Albania Currency Guide 2025: Lek, Euros, ATMs & Payment Tips

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been asked this exact question: “Do I need Lek in Albania? Can I use Euros? Are cards accepted everywhere?”
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve typed something similar into Google before booking your trip to Saranda, Ksamil, or even Tirana. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most searched questions about visiting Albania. And it makes sense. Money is such a simple thing, yet it can cause unnecessary stress when traveling to a new country.

As someone who has lived and worked in Saranda for years—helping people buy property, guiding investors, and sometimes even showing tourists the hidden tavernas they would have otherwise missed—I can tell you with certainty: understanding Albania’s money system will make your stay a lot smoother.

Let’s break it down.

The Currency in Albania

The official currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL).
That’s the short answer. Everything else is just convenience and exceptions.

You’ll see prices in Lek everywhere—whether you’re buying fresh figs at the local market, paying for a beachfront property consultation, or grabbing a coffee on the promenade.

Now, Euros. Yes, they are accepted in certain tourist areas—Saranda, Ksamil, parts of Tirana, and in some hotels. But here’s the catch: the exchange rate is rarely in your favor. A shopkeeper might round things up or give you a rate that’s several points below the official one. In other words, using Euros can be easy in the moment, but expensive in the long run.

Cash vs. Card in Albania

This is where it gets interesting.
Albanians still love cash. In small shops, village tavernas, and taxis—you’ll struggle if you only have a card. The driver will just smile politely, shake his head, and point you toward the nearest ATM.

But in hotels, modern restaurants, and larger supermarkets, your Visa or Mastercard will work fine. I once had a client from Germany who tried to buy a round of raki in a tiny mountain village near Lukova using Apple Pay. The owner laughed, brought out his old Nokia phone, and said: “This is the only mobile payment I know.” That’s Albania. Digital adoption is growing, but cash is still king for daily life.

If you’re coming to see Saranda apartments for sale, or maybe tour a beachfront property in Ksamil, you’ll definitely want Lek on hand. Even during property viewings, little things like parking or coffee stops will require small notes.

ATMs & Bank Fees

The good news? ATMs are everywhere in the cities and tourist towns. Saranda’s main promenade alone has a row of at least five different banks. Ksamil has fewer, but you’ll still find them near the central square.

The bad news? Withdrawal fees can be painful. Most foreign cards get charged €3–5 per withdrawal. That doesn’t sound like much until you’re withdrawing three times a week. My tip? Take out larger amounts each time to minimize the fees.

Also, not all banks treat foreign cards the same. A few smaller banks’ ATMs occasionally reject international cards. I usually tell my clients: stick to big names like Raiffeisen, Intesa Sanpaolo, or Credins. They’re more reliable.

Tips for Tourists (That Locals Already Know)

• Always keep small notes. Buses, taxis, and market stalls rarely have change for €50 bills.

• Exchange money at bureaus, not hotels. Hotels will always give you the worst rate.

• Keep some Euros as backup. They can save you in an emergency, especially late at night when exchange places are closed.

• Mobile payments aren’t mainstream yet. Don’t expect Apple Pay or Revolut to cover your daily needs.

One more small, but useful, tip: if you’re driving down to Borsh or Himara, many of the roadside kiosks selling local olive oil and honey only accept cash. Trust me, it’s worth it—Borsh oil is something special.

A Tangent About Real Estate (But It’s Relevant)

Since I spend most of my days between property viewings and construction projects, I see firsthand how money habits shape decisions. Just last month, I was walking a couple from Sweden through a seaview apartment at Gold Residence in Saranda. The place has a private pool, private beach just one minute away, and uninterrupted Ionian views. You can see it here: Gold Residence Apartment.

They loved it. But do you know what stressed them out most? Not the price, not the paperwork, not even the language barrier. It was the payment method. “Can we pay in Euros? Will the bank accept?” These are the small, practical details that matter as much as sea views.

Local Anecdote

There’s a tiny seafood taverna near Manastiri beach, halfway between Saranda and Ksamil. No sign, no online presence, just a couple of plastic chairs and the smell of grilled sardines. I often stop there with clients after property tours. The owner doesn’t take cards. He barely takes large notes. But his fish? Probably the best you’ll eat on the entire Albanian Riviera.

This is why I always tell visitors: have Lek with you. Without it, you miss these authentic experiences.

Quiet Luxury in Ksamil

Speaking of Ksamil, let me quickly mention something I’m proud of. Just a month ago, we finished a brand-new residence there. Luxurious but subtle. With its own private swimming pool for residents, tucked in a quiet new neighborhood, and only a 7-minute walk from the beach. It’s called White Residence Ksamil.

For anyone looking into affordable properties in Albania, especially high-end apartments with guaranteed rental demand, it’s worth a look. And yes—you’ll want to pay in Lek. The developer won’t take a handful of Euros at tourist exchange rates.

Borsh: Where Nature Meets Investment

A bit further down the coast, in Borsh, we’ve been building something very different. Four villas, each a small paradise. Private pools, three floors, big verandas, and sea views that make you pause mid-sentence. They sit along the main road, surrounded only by nature. For me, they’re the definition of quiet luxury. See them here: White Villas Borsh.

What I love about these villas is how they reflect Albanian lifestyle. Family gatherings on wide verandas, long lunches with olive oil from nearby groves, and just a 7-minute drive to Borsh beach. Our company has over 15 years of construction experience, with 150+ skilled professionals behind every detail. And here’s something that might surprise you: 0% commission. Direct from developer to buyer.

Back to Currency

Sorry, I drifted a little. But that’s the thing—money, daily life, real estate, tourism—they’re all connected here in the south.

To bring it back:

• The Lek is essential. Without it, you’ll constantly overpay or find yourself stuck.

• Cards are useful, but not universal. Use them in hotels and modern spots, but don’t expect to swipe in every corner café.

• ATMs are reliable, but fees add up. Withdraw smartly.

• Small notes are your best friend. Whether it’s a bus to Ksamil or a bag of oranges from the market, they keep life simple.

Final Thoughts

Living here, I’ve learned something simple: Albania rewards those who come prepared, but it also teaches flexibility. Yes, you’ll need Lek. Yes, cards will save you sometimes. And yes, Euros can work in emergencies. But if you really want to enjoy your stay—whether you’re tasting grilled sardines at a hidden taverna, touring Saranda apartments for sale, or planning to own a seaview villa on the Albanian Riviera—carry cash.

And maybe, just maybe, keep a little space in your pocket. Not just for money, but for the stories and surprises that come with living—and investing—here.

👉 If you’re curious about real estate opportunities while visiting, check out:

• White Residence Ksamil – luxury apartments with a private pool, just 7 minutes from the beach.

• Gold Residence Apartment, Saranda – seaview apartment with private beach access.

• White Villas Borsh – quiet luxury villas, each with a private pool, surrounded by nature.

Because at the end of the day, the best investment isn’t just in bricks and mortar—it’s in the lifestyle you buy with it.