Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Albania, a Balkan nation undergoing rapid transformation, offers numerous sports opportunities for expatriates seeking physical activity and discovery. Whether you’re a fan of team sports, outdoor activities, or fitness training, you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for in this country with diverse landscapes and a burgeoning sports culture. Let’s explore together the most popular sports to play in Albania, how to practice them, and what budget to plan for pursuing your athletic passion in your new host country.
Albanian Sports Essentials: Between Tradition and Modernity
Albania has experienced a true sports revolution in recent years, with diversification of practiced disciplines and modernization of infrastructure. Here’s an overview of the most popular sports in the country:
Soccer, the undisputed king
Unsurprisingly, soccer remains the number one sport in Albania. The national team’s historic qualification for Euro 2016 gave the discipline a boost, attracting more young talent and sparking investor interest[1]. Professional clubs like KF Tirana or Partizani Tirana draw passionate crowds, and numerous neighborhood fields allow amateurs to kick the ball around.
Volleyball, a women’s tradition
Volleyball, particularly in its women’s version, enjoys growing popularity in Albania. The women’s national team has achieved several international successes, including a gold medal at the 1987 Mediterranean Games and a bronze medal at the 2018 European Volleyball League[1]. Many clubs offer training and competitions for all levels.
Athletics, spearheading Albanian success
Albanian athletics has seen remarkable growth in recent years, with athletes like Luiza Gega who won gold in the 3000-meter steeplechase at the 2022 European Athletics Championships[1]. Athletic tracks are multiplying throughout the country, offering expatriates the opportunity to train under good conditions.
- Basketball
- Handball
- Boxing
- Weightlifting
- Tennis
These sports are also experiencing growing enthusiasm, with developing infrastructure and clubs that gladly welcome expatriates eager to integrate through sports.
Good to know:
Albania is heavily investing in its sports infrastructure, particularly in preparation for hosting the 2027 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, which it will co-host with Serbia[2]. This is the perfect opportunity for expatriates to enjoy modern, quality facilities.
Practicing Your Favorite Sport in Albania: Where and How?
For expatriates wishing to practice their favorite sport in Albania, several options are available, whether in dedicated facilities or outdoors.
Gyms: an expanding choice
Albania’s major cities, particularly Tirana, have seen numerous gyms flourish in recent years. These establishments typically offer a wide range of modern equipment, group classes, and professional coaching. The average monthly membership fee at a fitness club in Tirana is about 43 euros, which remains relatively affordable compared to prices in other European capitals[3].
Stadiums and sports complexes: developing infrastructure
Albania has significantly invested in its sports infrastructure. The Air Albania Stadium in Tirana, inaugurated in 2019, exemplifies this modernization. With a capacity of 22,000 seats, it hosts national soccer team matches and will be one of the host venues for the 2027 UEFA European Under-21 Championship[2]. Other cities like Shkodër, Elbasan, and Rrogozhinë also have modern stadiums, offering expatriates the opportunity to practice their sport under optimal conditions or attend high-level sporting events.
Natural spaces: unlimited playground
Albania benefits from varied geography, conducive to practicing numerous outdoor sports. The Albanian Alps mountains offer an ideal setting for hiking, climbing, or winter skiing. The Adriatic and Ionian coastline, with its fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, is perfect for water sports like diving, kayaking, or paddleboarding. The rivers, particularly the Vjosa, Europe’s last wild river, attract rafting and canyoning enthusiasts[5].
Good to know:
Many sports clubs and associations gladly welcome expatriates, offering an excellent opportunity to integrate into the local community while practicing your favorite sport.
Sports Budget for an Expatriate in Albania: Attractive Prices
One advantage of practicing sports in Albania lies in the generally affordable prices of sports activities and equipment. Here’s an overview of expected costs for different sports activities:
Memberships and classes
– Monthly fitness club membership: about 43 euros[3] – Tennis court rental per hour: about 24 euros[3] – Yoga or Pilates class: between 5 and 10 euros per session
These prices remain competitive compared to those in many European countries, allowing expatriates to maintain regular sports activity without straining their budget.
Sports equipment
Sports equipment prices in Albania are generally lower than those in Western Europe. International brands are easily found in major cities, but it’s also possible to purchase quality equipment at attractive prices from local stores.
Sports events
Attending sports events in Albania is also affordable. The price of a movie ticket, often used as a reference, is about 8 euros[3], giving an idea of leisure costs in the country. Tickets for soccer matches or other popular sports are generally accessible, allowing expatriates to fully experience the local sports atmosphere.
Outdoor sports
Practicing outdoor sports is often free or inexpensive in Albania. Access to national parks and hiking trails is generally free or subject to modest entrance fees. For water sports or mountain activities requiring specific equipment, many agencies offer rentals at reasonable prices.
Good to know:
With the cost of living in Albania being generally lower than in many European countries, expatriates can allocate a larger portion of their budget to sports activities without breaking the bank.
Integration Through Sports: An Asset for Expatriates
Practicing sports in Albania isn’t just about maintaining good physical shape. It’s also an excellent way to integrate into Albanian society and create lasting bonds with the local population.
Joining a sports club
Registering with a local sports club is an excellent way to meet Albanians who share the same interests. Whether for soccer, volleyball, or any other sport, clubs generally welcome expatriates with open arms. It’s an opportunity to practice the Albanian language, understand cultural subtleties, and make friends outside professional or expatriate circles.
Participating in sports events
Albania regularly organizes sports events open to everyone, such as running races, amateur tournaments, or discovery days. Participating in these events not only helps maintain fitness but also immerses you in the local atmosphere and shares friendly moments with Albanians.
Sports as a means of discovering the country
Practicing outdoor sports in Albania is an excellent way to discover the country’s natural riches. Whether during a mountain hike, a rafting session on the Vjosa River, or a dive in the Adriatic Sea, these activities allow expatriates to explore sometimes lesser-known regions and better understand Albania’s geographical and cultural diversity.
Good to know:
Many expatriates testify that sports have been a key factor in their successful integration in Albania, allowing them to create a strong social network and better understand the local culture.
Conclusion: Albania, an Ideal Playground for Sports-Minded Expatriates
Albania offers expatriates an ideal setting for sports practice, combining modern infrastructure, preserved natural spaces, and attractive prices. Whether you’re a fan of team sports, outdoor activities, or fitness training, you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for in this rapidly transforming country.
The diversity of popular sports, continuous investment in sports infrastructure, and the local population’s enthusiasm for sports create an environment conducive to the fulfillment of sports-minded expatriates. Moreover, practicing sports activities in Albania serves as an excellent integration vector, enabling the creation of lasting bonds with the local community and discovering the country’s riches from an original perspective.
So, whether you’re a soccer fan, hiking enthusiast, or water sports lover, don’t hesitate to put on your sneakers or swimsuit to fully live your expatriation experience in Albania!
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
