Korçë
Step into the wonderful city of Korçë and savour a delicious mix of old, new, nature and culture. Korçë is a undiscovered gem in Albania.
Korçë in a nutshell
If Albania is a hidden gem, and its capital, Tirana is just as unknown, the little town of Korce is a complete mystery to most. Located just a few miles from the Greek border, it’s a picturesque place, untouched by those communist blocks that Tirana has painted in bright colors to undo the damage 50 years of communist rule did to the country.
Instead, you’ll find pretty cobbled streets and grand villas dating from the charming 1920s and 1930s, a gorgeous leafy park, Parku Rinia, and in the distance, Morava Mountain, where you can hike to the top for panoramic city views.
There aren’t many sights to see here, but it’s a beautiful city to visit, with an inimitable charm, a place where you can soak up the atmosphere, people-watch from a café and just absorb the charming Albanian culture.
This city, just a few kilometres from the Greek border, is Albania's cultural centre. During the summer, it comes alive with couples and families wandering around Parku Rinia, the city's primary park. Hike to the summit of the lovely mountain Moravia for a panoramic city skyline and its surroundings.
The city is tiny and walkable, with a preference for vertical rather than horizontal development. There are various automobile rental businesses, a city bus service, and finding a reliable cab driver is rather straightforward. There is a municipal cycling programme (please add information if you know of any public or private bike rentals). There isn't much traffic, but there are a few crazy drivers on the road, so be cautious.
Taking the train from Tirana to Korça is an intriguing - albeit slow - option. It is only a short distance by "furgon" from Pogradec to Korce. The train departs Tiran at 06:00. Because the railway takes a long detour via Durrs, it gets at Elbasan, approximately 35 kilometres from Tiran, in less than four hours, therefore a shortcut should be conceivable. The secondhand German carriages are in good condition given their age. The backdrop is stunning, and until October, you may leave the window open wide to enjoy the climate, temperature and natural sights & sounds.
Vans or buses are another option for getting to Korç from Tirana. They cost around 600 lek (€ 4) more than trains, but they are a speedier option to get to Korça. At junctions and bus terminals, private automobiles are typically available (1000 lek for a ride from Korç to Tirana in a spotless Mercedes Benz saloon car with 2-3 additional passengers 9/2017).
You might want to stop at various restaurants along the way to Korça to try some typical Albanian meals. There are other enticing food stalls as well in local markets stocked full of produce from local farms.
Best Area in Korçë for Sightseeing: The old part of town
Korca is home to a few relics of its past, but they are hard to find unless you take time to look. The Old Bazaar was recently renovated and is still as bustling as ever, but not as decrepit. If you enter the bazaar through the metal gate you’ll come to Hani Elbasanit, a centuries-old inn with a well. The Bazaar itself is a joy to visit, to immerse yourself in Albanian culture and watch the people sell their daily produce as they have done for centuries. Nearby you’ll find Iljaz Mirahori Mosque, the oldest mosque in the city, and you can also explore the Ngjalla e Krishtit Cathedral that was destroyed by the communists but has since been rebuilt.
Best Area for Shopping: The Old Bazaar
The renovated Old Bazaar is home to not just produce stalls – there are plenty of great finds to be had, and in the area are numerous stores where you can pick up traditional items and souvenirs.
Best Area for Food & Restaurants: Old Bazaar and Boulevard Republika
The Old Bazaar is full of little cafes and eateries offering authentic Albanian dishes and other cuisines. Try the Colonial for a great café vibe, and if you feel like eating some Italian fare, tehre’s Osteria Korca. Boulevard Republika is lined with stunning cafes where you can enjoy coffee or something stronger. Also here are 2 excellent restaurants, Find Four, serving sublime modern Albanian fare and Avenue 55, offering more modern, unique dishes as well as evening drinks, cocktails and beer. Both are located in historic villas. You can also enjoy a great coffee at either.
Best Area in Korçë for Nightlife: Boulevard Republika and The Palace of Culture
Iconic restaurant Avenue 55 is a lively spot to enjoy drinks after dark and the bars and cafes on Boulevard Republica offer a great way to spend an evening, many featuring live bands or traditional music performances. The Palace of Culture offers excellent night-time entertainment including concerts, theater performances and other fun events.
Best Area for Outdoor activities: Rinia Park
Korca’s largest park is a popular place to relax and unwind. A nice way to spend a bit of your day in chilled surroundings before getting back to the sights and sounds of the city.
Best Area for Vibe & Culture: The Old Bazaar
The most authentic spot in Korce offers a chance to immerse yourself in the city’s culture whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, enjoying beer or a coffee at a café and people watching or dining out on traditional Albanian food.