Perched on the edge of the lake, next to the Grand Park of Tirana, the Radisson Collection Morina Tirana makes for a peaceful base for exploring Albania’s capital away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Radisson Collection is a group of 36 stylish and unique hotels around the world, reflecting a more high-end, local and contemporary scene. The Morina Tirana property opened in 2022 and was the first luxury international chain to open in the city – many more have followed singe.
The hotel is finished to the highest standard, with 49 rooms and suites across eight floors, all boasting a neoclassical, Louis XVI-inspired decor by Italian architects Cross Design. Front-facing rooms have views out to the surrounding lakes and mountains. All rooms have Lavazza espresso machines, polished marble bathrooms and heavenly walk-in showers.
Amenities
Eden restaurant does a stellar breakfast, combining a huge buffet spread, plus a la carte menu – I can vouch for the creamy scrambled eggs and smoked salmon. Lunch and dinner is Mediterranean-inspired, and there are two bars – one lakeside, and in summer, one on the roof to maximise those views.
In the basement there’s a heated pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and salt room, plus gym and hairdressers. The lakeside outdoor pool definitely comes into its own in summer. Having the Grand Park of Tirana and Artificial Lake of Tirana on your doorstep is also a bonus, with walks, cafes and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Location
Fifteen minutes away by taxi is the hip area of Blloku, full of bars, clubs, boutiques and restaurants. Back in the day, this was the Communist Party’s neighbourhood and home of former Prime Minister, Enver Hӧxha. And five minutes from there is Skanderbeg Square – the main focal point of Tirana, home to the National Theatre of Opera, the Ballet of Albania, the National History Museum and City Hall. Close by is Bunk’Art 2.
Whilst in town
Don’t miss the plethora of museums that tell the story of Albania’s communist past. Bunk’Art 2 is the closest of the two Bunk’Arts (the other is a bus ride out of town, but well worth the effort, and can be tacked on to a ride on the funicular). A converted former bunker, it’s a mix of art installations and exhibits that describe some of Albania’s communist history. Nearby is the House of Leaves or Museum of Secret Surveillance, housed in a leafy historic building, which contains items used during the communist regime to spy on Albanian citizens. Bus number 2 will take you all the way from the hotel to Skanderbeg Square.
Having a Radisson Collection property in Albania’s capital city is a huge boost to the local tourism economy, which has been growing exponentially in recent years. With regular direct flights now operating from all over the UK, Albania is within easy reach, meaning it’s now firmly planted on the British tourist map. Tirana was named European Youth Capital in 2022, and enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and safe, easily walkable streets. The city, and country in general, is changing fast. So come now and enjoy it while it’s still affordable and relatively quiet.
Details
Radisson Collection Morina Tirana, Liqeni i thate, Rruga “Hamdi Garunja”, Tirana, 1063, Albania, +355 42 224 444, BOOK HERE.
Fly to Tirana with any of the many airlines that offer direct routes from the UK. I flew Wizz Air. Kiwi is my go-to platform for searching low-cost flights and the best deals.
