bigtravelbuzzShkodër County is a county located in the northern part of Albania. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Albanian Alps, Lake Shkodër, and many historic sites.
Some popular places to visit in Shkodër County include:
Shkodër – the capital city of the county, with a beautiful historic center, including the Rozafa Castle and the Marubi National Museum of Photography.
Lake Shkodër – the largest lake in the Balkans, which is home to a variety of bird species and is a popular destination for water sports.
Theth National Park – located in the Albanian Alps, this park offers stunning hiking trails, waterfalls, and traditional mountain villages.
Valbona Valley National Park – another national park in the Albanian Alps, known for its beautiful valleys and mountain landscapes.
Koman Lake – a stunning lake created by a dam on the Drin River, which offers scenic boat rides through the mountains.
Shkodër Bazaar – a traditional market in the center of Shkodër, where you can find local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
Mes Bridge – a historic bridge over the Kir river, built in the 18th century.
Lezhë – a historic town near Shkodër, known for its medieval castle and the Skanderbeg Museum.
Velipojë Beach – a popular beach destination on the Adriatic Sea, with white sand and clear water.
The best time to visit Shkodër County depends on your interests. The summer months (June to September) are the most popular time for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts, while the winter months are ideal for skiing and other winter sports in the mountains. Spring and fall are good times to visit for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Places to Visit in Shkodër County
Shkodër County is located in northern Albania and has a rich cultural and historical heritage. Some of the top places to visit in Shkodër County include:
Rozafa Castle: This ancient castle is located on a hill overlooking Shkodër and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The castle dates back to the Illyrian period and has been restored several times throughout history.
Shkodër Old Town: This historic district features cobblestone streets, ancient architecture, and traditional shops and restaurants. Visitors can explore the area on foot and take in the sights and sounds of this charming part of Shkodër.
Lake Skadar: This vast lake is one of the largest in the Balkans and is shared by Albania and Montenegro. Visitors can take boat tours, go swimming or fishing, or simply relax on the shore and take in the stunning views.
Marubi National Museum of Photography: This museum is dedicated to the history of photography in Albania and features a collection of over 500,000 photographs dating back to the 1850s.
Lead Mosque: This historic mosque dates back to the 18th century and is one of the oldest in Albania. It features intricate architecture and is considered one of the most important Islamic buildings in the country.
St. Stephen’s Catholic Cathedral: This impressive cathedral is the largest Catholic church in Albania and features stunning architecture and a rich history.
Shkodra Lake: This beautiful lake is located just outside of Shkodër and offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. There are several beaches and parks around the lake, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Venice Art Mask Factory: This unique attraction offers visitors a chance to learn about the art of making Venetian masks. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and even make their own mask to take home.
Pedestrian Street: This bustling street is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in Shkodër. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere and browse the many shops and restaurants along the way.
Mes Bridge: This historic bridge dates back to the Ottoman period and spans the Kir river. It is a popular spot for photos and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
These are just a few of the top places to visit in Shkodër County, and there are many other historic and cultural attractions to explore in the area.
Best Time To Visit Shkodër County
The best time to visit Shkodër County is during the months of May to September, when the weather is warm and dry. The summer months of July and August can be particularly hot, so it’s important to stay hydrated and wear appropriate clothing. Spring and fall can also be good times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. However, it’s worth noting that the weather can be unpredictable during these seasons, with occasional rain and cooler temperatures. Winter in Shkodër County can be quite cold, with snowfall and icy conditions, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Shkodër County
Shkodër County offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Shkodër County:
Visit Shkodër Castle: This historic castle dates back to the 4th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Explore Lake Shkodër: The largest lake in the Balkans, Lake Shkodër is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Take a walk in Marubi National Museum of Photography: This museum houses a collection of over 500,000 photographs, including some of the oldest photographs in the Balkans.
Visit Rozafa Castle: This medieval fortress offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Explore the town of Shkodër: The town of Shkodër is the cultural and historical center of the county, with many museums, art galleries, and historic sites.
Go hiking in the Albanian Alps: The Albanian Alps offer some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe, with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Visit the Buna River and the Shkodra Lake: These natural attractions offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Taste the local cuisine: Shkodër County is known for its delicious food, with a range of traditional dishes including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and homemade pastries.
Visit the Shkodra Lake National Park: This national park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including rare bird species, and offers opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
Visit the Mes Bridge: This ancient bridge dates back to the Ottoman period and is an important cultural and historical landmark in the county.
How to get around in Shkodër County
Shkodër County is a relatively large and diverse area with many different types of terrain and transportation options. Here are some ways to get around in Shkodër County:
Car rental: Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to get around Shkodër County. There are several car rental agencies available at the airport and in the city center.
Bus: Shkodër County has a well-developed bus network connecting the major cities and towns. There are both local and long-distance buses available.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout the county, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
Bicycle: Cycling is a popular way to explore the countryside and small towns of Shkodër County. Bicycles can be rented in many of the larger towns.
Walking: Many of the towns in Shkodër County are small enough to explore on foot. Walking is a great way to get a feel for the local culture and architecture.
Where to eat in Shkodër County
Shkodër County is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, so you will find plenty of great places to eat throughout the region. Here are some recommendations:
Tradita Geg & Tosk – This restaurant is located in the heart of Shkodër and offers a range of traditional Albanian dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is highly recommended for those looking to try some authentic Albanian cuisine.
Mrizi i Zanave – Located in Fishtë village, this restaurant is known for its farm-to-table concept and uses locally sourced ingredients to create a unique culinary experience. They also have a small market where you can buy local products to take home with you.
Rapsodia – This restaurant is located in the center of Shkodër and offers a mix of Albanian and Italian cuisine. The restaurant has a modern decor and a great outdoor seating area, perfect for a summer evening.
Tradicional Restaurant – This restaurant is located in the small town of Theth and is a great option for those visiting the Theth National Park. The restaurant offers traditional Albanian cuisine and has a stunning outdoor seating area with beautiful mountain views.
Rozafa – Located in the city of Shkodër, this restaurant has a mix of Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine. They also have a rooftop bar with great views of the city.
These are just a few options, but there are many more great places to eat throughout Shkodër County.
Famous street stalls in Shkodër County
Shkodër County is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are many street stalls and local vendors where you can try some of the region’s most famous dishes. Here are a few of the most popular street stalls in Shkodër County:
Qebaptore Rexha: This street stall is located in the city of Shkodër and is famous for its qebapa, a traditional Albanian dish of grilled sausage-like meat served with bread and onions.
Pica Boka: If you’re in the mood for pizza, head to Pica Boka in the town of Velipojë. This street stall serves up delicious pizzas with a variety of toppings.
Kafeja Jone: Located in the city of Shkodër, Kafeja Jone is a popular spot for a quick bite or a coffee break. They serve traditional Albanian pastries and sandwiches.
Delikatese Lekaj: This street stall is located in the town of Shëngjin and is famous for its seafood dishes. Be sure to try the grilled octopus or the fried calamari.
Burger House: As the name suggests, Burger House is the place to go if you’re craving a juicy burger. This street stall is located in the city of Shkodër and serves up delicious burgers with a variety of toppings.
Where to stay in Shkodër County
Luxury accommodation
Shkodër County has several options for luxury accommodations, including:
Hotel Rozafa: This is a five-star hotel located near the Shkodra Lake. It offers spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, a restaurant, and a spa.
Hotel Kaduku: This is a boutique hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers luxurious rooms and suites, a rooftop bar, a restaurant, and a spa.
Hotel Colosseo: This is a four-star hotel located in the center of Shkodra. It offers elegant rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.
Hotel Tradita: This is a traditional Albanian hotel located in the old town of Shkodra. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
Hotel Argenti: This is a four-star hotel located near the city center. It offers spacious rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.
These are just a few examples of luxury accommodations in Shkodër County. There are many other options available, depending on your preferences and budget.
Where to stay in Shkodër County
Budget accommodation
There are several options for budget accommodation in Shkodër County, Albania. Here are some suggestions:
Hostel Mi Casa Es Tu Casa: Located in the heart of Shkodër, this hostel offers both dormitory-style and private rooms at affordable prices. They have a fully-equipped kitchen, a common lounge area, and a beautiful garden.
Guesthouse Vila Sigal: This guesthouse is located in the historic part of Shkodër and offers cozy rooms with private bathrooms. They have a shared kitchen and a terrace with views of the city.
Shkodra Hostel: This hostel is located just a few minutes’ walk from the main square of Shkodër and offers private rooms and dormitories. They have a shared kitchen, lounge area, and a garden.
Hotel Vataksi: This hotel is located in the town of Koplik, about 25 kilometers north of Shkodër. They offer comfortable rooms at affordable prices, as well as a restaurant that serves traditional Albanian cuisine.
Hotel Vila Bekteshi: This hotel is located in the town of Velipojë, about 35 kilometers south of Shkodër. They offer rooms with private balconies and views of the sea, as well as a restaurant and a swimming pool.
These are just a few examples of budget accommodation options in Shkodër County. There are many more to choose from depending on your preferences and budget.
Travel Tips Shkodër County
Shkodër County in Albania has many attractions, both natural and cultural, and is a great destination for those who want to experience the country’s history, architecture, and natural beauty. Here are some travel tips to keep in mind when planning a trip to Shkodër County:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Shkodër County is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
Getting there: Shkodër County is easily accessible from Tirana by car, bus, or train. The journey takes around 2 hours by car and bus and around 3 hours by train.
Getting around: The best way to get around Shkodër County is by car or bus. Car rentals are available in Shkodër, and there are also regular bus services between the main towns and cities in the region.
Accommodation: There are many accommodation options in Shkodër County, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Shkodër is the largest city in the region and has the most options for accommodation.
Food and drink: Shkodër County is known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes like fërgesë, baklava, and byrek. There are many restaurants and cafes throughout the region where you can try these dishes, as well as local wines and beers.
Sightseeing: Some of the must-see attractions in Shkodër County include the Rozafa Castle, the Shkodër Historical Museum, the Leaden Mosque, and the Shkodër Cathedral. The beautiful Lake Skadar National Park is also located in the region and is a popular destination for hiking and wildlife watching.
Safety: Shkodër County is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions like avoiding unlit or deserted areas at night and keeping valuables secure.
Language: The official language of Albania is Albanian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: The currency in Albania is the Lek (ALL). Euros are also accepted in many places, but it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on hand.
Etiquette: Albanians are generally very friendly and hospitable, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms. It’s important to dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites, and it’s also polite to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.