"Shkodra Day Tour- Including swimming in the lake

Shkodra Tour from Tirana – A Journey Through History & Culture
Join us on a captivating day tour to Shkodra, the cultural heart of northern Albania. This experience begins with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel in Tirana, followed by a scenic drive through the countryside towards one of Albania’s oldest and most charming cities.
Shkodra is one of Albania’s oldest and most historic cities, known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning natural landscapes. Located near Lake Shkodra, the largest lake in the Balkans, the city has been a key cultural and economic center for centuries.
What You’ll See & Do:
✅ Rozafa Castle
✅ Pedestrian Old Town & Marubi National Museum
✅ Ebu Bekr Mosque & St. Stephen’s Cathedral
✅ Lake Shkodra & Lunch by the Water

ozafa Castle – The Legendary Fortress of Shkodra
Perched on a rocky hill overlooking Shkodra, Rozafa Castle is one of Albania’s most iconic historical landmarks. With origins dating back to the Illyrian period (4th century BC), the fortress has witnessed centuries of battles, conquests, and legends.

What to See & Experience:
Ancient Fortress Walls & Towers – Walk through the massive stone walls and well-preserved ruins, including Venetian and Ottoman-era structures.

Breathtaking Panoramic Views – From the castle’s highest points, enjoy stunning vistas of Lake Shkodra, the Buna, Drin, and Kir rivers, and the surrounding mountains.

The Legend of Rozafa – The castle is famous for the heartbreaking legend of Rozafa, a woman who was sacrificed within the castle walls so that the fortress could stand strong. This tale symbolizes devotion and sacrifice.
Historic Ruins – Explore remnants of churches and mosques, including the 18th-century Lead Mosque, built by the Ottomans.

Marubi National Museum of Photography – A Window Into Albania’s Visual History
The Marubi National Museum of Photography in Shkodra is one of Albania’s most unique cultural treasures, showcasing over 150 years of photographic history. It houses the remarkable collection of the Marubi family, who were pioneers in photography in Albania, capturing significant moments from the late 19th century to the present day.

What to See & Experience:
Historic Photographs – The museum displays an extensive collection of vintage photographs, including portraits, landscapes, and documentary shots that provide a snapshot of Albanian life, culture, and history throughout the years.
Rare Albums & Archival Material – Explore rare albums and original negatives from the Marubi family’s archive, which include photos from the Ottoman Empire period, the early 20th century, and the post-communist era.
Interactive Exhibits & Projects
Architectural Beauty – Housed in a 19th-century building. (optional)

The Pedestrian Street of Shkodra – A Lively Cultural Stroll
The Pedestrian Street of Shkodra, also known as Rruga Kole Idromeno, is the beating heart of the city’s historic center. This charming, cobblestone boulevard is lined with colorful Venetian-style buildings, trendy cafés, artisan shops, and cultural landmarks, making it a perfect place to soak in Shkodra’s unique atmosphere.

What to See & Do:
‍♂️ Take a Leisurely Walk – Stroll through the beautifully paved street, surrounded by well-preserved 19th-century buildings reflecting Shkodra’s rich past.
☕ Enjoy a Coffee Culture Experience – Shkodra is known for its vibrant café scene, where locals gather for slow sips of espresso and lively conversations.
Visit Art Galleries & Cultural Sites – Discover local art at Galeria Marubi or explore the city’s history .
Shop for Handicrafts & Souvenirs – Find locally made products, from handcrafted jewelry to traditional Albanian textiles.
Enjoy Live Music & Street Performers

Lake Shkodra – A Serene Natural Beauty
Lake Shkodra, located on the border between Albania and Montenegro, is the largest lake in the Balkans and one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the region. Known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and tranquil waters, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

What to See & Do:
Boat Tours – Take a relaxing boat ride on the lake’s calm waters, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lush greenery, and picturesque villages along the shore. (optional)
Birdwatching – Lake Shkodra is a haven for birdwatchers, home to over 270 species of birds. It’s one of the most important bird habitats in the Balkans. (optional)
Explore the Shoreline – The shoreline offers scenic walking paths with panoramic views of the lake.
Local Restaurants – Enjoy fresh, local fish dishes and other regional specialties at one of the many lakeside restaurants

The Ebu Beker Mosque (also known as Xhamia Ebu Beker or Great Mosque of Shkodër) is one of the most prominent mosques in Shkodër, Albania. Here are some key details about it:

Location
It is located in the city center of Shkodër, near Sheshi Demokracia (Democracy Square).

History
The original mosque on this site was destroyed during the communist era (under Enver Hoxha’s regime) when Albania was declared an atheist state in 1967.

The current mosque was rebuilt after the fall of communism in 1995, with financial support from Kuwait.
It is named after Abu Bakr al-Siddiq, the first Caliph in Islam and a close companion of the Prophet Muhammad.
Architecture & Features
The mosque follows Ottoman-inspired architecture but with modern elements.

It has a large central dome and two minarets, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in Shkodër.

The interior is decorated with Islamic calligraphy and geometric designs.
The mosque can accommodate thousands of worshippers. (Optional)

The Great Cathedral of Shkodër (also known as St. Stephen's Cathedral or Katedralja e Shën Shtjefnit) is one of the most significant Roman Catholic churches in Shkodër, Albania, and a major landmark of the city.
It is located in the city center, near Sheshi Demokracia (Democracy Square), not far from the Ebu Beker Mosque.
The original cathedral was built in the 19th century (1867–1898) under Ottoman rule, with permission from Sultan Abdul Aziz.
It was heavily damaged during communist persecution (1967) when Albania banned all religion. The regime turned it into a sports hall.
After the fall of communism (1991), the cathedral was restored and reconsecrated in 1993.
Built in a Neo-Romanesque style with some Baroque influences.
The façade has two tall bell towers and a large rose window.
The interior is decorated with religious frescoes, stained glass, and marble altars.
The cathedral can hold thousands of worshippers, making it one of the largest Catholic churches in Albania.( Optional)

Shiroka (also spelled Shirokë) is a charming lakeside village near Shkodër, Albania, known for its beautiful scenery, fresh fish restaurants, and relaxed atmosphere. It sits on the southern shore of Lake Shkodër (Liqeni i Shkodrës), the largest lake in the Balkans, shared between Albania and Montenegro.
Key Attractions & Things to Do
Lake Shkodër (Liqeni i Shkodrës)
Enjoy boat tours to explore the lake’s islands and wildlife.
Visit Haj-Neeg Island, a small islet with a historic church.
Spot rare bird species, as the lake is a protected Ramsar wetland.
Traditional Fish Restaurants
Shiroka is famous for its freshwater fish dishes, especially:
Carp (Krap),Eel (Ngjala),Trout (Trofta)
Popular restaurants: Restaurant Tradita, Vila Bekteshi, Restaurant Liqeni.
Shiroka Tower (Kulla e Shirokës)
A historic Ottoman-era tower
Now a cultural monument with traditional architecture.
Relaxing Lakeside Walks & Sunset Views
The promenade along the lake is perfect for an evening stroll. (lunch here)