A Weekend in Shkoder, Albania

Shkodër has been a town that I have really enjoyed each trip or stop I have made there! I have loved it in the summer, the fall, in the rain, in the sun and in the cold of winter! I actually think it is the perfect city to escape to for a cozy and fun winter weekend. As someone who is not from Albania, but has lived here for awhile, I like to take visitors here because it is a taste of the north of Albania and I love the grind of the city. I think it shows a snapshot of a bit of the chaos of Albania. There is a chaotic energy when you go through the city.— crazy driving, bikes everywhere, people darting across the streets, shops, fruit stores and just a hustle and bustle about it. I also love the artsy vibe of the city, as there is a support of art in this city, which isn’t always the case in Albania! Some people call it the Amsterdam of Albania, because it is a bike city and it is so true. You will see bikes all around! I have yet to rent one, but that is something I would love to do on my next trip there.

I think the best way to get around Albania is by car, rent one and road trip on your own through Albania! You can take a bus, which will be the cheapest option and you’ll definitely get another Albanian experience! Jaja! I have never taken one to Shkodër, but know people who have. You also have a taxi option, which will be around 4000-5000 LEK. 

Where to stay in Shkodër:

My favorite place is right in the old town and it is Hotel Loredano. It is a good price and has the most fabulous included breakfast in the morning. It is also a hoppin’ spot for people to come for drinks at night. In the winter, they had little fire pits and friends sitting all around enjoying! I think this is one of the best places to stay in Shkodër. You can book on Booking!

Another great place is Hotel Tradita. I will also discuss this later for places you HAVE to eat! This is a little more expensive than Hotel Loredano, but still such a great place! I love the traditional decor and vibe of this place!! You can also book on Booking or even send a WhatsApp/ or call!

Another crucial place to stay is at The Galley Hostel. It is a new hostel in town and has a fun, arsy and social environment. Check out their Instagram, @thegalleyhostel!! The have an amazing outdoor patio area, art throughout the hostel, great hospitality, super clean and have different activities to be apart of.

Last suggestion to stay would be to find something on Lake Shkodër! Find something that best suits you, but if you’re looking to be a little more outside the city, but still close, this is a lovely option! We loved that it was a bit quieter and close to nature. More on this below.

Where to eat/ drink in Shkodër:

Hotel Tradita!!! You should WhatsApp or call to make a reservation to ensure you’ll get a place. They sometimes can find a place for you but it’s nice to have it all set up. The traditional decor and the traditional Albanian plates are perfect to share and to get a taste of Albania. They also have live Albanian music every night, that everyone will be singing along to! It is such a fun experience and the food is phenomenal. This is absolutely crucial that you at least eat here!! In the winter, it is so special and cozy inside with different levels and live music! And in the summer, it is wonderful outside in the courtyard! Any season, you cannot go wrong by coming here.

Stolia Coffee-house & Brunch is sooo great for breakfast, brunch or lunch!! It is nice to find a place with healthy options like smoothie bowls and avocado toast, etc. The staff is also one of the kindest I have experienced!! We go here every time we stop through Shkodër.

Restaurant Puri— I love this little hole in the wall place. They have amazing food and such a variety and great prices! I think this is a great place to try a lot of different traditional Albanian foods.

Shega e Eger— come here for fresh juice!! Criminal prices for juice and such a great vibe! You can also get other beverages here and it is right across from Hotel Loredano. This is crucial too!

Cafe FLO- This cafe is in such a cute location right on a corner. Go up top and have the best view of the old town street of Shkodër. Great for a coffee, a glass of wine or a pastry!

Aside from eating, drinking and enjoying there are some things that I really loved!!

“Marubi” National Museum of Photography— We really loved this museum. I love photography but also loved getting to learn more about the history of Albania through the photography!!

Rent a bike— go around the city and ride your bike around the lake. When you are around the lake there are a couple of areas to stop at and embrace—

Stop to hang out and maybe have a coffee or lunch in Shirokë. It is super lovely and right on the lake. There is also a really cool birdwatching tower near to go see!!

Rozafa Castle— The castle in Shkodër, you will inevitably see it on your way into Shkodër! It is nice to go visit. I believe it is free to enter on weekends! There are great views and nice to learn more about the history of Albania. There are a lot of castles around Albania and the Balkans!

“Shën Shtjefni” Cathedral— This is a beautiful cathedral right near the old town! Worth it to go check it out. I realise I didn’t snap a shot of the cathedral but this is right outside of it!

Ura e Mesit— This is sooo beautiful and I think it is something to absolutely put on your list. It is a 10-15 minute drive from the centre by car! We loved the fresh turquoise water and the view of the bridge took us by surprise! It is so nice to dip your toes or jump into the lovely and fresh river!

What to do near Shkodër:

About a 20 minute drive north of Shkodër are some Lavender fields near Koplik. You will see them along the road and should stop to smell the aroma and to maybe grab a few pics in the lavender fields with a landscape of mountains in the background!! Just magical!

On your way to or from Shkodër you have to eat at one of the best dining experiences I have ever had. It is an agritourism place called Mrizi I Zanave! You should send a WhatsApp to make a reservation! It is down the backroads and is on a farm! Everything you eat and drink there is made there! Everything is delicious and the experience is priceless!! Make sure to go early to walk around the property to see the animals and take a little tour to see how everything is made. You can also stay here overnight in a really cute place but it books quickly so make sure to inquire about booking!!

See the bunny man!!!!— On the way or on the way back to Tirana/ Durrës, there is a guy on the side of the road holding up bunnies to sell!!!! I love it. Jaja!! See the bunnies for crying out loud!!

I think spending a weekend here is just so wonderful! But also if you just stop here for a night on your way to the Albanian Alps, it is completely worth the stop!