Tirana: Beer, wine and raki tour with snack and food

Exploring Tirana through its drinks and local bites is a fantastic way to connect with the city’s authentic vibe. This guided tour, offered by Visit Scutari, promises a relaxed journey through some of Tirana’s best-kept secrets, with plenty of tastings and stories along the way. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and detailed itinerary make it clear that this experience delivers genuine value.

What we love about it? First, the knowledgeable guide, Aron, who keeps the group engaged with stories and insights. Second, the variety of local drinks and delicious Albanian snacks that give you a true taste of the country’s beverage culture. Third, the balanced combination of walking, drinking, and eating, making it a fun, social day out without feeling rushed.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is conducted in English, so non-English speakers might want to verify language options beforehand. Also, given the focus on alcohol, it’s not suited for pregnant women, children under 18, or those over 95. If you’re ready to explore Tirana’s lively drink scene while soaking up local history, this tour is a smart pick.

Key Points

• Authentic local drinks including Albanian beers, traditional raki, and regional wine.
• Expert guide with excellent English skills who shares engaging stories and background.
• Varied stops in iconic Tirana locations like Skanderbeg Square, the Pyramid, the Castle, and the Bazaar.
• Tasty Albanian snacks and a full meal at a top local restaurant.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy to suit travel plans.
• All drinks and snacks included in the ticket price, offering great value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour is designed as a pleasant, social walk through Tirana’s vibrant neighborhoods, with stops strategically chosen to highlight cultural and historical elements alongside excellent food and drink.

Meeting Point: Skanderbeg Square

The adventure begins at the ‘I love Tirana’ sign in Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city. From here, you’ll walk to your first scenic stop at the Pyramid of Tirana.

Pyramid of Tirana: View and Introduction

While not a traditional sightseeing spot, the Pyramid provides a great vantage point to appreciate Tirana’s evolving skyline and get a sense of the city’s modern history. It’s an ideal starting point, setting the tone for a relaxed exploration.

Stop 1: Raki and Albanian Snacks at Cafe Museum

Right next to the Pyramid, the tour takes you to a cozy local cafe for your first taste of traditional Albanian raki—a spirit that’s beloved across the Balkans—and some authentic snacks. According to reviews, Aron, the guide, makes this part engaging, sharing stories about the significance of raki in Albanian culture. Expect to sample local flavors from a wide range of tastes, from the more mellow to the robust.

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Walk Through Tirana Castle to The New Bazaar

The next leg of the tour leads you through Tirana’s historic castle area, giving you a glimpse of older parts of the city, before arriving at The New Bazaar. This bustling market is perfect for soaking in local life, and you’ll find some of the best local beers at a hidden gem of a bar. Guests have appreciated the chance to taste regional craft beers here, which adds a genuine touch to the experience.

Stop 2: Craft Beer at a Local Tirana Bar

Here, you’ll enjoy some of the finest Albanian craft beers, which are highly praised by past participants. The guide’s knowledge shines as they introduce you to different varieties, explaining what makes Albanian beer unique compared to international options. Reviewers have mentioned the excellent English spoken by Aron, making the explanations easy to follow.

Final Stop: Traditional Food and Local Wine at a Top Restaurant

The tour culminates at a well-regarded local restaurant where you’ll indulge in a full Albanian meal, paired with local wines. Velvety reds, crisp whites, and regional varieties make this a delightful way to finish the day. Guests have described the food as delicious, and the wine as a perfect complement.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The combination of history, culture, and genuine tastings makes this experience stand out. The fact that all beers, wines, raki, and snacks are included provides excellent value, especially considering the variety you get. With a duration that allows for a relaxed pace and plenty of time to chat, this tour feels more like a social outing than a hurried tasting session.

Authentic Experiences

What truly sets this tour apart is the authenticity. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about understanding the significance of each beverage in Albanian culture. The guide, Aron, is praised for his knowledge and engaging manner, which helps bring the stories to life.

The Food and Drink

Past reviews highlight how plenty of food and drinks are offered, with guests appreciating the quality and taste. The snacks at the first stop are traditional Albanian, giving you a taste of local flavors, while the final meal offers a satisfying end that complements the earlier tastings.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Details about group size are not explicit, but given the nature of the experience, it’s likely a small to medium group that encourages interaction and conversation. The tour’s relaxed pacing makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers, from solo explorers to couples and friends.

Practical Details

The tour costs $111 per person, which includes all drinks and snacks, making it a straightforward way to budget your experience. The meeting point at Skanderbeg Square is central and easy to find. You can reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility for your trip planning.

The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers. It’s important to note that it’s not suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or those over 95 years old, due to alcohol consumption.

Cancellation is flexible—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance—adding peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food and drink enthusiasts eager to explore Tirana’s local flavors while learning about the city’s history in a relaxed setting. It suits those who enjoy small-group social experiences and want a taste of Albanian hospitality. If you’re curious about raki, craft beer, and regional wine—and want to pair that with authentic snacks and regional stories—this tour checks all the boxes.

It’s especially recommended for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want a well-rounded, enjoyable way to spend a half or full day in Tirana.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
While the tour includes traditional Albanian snacks, it’s best to check directly with the provider for specific dietary accommodations. Generally, Albanian snacks can be quite varied.

How long does the tour last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but it typically involves walking through several locations with tastings and a full meal, making for a half-day or full-day experience.

Are the drinks included in the price?
Yes, all beers, wines, raki, and snacks are included in the $111 per person fee.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for last-minute plans.

Is there a dress code?
There’s no formal dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you’ll be walking between stops.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour language is English, with guide Aron fluent and engaging.

Are children allowed?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 due to alcohol consumption.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is centrally located at Skanderbeg Square, which is easy to reach via walking or local transport.

Final Thoughts

For those looking to enjoy Tirana in a relaxed, authentic way, this Beer, Wine, and Raki Tour offers a fantastic balance of cultural insight, delicious tasting, and social atmosphere. It’s a great way to understand local traditions while satisfying your palate with regional flavors. The guide’s expertise, combined with well-chosen stops and a friendly vibe, makes this experience both memorable and worthwhile.

If you’re interested in discovering Tirana beyond the usual tourist spots—especially through its beverages and culinary delights—this tour will give you an enjoyable, authentic slice of Albanian life. Perfect for curious travelers, foodies, and social explorers, it’s a little adventure in every sip.

You can check availability for your dates here: