The coastline of Albania
Credit: Getty
NEED TO KNOW
The U.S. Embassy in Tirana, Albania, issued a security alert encouraging Americans to “exercise increased vigilance,” citing potentially dangerous pro-Iran groups
Albania remains under a Level 2 travel advisory, urging travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime concerns
Despite the alert, Albanian officials maintain there is no concrete evidence of a real security threat for visitors
The U.S. State Department has issued a new warning for Americans visiting a European travel destination that is continuing to grow in popularity among foreign tourists.
Earlier this month, the U.S. Embassy in Tirana, Albania, encouraged American citizens to “exercise increased vigilance” while visiting the European capital city. The April 1 security alert specifically cited that “groups associated with Iran may seek to target entities associated with the U.S. or Iranian opposition elements in Albania.”
The alert further warns that these groups “may also target common venues, such as tourist sites, shopping malls, hotels, clubs and restaurants.”
Tirana, Albania
Credit: Getty
The State Department recommends Americans stay alert, be aware of their surroundings, monitor local media and keep their cell phones charged in case of an emergency.
Currently, Albania is categorized with only a Level 2 travel advisory from the State Department. This designation recommends travelers “exercise increased caution.” The advisory, last updated on Dec. 31, 2024, cites crime as the primary reason for concern.
Despite the warnings, Albanian authorities emphasized “there is no concrete information about a real threat to security,” according to a translated press release from the country’s Ministry of Internal Affairs.
After communicating with anti-terrorism police, the Department of Public Safety and Criminal Police — who are in contact with the Security Office of the American Embassy — Minister of Internal Affairs Besfort Lamallari confirmed “there is no concreted information, even intelligence, about a real dangerous situation.”
He added in the April 2 release: “The fact is that Albania remains a safe country for Albanian citizens and for all those who visit Albania.”
The total number of foreign tourists who visited Albania in 2025 rose to 12.47 million. That represents about a 6.6% increase from 2024, according to data reviewed by the Albanian Daily News from the country’s statistical office. About 71.5% of those tourists came from Southern Europe.
Travel + Leisure reports that Albania is known for having some of the bluest water in the world. Tourists often enjoy kayaking, rafting and diving while on the country’s beaches. Meanwhile, nearly three-quarters of its land is made up of mountains and hills.
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Those considering traveling to Albania are encouraged by the State Department to sign up for its free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides email updates and alerts from U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.
Read the original article on People