Lezhë District is a district in the northwestern part of Albania, located in the Lezhë County. The district has a population of around 135,000 people and covers an area of approximately 1,606 square kilometers.
The district is home to several historic and cultural landmarks, including the Castle of Lezhë, the Memorial of Skanderbeg, and the Church of Shën Kolli. The district is also known for its natural beauty, with scenic landscapes, beaches, and the Albanian Alps.
The largest city in the district is Lezhë, which is also the administrative center. Other important towns in the district include Shëngjin, Kallmet, and Rubik.
The economy of the Lezhë District is primarily based on agriculture, with crops such as wheat, corn, and tobacco being grown in the region. The district is also home to several industries, including textile manufacturing, food processing, and tourism.
Overall, the Lezhë District is a beautiful and culturally rich destination that offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Places to Visit in Lezhë District
Lezhë District in Albania is a beautiful and culturally rich destination with many attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top places to visit in Lezhë District:
Castle of Lezhë: This historic castle was built in the 4th century and was an important stronghold for the Illyrian and Byzantine empires. It is also the site of the famous battle between Skanderbeg and the Ottoman Empire in 1444.
Memorial of Skanderbeg: This national monument honors the Albanian hero Skanderbeg, who led a rebellion against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. The monument features a large statue of Skanderbeg on horseback and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Shëngjin Beach: This popular beach on the Adriatic Sea is known for its clear blue waters and sandy beaches. It is a great place to swim, sunbathe, and relax.
Valbona Valley National Park: This beautiful national park is located in the Albanian Alps and offers stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Kallmet Wineries: Lezhë District is known for its wine production, and the Kallmet region is home to several wineries that offer tours and tastings.
Church of Shën Kolli: This historic church is located in the town of Shkrel and is known for its beautiful frescoes and icons.
Rubik Castle: This historic castle is located on a hilltop near the town of Rubik and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
By visiting these attractions and more, you can experience the beauty and cultural richness of Lezhë District.
Best Time To Visit Lezhë District
The best time to visit Lezhë District in Albania depends on your interests and preferences. The climate in Lezhë District is Mediterranean, with hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters.
The summer months from June to August are the most popular time to visit, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and prices may be higher, and crowds may be larger.
If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting Lezhë District in the spring or fall. The months of April to May and September to October offer pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and the opportunity to see the beautiful landscapes and nature in bloom.
Winter in Lezhë District is mild, with some rainfall, and temperatures averaging around 10°C. While the winter season is not the best time for outdoor activities, it can be a good time to visit if you want to experience the local culture and festivities, such as the Orthodox Christmas celebrations.
In summary, the best time to visit Lezhë District depends on your interests and preferences, but generally, the spring and fall seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while the summer months offer warm temperatures and more outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Lezhë District
Lezhë District in Albania offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Lezhë District:
Visit the Castle of Lezhë: Explore this historic castle that played an important role in the battle between Skanderbeg and the Ottoman Empire in 1444. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Relax on Shëngjin Beach: Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches and clear blue waters of this popular beach on the Adriatic Sea. It’s a great place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports.
Hike in Valbona Valley National Park: Take a hike in this beautiful national park located in the Albanian Alps. The park offers stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Explore Kallmet Wineries: Lezhë District is known for its wine production, and the Kallmet region is home to several wineries that offer tours and tastings.
Visit the Memorial of Skanderbeg: Honor the Albanian hero Skanderbeg, who led a rebellion against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. The monument features a large statue of Skanderbeg on horseback and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Discover the Church of Shën Kolli: Visit this historic church in the town of Shkrel, known for its beautiful frescoes and icons.
Admire the Rubik Castle: Explore this historic castle located on a hilltop near the town of Rubik and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Attend Festivals and Events: Experience the local culture and festivities, such as the Orthodox Christmas celebrations, and the Lezhë International Film Festival.
By experiencing these activities and more, you can enjoy the beauty and cultural richness of Lezhë District in Albania.
How to get around in Lezhë District
Lezhë District is located in northern Albania and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. If you’re looking to get around in Lezhë District, there are several options available to you:
By car: The easiest and most convenient way to get around in Lezhë District is by car. There are several car rental companies available in the area, and you can rent a car for a day, a week, or longer, depending on your needs.
By taxi: Taxis are readily available in Lezhë District, and they are an affordable and convenient way to get around. You can hail a taxi on the street or book one through a taxi app.
By bus: There are several bus routes that connect the different towns and villages in Lezhë District. This is a more affordable option compared to renting a car or taking a taxi, but the buses can be crowded and not always reliable.
By bicycle: Cycling is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside and coastal areas of Lezhë District. You can rent a bicycle from local rental shops or bring your own.
On foot: Walking is a great way to explore the historic towns and villages in Lezhë District. Many of the streets are narrow and pedestrian-friendly, so you can easily walk from one place to another.
No matter how you choose to get around in Lezhë District, make sure to take in the breathtaking scenery and immerse yourself in the local culture and history.
Where to eat in Lezhë District
Lezhë District is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines Balkan, Mediterranean, and Ottoman influences. Here are some of the best places to eat in Lezhë District:
Piazza Restaurant: Located in the center of Lezhë town, Piazza Restaurant offers a range of traditional Albanian dishes, including grilled meat and fish, as well as international cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
Restorant Zgara Korçare: This restaurant is located in the village of Kallmet and is known for its delicious grilled meat dishes. The menu includes lamb, beef, and chicken, as well as vegetarian options. The restaurant also offers a selection of local wines.
Balena Restaurant: Situated on the coast of Shëngjin, Balena Restaurant is a popular seafood restaurant that offers a variety of fresh fish and seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, squid, and shrimp.
Guri i Zi Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the town of Rubik and is known for its traditional Albanian cuisine. The menu includes dishes such as stuffed peppers, baked lamb, and homemade pastries.
Shpija e Gjyshit Restaurant: Located in the village of Kallmet, Shpija e Gjyshit (Grandma’s House) is a family-run restaurant that serves traditional Albanian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the staff is friendly.
These are just a few of the many great places to eat in Lezhë District. Make sure to try some of the local specialties, such as fërgesë, a dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, and tavë kosi, a baked dish made with yogurt and lamb.
Famous street stalls in Lezhë District
Street food is an important part of the culinary culture in Lezhë District, and there are several street stalls that are popular with locals and visitors alike. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Lezhë District:
Qebaptore: Qebaptore is a popular street stall that serves qebap, a type of grilled meat sausage made from beef, lamb, or a combination of both. The qebap is served on a roll with onions and a spicy tomato sauce.
Pica Zogu: Pica Zogu is a small pizza stand that serves delicious thin-crust pizza with a variety of toppings, including cheese, ham, mushrooms, and peppers.
Bakllamaja: Bakllamaja is a street stall that serves bakllava, a sweet pastry made from layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey syrup.
Byrekçi Besniku: Byrekçi Besniku is a popular street stall that serves byrek, a savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. The byrek is made fresh on-site and is served hot and crispy.
Shijaku Sweets: Shijaku Sweets is a street stall that serves a variety of traditional Albanian sweets, including halva, a sweet confection made from sesame seeds and sugar, and rahat, a soft, chewy candy made from sugar and fruit flavors.
These street stalls can be found in various locations throughout Lezhë District, and they offer a great opportunity to sample some of the local cuisine at an affordable price.
Where to stay in Lezhë District
Luxury accommodation
Lezhë District offers a range of luxury accommodation options for travelers who are looking for a comfortable and upscale stay. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Lezhë District:
Hotel Mediteran: Hotel Mediteran is a five-star hotel located in the coastal town of Shëngjin. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and several restaurants and bars.
Hotel Rozafa: Hotel Rozafa is a four-star hotel located in the heart of Lezhë town. The hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.
Marub Hotel: Marub Hotel is a five-star hotel located in the village of Marub, just outside of Lezhë town. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with mountain views, as well as a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and two restaurants.
Hotel President: Hotel President is a four-star hotel located in the coastal town of Shëngjin. The hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with sea views, as well as a spa, fitness center, indoor pool, and several restaurants and bars.
Hotel Liss: Hotel Liss is a five-star hotel located in the town of Rubik, just outside of Lezhë town. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with mountain views, as well as a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and two restaurants.
These luxury hotels in Lezhë District offer top-notch amenities, excellent service, and a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere for travelers looking for a high-end experience.
Where to stay in Lezhë District
Budget accommodation
Lezhë District has several budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers who are looking for affordable and comfortable places to stay. Here are some of the best budget accommodation options in Lezhë District:
Hotel Fshati: Hotel Fshati is a budget-friendly hotel located in the village of Kallmet, just a short drive from Lezhë town. The hotel offers simple rooms with basic amenities, as well as a restaurant and bar.
Hotel Guri: Hotel Guri is a budget hotel located in the town of Rubik. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, as well as a restaurant and bar.
Guest House Vila Keti: Guest House Vila Keti is a budget guesthouse located in the coastal town of Shëngjin. The guesthouse offers simple rooms with shared bathrooms, as well as a communal kitchen and outdoor terrace.
Hotel Veliera: Hotel Veliera is a budget hotel located in the center of Shëngjin town. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, as well as a restaurant and bar.
Bora Guesthouse: Bora Guesthouse is a budget guesthouse located in the village of Ishull-Lezhë, just outside of Lezhë town. The guesthouse offers simple rooms with basic amenities, as well as a communal kitchen and outdoor terrace.
These budget accommodation options in Lezhë District offer affordable prices and comfortable accommodations for travelers who are looking to save money while still enjoying their stay in the region.
Travel Tips Lezhë District
Here are some travel tips for visitors to Lezhë District:
Explore the historical sites: Lezhë District is rich in history and culture, and there are several historical sites that are worth visiting, such as the ancient city of Lissus, the Castle of Lezhë, and the Mosque of Sultan Mehmed Fatih.
Try the local cuisine: Albanian cuisine is delicious and unique, and there are several local dishes that are must-tries, such as qebap, byrek, and bakllava. Be sure to also try some of the local wines, which are excellent.
Visit the beaches: Lezhë District is home to several beautiful beaches, such as Shëngjin, Velipoja, and Tale. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters and sandy shores, and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Dress appropriately: Albania is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long pants or skirts, and men should also dress conservatively.
Learn some Albanian phrases: While many people in Lezhë District speak some English, it’s always helpful to know some basic Albanian phrases, such as “mirëdita” (good day), “faleminderit” (thank you), and “ju lutem” (please).
Be mindful of the weather: Lezhë District has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. It’s important to be mindful of the weather when planning your trip, and to bring appropriate clothing and sun protection.
By following these travel tips, visitors to Lezhë District can have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trip.