There are many incredible issues to do in Shkoder, a cool, lake-side city within the North of Albania. Shkoder might be probably the most underrated locations in Albania. It’s Albania’s cultural capital and has a enjoyable environment, a superbly picturesque metropolis heart to discover, and loads of cool issues to do.
Shkoder can be the entry level to the Albanian Alps, so in the event you like to hike, you gained’t need to miss it. Should you’re planning a visit to Albania, Shkoder ought to undoubtedly be in your record of locations to go to. Should you’re questioning what to see in Shkoder, learn on for my prime 15 greatest issues to do right here.
Greatest Issues To Do in Shkoder
There are such a lot of wonderful issues to do in Shkoder, recognized domestically because the cultural capital of Albania. From its lovely heart to the unbelievable nature on its doorstep, it’s possible you’ll by no means need to depart.
Listed here are a few of my favourite locations to go to in Shkoder that can assist you plan your good journey:
1. Stroll Down Rruga Kolë Idromeno
One of many first issues to do in Shkoder while you arrive is to move proper into the middle and discover. The middle is a pedestrianized space that’s stuffed with many cute, boutique outlets, cafes, eating places, bars, ice cream parlors, and extra.
The streets are cobblestoned, the outlets are brightly coloured, and there are squares and patios in every single place with locals sipping on espresso and watching the world go by.
Take a lazy stroll by this space, notably the principle road of Rruga Kole Idromeno, and immerse your self in life in Shkoder. It’s the proper introduction to this lovely metropolis and is among the greatest locations to see in Shkoder.
Deal with: Rruga Kole Idromeno, Shkoder
2. Discover the Shkoder Historic Museum
There are many nice museums in Shkoder, however in the event you solely have time for one, then I like to recommend you head to the Historic Museum.
It’s one of many prime issues to do in Shkoder for those who need to study extra about its fascinating previous. The museum is cut up into completely different time intervals, starting from historic occasions and Illyrian tribes, by the Ottoman Empire till fashionable occasions.
The museum is housed in a former Venetian service provider’s home and appears lovely. The museum itself is fascinating and well-presented, with numerous artifacts and data to maintain you engaged. If, like me, you’re keen on historical past, then you definitely’ll simply see why this is among the hottest vacationer points of interest in Shkoder.
Deal with: Shkoder Historic Museum, Rruga Oso Kuka 32, Shkoder
3. Take a Boat Journey on Komani Lake
An enormous a part of Shkoder’s attraction is the gorgeous surroundings and nature on this a part of Albania. Nowhere is that extra obvious than Komani Lake; probably the most lovely locations to go to close to Shkoder.
To actually immerse your self within the unbelievable nature at Lake Komani, I might extremely suggest the Shala River & Komani Lake day tour. From Shkoder, you’ll first head to Vau i Dejes Lake for some unbelievable, unspoiled views. The tour then takes a ship by Lake Komani and onto the Shala River.
You’ll get the prospect to hike round Lake Shala, one of many wildest climbing spots within the space. And in the event you’re actually courageous, you’ll be able to take a dip within the river itself. Nicknamed Albania’s Thailand, the views listed below are spectacular. It actually is among the greatest locations to go to in Shkoder. The tour will gather you out of your lodging in Shkoder.
Deal with: Komani Lake, Shkoder
4. Go to Albania’s Northern Blue Eye
The Blue Eye in Theth (to not be confused with the Blue Eye close to Saranda) is among the most unbelievable issues to do round Shkoder. It’s a shocking waterfall nestled within the Albanian Alps that’s reached by a 3-4 hour hike by the mountains.
Mix your journey to probably the greatest Shkoder points of interest with a go to to close by Grunasi Waterfall with this good 1-day waterfall tour. You’ll have a information to steer you on the 17-kilometer hike to the Blue Eye, in addition to transport to each waterfalls and thru a number of the gorgeous landscapes of the Albanian Alps.
You may take a dip within the waters while you arrive – it’s good after that hike. The entire expertise is a shocking day trip and one in every of my absolute prime issues to see in Shkoder.
Deal with: Blue Eye, Kaprre e Gimajve, Theth
5. Hike the Accursed Mountains
One of many major occasions in northern Albania is the Accursed Mountains. Named probably as a result of notion that they’re unsurmountable, the Accursed Mountains, or the Albanian Alps, lengthen from Albania by Kosovo and Montenegro.
This unbelievable 4-day guided hike by the Accursed Mountains is each hiker’s dream. It’s actually probably the most unbelievable locations to go to in Shkoder and maybe the entire of Albania. You’ll have a private information all through the journey and can keep at native guesthouses every night.
You’ll see a number of the wildest and most unbelievable surroundings that Albania has to supply. Should you like to hike, this could undoubtedly make it onto your Albanian itinerary.
Deal with: The Accursed Mountains, Northern Albania
6. Head to Rozafa Fort at Sundown
Rozafa Fort is positioned simply outdoors the principle metropolis heart and is certainly one of many prime issues to do in Shkoder at evening. You may discover the ruins or head into the museum to study extra in regards to the fort’s distinctive legend.
It’s rumored that three brothers tried to construct the fort, however the foundations wouldn’t maintain. On the recommendation of a smart man, one in every of their wives was buried alive within the partitions, within the hope, it was stated, that the foundations would maintain agency.
She accepted her destiny however requested that half of her be uncovered to consolation her toddler son. A life-size sculpture of the spouse is seen on the fort as we speak.
I hope the legend isn’t true, however I might undoubtedly suggest coming right here for sundown nonetheless. It’s probably the most romantic issues to do for {couples}.
Deal with: Rozafa Fort, Rruga Rozafa, Shkoder
7. Kayak on Lake Shkoder
Lake Shkoder is the largest lake in Southern Europe and is among the largest hen reserves on the continent. It’s proper on the doorstep of Shkoder itself and is a must-see in the event you’re staying right here.
You may both take a stroll round its shores, rent bikes to journey a bit additional, or lease kayaks and paddleboards to get an excellent nearer look.
You may lease kayaks and stand-up paddleboards at Drini Occasions Watersports to move onto the lake, get away from town and be at one with nature. It’s a wonderful journey for each youngsters and grown-ups and so for me, it’s probably the greatest issues to do in Shkoder for households.
Click on right here for instructions to Drini Occasions Watersports and Birdwatching Middle for kayak and paddleboard rent.
Deal with: Lake Shkoder, Shkoder
8. Take a Day Journey to Boge
If you wish to study extra about life in Northern Albania, then probably the greatest issues to do in Shkoder is to move out on a day tour to close by Boge.
This fun-filled day journey will take you from Shkoder into Theth Nationwide Park the place you’ll cease at some unbelievable panoramic viewpoints to marvel on the panorama contained in the Park. When you arrive at Boge, you’ll meet native inhabitants and study native life within the village.
This is a wonderful strategy to escape town and the expertise feels such as you’re going again in time. The local-led tour by the village and surrounding areas is each fascinating and very peaceable. It’s probably the most lovely locations to go to in Shkoder.
Click on right here for the Theth Nationwide Park and Boge Village tour.
Deal with: Boge, Shkoder
9. Marvel at Ebu Bekr Mosque
The Ebu Bekr Mosque is a very spectacular piece of structure throughout the metropolis. It was rebuilt in 1995 and so is a really fashionable and picturesque place to go to.
You’re welcome to move inside as long as you come consequence of prayer hours, and pictures is permitted each in and out. I like marveling on the gorgeous element inside and studying extra in regards to the Muslim faith right here.
It’s probably the greatest free issues to do in Shkoder and can be a wonderful strategy to study extra in regards to the spiritual influences on modern-day Albania.
Deal with: Ebu Bekr Mosque, Rruga Fushë Cele 1, Shkodër
10. Get pleasure from a Bike Journey to Shiroka
One in all my favourite issues to do in Shkoder is to rent a motorbike and discover by myself. Shkoder has a wonderful status and infrastructure for biking and so it’s tremendous simple to lease a motorbike and be in your approach.
I might undoubtedly suggest heading to close by Shiroka by bike. You may rent bikes within the heart of city after which comply with Lake Shkoder alongside to the quaint village of Shiroka.
It’s a 14-kilometer spherical journey and the terrain is flat; it’s a pleasant simple trip that gives some wonderful views of the lake alongside the best way. Shiroka is legendary for its carp, so cease for a fish lunch on the shores of the lake earlier than returning to Shkoder. I’d suggest hiring bikes from Eko Membership, who additionally serve wonderful meals.
Deal with: Shiroka, Shkoder
As you’ll be able to most likely see, one of the best issues to do in Shkoder are discovered within the nice outside. The character and countryside right here is a number of the greatest within the nation and you may see a number of the most unbeatable magnificence on this 2-day journey tour.
Over two days, you’ll go to some conventional rural villages earlier than crossing the magnificent Komani Lake by boat. After, you’ll go kayaking on the Shala River the place you’ll be able to take a refreshing swim in the event you’re courageous sufficient, (the water is fairly chilly!).
You’ll additionally keep in a single day and luxuriate in breakfast at a standard guesthouse earlier than heading again to Shkoder. This tour is absolutely spectacular and is a spotlight of the issues to do in Shkoder.
Deal with: You’ll be collected out of your lodge on the tour and can go to the Komani Lake and Shala River.
12. Head Out to Mesi Bridge
The Mesi Bridge is a historic bridge, inbuilt conventional Ottoman design. It’s round 108 meters lengthy and has 13 fantastic stone arches. It connects the 2 sides of the Kir River and is the best river crossing in Albania.
It’s been well-preserved and is an unbelievable web site to behold. It’s no shock that it’s probably the most photographed Shkoder points of interest.
Whereas it’s not someplace that you have to spend quite a lot of time, it’s undoubtedly value a go to to get pleasure from views over the river and metropolis and to take some unbelievable pictures.
Deal with: Mesi Bridge, Shqipëri, AL, Mes 4012
13. Take a Day Journey to Montenegro
As Shkoder is true on the Albanian border, probably the greatest issues to do close to Shkoder is to really go to one other nation. You may simply go to Montenegro from Shkoder however one of the best ways to do that, and to take advantage of the time, is to take a tour.
The Shkoder journey to Montenegro will take you to see the highlights of the southern Montenegrin coast together with Sveti Stefan, as soon as a small fishing city on a small island turned premier resort, the walled metropolis of Budva and its pretty seashores, and the UNESCO World Heritage Website, The Metropolis of Kotor (a must-see in Montenegro).
It’s probably the greatest issues to do in Shkoder and is a good alternative to tick off visiting one other nation too. Click on right here to guide a spot on the tour, which can gather you out of your lodge in Shkoder.
Deal with: Take the tour to Montenegro from right here.
14. Go to the Venice Artwork Masks Manufacturing unit
Be sure you go to the Masks Manufacturing unit in Shkoder; probably the most vibrant and enjoyable locations to go to within the metropolis by way of artwork. The masks are made by graduates of Artwork Faculties in Albania, they usually’re actually wonderful to see.
Many of the masks made listed below are these bought in Venice, and the manufacturing unit in Shkoder is the one outlet in Albania. The craftsmanship is actually excellent and with the assistance of the pleasant host, you’ll study all in regards to the artwork of constructing masks.
It’s an expertise that basically highlights the significance of supporting native artisan merchandise the place doable and is a singular and enjoyable factor to do in Shkoder.
Deal with: Venice Artwork Masks Manufacturing unit, Rruga Inxh, Gjovalin Gjadri, Shkoder
15. Take a Jeep Tour to Theth Nationwide Park
You may discover the Theth Nationwide Park by Jeep. The surroundings within the park is totally gorgeous and by Jeep, you’ll get to see a lot of it. You’ll even have a information with you who will be capable of let you know all in regards to the park, and the crops and animals that inhabit it.
The Park itself is the start line of many hikes by the Albanian Alps, which is a spotlight in itself.
Nonetheless, the park can be dwelling to waterfalls, canyons, church buildings, and comes, all of which will be seen on this tour. The character is unbelievable, and it’s undoubtedly probably the most lovely and enjoyable issues to do in Shkoder. Guide your spot on this sensible tour right here.
Guide right here for a tour by the park.
Deal with: Theth Nationwide Park, Shkoder
Fast Journey Itineraries For Shkoder
There are such a lot of wonderful issues to do in Shkoder that it may be arduous to seek out sufficient time. Listed here are my advised itineraries that can assist you plan your good journey:
1 Day in Shkoder Itinerary
Should you solely have a day in Shkoder then I might focus on the gorgeous heart itself. Head to Rruga Kole Idromeno and the pedestrianized heart for a espresso or ice cream and get a really feel for Shkoder. Cease by the Ebu Bekr Mosque.
Within the afternoon, relying in your choice, I might both take a stroll right down to the lake or go to the Shkoder Historic Museum. Within the night, head to Rozafa Fort to catch the sundown.
2-3 Days in Shkoder Itinerary
If in case you have a bit of longer, you’ll be able to undoubtedly head additional afield and discover the unbelievable countryside past.
Take the 1-day itinerary and on the 2nd day, contemplate heading out on a boat tour to the unbelievable Komani Lake and surrounding space. On the third day, I’d suggest heading to the Blue Eye in Theth as that is certain to be a spot you gained’t neglect any time quickly.
Should you’re tour-ed out on day 3 then rent bikes as an alternative and cycle the picturesque path to Shiroka for carp by the lake.
1 Week in Shkoder Itinerary
If in case you have longer in Shkoder and also you like to hike, then I extremely suggest finishing the 4-day trek within the Accursed Mountains – it’s an unbelievable expertise. Add on the 1-day itinerary on both facet of it and permit loads of time for relaxation while you’re again.
Should you choose one thing much less difficult, then take the 2-3 day itinerary above as a place to begin. Add on a day journey to Boge and the Theth Nationwide Park for a special perspective of life within the Albanian Alps.
Spend an extra day stress-free in Shkoder and rent kayaks on Lake Shkoder. Think about taking a jeep tour deep into Theth Nationwide Park for a rush of adrenaline, or for one thing extra stress-free, get pleasure from a day within the masks manufacturing unit.
The place to Keep in Shkoder
These are a number of of one of the best neighborhoods in Shkoder for vacationers:
Kole Idromeno Pedestrian Zone – Greatest for First-time Guests
To your first time in Shkoder, I like to recommend staying proper within the heart, within the pedestrianized zone.
Right here, you’ll have easy accessibility to all one of the best points of interest in Shkoder in addition to the nice bars and eating places on this space. There isn’t any visitors, so it’s fairly quiet, regardless of being in the midst of town.
This lovely Shkoder condo is ideal on your journey to Shkoder. It’s fashionable, shiny, and ethereal and has a balcony providing lovely mountain views.
Rruga G’Juhadol – Greatest for Nightlife
Rruga G’Juhadol is positioned proper subsequent to the pedestrianized zone and is inside simple attain of one of the best bars and eating places in Shkoder.
It’s additionally nonetheless tremendous near the principle, central vacationer points of interest, so you will have one of the best of each worlds right here. Should you’re seeking to meet different folks whereas in Shkoder then try The Wanderers Hostel which has a fantastic choice of rooms, a bar, and plenty of communal areas.
Shkoder Lake – Greatest for Households
If you wish to escape the hustle and bustle of town and really feel at one with nature, then head down the coast a bit of to Shiroka, on the banks of Lake Shkoder.
Right here, you’ll have gorgeous views over the lake, tremendous peaceable mornings and evenings, and a bit of extra space than you’ll discover within the metropolis. It’s a brief bike trip from town heart that means you’ll nonetheless be near all one of the best locations to go to in Shkoder.
This unbelievable Serena Dwelling has wonderful views over the lake. It has a giant lounge and an enormous out of doors balcony to take advantage of the spectacular views. You may even lease bikes to make your journey to Shkoder heart even simpler.
Greatest Eating places in Shkoder
Don’t miss these nice locations to eat in Shkoder:
Fisi Grill & Restaurant
For native meals, Fisi Grill is a should. Nice for lunch or dinner, the restaurant makes a speciality of conventional Albanian meals. You will need to attempt the lamb, it’s unbelievable. Click on right here for instructions.
Vila Bekteshi
Villa Bekteshi is a stunning restaurant and is a very stress-free place to eat or seize a drink, particularly within the yard. The meals was scrumptious too. I can suggest the baked lamb, it was so good. Click on right here for instructions.
Restaurant Puri
Restaurant Puri isn’t fancy or tremendous eating by any means, however the meals is superb, and it’s an excellent reasonably priced place to eat for these on a finances. The goulash and Mom’s meatballs are actually nice dishes. Click on right here to view on a map.
Pasta e Vino
The selfmade pasta at Pasta e Vino is totally wonderful. It’s tremendous contemporary and the parts are beneficiant too. The dish to attempt is the Ravioli with truffle, notably as a result of truffle is absolutely widespread in Albania. Click on right here for instructions.
Eko Membership
A incredible place to seize a scrumptious espresso, juice, or a fast chew earlier than heading off in your bike. Should you’re vegetarian, there’s a fantastic providing at Eko Membership, with incredible veggie sandwiches and snacks. Click on right here to view on map.
Attending to Shkoder
Should you’re flying into Albania, then you definitely’ll nearly actually land at Tirana Worldwide Airport.
From Tirana, you may get to Shkoder by bus. First, you’ll want to move to the regional bus terminal within the metropolis. From right here, buses to Shkoder depart each half-hour from round 6.30 am till 5 pm. The bus takes round 1 hour 45 minutes and can price round 400 lek ($3.90USD).
Alternatively, you can seize a taxi instantly from the airport. Many of the major taxi corporations in Albania function from arrivals. Try Tirana Airport Taxi, which is the formally licensed taxi on the airport. They cost €55 – €62 to Shkoder. Examine their web site for updates to costs.
Lastly, contemplate hiring a automotive. You need to be capable of get a rent automotive from the airport for round €20 per day, though I might suggest reserving prematurely to get one of the best value.
As soon as in Shkoder, you’ll be able to take native buses or taxis, however Shkoder is tremendous cycle-friendly. Many of the major sightseeing in Shkoder will be reached by bike.
Issues To Do in Shkoder: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Shkoder:
Shkoder is named the cultural capital of Albania as a consequence of its prominence within the arts, in addition to being well-regarded for its spiritual and cultural tolerance throughout Albania’s tumultuous historical past.
The most effective time to go to Shkoder is through the shoulder seasons on both facet of the height summer time season. Head to Shkoder in April-June or September-October for cooler temperatures and sunny skies, good for climbing and exploring.
Completely, Shkoder is value visiting. It’s an exquisite metropolis in its personal proper, in addition to being the gateway to the Albanian Alps. The encircling panorama is an out of doors fanatic’s dream the place days will be spent climbing mountains, swimming in waterfalls, or kayaking on lakes.
I might recommend at the least 3–4 days in Shkoder to have the ability to expertise town itself and a number of the countryside surrounding it. The longer you will have, the deeper into the Albanian Alps you’ll be able to discover.
Shkoder is extremely protected. Though a metropolis, it feels extra like a small city within the heart the place you’ll be able to stroll round with none worries, even after darkish. In fact, opportunist thieves function in all widespread areas however take common precautions and also you gained’t have any want for concern.
The preferred factor to do in Shkoder is to go to the attractive Rozafa Fort. Its loopy legend provides intrigue and the gorgeous views at sundown make it an ideal place to go to.
Shkoder is best recognized for its lakes, waterfalls, and mountains, however Plazhi i Velipojes is the place to go if you wish to head to the seashore whereas in Shkoder.
When in Shkoder, it’s a must to attempt Tavë Krapi. It’s carp, from the Shkoder Lake, marinated in onions, garlic, and tomatoes after which baked. It’s scrumptious and is a delicacy of the realm.
In Closing
Shkoder is critically underrated, with many individuals choosing Tirana and heading south towards Berat or Korca. Nonetheless, there are such a lot of incredible issues to do in Shkoder and the character and countryside to be uncovered right here is unparalleled.
Go climbing within the Albanian Alps or have an journey on the Kamani Lake and go to Albania’s Thailand on the Shala River. There are simply so many epic adventures awaiting in Shkoder.
I hope this weblog helps you propose what to do in Shkoder. Get pleasure from your journey!
