The Best Day Trips From Shkodra
Located on the northwest side of the country, Shkodra (Shkodër) is the perfect base to visit the north of Albania, as well as a few towns near Albania’s border. If you want to explore this gorgeous area of the Balkan Peninsula, read our list of the best day trips from Shkodra, Albania. You’re not going to want to miss these.
Lake Koman
Lake Koman is a stunning artificial reservoir in the northern part of Albania, easily reachable from Shkodra. Every day the Lake Ferry Koman company brings people from Koman to Fierze and back. Fierze is a small halmet nestled in the Albanian Alps. The journey between the two towns, which takes two and a half hours, is an enchanting boat trip as it offers incomparable views over the mountains and the lake.
Theth
Theth, also called the gem of the Albanian Alps, is a small village located in the north of the country. Because of its uniqueness and beauty, Theth has been declared a protected historic center by the Albanian government. The highlight here is the gorgeous Catholic church situated between mountains. This church will take your breath away with its timeless beauty. Bring a camera!
Lezhë
The reason why everyone should visit this town is because of its history. Compared to other destinations like Gjirokastër, Berat, Kruja and Korça, Lezhë doesn’t have much to offer in terms of natural wonders and pretty churches, but it is the place where Skanderbeg, the greatest Albanian hero of all time, united the Albanian princes to fight against the Ottoman empire. So, if you are a history-fan, you should include Lezhë in your travel itinerary.
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Fishta
Fishta is a small village that is home to one of Albania’s most impressive restaurants and farms: Mrizi I Zanave. This gorgeous venue offers customers the chance to taste authentic Albanian gastronomy cooked in a modern, refined way. We suggest booking in advance because the restaurant is always crowded, and it’s not easy to find a table.
Ulcinj
This fairy tale town is a must-see destination if you are based in Shkodra, because it is very close to the border. Ulcinj is located in Montenegro, but the majority of the population is Albanian. Ulcinj has a wonderful old town neighbourhood surrounded by ancient walls. There’s even a small lovely beach near the city center. This place is always crowded during the summer months, so take don’t be surprised if you find yourself surrounded by other people that had the same idea.
Velipojë
Velipojë (or Velipoja) is a very popular summer destination in Albania. It is home to the longest beach in the country, and nearly every inch is covered during the summer months. Velipojë is located on the estuary of the Buna (or Bojana) River, very close to the Montenegrin border. It is a fun sandy beach, the perfect place for families with children to come and play.
Podgorica
This Montenegrin capital city is only an hour by car from Shkodra, so if you have time, don’t miss the chance to explore it. A day is not enough time to fully experience the town, but you can easily admire its lovely city center filled with churches, palaces, markets and the majestic Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ.
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