Shkoder - Albania

Since my final goal was to reach Montenegro, I decided to make a strategic stop in the charming city of Shkoder. And I can say that it was a wise decision, because the city has its own charm and reveals many surprises along the way.

Shkoder: a city with ancient roots and a lot of history

Shkoder is one of the oldest and most historically important cities in Albania, with roots that date back to Illyrian times. Located in the north of the country.  It is close to the border with Montenegro and also to the beautiful Lake Skadar. In other words, in addition to being historical, its location is perfect for those who are in transit or want to explore more of the region.

Over the centuries, Shkoder has been a strategic center in different periods. For this reason, its cultural heritage is quite diverse. The city was influenced by the Romans, Venetians and Ottomans. As a result, it created a cultural mosaic that can still be felt today in its streets, buildings and atmosphere.

Rozafa Castle: the postcard

As soon as I arrived, I went to visit one of the city’s most emblematic attractions: Rozafa Castle. This ancient fortress is situated on top of a rocky hill and offers spectacular panoramic views. From there, you can see the entire city, as well as the Drin and Buna rivers and the immense Skadar Lake.

The castle, in fact, is surrounded by fascinating legends, which makes the visit even more interesting. One of them tells the story of three brothers who tried to build the fortress, but the walls collapsed every night, until a sacrifice was made to keep the construction standing.

Mesi Bridge: a journey into the Ottoman past

After visiting the castle, I went to see another famous landmark in the region: Mesi Bridge. This impressive 18th-century Ottoman bridge is located about 8 km from the city center. With its arched shape and ancient stones, it looks like it came straight out of a history book.

Although it is a bit out of the way, it is definitely worth a visit, especially for those who enjoy picturesque places full of history.

Shkoder as a stopover: what to expect

However, it is important to know that the city itself has a very relaxed pace. Shkoder does not offer an endless list of attractions. Although, it works very well as a stopping point for those heading to Montenegro, Kosovo.

Also who wants to access the famous Albanian Alps.

So, even if you don’t have much time, it is worth setting aside a few hours to explore the best the city has to offer.

To get a feel for the local atmosphere, there is nothing better than strolling along the streets of Rroga Kole Idromeno and Rroga 28 Nentori. These two streets form the heart of downtown Shkoder, where you will find many cafes and bars with outdoor seating. It is the perfect invitation to sit down, have a coffee and watch the city’s daily life pass before your eyes.

Lake Shkoder: nature to relax

Another unmissable tour is visiting the Lake. Most tourists tend to head straight to the Shiroka area, which is quite busy. However, since I prefer quieter places, I kept walking until I found quieter and more serene areas, perfect for relaxing and having a quiet lunch.

The lake is simply stunning: the waters are calm and blue, and the mountains in the background create a scenery that looks like a painting.

You can visit the lake by car, of course. However, the best way to enjoy the whole landscape is by renting a bike. This way, the journey becomes more pleasant, closer to nature and you can even stop wherever you want to enjoy the view.