Albania has, over the years, become a popular travel destination for travelers of all kinds. Beaches, mountains, architecture – the country has it all.
There is a big chance that you would want to share your Albania experiences online – and I cannot blame you for that. It is truly a remarkable travel destination.
What can also be remarkable, in a bad way, is how expensive international roaming can be in Albania (or in general). Especially data roaming. Watching a YouTube video in full HD can cost you a lot.
Luckily, you can get an Albanian SIM card. That way, you can enjoy local rates.
How expensive are Albanian SIM cards, and how much will data cost you?
Albanian SIM cards are available for as little as 100 ALL (1 USD) to 500 ALL (4.90 USD) in the official stores of the Vodafone Albania, One Telecommunications, and ALBtelecom. You can get 2 GB valid 30 days for as low as 300 ALL (2.95 USD).
Cannot see the video above? Watch it here or on YouTube.
To me, this sounds exciting. There are countries out there where data will cost you an arm and a leg (almost literally), so seeing that SIM cards and data are available for reasonable prices are always a good thing.
But how is network coverage throughout the country? Which mobile operator is the best? And what type of packages are available?
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Albania. Let's go.
Original publication: 28th of May 2020. Last updated: 10th of May 2021.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Albania?
Anyone can purchase an Albanian SIM card regardless of their visit or stay in Albania.
Do note that you have to go through a SIM card registration process. Moreover, you need to have a device that supports the frequencies used in Albania to use your phone in the country (regardless of wanting to roam or using an Albanian SIM card).
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Albania?
You can get an Albanian SIM card in the official stores of Vodafone Albania, One Telecommunications, and ALBtelecom.
You can expect to pay the following for Albanian SIM cards:
- Vodafone Albania: 500 ALL
- One Telecommunications: 500 ALL
- ALBtelecom: 100 ALL or 500 ALL
Can You Use Your Phone in Albania?
Albania uses GSM technology for mobile communications.
Traditional European frequencies are used in Albania, which are mostly used in ITU Regions 1 & 3 (Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe & Oceania).
The Americas (North-, Central- & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2) use American Frequencies, which differ from the European ones.
If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU regions 1 & 3), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Albania.
If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Albania or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).
If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Albania (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Albania
Albania has three mobile network operators:
- Vodafone Albania
- One Telecommunications (formerly Telekom Albania)
- ALBtelecom
The following frequencies are used in Albania:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3600 MHz-3700 MHz (n77) – testing only
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
Cannot see the video above? Watch it here or on YouTube.
To check whether your phone will work in Albania, check out this page by Will My Phone Work.
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
5G in Albania
Vodafone Albania was granted permission to test 5G in the 3600 MHz-3700 MHz frequency range in October 2019 by AKEP – the Albanian Electronic and Postal Communications Authority (or Autoritetit Te Komunikimeve Elektronike Dhe Postare).
At the time of writing, no updates related to the test could be found. Moreover, it is unknown when the Albanian government wants to start its 5G auction.
I do, however, expect that once AKEP starts its auction for 5G licenses, the three operators will place their bids and will install and roll out 5G as soon as possible.
Some countries in Europe have already deployed 5G on 700 MHz (n28), which is slow 5G. Often, a 10% speed increase compared to existing 4G/LTE speeds. However, nationwide coverage on 700 MHz is easier than 3500 MHz (let alone 26 GHz with truly insane internet speeds.
The Netherlands is an example of a European country that uses solely 700 MHz for 5G for the time being because its intelligence agency uses 3500 MHz for intercepting communications.
In Albania, however, 700 MHz is used a lot by TV broadcasters. Deploying 5G on this frequency would result in clashes and interference (just like how the Netherlands has to wait until its intelligence agency moves its stuff abroad, which will happen mid-2022, before the operators can deploy fast 5G on 3500 MHz).
Once the TV broadcasters have moved to a different frequency, 5G on 700 MHz can be deployed in Albania.
Best SIM Card in Albania
If you want to buy a SIM card in Albania, then Vodafone and One Telecommunications (One) have the best prepaid offering. Both operators are good, although Vodafone’s coverage is better, and they are faster than One. On the other hand, One is cheaper than Vodafone.
You should, however, also consider ALBtelecom when staying in cities and large towns. They are the cheapest operator in the country, but their coverage and speeds are not as extensive nor fast as their competitors.
SIM Card Registration in Albania
SIM card registration with your passport information is required in Albania. It will be done at the point of purchase.
Do note that although European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) -issued IDs are valid travel documents for travel in Albania, some travelers have reported that some shops require your passport to register your SIM card and refuse EU/EEA-issued IDs.
EU Roaming in Albania
Note that Albania is not part of the European Union (EU) nor European Economic Area (EEA), meaning that EU roaming regulations do not apply in Albania. As a result, you should not expect to roam for free if you have an EU/EEA SIM card while traveling in Albania.
Although some European operators may offer free (data) roaming while in Albania, most operators do not. Make sure to explore your roaming options before you roam.
Roaming in the EU with Albanian SIM Cards
Albania is not part of the European Union (EU) nor the European Economic Area (EEA). Therefore, the EU roaming regulations do not apply to Albanian SIM cards. As a result, you should expect to roam for free in the EU/EEA with Albanian SIM cards.
However, Albania is a Candidate Country for joining the EU. The country also wants to join the EU/EEA common roaming zone in the near future. To do so, Albania and other Western Balkan countries have decided to cap roaming rates between July 2019 and July 2021. They will entirely scrap roaming rates within the region on the 1st of July 2021. This is because it is apparently a prerequisite to join the EU/EEA common roaming zone.
West Balkan Roaming
Those with SIM cards from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia can roam at reduced rates in Albania, and those with Albanian SIM cards can do the same in the aforementioned countries as part of the Roam Like At Home Plus (RLAH+) scheme agreed to by the six countries since July 2019.
Starting from the 1st of July 2019, roaming rates in Western Balkan states have gone down by up to 99% (at least, with some Albanian plans). From the 1st of July 2021, international roaming fees will be abolished in the West Balkans.
Albania and Kosovo made a separate agreement to reduce roaming rates between the two countries. Just like with the other West Balkan countries, roaming rates in Albania and Kovoso with Albanian and Kosovar SIM cards will be something from the past, starting from the 1st of July 2021.
Albania Speeds, Internet Prices & Insights
Europe is known for having reasonably priced mobile data rates. At least compared to other countries and regions around the world.
The same applies in Eastern Europe. The cost of 1 GB of data will not break the bank.
But what about Albania specifically? How expensive or cheap is mobile data?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Albania is 2.30 USD, which is slightly more than the European average of 2.50 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
Cable.co.uk split Europe into three territories: Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Baltics. The Eastern European average cost of 1 GB of data, using Cable.co.uk's definition, is 2.25 USD, which is around the overall European average.
Now that we know that mobile data is quite affordable, let's talk about speeds. What type of speeds can you expect in Albania?
Albania's average mobile download speed is around 50 Mbps, placing Albania in the top 40 fastest countries in the Global Index.
Although 5G is not a thing in Albania yet, mobile download speeds are fast, especially compared to many other countries worldwide.
With extensive network coverage, cheap data rates, and fast speeds, you should have a pleasant experience with Albanian SIM cards while exploring this country.
Currency in Albania
Albania uses the Albanian Lek with the symbol ALL (which will be used throughout this guide). However, prices are often listed as just L. or lek. For example, 25 ALL = L. 25/25 lek. For reference, below are some exchange rates between ALL and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 ALL = 0.01 USD
- 10 ALL = 0.10 USD
- 100 ALL = 1 USD
- 1000 ALL = 9.75 USD
- 10 000 ALL = 97.55 USD
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card. Their fees are MUCH lower than banks, and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks). I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Euros, my main currency, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Wise account FREE!
Albania Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Vodafone Albania, One Telecommunications & ALBtelecom, and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices, and availability
- Recharge / top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs)
With that being said, let’s see what Albania has to offer to us.
Vodafone Albania
Vodafone Albania, just Vodafone, is the largest operator in Albania, with a market share of close to 50%. They are known for having the best coverage and the fastest speeds in the country.
Coverage – Vodafone Albania
Vodafone has the best coverage in Albania.
4G/LTE is widely available with Vodafone throughout the country.
SIM Card Price – Vodafone Albania
Vodafone SIM cards, called Vodafone Club, are sold for 500 ALL with 300 ALL credit and 500 on-net SMS in Vodafone stores.
It is also possible to get the Vodafone tourist SIM card, called Vodafone 3 Weekly Tourist Pack for 1500 ALL featuring 15 GB of data, 5 GB video pass data (YouTube, Twitch & Netflix), 500 local minutes, 10 international minutes, and 100 local/international SMS, all valid for 21 days.
You can reactivate the Vodafone 3 Weekly Tourist Pack multiple times. However, unused units will be lost when you repurchase the bundle without exhausting all allowances.
Topping Up & Recharging – Vodafone Albania
Vodafone recharge cards are sold in Vodafone stores and can also be obtained at many other retailers, including convenience stores, grocery stores, and gas stations.
To recharge, call 141 and follow the instructions. You can also top-up online with (international) debit and credit cards in values between 100 ALL to 10 000 ALL.
To check your balance, access the Vodafone menu by dialing #123#. You can also send a Blank SMS to 131 to get your balance by text.
Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone Albania
Vodafone has various plans, which are its (combo) Bundles and Add-Ons.
Note that Vodafone used to have a lot of other types of plans. However, they simplified their bundle structure between 2020 and 2021.
Bundles – Vodafone Albania
The Bundles are combo bundles with data, (international) minutes, and (international) SMS. Bundles range from 60 ALL to 2500 ALL.
The following Bundles are available, which can be activated by calling 131.
| Price | Plan | Data | Pass Data | Local/Off-Net Minutes | International Minutes | On-Net SMS | Local/Off-Net SMS | International SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 ALL | Daily 100 MB | 100 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 24 hours |
| 200 ALL | Vodafone Weekend | 3 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 weekend (Saturday (00:00) – Sunday (23:59)) |
| 300 ALL | Paketa 3 Ditore | 300 MB | N/A | 300 minutes | N/A | 3000 SMS | 30 SMS | N/A | 3 days |
| 300 ALL | 1 GB Weekly | 1 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 7 days |
| 500 ALL | Vodafone Basic | 50 MB | N/A | 50 minutes | N/A | N/A | 50 SMS | N/A | 30 days |
| 500 ALL | Paketa Mujore Internet 1 GB | 1 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 600 ALL | Vodafone 4 Weekends | 12 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 4 weekends (Saturday (00:00) – Sunday (23:59)) |
| 700 ALL | GigaMax Paketa 10 Ditore | 1.5 GB | N/A | 300 minutes | N/A | 3000 SMS | 30 SMS | N/A | 7 days |
| 1000 ALL | Vodafone 4G Start | 300 MB | N/A | 300 minutes | N/A | N/A | 300 SMS | N/A | 30 days |
| 1000 ALL | Paketa Mujore Internet 3 GB | 3 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 days |
| 1500 ALL | GigaMax | 15 GB | 5 GB Video Pass | 500 minutes | 10 minutes | N/A | 100 SMS 1 | N/A | 7 days |
| 1600 ALL | Vodafone 4G Go | 4.5 GB | N/A | 2500 minutes | N/A | 3000 SMS | 200 SMS | N/A | 30 days |
| 2000 ALL | Vodafone 4G Run | 8.5 GB | 10 GB Social Pass | 3000 minutes | N/A | N/A | 500 SMS | N/A | 30 days |
| 2500 ALL | Vodafone 4G Fly | 18 GB | N/A | 3500 minutes | N/A | 4000 SMS | 400 SMS | 100 SMS | 30 days |
1 also for international use
Social pass: WhatsApp, Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram & Pinterest
Video pass: YouTube, Twitch & Netflix
Add-Ons – Vodafone Albania
The Add-Ons are data-only add-ons for the Bundles. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
The following Add-Ons are available, which can be activated by calling 131.
| Price | Add-On | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 ALL | 300 MB Internet | 300 MB | 7 days |
| 500 ALL | 3 GB Internet | 3 GB | 30 days |
| 600 ALL | 4 GB Internet | 4 GB | 30 days |
APN/Internet Settings – Vodafone Albania
In most cases, your phone will automatically retrieve the correct APN settings for Vodafone. If not, text internet to 136 to download the correct internet settings for your phone.
If that does not work and you need to add the APN setting manually, add the following details in the APN fields:
- Name: Vodafone Albania
- APN: vodafoneweb
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
One Telecommunications (Formerly Telekom Albania)
One Telecommunications (in Albanian), also known as One (Albania) and formerly known as Telekom Albania, is the second-largest operator in Albania with a market share of close to 30%.
Initially, it was known as Albanian Mobile Communications (AMC), then Telekom Albania when Deutsche Telekom bought AMC in 2008 (using the famous T-Mobile/Telekom logo). In 2019, Deutsche Telekom sold the company to Bulgarian Vivacom. In the summer of 2020, the One (Telecommunications) brand was introduced.
Coverage – One Telecommunications
One has extensive coverage throughout Albania.
Almost all of Albania is covered by One, and you can expect 4G/LTE reception almost everywhere.
SIM Card Price – One Telecommunications
You can purchase a One SIM card for 500 ALL in One stores.
It is not uncommon to get a One SIM card for less than 500 ALL or starter benefits (such as data, minutes, or SMS).
Topping Up & Recharging – One Telecommunications
One top-up cards are sold in One stores and many other retailers, such as gas stations, grocery stores, and convenience stores.
To redeem your One recharge card, call 141 and follow the instructions.
Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – One Telecommunications
One offers three types of plans, which are:
- Paketa One Unlimited/One Unlimited Packages (combo)
- Paketa Shtesë/Additional Packages (add-ons for Paketat One Unlimited/One Unlimited Packages)
- Paketa Të Tjera/Other Packages (combo)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Do note that when One was still Telekom Albania, it had many more types of plans. However, the majority of them have been discontinued or simplified.
Paketa One Unlimited/One Unlimited Packages – One Telecommunications
The Paketa One Unlimited/One Unlimited Packages are combo plans with high-speed data, unlimited slow-speed data after using your high-speed data allowance, (international) minutes, and (international) SMS.
You can get one of the following Paketa One Unlimited/One Unlimited Packages:
| Price | Plan | High-Speed Data | Slow Data (Upon Depletion) | Music Streaming Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes | Local/International SMS | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 500 ALL | Paketa Unlimited S/Unlimited S Package | 100 MB | Unlimited @ 64 Kbps | N/A | 100 minutes | N/A | N/A | US | 30 days |
| 900 ALL | Paketa Unlimited M/Unlimited M Package | 1 GB | Unlimited @ 64 Kbps | N/A | 300 minutes | N/A | N/A | UM | 30 days |
| 1200 ALL | Paketa Unlimited L/Unlimited L Package | 6 GB | Unlimited @ 64 Kbps | 10 GB | 2000 minutes | N/A | 200 SMS | UL | 30 days |
| 1500 ALL | Paketa Unlimited Beats/Unlimited Beats Package | 20 GB | Unlimited @ 64 Kbps | 10 GB | 4000 minutes | N/A | 300 SMS | UB | 30 days |
| 2000 ALL | Paketa Unlimited XL/Unlimited XL Package | 30 GB | Unlimited @ 64 Kbps | 10 GB | 4000 minutes | 100 minutes | 500 SMS | UXL | 30 days |
You can activate a Paketa One Unlimited/One Unlimited by texting the Activation Code to 142.
Package balance can be checked by texting BA to 142.
Paketa Shtesë/Additional Packages (Add-Ons) – One Telecommunications
The Paketa Shtesë/Additional Packages are data, call, and text add-ons for Paketa One Unlimited/One Unlimited Packages. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
The following Paketa Shtesë/Additional Packages are available:
| Price | Add-On | Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes | On-Net SMS | Local/International SMS | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 ALL | Nderkombetare S+/International S+ | N/A | N/A | 10 minutes | N/A | N/A | N10 | 30 days |
| 300 ALL | M+ Kombëtare/M+ National | N/A | 300 minutes | N/A | N/A | N/A | OFA | 30 days |
| 300 ALL | Nderkombetare M+/International M+ | N/A | N/A | 20 minutes | N/A | N/A | NS | 30 days |
| 300 ALL | M+ SMS One/M+ SMS One | N/A | N/A | N/A | 3000 SMS | N/A | SMST | 30 days |
| 300 ALL | M+ SMS Kombëtare/M+ National SMS | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 300 SMS | MSMS | 30 days |
| 500 ALL | Nderkombetare L+/International L+ | N/A | N/A | 40 minutes | N/A | N/A | NM | 30 days |
| 500 ALL | Internet Xtreme M | 3 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | MINT | 30 days |
| 550 ALL | Paketa Social + Chat/Social + Chat Package | 10 GB 1 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | PSC | 30 days |
| 600 ALL | Internet Xtreme L | 5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | MINT1 | 30 days |
| 1200 ALL | Stream On | 20 GB 2 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | VIDEO | 30 days |
1 for Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Viber, Facebook Messenger, Message+ & Android Messages
2 for YouTube& Netflix
Paketa Shtesë/Additional Packages can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 142.
Package balance can be checked by texting BA to 142.
Paketa Të Tjera/Other Packages – One Telecommunications
The Paketa Të Tjera/Other Packages are combo plans with data, (international) minutes, and (international) SMS.
These Paketa Të Tjera/Other Packages can be activated:
| Price | Plan | Data | Social Media + Chat Data (Chata) | Local Minutes | Minutes to FIKS | International Minutes | Local/International SMS | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 ALL | Paketa Ditore/Daily Package | 350 MB | N/A | 50 minutes | N/A | N/A | 150 SMS | Ditore | 24 hours |
| 150 ALL | Internet Ditore | 500 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | ID | 1 day |
| 200 ALL | Giga Fundjave 1/Giga Weekends 1 | 3 GB | 5 GB 1 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | PW | 48 hours (Saturday 00:01 – Sunday 23:59) |
| 300 ALL | Ndërkombëtare S/International S | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 10 minutes | N/A | NS | 30 days |
| 300 ALL | Internet Javore/Internet Weekly | 1 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | IJ | 7 days |
| 500 ALL | Ndërkombëtare M/International M | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 20 minutes | N/A | NM | 30 days |
| 500 ALL | Javore/Weekly | 1 GB | N/A | 300 minutes | 100 minutes | N/A | 300 SMS | Javore | 7 days |
| 500 ALL | Internet Mujore/Internet Monthly | 1.5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | M | 30 days |
| 600 ALL | Giga Fundjave 4/Giga Weekends 4 | 12 GB | 5 GB 1 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | P4W | 4 weekends (Saturday 00:01 – Sunday 23:59) |
| 800 ALL | Paketa All Inclusive – 3 Javore/All Includive Package – 3 Weeks | 15 GB | 5 GB 1 | 500 minutes | N/A | 10 minutes | 50 SMS | Javore3 | 21 days |
| 1000 ALL | Internet Mujore 1000/Internet Monthly 1000 | 4.5 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | M1000 | 30 days |
1 for Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Viber & Message+
You can activate a Paketa Të Tjera/Other Package by texting the Activation Code to 142.
Package balance can be checked by texting BA to 142.
International Minutes Countries – One Telecommunications
The international call allowance can be used to call to 30 countries worldwide. Below is a complete overview of countries you can call to:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- China
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Italy
- Kosovo
- Luxembourg
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Poland
- Romania
- Serbia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- United Kingdom
- United States
APN/Internet Settings – One Telecommunications
- Name: One
- APN: internet.t
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
ALBtelecom
ALBtelecom, also known as Albanian Telecom (Telekomi Shqiptar) is the smallest operator in Albania. They are also the cheapest option in the country. However, mobile coverage may not be as extensive with ALBtelecom compared to its competitors.
Coverage – ALBtelecom
ALBtelecom has good coverage throughout Albania.
Although ALBtelecom covers most of Albania, some parts are only covered with 2G or 3G. At the same time, Vodafone Albania and One often offer 4G/LTE reception in the same region.
SIM Card Price – ALBtelecom
You can purchase an ALBtelecom SIM card, called SIM Card Super 100, for 100 ALL in ALBtelecom stores. You can also get SIM Card 500 for 500 ALL with 300 ALL credit and 4 GB of data when you register on Profili im.
Topping Up & Recharging – ALBtelecom
ALBtelecom top-up cards are sold in many establishments throughout Albania, such as ALBtelecom stores, grocery stores, and gas stations. You can also recharge online (in Albanian) with (international) debit and credit cards.
To recharge your ALBtelecom SIM card, text RM VoucherCode to 141.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text RM 123456 to 141.
Text Balance to 130 to check your balance.
Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – ALBtelecom
ALBtelecom offers numerous types of combo and data-only packages, such as:
- Daily & Weekly Packages (combo)
- Super Standard Packages (combo)
- Super Unlimited (combo)
- GigaNatën Packages (nighttime data-only)
- Super Weekend Packages (weekend data-only)
- Internet Packages (data-only)
- 4G Internet Packages (data-only)
- Extra Packages (add-ons for Super Packages)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Daily & Weekly Packages – ALBtelecom
The Daily & Weekly Packages are combo plans valid for 24 hours or 7 days.
The following Daily & Weekly Packages are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | ALBtelecom Fixed Minutes | Local Minutes | Local/International SMS | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150 ALL | Daily Package 100 | 250 MB | 150 minutes | 150 minutes | 150 SMS | CP1 | 24 hours |
| 500 ALL | Weekly Package 500 | 1 GB | 300 minutes | 300 minutes | 300 SMS | CP7 | 7 days |
You can activate a Daily or Weekly Package by texting the Activation Code to 131.
Super Standard Packages – ALBtelecom
The Super Standard Packages are combo plans with data, (international) minutes, and (international) SMS.
The following Super Standard Packages are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | ALBtelecom Fixed Minutes | Local Minutes | International Minutes | On-Net SMS | Local/International SMS | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 500 ALL | Super Package 500 | 50 MB | 100 minutes | 50 minutes | N/A | N/A | 50 SMS | P500 | 30 days |
| 700 ALL | Super Package 700 | 300 MB | 400 minutes | 200 minutes | N/A | N/A | 500 SMS | P700 | 30 days |
| 1100 ALL | Super Package 1100 | 3.5 GB | 500 minutes | 2500 minutes | N/A | 1000 SMS | 500 SMS | P1100 | 30 days |
| 1300 ALL | Super Package 1300 | 6 GB | 3000 minutes | 3000 minutes | 30 minutes | 3000 SMS | 600 SMS | P1300 | 30 days |
| 1300 ALL | Gigastic Package | 16 GB | 500 minutes | 600 minutes | N/A | N/A | 600 SMS | GIGA1300 | 30 days |
| 1900 ALL | Super Package 1900 | 16 GB | 3500 minutes | 3500 minutes | 120 minutes | 3000 SMS | 600 SMS | P1900 | 30 days |
Super Standard Packages can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 131.
You can use your international minutes to call to the following countries:
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- China
- Czech Republic
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Italy
- Kosovo
- Poland
- Romania
- Spain
- Sweden
- Turkey
- United Kingdom
- United States
Super Unlimited – ALBtelecom
The Super Unlimited Packages are combo plans with high-speed data, unlimited slow-speed data upon depleting your high-speed data allowance, minutes, and (international) SMS.
You can get one of the following Super Unlimited Packages:
| Price | Plan | High-Speed Data | Slow Data (After Depletion) | ALBtelecom Fixed Minutes | Local Minutes | On-Net SMS | Local SMS | International SMS | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 400 ALL | Unlimited Super 400 Package | 100 MB | Unlimited @ 128 Kbps | 200 minutes | 200 minutes | N/A | 100 SMS | N/A | U400 | 30 days |
| 700 ALL | Unlimited Super 700 Package | 1 GB | Unlimited @ 128 Kbps | 800 minutes | 500 minutes | N/A | 500 SMS | N/A | U700 | 30 days |
| 1100 ALL | Unlimited Super 1100 Package | 4 GB | Unlimited @ 128 Kbps | “Unlimited”, 4000 minutes | 3000 minutes | 1000 SMS | 500 SMS 1 | N/A | U1100 | 30 days |
| 1300 ALL | Unlimited Super 1300 Package | 12 GB | Unlimited @ 128 Kbps | “Unlimited”, 4000 minutes | 2000 minutes | N/A | 1500 SMS | N/A | U1300 | 30 days |
| 1900 ALL | Unlimited Super 1900 Package | 18 GB | Unlimited @ 128 Kbps | “Unlimited”, 4000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 4000 minutes | “Unlimited”, 4000 SMS | 1500 SMS 1 | 150 minutes | U1900 | 30 days |
1 Also for international use
You can activate a Super Unlimited plan by texting the Activation Code to 131.
GigaNatën Packages (Night Packages) – ALBtelecom
The GigaNäten Packages are data-only packages to be used at night between 23:01 and 06:59 for seven or 30 consecutive nights.
The following two GigaNäten Packages are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 ALL | GigaNatën 7 | 5 GB | N7 | 7 nights (23:01-06:59) |
| 300 ALL | GigaNatën 30 | 20 GB | N30 | 30 nights (23:01-06:59) |
GigaNatën Packages can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 138.
Super Weekend Packages – ALBtelecom
The Super Weekend Packages are data-only plans with data for one or four consecutive weekends to be used between Saturday 00:00 and Sunday 23:59.
You can activate one of these two Super Weekend Packages:
| Price | Plan | Data | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 ALL | Super Weekend 1 | 5 GB | W1 | 1 weekend (Saturday 00:00 – Sunday 23:59) |
| 600 ALL | Super Weekend 4 | 20 GB | W4 | 4 weekends (Saturday 00:00 – Sunday 23:59) |
You can activate a Super Weekend Package by texting the Activation Code to 138.
Internet Packages – ALBtelecom
The Internet Packages are data-only packages with data plans ranging from 0.5 GB for 100 ALL to 40 GB for 3000 ALL.
The following Internet Packages can be bought:
| Price | Plan | Data | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 ALL | Daily | 0.5 GB | ID100 | 24 hours |
| 300 ALL | Weekly | 1 GB | IJ300 | 7 days |
| 500 ALL | Monthly 500 | 2 GB | IM500 | 30 days |
| 750 ALL | Monthly 750 | 4 GB | IM750 | 30 days |
| 1000 ALL | Monthly 1000 | 6 GB | IM1000 | 30 days |
| 1500 ALL | Monthly 1500 | 20 GB | IM1500 | 30 days |
| 3000 ALL | Monthly 3000 | 40 GB | IM3000 | 30 days |
Internet Packages can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 138.
4G Internet Packages – ALBtelecom
The 4G Internet Packages are data-only packages with data plans ranging from 1 GB for 100 ALL to 10 GB for 1000 ALL.
The following 4G Internet Packages can be purchased:
| Price | Plan | Data | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 ALL | Daily 100 | 1 GB | ID100 | 24 hours |
| 300 ALL | Weekly 300 | 1 GB | IJ300 | 7 days |
| 300 ALL | Monthly 300 | 2 GB | IM300 | 30 days |
| 500 ALL | Monthly 500 | 4 GB | IM500 | 30 days |
| 600 ALL | Monthly 600 | 6 GB | IM600 | 30 days |
| 1000 ALL | Monthly 1000 | 10 GB | IM1000 | 30 days |
You can activate a 4G Internet Package by texting the Activation Code to 138.
Extra Packages – ALBtelecom
The Extra Packages are add-ons with (international) minutes and data for any Super Packages (Super Standard, Super Unlimited & Super Weekend). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
You can get one of the following Extra Packages:
| Price | Extra Package | Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes | Activation Code | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 ALL | National Extra 60 Package | N/A | 60 minutes | N/A | extra60 | 30 days |
| 250 ALL | Extra 1 | N/A | N/A | 20 minutes | 250 | 30 days |
| 400 ALL | Extra 2 | N/A | N/A | 40 minutes | 400 | 30 days |
| 400 ALL | Monthly Extra Internet 400 | 3 GB | N/A | N/A | IE 400 | 30 days |
| 500 ALL | Monthly Extra Internet 500 | 4 GB | N/A | N/A | IE 500 | 30 days |
International minutes can be used to call to the following destinations:
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- China
- Czech Republic
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Italy
- Kosovo
- Poland
- Romania
- Spain
- Sweden
- Turkey
- United Kingdom
- United States
Depending on what type of extra package you want, the Activation Code has to be texted to different numbers:
- Activating an Extra Package for local minutes (National Extra 60 Package) can be done by texting the Activation Code to 149
- Activating an Extra Package for international minutes (Extra 1 & Extra 2) can be done by texting the Activation Code to 55444
- Activating an Extra Package for data (Monthly Extra Internet 400 & Monthly Extra Internet 500) can be done by texting the Activation Code to 138
APN/Internet Settings – ALBtelecom
- Name: ALBtelecom
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in Albania
The cheapest way to get online in Albania is to get a SIM card from one of the three mobile operators. However, local SIM cards are not your only method of staying online when abroad.
Below are some other options to consider.
International Roaming
Roaming is the most convenient way to stay connected. You do not have to buy a new SIM card, and people at home can easily reach you on your current phone number.
However, roaming has many downsides as well. It can be insanely expensive.
International/Travel SIM Cards
International SIM cards or travel SIM cards are SIM cards made for travelers. The rates charged are often lower than international roaming, but they are almost always higher than what local operators will charge you.
Get to know more about international and travel SIM cards.
Mobile hotspots, or pocket WIFI, are small devices that connect to the local operators of the country you are visiting. Mobile hotspots are ideal for families or those traveling in a large group, as they allow you to connect multiple devices to one hotspot without the need of each traveler having to buy a SIM card.
You can either buy a mobile hotspot or rent one.
Free WIFI Networks
Nothing beats free, right? Paying nothing to stay connected may be the best option. Until you remember that free hotspots are not available everywhere (especially when on the move) and that free connections are often extremely slow.
Just make sure to protect your internet traffic with a VPN when connected to open WIFI connections. It is worth it.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in the Albania
Getting a SIM card from Vodafone or One Telecommunications would do you well when considering an Albanian SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other European Countries
Visiting other countries in Europe? Check out my Europe SIM card buying guide, covering other European nations, such as:
- Abkhazia
- Albania
- Alderney
- Andorra
- Armenia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brecqhou
- Bulgaria
- Channel Islands
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Faroe Islands
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- Sark
- San Marino
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Transnistria
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
Check Out My Resource Page
Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience? Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel! Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises, and accommodation. Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!
Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling
Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling? In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services, and products I have for this site and my YouTube channel. If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally. Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks
I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!
Sign Up for the Phone Travel Wiz Newsletter
Sign up for my newsletter: Get an excel sheet of the best SIM cards of over 230+ destinations around the world, updated monthly! Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on how to save money while traveling every now and then.
Let's Be Social
Did you know that I have a YouTube channel covering everything you need to know about traveling with your phone? A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!
Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is
Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!
