From Tirana: Kruja castle, Old Bazaar & Sarisalltik view point

Tirana , Albania

From Tirana: Kruja castle, Old Bazaar & Sarisalltik view point

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About this experience

Discover Albania’s rich cultural heritage and stunning mountain landscapes on this guided day trip to Kruja and Sari Salltik. Begin with a scenic drive to Mount Sari Salltik, a sacred Bektashi site offering panoramic views and a mystical cave shrine. Then explore Kruja Castle, home to the Skanderbeg Museum, where you’ll learn about Albania’s national hero and see historical artifacts. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to experience traditional Albanian life in an Ottoman-era house. Spend free time wandering the Old Bazaar, shopping for crafts, and enjoying lunch. This tour combines history, culture, and nature, making it perfect for travelers seeking a memorable day trip from Tirana.

Available options

From Tirana: Kruja castle, Old Bazaar & Sarisalltik view point

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Skanderbeg Museum Fee

Professional Guide

Kruja Castle Entry Fee

Detailed itinerary

After meeting with your guide in Tirana, it will take approximately 1 hour to reach Kruja.
Walking through the narrow cobblestone streets of Kruja will set you back to medieval times. You will get to visit the Kruja Bazaar, which dates back to the Ottoman Empire, still functional and it is one of the best places to purchase souvenirs, from handmade Albanian Kilims to jewelry.

Stop 2

After the narrow streets, you will get to visit Kruja Castle.
The castle is on a top of a hill, with incredible views and the Museum Skanderbeg it is located inside the castle.

The museum itself has the character of a memorial, architecturally inspired by traditional Albanian stone towers and medieval Romanesque architecture. The museum contains objects dating back to Skanderbeg's time. The exhibits have been arranged in a way that chronicles his life and military feats. Paintings, armor, and other artifacts dating back to his time have been exhibited to showcase one of the proudest periods of Albanian history.

Our guide will lead you on a scenic drive from Kruja to the Sari Salltik Cave, situated at an elevation of 1,176 meters in the Skanderbeg Mountains. This sacred site is dedicated to Sari Salltik, a revered figure in the Bektashi Order, a mystical Sufi branch of Islam. The cave, also known as a tekke (spiritual retreat), has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries.The journey to the cave involves a moderate hike, approximately 3 km each way, ascending from 400 meters to 1,200 meters above sea level. The path is rocky and includes numerous steps, offering a rewarding experience for those with a moderate level of fitness.

Our guide will lead you through the beautifully restored Ethnographic Museum of Kruja, housed in a 19th-century Ottoman-style house that once belonged to the affluent Toptani family. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the traditional way of life in the region during the 18th and 19th centuries.

What's not included

Lunch

Ethnographic museum ticket (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Twin Towers (in front of the Pyramid), Tirana

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.