There are many implausible issues to do in Shkoder, a cool, lake-side city within the North of Albania. Shkoder might be one of the vital underrated locations in Albania. It’s Albania’s cultural capital and has a enjoyable environment, a wonderfully picturesque metropolis middle to discover, and loads of cool issues to do.
Shkoder can be the entry level to the Albanian Alps, so if you happen to like to hike, you gained’t wish to miss it. If you happen to’re planning a visit to Albania, Shkoder ought to undoubtedly be in your listing of locations to go to. If you happen to’re questioning what to see in Shkoder, learn on for my prime 15 finest issues to do right here.
Greatest Issues To Do in Shkoder
There are such a lot of superb issues to do in Shkoder, recognized domestically because the cultural capital of Albania. From its stunning middle to the unbelievable nature on its doorstep, you could by no means wish to go away.
Listed here are a few of my favourite locations to go to in Shkoder that will help you plan your good journey:
1. Stroll Down Rruga Kolë Idromeno
One of many first issues to do in Shkoder if you arrive is to move proper into the middle and discover. The middle is a pedestrianized space that’s stuffed with many cute, boutique retailers, cafes, eating places, bars, ice cream parlors, and extra.
The streets are cobblestoned, the retailers are brightly coloured, and there are squares and patios all over the place with locals sipping on espresso and watching the world go by.
Take a lazy stroll via this space, significantly the primary avenue of Rruga Kole Idromeno, and immerse your self in life in Shkoder. It’s the proper introduction to this stunning metropolis and is without doubt one of the finest locations to see in Shkoder.
Tackle: Rruga Kole Idromeno, Shkoder
2. Discover the Shkoder Historic Museum
There are many nice museums in Shkoder, however if you happen to 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 people who wish to study extra about its fascinating previous. The museum is break up into totally different time intervals, starting from historical occasions and Illyrian tribes, via the Ottoman Empire till trendy occasions.
The museum is housed in a former Venetian service provider’s home and appears stunning. The museum itself is fascinating and well-presented, with a number of artifacts and knowledge to maintain you engaged. If, like me, you like historical past, then you definitely’ll simply see why this is without doubt one of the hottest vacationer points of interest in Shkoder.
Tackle: 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 beautiful surroundings and nature on this a part of Albania. Nowhere is that extra obvious than Komani Lake; one of the vital stunning locations to go to close to Shkoder.
To essentially immerse your self within the unbelievable nature at Lake Komani, I’d 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 via Lake Komani and onto the Shala River.
You’ll get the prospect to hike round Lake Shala, one of many wildest mountaineering spots within the space. And if you happen to’re actually courageous, you possibly can take a dip within the river itself. Nicknamed Albania’s Thailand, the views listed below are spectacular. It actually is without doubt one of the finest locations to go to in Shkoder. The tour will acquire you out of your lodging in Shkoder.
Tackle: 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 without doubt one of 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 via the mountains.
Mix your journey to the most effective 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 among the beautiful landscapes of the Albanian Alps.
You possibly can take a dip within the waters if you arrive – it’s good after that hike. The entire expertise is a shocking day trip and one in all my absolute prime issues to see in Shkoder.
Tackle: Blue Eye, Kaprre e Gimajve, Theth
5. Hike the Accursed Mountains
One of many most important 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, prolong from Albania via Kosovo and Montenegro.
This unbelievable 4-day guided hike via the Accursed Mountains is each hiker’s dream. It’s actually one of the vital 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 among the wildest and most unbelievable surroundings that Albania has to supply. If you happen to like to hike, this could undoubtedly make it onto your Albanian itinerary.
Tackle: The Accursed Mountains, Northern Albania
6. Head to Rozafa Fortress at Sundown
Rozafa Fortress is positioned simply exterior the primary metropolis middle and is certainly one of many prime issues to do in Shkoder at night time. You possibly can discover the ruins or head into the museum to study extra concerning the citadel’s distinctive legend.
It’s rumored that three brothers tried to construct the citadel, however the foundations wouldn’t maintain. On the recommendation of a smart man, one in all their wives was buried alive within the partitions, within the hope, it was mentioned, 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 citadel as we speak.
I hope the legend isn’t true, however I’d undoubtedly suggest coming right here for sundown nonetheless. It’s one of the vital romantic issues to do for {couples}.
Tackle: Rozafa Fortress, Rruga Rozafa, Shkoder
7. Kayak on Lake Shkoder
Lake Shkoder is the largest lake in Southern Europe and is without doubt one of the largest chicken reserves on the continent. It’s proper on the doorstep of Shkoder itself and is a must-see if you happen to’re staying right here.
You possibly can both take a stroll round its shores, rent bikes to journey a bit additional, or hire kayaks and paddleboards to get a good nearer look.
You possibly can hire kayaks and stand-up paddleboards at Drini Occasions Watersports to move onto the lake, get away from the town and be at one with nature. It’s a wonderful journey for each children and grown-ups and so for me, it’s the most effective 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.
Tackle: Lake Shkoder, Shkoder
8. Take a Day Journey to Boge
If you wish to study extra about life in Northern Albania, then the most effective 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 the town and the expertise feels such as you’re going again in time. The local-led tour via the village and surrounding areas is each fascinating and very peaceable. It’s one of the vital stunning locations to go to in Shkoder.
Click on right here for the Theth Nationwide Park and Boge Village tour.
Tackle: Boge, Shkoder
9. Marvel at Ebu Bekr Mosque
The Ebu Bekr Mosque is a extremely spectacular piece of structure inside the metropolis. It was rebuilt in 1995 and so is a really trendy and picturesque place to go to.
You’re welcome to move inside as long as you come final result of prayer hours, and images is permitted each inside and outside. I really like marveling on the beautiful element inside and studying extra concerning the Muslim faith right here.
It’s the most effective free issues to do in Shkoder and can be a wonderful strategy to study extra concerning the spiritual influences on modern-day Albania.
Tackle: Ebu Bekr Mosque, Rruga Fushë Cele 1, Shkodër
10. Get pleasure from a Bike Journey to Shiroka
Certainly one of my favourite issues to do in Shkoder is to rent a motorbike and discover by myself. Shkoder has a wonderful fame and infrastructure for biking and so it’s tremendous straightforward to hire a motorbike and be in your method.
I’d undoubtedly suggest heading to close by Shiroka by bike. You possibly can rent bikes within the middle of city after which observe 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 straightforward experience that provides some wonderful views of the lake alongside the best way. Shiroka is known 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.
Tackle: Shiroka, Shkoder
As you possibly can in all probability see, the most effective issues to do in Shkoder are discovered within the nice open air. The character and countryside right here is among the finest within the nation and you’ll see among 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 possibly can take a refreshing swim if you happen to’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 admittedly spectacular and is a spotlight of the issues to do in Shkoder.
Tackle: 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, in-built 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 one of the vital photographed Shkoder points of interest.
Whereas it’s not someplace that you should spend an excessive amount of time, it’s undoubtedly price a go to to take pleasure in views over the river and metropolis and to take some unbelievable images.
Tackle: Mesi Bridge, Shqipëri, AL, Mes 4012
13. Take a Day Journey to Montenegro
As Shkoder is correct on the Albanian border, the most effective issues to do close to Shkoder is to really go to one other nation. You possibly can simply go to Montenegro from Shkoder however the easiest way to do that, and to profit from 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 Web site, The Metropolis of Kotor (a must-see in Montenegro).
It’s the most effective issues to do in Shkoder and is a good alternative to tick off visiting one other nation too. Click on right here to ebook a spot on the tour, which can acquire you out of your lodge in Shkoder.
Tackle: 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; one of the vital vibrant and enjoyable locations to go to within the metropolis when it comes to artwork. The masks are made by graduates of Artwork Colleges in Albania, and so they’re actually superb to see.
A lot of the masks made listed below are these bought in Venice, and the manufacturing facility 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 concerning the artwork of constructing masks.
It’s an expertise that basically highlights the significance of supporting native artisan merchandise the place attainable and is a singular and enjoyable factor to do in Shkoder.
Tackle: Venice Artwork Masks Manufacturing unit, Rruga Inxh, Gjovalin Gjadri, Shkoder
15. Take a Jeep Tour to Theth Nationwide Park
You possibly can discover the Theth Nationwide Park by Jeep. The surroundings within the park is completely beautiful and by Jeep, you’ll get to see a lot of it. You’ll even have a information with you who will be capable to let you know all concerning the park, and the crops and animals that inhabit it.
The Park itself is the place to begin of many hikes via the Albanian Alps, which is a spotlight in itself.
Nevertheless, the park can be dwelling to waterfalls, canyons, church buildings, and comes, all of which could be seen on this tour. The character is unbelievable, and it’s undoubtedly one of the vital stunning and enjoyable issues to do in Shkoder. Guide your spot on this sensible tour right here.
Guide right here for a tour via the park.
Tackle: Theth Nationwide Park, Shkoder
Fast Journey Itineraries For Shkoder
There are such a lot of superb issues to do in Shkoder that it may be onerous to search out sufficient time. Listed here are my urged itineraries that will help you plan your good journey:
1 Day in Shkoder Itinerary
If you happen to solely have a day in Shkoder then I’d focus on the gorgeous middle itself. Head to Rruga Kole Idromeno and the pedestrianized middle 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 desire, I’d both take a stroll right down to the lake or go to the Shkoder Historic Museum. Within the night, head to Rozafa Fortress to catch the sundown.
2-3 Days in Shkoder Itinerary
When you have a bit longer, you possibly can undoubtedly head additional afield and discover the unbelievable countryside past.
Take the 1-day itinerary and on the 2nd day, think about 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 positive to be a spot you gained’t overlook any time quickly.
If you happen to’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
When 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 if you’re again.
If you happen to desire 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 unique perspective of life within the Albanian Alps.
Spend an extra day enjoyable 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 enjoyable, take pleasure in a day within the masks manufacturing facility.
The place to Keep in Shkoder
These are just a few of the most effective neighborhoods in Shkoder for vacationers:
Kole Idromeno Pedestrian Zone – Greatest for First-time Guests
In your first time in Shkoder, I like to recommend staying proper within the middle, within the pedestrianized zone.
Right here, you’ll have quick access to all the most effective 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 course of the town.
This stunning Shkoder condominium is ideal to your journey to Shkoder. It’s trendy, vivid, and ethereal and has a balcony providing stunning mountain views.
Rruga G’Juhadol – Greatest for Nightlife
Rruga G’Juhadol is positioned proper subsequent to the pedestrianized zone and is inside straightforward attain of the most effective bars and eating places in Shkoder.
It’s additionally nonetheless tremendous near the primary, central vacationer points of interest, so you’ve the most effective of each worlds right here. If you happen to’re trying to meet different individuals whereas in Shkoder then try The Wanderers Hostel which has an ideal collection of rooms, a bar, and many communal areas.
Shkoder Lake – Greatest for Households
If you wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the town and really feel at one with nature, then head down the coast a bit to Shiroka, on the banks of Lake Shkoder.
Right here, you’ll have beautiful views over the lake, tremendous peaceable mornings and evenings, and a bit more room than you’ll discover within the metropolis. It’s a brief bike experience from the town middle that means you’ll nonetheless be near all the most effective locations to go to in Shkoder.
This unbelievable Serena Residence has superb views over the lake. It has a giant front room and an enormous outside balcony to profit from the spectacular views. You possibly can even hire bikes to make your journey to Shkoder middle 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 focuses on 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 extremely enjoyable 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 high-quality eating by any means, however the meals is great, and it’s an excellent reasonably priced place to eat for these on a price range. 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 completely wonderful. It’s tremendous recent and the parts are beneficiant too. The dish to attempt is the Ravioli with truffle, significantly as a result of truffle is admittedly widespread in Albania. Click on right here for instructions.
Eko Membership
A implausible place to seize a scrumptious espresso, juice, or a fast chew earlier than heading off in your bike. If you happen to’re vegetarian, there’s an ideal providing at Eko Membership, with implausible veggie sandwiches and snacks. Click on right here to view on map.
Attending to Shkoder
If you happen to’re flying into Albania, then you definitely’ll virtually definitely land at Tirana Worldwide Airport.
From Tirana, you will 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 value round 400 lek ($3.90USD).
Alternatively, you could possibly seize a taxi immediately from the airport. A lot of the most important taxi firms in Albania function from arrivals. Take a look at Tirana Airport Taxi, which is the formally licensed taxi on the airport. They cost €55 – €62 to Shkoder. Verify their web site for updates to costs.
Lastly, think about hiring a automobile. It’s best to be capable to get a rent automobile from the airport for round €20 per day, though I’d suggest reserving prematurely to get the most effective value.
As soon as in Shkoder, you possibly can take native buses or taxis, however Shkoder is tremendous cycle-friendly. A lot of the most important sightseeing in Shkoder could 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 on account 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 perfect time to go to Shkoder is throughout 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 mountaineering and exploring.
Completely, Shkoder is price visiting. It’s a ravishing metropolis in its personal proper, in addition to being the gateway to the Albanian Alps. The encompassing panorama is an out of doors fanatic’s dream the place days could be spent mountaineering mountains, swimming in waterfalls, or kayaking on lakes.
I’d counsel at the least 3–4 days in Shkoder to have the ability to expertise the town itself and among the countryside surrounding it. The longer you’ve, the deeper into the Albanian Alps you possibly can discover.
Shkoder is extremely protected. Though a metropolis, it feels extra like a small city within the middle the place you possibly can stroll round with none worries, even after darkish. After all, 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 gorgeous Rozafa Fortress. Its loopy legend provides intrigue and the beautiful 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, you must 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 world.
In Closing
Shkoder is significantly underrated, with many individuals choosing Tirana and heading south towards Berat or Korca. Nevertheless, there are such a lot of implausible issues to do in Shkoder and the character and countryside to be uncovered right here is unparalleled.
Go mountaineering 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 intend what to do in Shkoder. Get pleasure from your journey!
