Albania Currency: A Complete Guide to Money in Albania

Albania is becoming one of Europe’s most appealing travel destinations, thanks to its mix of stunning beaches, dramatic mountains and budget-friendly prices. Before you go, understanding how money works in Albania will help you plan your trip smoothly, avoid unnecessary costs and get the best value.

This guide outlines everything you need to know about the Albanian currency, what things typically cost and how to manage your money while travelling.

What is the Currency in Albania?

The official currency used in Albania is the Albanian Lek (you’ll often see it written as ALL). Below you will find everything you need to know about navigating Albania’s money, exchange rates, ATMs and payment methods while travelling.

Albanian Money

The Lek comes in note form, and is available in multiple variations, including 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 Lek.

Coins are also available in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 Lek.

You might be tempted to avoid carrying coins of such small denominations; however, they are always helpful to have on hand! You can use them for laundry or bathroom services, snacks at roadside shops or public transport.

Albanian Lek or Euros?

The most reliable way to pay in Albania is with Albanian Lek, which is the currency we always recommend travellers to use. Many cafes, supermarkets and local restaurants operate strictly in Lek, and you’ll almost always get a better price when you pay in the local currency.

Euros are informally accepted in some tourist-heavy areas, especially along the Riviera (Ksamil, Sarandë, and Himarë), as well as for services such as accommodation or private transfers. However, to avoid issues, always be sure to carry Lek with you too.

Where to get Lek

You can exchange local currency for Lek at a currency exchange store before you leave home, or once you arrive in Albania. If you already have Euros at home, it’s usually better value to exchange these once in Albania.

It’s always helpful to get a small amount exchanged at the airport for any initial needs; however, be prepared that this service often comes with higher fees.

The best rates will be at local banks or official ATMs, which are easily accessible in all towns across Albania.

What ATM’s Should You Use In Albania?

ATMs are common and easy to find in major destinations and many smaller towns. Along the Riviera, ATMs are available; however, there is a high demand for them in the summer months, and they are a little notorious for running out of cash, so always have a backup plan!

Be prepared to pay a small withdrawal fee for some ATMs, usually no more than 600 Lek. Our top tip - always select ‘withdraw without conversion’ to opt for your bank’s exchange rate rather than the rate of the ATM.

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in ATMs and businesses; however, Albania is primarily a cash-first country, so it’s best not to rely solely on cards.

Is Albania cheap?

Albania is one of the most affordable countries in Europe, making it a perfect destination for budget travellers and backpackers. Some of the more well-known tourist hotspots are pricier, but it’s still generally lower than what you would find in Western Europe.

In the peak summer months, these prices can vary significantly, so make sure you look into the best time to visit Albania when planning your trip.

As of 2026, you can expect to pay roughly;

Coffee: 300 - 500 Lek (€3 - €5)

Beer: 250 - 350 Lek (€2.50 - €3.50)

Restaurant Meal: 800 - 1,500 Lek (€8 - €15)

Budget Accommodation: 1,200 - 2,500 Lek per night (€12 - €25)

Beachfront Stays: Over 8,000 Lek per night (€80+)

Albania offers excellent value for money, allowing you to immerse yourself in the culture and atmosphere of the country without worrying too much about your bank account. Travellers can often stretch their budgets a bit further here than in neighbouring countries, which means room for more activities! If you’re looking for ways to fill your itinerary in Albania, be sure to check out our Top 5 Things to do in Albania for inspiration on beaches, mountains and everything in between.