Overview

Situated on the Mbishkodra Plain between the marshes surrounding Lake Shkodër and the foothills of the Albanian Alps is the northern city of Shkodër. This relaxed, historic city lies roughly 65 miles north of the Albanian capital, Tirana. It is sometimes referred to as Shkodra and was also known as Scodra and Scutari in its history. The city maintains a small-town charm within its historic old town, while having all the fun stuff you can expect from a big city. It serves as the gateway to the beautiful Albanian Alps and the expansive Lake Shkodër but there are plenty of things to do here that make it a worthy stopping point.

Things to Do

Visit the Rozafa Castle. This is the biggest attraction in Shkoder dating back to the 14th century. Every civilization in Shkodra's history has used this strategic spot on a craggy hill next to the confluence of the Drin and Bojana Rivers. It's a 30-minute walk uphill from the city center to the castle. Old stone walls, staircases and archways are yours to explore.

Visit the Museums. There are several museums in Shkoder to explore including Marubi National Museum of Photography that is home to some photos from Albania's first photographers. The Site of Witness and Memory is housed in an old prison and displays information about Albania during the communist era.

The Shkoder Historical Museum is located in a beautiful location, on a steep hill overlooking the city. The building is a former Venetian merchant's house, even including authentic stone fortifications. The Historical Museum has the dual appeal of housing culturally important artefacts and being historical in its own right.

Enjoy Lake Shkodra. This lake is expansive and crosses the border to Montenegro and in fact only one third of it is in Albania. You can go by bike and ride it to enjoy its nature. 850 plant species and 600 animal species are known in Shkodra Lake. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard or set off on a hiking trip around the beautiful perimeter of the lake.

Wandering around the town is one of the nicest things to do in Shkoder and the best way to get to know the city. The pedestrianized streets are home to a great range of cafes, restaurants and bars and in the evenings, it's the place to be!

Take a day trip to Shurdhah Island in the summer months. Take a boat out to Shurdhah Island, almost a quarter mile in length and covered with dense vegetation. Climb on shore to discover the last remaining fragments of Sarda, an ancient city. This was an Illyrian settlement, and later a Roman citadel. In medieval times it was a city famous for its 365 altars and being the seat of Bishops of Sarda and Sapa. Eventually the city was destroyed by the Ottomans, and when the dam was completed, the ruins formed an island near the left bank of the Drin.

Albanian Alps

The Accursed Mountains near the borders with Kosovo and Montenegro offer the most exhilarating natural scenery in Albania. If you drive up the gravel road to Theth you'll reach the gateway for Maja Jezerce, which is Albania's highest mountain at 8,838 ft. Shkoder is the gateway to the stunning region of the Albanian Alps. Most likely, your starting point in the Albanian Alps will be Valbona. As to be expected, this is a very remote part of the country, so it's important to be prepared before setting off on excursions. There are plenty of companies offering hiking excursions, as well as itineraries for trips in one of the most dramatic locations you'll ever visit.

Local Cuisine

As you wander the pedestrian streets of Shkoder you'll find something to your taste and budget. The Italian influence on Albania means there is great pizza and pasta everywhere as well as lots of delicious traditional Albanian food. Every corner of the city offers a great selection of byrek, a kind of sandwich made with phyllo dough. It is one of the best things you'll eat in Albania, and throughout the Balkans. Bakeries sell byrek everywhere.

Enjoy the carp casserole, the lake fish. This typical recipe of the city has its beginnings with the creation of the Shkodra bazaar. At that time, the cooks developed the processing of fish, especially carp which was the special attraction to visitors, and it's a must-try while in Shkoder.

For nightlife, most of the bars are centered around the historic city center. the walking streets get really lively at night. Treat yourself to a nice dinner before going for a walk and keeping an eye out for where the party is at. Whether your taste is live music or dancing the night away, Shkoder has something for you.