Shkodra
— Tour overview
Shkodra - The Capital of Northern Albania
The 2500-year-old Shkodra is known as a city with ancient cultural traditions. Over the years, it has produced many outstanding people, generations who together have given our city the name it enjoys today and which we inherit it with gratitude and pride.
By studying the various historical, artistic, folklore works, popular creativity of our city, you can learn a lot about the ancient culture, customs and traditions that its children fanatically preserve even today.
Shkodra has different periods of construction, from the Illyrian period to the present day. The ancient city consisted of only a few neighborhoods around the Rozafa castle that expanded towards the north-west.
After the Ottoman occupation, the city took on a different physiognomy, a different direction in development economic as well as social-cultural.
Despite the many conquests, the people have always tried to preserve their characteristics, which surprise you. That in this period it is known as an important educational, cultural and religious center, a political and patriotic center. This is proven by a number of researchers Albanians and foreigners who have spoken about it in their works.
Its economic, social and cultural importance, as well as its favorable geographical position as a connecting node with the countries of Southeast Europe, are seen as strong points in its favor for a its further development, very dimensional.
Many travelers and researchers have expressed very positive opinions about the natural and cultural assets of Shkodra.
By studying the various historical, artistic, folklore works, popular creativity of our city, you can learn a lot about the ancient culture, customs and traditions that its children fanatically preserve even today.
Shkodra has different periods of construction, from the Illyrian period to the present day. The ancient city consisted of only a few neighborhoods around the Rozafa castle that expanded towards the north-west.
After the Ottoman occupation, the city took on a different physiognomy, a different direction in development economic as well as social-cultural.
Despite the many conquests, the people have always tried to preserve their characteristics, which surprise you. That in this period it is known as an important educational, cultural and religious center, a political and patriotic center. This is proven by a number of researchers Albanians and foreigners who have spoken about it in their works.
Its economic, social and cultural importance, as well as its favorable geographical position as a connecting node with the countries of Southeast Europe, are seen as strong points in its favor for a its further development, very dimensional.
Many travelers and researchers have expressed very positive opinions about the natural and cultural assets of Shkodra.
— Book
Book Tour
Overview
Included
Not included
What To Expect
Overview
On the way to Shkodra we will pass through the city of Lezhe where we will stop for a short visit in this other old and significant town.
Once in Shkodra, we will visit the castle, the town, the factory and the biggest lake of the Balkans that is divided by two nations, Montenegro and Albania.
Discover historical Shkodra on a private day trip from Tirana
Visit the biggest lake in the Balkans.
Try the Trout (optional) and other local gastronomy.
Visit one of Europe’s oldest cities with private car and guide .
Hear history you’d miss alone and relax with handy hotel pickup.
This tour has also some surprises for you that only our guides know.
Once in Shkodra, we will visit the castle, the town, the factory and the biggest lake of the Balkans that is divided by two nations, Montenegro and Albania.
Discover historical Shkodra on a private day trip from Tirana
Visit the biggest lake in the Balkans.
Try the Trout (optional) and other local gastronomy.
Visit one of Europe’s oldest cities with private car and guide .
Hear history you’d miss alone and relax with handy hotel pickup.
This tour has also some surprises for you that only our guides know.
Included
• Transport with a/c vehicle
• City Tour
• Driver/ Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• City Tour
• Driver/ Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not included
• Meals and drinks
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activity costs
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activity costs
What To Expect
• Rozafa Castle
We drive for 2 hours to Shkodra and first visit in Rozafa Castle. Built on a rocky hill overlooking the city by the rivers of Buna and Drini, you will find the most important monument of Shkoder, The Castle of Rozafa.
Shkodra has been occupied several times throughout history: First by the Romans (168 B.C.), then the Serbians (1040), the Venetians (1396), and finally by the Ottomans (1479). It is surrounded by the waters of three rivers; the Drini, Buna, and Kiri. Much like the town it protected, the castle has Illyrian origins.
• Mesi Bridge
Mesi Bridge is the largest and best-preserved Ottoman bridge in Albania. It was built in the 18th century, around 1770, by Kara Mahmud Bushati, the local Ottoman pasha.
The bridge is 108 meters long, 3m wide and has 13 arches, of which the elegant main span measures 13m. The Kiri river it crosses has incredibly blue, clear mountain water.
• Shkodra Lake
Then we visit Shkodra lake. The beautiful Shkodra Lake, the largest in the Balkan Peninsula is one of the many natural wonders of this part of the country. With a vast surface area of 368 km2, the lake stretches beyond the country and across the border with Montenegro, with 149 km2 of it lying in Albania. The lake beautifully frames the historic and artistic city of Shkodra, a calming and refreshing area, reflecting effect of the water which gracefully surrounds it.
• Shkodra mask factory
Then we will visit the famous Viennese mask factory which is located near the city of Shkodra. The Venetian masks made in Shkodra are all crafted by hand.
They combine traditional techniques with new contemporary decoration. The masks have intricate details, bright colors, fancy feathers, gold leaf, and crystals that make them unique pieces of art. The masks are exported all over the world and sold in six shops in Venice.
• Shkodra town centre
Just a few meters short of 1 km in length at 800m long, the Promenade in Shkodra is paved entirely with beautifully-decorated cobblestones.
Recently-renovated, this promenade recalls the architecture of ages gone by, when there was arguably a greater appreciation for time and patience when crafting things of lasting beauty. As a result, this picturesque promenade reflects this time, beauty, and quietude of the ones who tread on it.
The center of the town forks into two separate boulevards where the traditional old houses from the 1800s beautifully intermingle with the new ones.
We drive for 2 hours to Shkodra and first visit in Rozafa Castle. Built on a rocky hill overlooking the city by the rivers of Buna and Drini, you will find the most important monument of Shkoder, The Castle of Rozafa.
Shkodra has been occupied several times throughout history: First by the Romans (168 B.C.), then the Serbians (1040), the Venetians (1396), and finally by the Ottomans (1479). It is surrounded by the waters of three rivers; the Drini, Buna, and Kiri. Much like the town it protected, the castle has Illyrian origins.
• Mesi Bridge
Mesi Bridge is the largest and best-preserved Ottoman bridge in Albania. It was built in the 18th century, around 1770, by Kara Mahmud Bushati, the local Ottoman pasha.
The bridge is 108 meters long, 3m wide and has 13 arches, of which the elegant main span measures 13m. The Kiri river it crosses has incredibly blue, clear mountain water.
• Shkodra Lake
Then we visit Shkodra lake. The beautiful Shkodra Lake, the largest in the Balkan Peninsula is one of the many natural wonders of this part of the country. With a vast surface area of 368 km2, the lake stretches beyond the country and across the border with Montenegro, with 149 km2 of it lying in Albania. The lake beautifully frames the historic and artistic city of Shkodra, a calming and refreshing area, reflecting effect of the water which gracefully surrounds it.
• Shkodra mask factory
Then we will visit the famous Viennese mask factory which is located near the city of Shkodra. The Venetian masks made in Shkodra are all crafted by hand.
They combine traditional techniques with new contemporary decoration. The masks have intricate details, bright colors, fancy feathers, gold leaf, and crystals that make them unique pieces of art. The masks are exported all over the world and sold in six shops in Venice.
• Shkodra town centre
Just a few meters short of 1 km in length at 800m long, the Promenade in Shkodra is paved entirely with beautifully-decorated cobblestones.
Recently-renovated, this promenade recalls the architecture of ages gone by, when there was arguably a greater appreciation for time and patience when crafting things of lasting beauty. As a result, this picturesque promenade reflects this time, beauty, and quietude of the ones who tread on it.
The center of the town forks into two separate boulevards where the traditional old houses from the 1800s beautifully intermingle with the new ones.
— Book
Book Tour
— Tour overview
Berat - the city of one over one windows
Berat, known as the “City of One Over One Windows”, is a historic city in Albania, located in the heart of the country’s lush landscape. Known for its picturesque beauty and rich cultural heritage, Berat offers visitors a glimpse into Albania’s fascinating past and a taste of its warm welcome.
A 2,400-year-old city, pride of Albanian architecture, wealth of culture and symbol of religious coexistence, has been proven in the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.
The first thing you will notice in Berat is its stunning natural environment.
The city is divided into two distinct parts: Kala (old town) and Mangalem (new city). Both are set in the backdrop of the Tomorri mountains and the Osum river winds through the valley, creating a mesmerizing view.
Across the Osum River, lies the Goricë neighborhood, with its houses facing Mangalem. The Arched Bridge of Gorica, built in 1780, is a beautiful architectural monument built to connect Gorica with Mangalem. The ottoman-era white houses in the old town with their many windows create a unique architectural spectacle, which has given Berat its nickname.
Historical significance: Berat has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with influences from the Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The city is home to many historic sites, including The Castle of Berat, a castle dating back to the 4th century.
Within its walls, you can explore the Byzantine churches of St Mary and St Michael, each featuring stunning frescoes. Furthermore, the Onufri Museum, located in St. Mary’s Cathedral, displays an extraordinary collection of religious art, including works by the renowned iconographer Onufri.
The city of Berat is not only an architectural wonderland; It is also a living museum of traditional Albanian life. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, you’ll meet locals who are proud of their heritage.
A visit to Berat will surely leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this enchanting Albanian pearl.
A 2,400-year-old city, pride of Albanian architecture, wealth of culture and symbol of religious coexistence, has been proven in the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.
The first thing you will notice in Berat is its stunning natural environment.
The city is divided into two distinct parts: Kala (old town) and Mangalem (new city). Both are set in the backdrop of the Tomorri mountains and the Osum river winds through the valley, creating a mesmerizing view.
Across the Osum River, lies the Goricë neighborhood, with its houses facing Mangalem. The Arched Bridge of Gorica, built in 1780, is a beautiful architectural monument built to connect Gorica with Mangalem. The ottoman-era white houses in the old town with their many windows create a unique architectural spectacle, which has given Berat its nickname.
Historical significance: Berat has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with influences from the Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. The city is home to many historic sites, including The Castle of Berat, a castle dating back to the 4th century.
Within its walls, you can explore the Byzantine churches of St Mary and St Michael, each featuring stunning frescoes. Furthermore, the Onufri Museum, located in St. Mary’s Cathedral, displays an extraordinary collection of religious art, including works by the renowned iconographer Onufri.
The city of Berat is not only an architectural wonderland; It is also a living museum of traditional Albanian life. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, you’ll meet locals who are proud of their heritage.
A visit to Berat will surely leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this enchanting Albanian pearl.
Overview
Included
Not included
What To Expect
Overview
On the way to Berat we will drive through a beautiful country side where will be sightseeing the once called STALIN city.
Here we will be acquainted with the diesel pulling pumps installed since communism times. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kala; admire architectural landmarks including Berat Castle, the Red Mosque, and St. Trinity Church; visit the Museum of Iconography and National Ethnographic Museum; get introduced with ONUFRI, the master of XVI Century; learn about Berat mythology.
Discover historical Berat on a private day trip from Tirana
Free time in Berat: explore both with and without a guide
Traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant (optional)
Great-value tour: hotel pickup and all entrance fees included
Travelling through inner Albania for more country insights.
Here we will be acquainted with the diesel pulling pumps installed since communism times. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kala; admire architectural landmarks including Berat Castle, the Red Mosque, and St. Trinity Church; visit the Museum of Iconography and National Ethnographic Museum; get introduced with ONUFRI, the master of XVI Century; learn about Berat mythology.
Discover historical Berat on a private day trip from Tirana
Free time in Berat: explore both with and without a guide
Traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant (optional)
Great-value tour: hotel pickup and all entrance fees included
Travelling through inner Albania for more country insights.
Included
• Transport with a/c vehicle
• City Tour of Berat
• Driver/ Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• City Tour of Berat
• Driver/ Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not included
• Meals and drinks
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activity costs
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activity costs
What To Expect
• National Ethnographic Museum Berat
The National Ethnographic Museum of Berat, situated within a striking, typical 18th century two-story Berat residence, is a pleasant immersion into the lifestyle traditions of this fascinating town.
The museum’s pavilions are nicely organized within the two stories of the former residence.
The nice journey along the pavilions reveals an accurate panorama of the traditions and daily conditions of the lives of Berat’s prominent families.
• National Iconographic Museum Onufri
Built in 1797, this cathedral is situated at the highest altitude of the Berat Castle, though it can be a little difficult to find. While the Ottomans were Muslim, they allowed Christians to continue practicing their faith and build churches, though not very visibly.
This cathedral is one of them, a typical church of three naves and two rows of tall stone columns. Inside, you initially find yourself facing the Holy Altar with masterful engravings and paintings of Bible scenes in the incredibly lavish and ornate iconostasis of the Cathedral – the only one to have survived from the former metropolitan complex.
The iconostasis, created in 1807, the most eye-catching part of the interior of the church, is considered one of the greatest accomplishments of the 19th-century Albanian wood-carving masters. It stretches along the entire interior of the cathedral and includes twelve royal icons as well as twenty-seven small festive icons. The royal icons, objects of reverence and worship.
• Holy Trinity Church The Holy Trinity Church is a medieval Byzantine church which stands on a hill in the city of Berat in the Kalaja district of Southern Albania.
The National Ethnographic Museum of Berat, situated within a striking, typical 18th century two-story Berat residence, is a pleasant immersion into the lifestyle traditions of this fascinating town.
The museum’s pavilions are nicely organized within the two stories of the former residence.
The nice journey along the pavilions reveals an accurate panorama of the traditions and daily conditions of the lives of Berat’s prominent families.
• National Iconographic Museum Onufri
Built in 1797, this cathedral is situated at the highest altitude of the Berat Castle, though it can be a little difficult to find. While the Ottomans were Muslim, they allowed Christians to continue practicing their faith and build churches, though not very visibly.
This cathedral is one of them, a typical church of three naves and two rows of tall stone columns. Inside, you initially find yourself facing the Holy Altar with masterful engravings and paintings of Bible scenes in the incredibly lavish and ornate iconostasis of the Cathedral – the only one to have survived from the former metropolitan complex.
The iconostasis, created in 1807, the most eye-catching part of the interior of the church, is considered one of the greatest accomplishments of the 19th-century Albanian wood-carving masters. It stretches along the entire interior of the cathedral and includes twelve royal icons as well as twenty-seven small festive icons. The royal icons, objects of reverence and worship.
• Holy Trinity Church The Holy Trinity Church is a medieval Byzantine church which stands on a hill in the city of Berat in the Kalaja district of Southern Albania.