Tirana is home to more than one market, each more unique than the last. But it’s the vintage stores scattered across the city that draw many. These shops sell everything from antiques to vintage clothing to traditional jewelry. © Alla Simacheva | Dreamstime.com

Dating back to the fifth or sixth century, Krujë Castle overlooks the city of Krujë, located just one hour outside of Tirana. Within the castle, an enduring symbol of Albanian strength, lies the National Museum, showcasing original documents and objects covering the history of the Albanian people. The castle also houses the Ethnograhic Museum, which delves into the sustainable food, drink and tools in a typical 19th-century Albanian house. © Zdeněk Matyáš | Dreamstime.com

The National History Museum wows visitors before they even enter with its large mosaic depicting notable figures in Albanian history. Within the museum you’ll find galleries spanning different centuries, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, the Communist era to ancient Albania. © Milosk50 | Dreamstime.com

At Pazari i Ri visitors can get a taste of daily life while walking through stalls selling local produce, snacks and street food. The neighborhood also features the historic Kokonozi Mosque, dating to the 18th century. Keep an ear out for the traditional bargaining methods used between sellers and buyers. © Anna Artamonova | Dreamstime.com

One of the more unique architectural features in Tirana is the Pyramid of Tirana, a former museum once dedicated to Communist leader Enver Hoxha. After the collapse of Communism in Albania, the pyramid went through a series of different functions. Today the pyramid serves as a youth IT center called TUMO Tirana. © Olga355 | Dreamstime.com

In Skanderbeg Square is the Skanderbeg Monument, an imposing monument honoring the man who resisted the Ottomans in the 1400s. The statue was erected in 1968 on the 500th anniversary of the death of Skanderbeg and continues to be an icon of the city today. © Saiko3p | Dreamstime.com