Day Tour of Kruja and Shkoder - Discover North Albania Heritage

Tirana , Albania

Day Tour of Kruja and Shkoder - Discover North Albania Heritage

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(15 reviews)

10h

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

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About this experience

Shkodra & Kruja Day Tour
Explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of northern Albania on this full-day tour. Visit the prominent cities of Shkodra and Kruja, discovering their fascinating history and gaining insight into their enduring cultural significance.

Available options

Shared tour / min capacity

Shared tour : Minimum capacity needed<br/>Pickup included

Private tour one party

Private tour<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

We begin our day early in the morning. Guests can be picked up directly from Tirana, or you can join us in Shkodra, with the meeting point set at the lively Shkodra Promenade. We start with a relaxed walk along the colorful pedestrian street filled with cafés and boutique shops — a great introduction to the spirit of northern Albania.

Rozafa Castle – History & Panoramic Views
Our first major stop is Rozafa Castle, one of the most famous landmarks in the region. Set on a hill above the city, the castle offers beautiful views of Shkodra, Lake Shkodra, and the surrounding rivers. You’ll also hear the legendary story of Rozafa and explore the ancient fortress walls.

Shiroka & Lake Shkodra – Scenic Lakeside Break
We then continue to Shiroka, a quiet village by Lake Shkodra. Here you can take a relaxing lakeside walk, enjoy the peaceful views, and optionally lunch on fresh local fish — a specialty of the area.

Kruja – The Historic Mountain City
In the afternoon, we drive toward Kruja, the hometown of Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. The city sits on the mountain slopes and offers stunning views over the plains all the way to the Adriatic Sea.
Free Time in Kruja – Lunch & Shopping
Before entering the castle, guests enjoy free time for lunch at one of the traditional restaurants and for browsing the local shops in the bazaar.

Old Bazaar of Kruja – Crafts & Souvenirs
Our visit begins with a stroll through the Old Bazaar, known for its wooden shops, handmade carpets, traditional crafts, and silverwork. It’s one of the best places to find authentic Albanian souvenirs.

Kruja Castle & Skanderbeg Museum – Albania’s Heroic Past
We end the day with a visit to Kruja Castle and the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to the life and battles of Albania’s most important historical figure. The museum is rich in history, and the castle terraces provide unforgettable views over central Albania.

After the visit, we drive back to Tirana, where the tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

14 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel time is included in the total duration of the tour ( travel time is around 4 hours back and forth)

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.