Top 5 Shkoder Cultural Tours: See the Albanian Alps!

Planning a trip to Albania and want to, you know, soak up some real culture? That’s awesome! You should definitely check out Shkoder. This super cool city, with its history that goes back centuries, actually sits near the beautiful Albanian Alps and, so, offers experiences that go beyond just what you would expect. These tours will give you a glimpse of the historical spots, local eats, and the seriously lovely scenery around. Figuring out the best ones can, seemingly, take some work, but I have done it all, so, don’t worry!

Rozafa Fortress Tour: History Comes Alive

This tour? A must. Seriously, it is. The Rozafa Fortress, which stands guard over Shkoder, just, well, oozes history. Stories about the fortress? Wild. Construction involved a woman named Rozafa who, the story goes, was walled into its foundations. This wasn’t just some building project. The guide usually gives all of the inside stories and makes history, like, totally captivating.

While you walk along the old walls, just soak up that amazing view of the city and the rivers all around. It’s a perfect way to start off getting to know Shkoder. Expect around 2 to 3 hours for this. It might be a little bit tiring if you are not into all the walking.

What’s included: An enthusiastic guide. History overload, awesome photo ops.
Why go: The historical stories make the stones speak. Great views too!

Shkoder Lake Cruise: Floating on Beauty

Need to take it easy? Then, like, definitely think about taking a boat on Shkoder Lake. It’s the kind of experience that will chill you out with unbelievable views. It happens to be the biggest lake in the Balkan Peninsula, and the natural life around there is just amazing. On clear days you can see so many birds. Very much, so you might even catch a glimpse of Dalmatian pelicans if that is what you are into. Taking a leisurely cruise is definitely great. It often comes with stories about the lake and the areas around. Many boat tours take around 2 or 3 hours.

What’s Included: Boat ride with a knowledgeable person telling you the area story.
Why Go: Experience natural bliss while unwinding.

The Old Town and Bazaars: Walk Through Time

To discover Shkoder you may very much like to spend a day hanging around the Old Town. What I really suggest you do is simply follow where the little roads take you. There, you might be passing beautiful old buildings that really take one back. Don’t be scared to try the street eats, or have some tasty coffee by the road at one of the little cafe’s there. Exploring Shkoder on foot? It’s actually the ideal, the very ideal pace.

You are really able to experience what this wonderful place actually offers with people, colors, tastes and everything. So it’s all there. And really there’s no better way of tasting a destination than that of basically using your legs and feet!

What to see: Historical streets. The soul of Albania at street level!
Great for: Taking wonderful photos, drinking excellent street espressos.

Mesi Bridge Adventure: Ancient Engineering

Just a stone’s throw outside Shkoder there is Mesi Bridge, so, it’s really worth your time and effort checking it out. Spanning over the Kir River this wonderful stone-arch construction dates all the way back to the 18th century, still carrying a huge amount of traffic and also really telling of how creative those engineers were in those times. I mean wow! The Mesi Bridge adventure trip is great when the waters are calm, for a great walking experience, also a picnic along the shores while enjoying the sound and calmness of flowing waters can, of course, very easily add the beauty. Plan to spend a nice, half-day at Mesi Bridge which should prove enough to fill your photo book or phone and your heart’s desires with images. Local tour guides have good information too. Make sure that they are fluent English speaking for the purpose of getting clear information though, to learn everything about the area.

Good to know: An interesting piece of history very close to Shkoder with local guides that know everything!
Important fact: Wear sensible shoes. The surrounding area needs that!

Culinary Tour: Taste of Shkoder

You know what could truly complete your visit to Shkoder, yes? What if you went to experience it all through culinary spots, I mean? Albania has the tastiest bites, with influence that is actually both Balkan and Mediterranean. It is one thing you might want to actually have on your list. Start with trying local specialties such as “Tave Kosi”, which should prove very good, it actually comprises lamb and yoghurt baked in a clay pot – you might find that the most popular of plates in Albania. Oh yes! Exploring through foods, dishes, and streets of Shkoder will introduce to new favorites and hidden places around and make it more authentic.

What is amazing: Authentic Albania plates such as the above mentioned “Tave Kosi”. Also make sure to experience their bakeries, oh yes, that are delicious!
What’s perfect: Getting tasty is really knowing people on a new level!