History and Artisan Tour in Kruja City Castle

Tirana , Albania

History and Artisan Tour in Kruja City Castle

Active

5h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is the perfect day-tour to learn about a mix of the Albanian history, culture and traditions.Kruja is home to the museum of our national hero Skanderbeg, placed within his castle and it is the perfect place in Albania to learn about our national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg and Albanian history.
The tour will proceed with the visit on the Ethnografic Museum, an old persian stily house, home of the Kapllan Pashe Toptani, where you will learn about the customs, traditions and lifestyle of Albanian people on those time.
The thread of these traditions, especially implemented on their artisanal productions, will be shown during the visit in the Old Bazaar, showing you the most traditional techiniques still alive and implemented by the artisans; distinguish the masterpieces in the various workshops and merge with the daily life on an artisan.The handicraft production class during this visit will allow you to merge into the local life and get a real experience of our arts and crafts

Available options

History and Artisan Tour in Kruja City Castle

Pickup included

What's included

Guide person

Hotel Pick-up and drop off

Entrance fee at the Castle

Entrance fee at the Ethnographic Museum

Private transportation

Entrance fee at the Historic Museum

Artisan working - class fee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour starts at 09.00 a.m from your hotel in Tirana. It will take just 1 hour to reach Kruja, a city located on the mountain of ‘Skanderbeg Mountain Chain’. Its fortress, under the leadership of our national hero Gjergj Kastrioti - Scanderbeg, has protected for 25 years the Ottoman army and three sultans. He was considered from the Pope as an Athleta Cristi because he had halted the westward expansion of the Ottoman Empire.
Visit of the Castle, of the panoramic view and landscape, and imagine how did they fight with the ottomans for 25 years protecting their castle and city.

The museum is dedicated to our Albanian national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. This is an impressive museum, both in terms of architectural merit & views. The museum has the character of a memorial, architecturally inspired by traditional Albanian stone towers and medieval Romanesque architecture.
It has art, documents, murals, weapons, and other items about Skanderbeg. The museum is located on a mountain and has a nice balcony from which you can see the region, even the capital city of Tirana in the distance.

The ethnographic museum it's one of the most exciting places that you can find in Kruja castle. The museum in itself is a traditional house, ottoman style, which shows the local life of that period. During this visit to the museum, you will learn about: ancient customs, ottoman influence, clothing, furniture, and handicrafts. It is like a place a family has just left.

You will take a nice walk in this old bazaar from the 15-16 century to explore a world of arts and crafts, in the various shops, where you can find the perfect gift or souvenir to take back home.
We will stop in one of the artisan workshops of felt production items to do a felt-production working class, so you can merge yourself with the locals, with the traditions, with the artisans. Understand the hard work and please they feel each time they produce a new item. During this session, you will work together and under the guidance of the master to produce a hat or a pair of shoes.

What's not included

Food & Drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If there is more than one booking on the same date and we have to fix a common meeting point for everybody than this meeting point will be a small square at the end of Str. Durresit, close to Kafe Flora.

About Tirana

Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, is a city where Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences blend to create a unique urban tapestry. Known for its colorful buildings, lively cafes, and rich history, Tirana offers a dynamic mix of old and new that captivates visitors.

Top Attractions

Bunk'Art 2

A Cold War-era bunker turned museum, Bunk'Art 2 offers a fascinating look into Albania's communist past. The museum features exhibits on the history of communism, the secret police, and the Cold War.

Historical 1-2 hours €5

Blloku

Blloku is Tirana's most vibrant district, known for its lively nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. Once the exclusive residential area of communist leaders, it has transformed into the city's entertainment hub.

Entertainment Evening or full day Free to explore, varies by venue

Dajti National Park

Dajti National Park offers stunning views of Tirana and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike, enjoy nature, or take the cable car for panoramic views.

Nature Half day or full day €5 for cable car, free for hiking

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb and rice, topped with a yogurt and egg sauce.

Main Dish Contains dairy and meat

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, baked until golden and flaky.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Fërgesë

A hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Dajti National Park Mountain biking in the surrounding hills Paragliding near Tirana Visiting Blloku for cafes and people-watching Enjoying a spa day at a local wellness center Relaxing at a traditional hammam (Turkish bath) Exploring Bunk'Art 2 and other museums Attending a performance at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring Tirana, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. The city is in full bloom during spring, while autumn provides a warm, pleasant climate.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Italian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tirana is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas.

Getting there

By air

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza • 20 km from city center

By bus

Tirana Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Tirana. The system is affordable and covers most major areas, though it can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: TaksiTirana, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Blloku Pazari i Ri Kamza

Day trips

Berat

120 km from Tirana • Full day

Berat, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Windows,' is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore Ottoman-era houses, churches, and the Berat Castle.

Durrës

35 km from Tirana • Half day or full day

Durrës is Albania's largest beach resort, offering a mix of relaxation and history. Visitors can enjoy the beach, explore the Roman amphitheater, and visit the Archaeological Museum.

Krujë

30 km from Tirana • Half day or full day

Krujë is a historic town known for its medieval castle, bazaar, and the Ethnographic Museum. It's a popular day trip from Tirana, offering a glimpse into Albania's medieval past.

Festivals

Tirana International Film Festival • November Tirana Jazz Festival • November Tirana Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Bunk'Art 2 for a fascinating look into Albania's communist past.
Explore the vibrant Blloku district for nightlife, dining, and shopping.
Take a day trip to Berat or Durrës for a mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation.
Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek at traditional restaurants and cafes.
Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and reduce your carbon footprint.