From traditional bookstores and street book vendors to the rise of contemporary multi-functional spaces, Tirana gives you many options to enjoy literature in the city.

Albania’s capital has historically included countless bookstores and libraries. From large ones, containing Albanian and international editions, to more intimate local spots and street vendors, below we present our selection of the best places to get your literature fix.

1. Adrion

The most popular of them all, Adrion offers the most comprehensive selection of books of all languages and cultures. A tourist favorite, due its many translated Albanian books, original international classics and a wonderful selection of gifts and souvenirs, with its multiple locations, Adrion is also very easily accessible. The largest store is found in the Palace of Culture in Skanderbeg Square with another one located within the Mother Theresa International Airport for some last-minute buys.

Adrion Bookstore, photo source: facebook.com/adrionltd.

2. Albania

This bookstore, located in the heart of Blloku, is locally famous for having the very best selection of Albanian books as well as many editions that are not easily found elsewhere. In addition to bestsellers and more popular titles, what is particularly special about Albania is that it sells books from up-and-coming local writers. With a helpful and knowledgeable staff, here you will undoubtedly find a book that fits your preferences.

Albania Bookstore, photo source: facebook.com/Librari-Albania-Tirana

3. Friend’s Book House

The name says it all! Located in a bustling street, lined with cafés and shops, which the locals refer to as “Drejtoria e Policise” (Police Headquarters), Friend’s Book House is a café, bookstore, library, reading space and event venue, all in one. A place that truly brings literature lovers together, here you can join open reading events in addition to studying or simply enjoying a coffee or drink with friends. This place is as convertible as they come.

Friend’s Book House, photo source: facebook.com/friendsbookhouse.

4. Tirana Times

Similar to Friend’s Book House, Tirana Times is another one of the best multi-functional spaces in town. This two-story, spacious venue triples as a study-space, bookstore and meeting space. Conveniently located near Edith Durham Middle School, in the Blloku area, this is an ideal, cozy and quiet spot to spend an afternoon or evening. This place is especially nice for internationals who would like to get to know the local culture as it offers local news on its very own newspaper by the same name, published in English.

Tirana Times Library, photo source: facebook.com/tiranatimeslibrary.

5. Furra e Books

The name of this small bookstore plays on the Albanian phrase “Furra e bukës” which, in English, literally translates to the “bread oven,” and food-for-thought is exactly what this place offers. Thought small, this place has some of the rarest literature finds in town. The way to reserve your favorites is by tagging yourself on the regularly posted photos of new arrivals on the Furra e Books Facebook page. You can find plenty of books in several languages, like Italian, German, French and English and unique editions. Truly international and innovative, you can find this place along the same street as Tirana Times, as you walk towards the boulevard/Lana River.

Furra e Books, photo source: facebook.com/furrabooks.

6. Street vendors

As you walk around the main streets of Tirana, you will notice books neatly displayed at various strategic spots in town. These street vendors have, as expected, the most surprising array of books in countless languages. You can find some of the most popular ones along the main bridges of Lana River, next to the train station at the new boulevard, near the Unknown Soldier Square, and at Parku Rinia but there are countless others scattered across the entire city. If you see one, stop for a bit of browsing. You will surely find something unecxpected!