vet when he got sick. The visit and two shots cost only $10.50. Appointment fees typically range from 5 to 35 euros. Most shots are between 5 and 8 euros. A spay or neuter costs around 35 euros. Pet House in Durres and O&B Vet Clinic in Tirana are clinics I personally used. You can walk right in without an appointment.
Finding supplies is easy in the city. Many supermarkets like Spar, Conad, and Big Market carry dog food. However, dog food can be more expensive than in the EU. For quick delivery, I use the Wolt app. It works in Tirana, Durres, Vlora, and Shkoder. You can order food and supplies to your door. Plus, the MegaTek online store ships across the country.
Staying Safe in Tirana
Though the city is vibrant, you must be careful. There are many stray dogs. Most are friendly and kept as community dogs. Some locals feed them and watch over them. However, aggressive dogs are sometimes reported in rural areas.
I keep an eye on their body language. If I am not sure, I scoop up my dog and walk away. Additionally, poison is a risk. Some locals put out poison for strays. Therefore, you must be extra vigilant. Do not let your dog eat anything off the street.
On top of that, disease control is important. Albania has fleas and ticks. I always use monthly medication. It is very cheap in Albania. Leishmaniasis is a risk in the Mediterranean. It is transmitted by sandflies.
I recommend getting the vaccine for your dog. Plus, most tap water is not safe to drink. I give Watson bottled water. Finally, bring your own poo bags. They are not widely available in shops.
FAQ
Can a dog sit at the table in a restaurant?
I always sit in the outdoor areas when I take Watson to a cafe or restaurant. Most places expect your dog to stay on the floor or in a carrier for hygiene and safety. I find that a quiet corner is the best spot for a calm meal. Respecting the vibe of the place is very important.
Can I bring my dog into Albania?
I brought my dog Watson into Albania many times and found it very easy. You must have your pet microchipped with a 15-digit ISO chip. A valid one-year rabies vaccine is also required. Additionally, you need a health certificate from your vet and a parasite treatment done 24 to 72 hours before you arrive.
Where can I go with my pet?
Tirana has many great spots for pets. You can visit the Grand Park of Tirana for a long walk by the lake or stop by Rinia Park in the city center. Many of the best restaurants in Tirana, such as Artigiano at Vila and Salt, allow dogs in their outdoor gardens. You can even take your dog to the TEG shopping mall if they weigh less than 15 kilograms.
Can a dog eat in a restaurant?
A lot of the best restaurants in albania have outdoor patios where your dog can hang out while you eat. You will find that cafes that allow dogs are quite common in the capital. One special place, ODA Garden Café, even keeps dog treats at the counter for furry visitors!
Does Albania have a stray dog problem?
Albania has a large number of stray dogs in the streets. Most of these dogs are friendly and people treat them like community dogs. However, some locals are afraid of them, and aggressive packs are sometimes reported in rural areas or on hiking trails. Therefore, I always watch the body language of strays when I walk Watson.
Can I drink Albania tap water?
I do not drink the tap water in Tirana or along the coast. It is generally not safe for humans or pets to drink. Therefore, I buy bottled water for Watson and myself. Some mountain towns like Berat may have safe water, but it is better to be careful.
Which mall is pet-friendly?
I was so happy to find that TEG (Tirana East Gate) is the first pet-friendly mall in the country. It welcomes pets that weigh up to 15 kilograms. You must keep them on a leash or in a carrier at all times. Plus, they have a pet supermarket called Oreo & Tony where you can buy supplies.
Final Thoughts on My Experience
I loved my time in Tirana with Watson. It is one of the easier countries to enter with a dog. The hospitality of the people is amazing.
If you need help, just ask a local. Younger people usually speak good English. Though the culture is different from Western Europe, it is worth the trip. You will find beautiful nature and a growing number of pet-friendly spots.
Tirana is growing into one of the most pet-welcoming capitals in the region. Whether you sit at a leafy cafe in Blloku or walk around the artificial lake, you will feel the charm. I plan to return next year. It is a city that stays in your heart.
So, pack your bags and bring your furry friend. Albania is ready to welcome you with open arms. Enjoy the coffee, the food, and the beautiful memories you will create together..
