View of the city and Albanian Alps from Rozafa Fortress
Shkodër (Albanian: Shkodra) was the capital city of Albania for centuries until 1915 when World War I broke out. Now it is the second largest city in Albania with 135,612 people. Shkodra (also known as Scutari in historical records) is one of the oldest and most historic cities in Albania, located in the northwestern part of the country.
Nowadays, Shkodër has experienced a face lift as streets and buildings were renovated, a promenade opened and a new bridge built over the Buna River. Shkodër is 30 minutes away from the beach or 2 hours away from the mountains.
Furthermore, it seems that Shkodër is the bicycle capital of Albania—the chaos of bicycle going in any imaginable direction and the reckless driving of cars can make you dizzy.
42.06719.513451Shkodër Tourist Info Center, Rruga Teuta (Southeast of Sheshi Demokracia). Provide city maps and can help with any of your inquiries, including bus time schedules. (updated May 2025)
In the 3rd century BCE, Shkodra (ancient Scodra) was a major center of the Illyrian Kingdom under Queen Teuta. She was a regent of the Ardiaei, one of the most powerful Illyrian tribes. of the Ardiaei tribe. The city was later conquered by the Romans in 168 BCE, becoming part of the Roman province of Illyricum. In the Middle Ages, Shkodër came under the control of various powers, including the Byzantines, Serbians, and Venetians. During the Venetian period (1396–1479), it was an important fortified city. Shkodër fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1479. The Ottomans besieged Shkodër in 1474 and again in 1478–1479. While the first siege failed, the second resulted in the city's surrender to the Ottoman Empire. Some historical sources claim heavy Ottoman losses, though figures vary and remain debated. Under the Ottomans, Shkodër was a major administrative center and developed into a vibrant trading city. It was known for its multiethnic population, including Albanians, Slavs, Jews, and Italians, and became an important center of the Albanian National Awakening in the 19th century.
Shkodër was occupied by Montenegro in the Balkan Wars (1912–1913), briefly ruled by Austro-Hungarian forces in World War I, and later became part of the independent Albanian state. During the communist period (1945–1991), the city suffered repression but retained its cultural identity. Since the fall of communism, Shkodër has experienced revitalization and growth as a modern urban center.
Shkodra was badly damaged in a 1979 earthquake.
Buses from Tirana and Durrës. Shkodër is accessible by bus from several major cities, including Tirana and Durrës. Most buses and minibuses (furgons) arrive at the central square, Sheshi Demokracia, identifiable by its prominent fountain. Regular buses from Tirana depart hourly, with a journey time of approximately two hours (116 km) and a fare of 400 lek (as of July 2022). Direct buses from Durrës, which bypass Tirana, are also available for 700 lek. Travelers arriving via Tirana International Airport can either walk to the nearby highway to catch passing buses or opt for a more direct connection near the LUNA Tirana airport bus stop.
42.0574319.501782Furgons from Velipoja. 2 blocks south-west along Rruga studenti, about a 10-min walk from Sheshi Demokracia there is a small furgon station from where they arrive. There is no fixed arrival time, as they leave when full. Check around 10:00 or 13:30, though you may have to wait an hour. 200 lek.
42.0785519.514793Furgons from Kelmend and Thethi. Furgons from Albanian Alps arrive 2 km north of Sheshi Demokracia. There is a gathering point for transport going to Kelmend and Thethi.
42.0619619.520294Furgons from Koman. This also includes some other locations in an eastbound direction, including Vau i Dejës dam.
From Ulcinj (Montenegro), buses cost €7 or 700 lek (plus €1 if you have baggage) and leave at 12:30 and 16:30. If they are not available, you can take a taxi to the border at Muriqan (€10) and after crossing the border, take another taxi to Ulcinj (€8). However, the return ticket from Shkodër to Ulcinj costs €5 and buses leave at 09:00 and 16:00 from the city center fountain.
From Podgorica there are 4 daily buses to Shkodër (10:00, 13:00, 16:00, 23:45).
Minibuses to/from Hani i Hotit (the Montenegro border on the way to Podgorica) run from around 300 lek. Taxis for this journey cost €15.
Finding your way round Shkodër is complicated by the fact that all of the roads have been renamed, and some of the old names have even been re-used in different places! All roads have got new road signs. Since all the maps and guides (including this one) give the old names, finding your way round is a bit like being in a parallel universe.
There are some public buses running inside city. There is also infrequent bus to the nearby village of Shirokë.
Shkodër is known as the bicycle capital of Albania due to its flat terrain and a cycling tradition dating back to the Hoxha era. Bikes can be rented for around 300 lek and are a convenient way to reach local attractions like Lake Shkodër, Rozafa Castle, and the historic Ura e Mesit bridge.
42.06666719.51Kalaja/Rozafa Fortress (2 km southwest of Shkodër, near the southern end of Lake Shkodra. ~50 minutes walk from the City Centre, or a €6 taxi ride, but it can be difficult to get a taxi back). Founded by the Illyrians, this fortress was rebuilt by the Venetians and the Ottomans. Rozafa is a woman buried in the ramparts, who supports the structure. The renovated museum inside the castle explains its history and that the area of the former city is now consumed by the rivers beside the castle. The museum costs 200 lek extra and there is a private guide you can ask about almost anything. There are amazing views from the highest point. 400 lek, 200 lek to enter the Museum. (updated Mar 2023)
42.069319.50932Shkodër Historical Museum, Rr. Oso Kuka, no. 12, ☏ +355 22 243213. 09:00-14:00. The museum is in a traditional Shkodran house featuring valuable artifacts on every sphere of social life in the area. The paintings and handicrafts on display are exquisite. 150 lek.
42.068519.51563Marubi National Museum of Photography, Nr. 32, Rruga: "Kolë Idromeno" (midway through main pedestrian street), ☏ +355 22 400 500, [email protected]. Daily 09:00-14:00, 16:00-19:00. Albanian's only photo museum capturing development of Shkodër and Albania in general. Major part of the collection comes from three generations of Marubis. 700 lek, 200 lek for students.
42.061819.47154Lake Shkodra. The largest lake in the Balkans. Take a taxi to the village of Shiroke. Alternatively ask around for the public bus which goes to the edge of the city, where it is a pleasant 5-km walk by the lake to Shiroke. There is a less frequent bus directly to Shiroke.
42.068119.51215Five Heroes monument. This was "one of Albania's best examples of socialist-realist sculpture". Unfortunately, it was removed from there and replaced by a bland contemporary fountain. The monument was temporarily dumped at the city's garbage dump, only to be finally put back at the Dobrac Roundabout in the northern entrance of Shkodër. The site is still a useful reference point for finding your way around. Interestingly, the fountain is surrounded by seating, in the centre of a busy roundabout called Sheshi Demokracia (Democracy Square) with no pedestrian crossings! Only in Albania!
42.0647919.516916Museum of Witness & Memory, Bulevardi Skenderbeu. Museum dedicated to the crimes of the communist regime in Albania featuring photographs, videos, and first hand accounts of political prisoners from Shkodër. €2. (updated Jul 2023)
42.1144819.57497612Mes Bridge (Albanian: Ura e Mesit) (in the village of Mes, about 5 km northeast of Shkodër). This bridge was built in the 18th century by Kara Mahmud Bushati, the local Ottoman pasha.
42.123519.611213Drisht Castle (Kalaja e Drishtit) (above the modern village of Drisht, 14 km northeast of Shkodër, past the Mes Bridge.). A ruined castle, above the modern village of Drisht—medieval Drivastum—in the municipal unit of Postribë, Shkodër County. The earliest traces of Drishte Castle's fortifications date to the late Neolithic era. The walls and towers date to 1396-1478 during the Venetian era. From the Drisht village, there are two ways uphill to the castle. A guide is available living at the village by the mosque for a fee.
42.0719.65305614Shurdhah Island (Albanian: Ishulli i Shurdhahit). It is in the Vau i Dejës Reservoir, which is fed and drained by the river Drin. It is accessible by tourist boat in summer from the Vau i Dejës dam or Rragam. It contains the ruins of the medieval town of Sarda. You can visit the ruins of the 11th-century medieval castle, which includes two rings of defensive walls and towers (some submerged in the lake), the remains of a Byzantine church and other early medieval walls. The setting on the steep rocks rising from the lake is especially impressive.
42.00755819.64009515Vau i Dejës (Town is 20 km from Shkodër. It is the site of the Mother Teresa Cathedral. To get to the Castle ruins, from the town's entrance, head towards St. Mary's Church, from there take the left side around the hill, along the reservoir, all way to the end of the flat road (unpaved by manageable by a high vehicle). Uphill part has been damaged and can be done only on foot. Be mindful of the high sun.). a town and municipality in Shkodër County, northwestern Albania, located about 20 kilometers south of the city of Shkodër. Overlooking the town, near the Drin River, stand the ruins of Castle of Danja, one of the most well-known medieval fortresses in northern Albania. The castle held great strategic importance from the 13th to the 15th centuries and is mentioned as a key point in the wars and alliances between Albanian principalities and foreign powers such as Venice and the Ottoman Empire. (updated May 2025)
42.068619.51581Kolë Idromeno St. (In the Center of Shkodër). Take a walk on the main pedestrian street of the city full of cafes and locals promenading in the evening hours.
42.052119.49462Molo Promenade, Shetitorja Molos (Near Buna River Old Bridge along the river bank). Romantic renovated promenade along the riverside.
Football:KF Vllaznia Shkodër play soccer in Kategoria Superiore, the top tier. Their Loro Boriçi Stadium (capacity 16,000) is central in town.
Lake Koman ferry is a breathtaking trip across Lake Koman from Koman to Fierze, where you can move on to Bajram Curri or further to Kosovo. Take a furgon in the morning 06:30 from the second roundabout down Marin Barleti about 500 m away from the city centre. If you are at the center-most place (the one in front of the hotel Rozafa) before 06:00, you can shout "Koman" and people will guide you through the correct furgon or call the furgon driver by phone that he picks you up.
Festivals. Take part in annual festivals such as the Carnival, Children's Festival, AniFest Rozafa Animated Film Festival, Lake Day, and the Shkodra Jazz Fest.
Traditional Plays Festival (Lojra Popullore). Take part in the annual festival showcasing the best of the North Albanian Folklore at the end of March annually at Rozafa Castle.
Hear Shkodra Elektronike, Shkodra Elektronike is an Albanian folktronica duo formed in 2019 in Shkodër and consists of members Kolë Laca and Beatriçe Gjergji.
Since Shkodër is the city of the bicycles, cycling from the city centre to Shiroka's lake and around of it, it is always a great choice, especially if you enjoy nature. There are shops near the city centre which will rent you a bicycle for 100 lek per hour (as of July 2022).
Locally made souvenirs such as rugs located in Zogaj village or at the Artisan's Bazaar (Albanian: Pazari i Artizanatit) at Shkodër's entrance.
42.0600819.513621Tregu "Qafë Hardhi" (Vintage/Second-hand market). Find everything here from cloths, linen, hats to shoes, and even some household utilities. Many of the cloths are even new, not 2nd-hand. And if you look long enough, you will even find the odd piece of posh Italian designer brand. It seems like most things are sold for "200 lek" here, may it be a pant, shirt or hat—you will hear them saying it everywhere in the market: dy mijë lek. (updated Oct 2022)
Tregu i Madh (The Big Market): This is one of the most well-known markets in Shkodër. Here you can find a wide range of food products, clothing, shoes, cosmetics, and daily-use items.
Tregu i Ri (The New Market): This is a new and modern market that offers a fresh and daily shopping experience. You can find fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh meat and fish, and other food products.
Tregu i Vjetër (The Old Market): A traditional market in the old neighborhood of Shkodër. Here you can find handmade items, used clothing, antiques, and other unique items. The items you can find in these markets include:
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Including a variety of local and imported produce.
Clothing and Shoes: Including everyday wear, shoes, and fashion accessories for all ages and tastes.
Handmade Items: Including traditional clothing, home textiles, carpets, handicrafts, and many other unique items.
Antiques and Cultural Artefacts: Antiques and old cultural artifacts can be found, which are of interest to collectors and history enthusiasts.
Lots of dining options are available on the main pedestrian street - Rruga Kolë Idromeno. There are also some nice restaurants and pizzerias on the promenade near Buna River Old Bridge (Rruga e Molos street).
Zogaj fisherman boats42.07119419.4001391Te Naili, Zogaj, Shkoder (Zogaj is by the Shkodra Lake, right on the border with Montenegro. You can go there after passing the Shkodra bridge, turn on the right side, pass through Shiroka, and arrive to Zogaj. It's a great scenery to walk or cycle to there. You can also go by car, although the road is relatively narrow.), ☏ +355 699708552. Up to 22:00. Zogaj is a fantastic and friendly community of fishermen villagers. Te Naili is the place where fishermen bring their fish. It's located right next to the dock, so the freshness of fish cannot be overstated. Carp fish is one of the most famous local fish and "Tave Krapi" is one of the most know specialties. It, however, takes 4-6 hours to prepare, so before going there it's better to check if they "Tave Krapi" for the day, or do it the best way, order it one day before. (updated May 2023)
42.06744219.5111372Taverna Ulqini, Rruga Komiteti i Kosovës, Shkodër (It's just a few meters away from "Sheshi Demokracia" and "Hotel Rozafa" in Shkodra's central area.), ☏ +355 67 280 9291. Until 22:00. Taverna Ulqini is a typical Shkodran traditional eatery, where you will be delighted by the most tasteful, and affordable, local traditional cuisine. (updated May 2023)
42.06603319.5106553Shkreli fast food, Rruga Wilson. Typical fast food place with plenty of seating, though very busy during lunch time. The cheeseburger for 120lek is tasty and a great deal for the price. No table service: order and pay at the counter. 100–250 lek. (updated Feb 2021)
42.06871619.5170584Shega e Eger, Rruga G'juhadol. (updated May 2022)
42.06478119.5167375Fisi Restaurant, 4001, Bulevardi Skënderbeu. Traditional Food (updated May 2022)
42.0692419.5100666Restaurant PURI, Blv, Bulevardi Bujar Bishanaku. (updated May 2022)
42.06819.5157San Francisco Bar & Restorant, Rruga Kolë Idromeno. A proper restaurant's look and feel and an extensive menu are provided. Some portions are huge, some aren't. The quality of food varies a lot, from superb to simply uneatable. It has a second floor terrace. 300–1,500 lek.
42.06784919.5111078Pizzeria Italia, Rruga 13 Dhjetori (in the center, in front of the main Municipality building, slightly on the right), ☏ +355 692025959. Up to 22:30. Pizzeria Italia's chef and owner is a Shkodra native, that has worked as a chef in Italy and Barcelona. His culinary experiences from abroad, combined with the local traditions and ingredients, make the food served in his restaurant absolutely delicious and unique. (updated May 2023)
42.0626319.5155119Tradita Geg & Tosk, Edith Durham St.. Offers a blend of traditional Albanian cuisine and authentic atmosphere. You can try traditional fish and meat dishes. (updated May 2025)
42.05377219.49783510Restaurant, Rruga Mbreti Gent. This is an upscale restaurant by Albanian standards, serving delicious food including fish. It has a nice atmosphere and is in a small garden. 300–700 lek.
Shkodër is famous for its numerous patisseries where you can eat delicious sweets, and it's possible to come to Shkodër for this alone.
42.0640219.5075311Cafe Oraldi (Pasticeri Oraldi), Parruce, ☏ +355 68 274 6492. Superb cakes. Definitely one of the best in Albania. Extremely popular with locals. 80–150 lek.
Stolia Coffeehouse & Brunch, Rruga At Gjergj Fishta, ☏ +355 68 417 2151. Serving food,drinks and a little slice of happiness. (updated May 2025)
Local beers "Korça" or "Tirana", Zadrima Winery and the famous Albanian spirit called Rakija made of different fruits.
Bam Bar Lounge, Rruga Kole Idromeno, ☏ +355 693231321. (updated May 2025)
Irish Monkey Pub, ruga G'juhadol. (updated May 2025)
Primo Lounge Downtown, Rruga Vilson, ☏ +355 69 874 0777. Lounge bar & Terrace Club dedicated to the concept of relaxing and chilling under the excellent service of premium Shishas and Cocktails. (updated May 2025)
Nur n'Gjuhadol, Rruga G'juhadol, ☏ +355 69 536 6623. (updated May 2025)
42.0656519.514741Shkodra Backpackers. Owner-run, cozy and calm hostel. Most popular spot in Shkoder among backpackers. Great for dog lovers (some adopted strays are staying here). Ask Alma for contact to the local shelter if you want to volunteer. Dorm bed 1,000 lek. (updated Dec 2020)
42.0661319.51582Arka Hostel. This place is also a youth center where different events take place (e.g. German classes). The hostel part is not very charming but one of the cheaper places to stay. Shared kitchen. Nice bar on site. 900 lek/bed in a twin room. (updated Dec 2020)
42.067419.51283Hotel Rozafa (Hotel Turizmi) (Right in the city centre, Rruga Marin Barleti close to Sheshi Demokracia). Old communist-style hotel; clean; gentle and English-speaking personal; nice view over the city if you book in an upper floor; 91 rooms; no air conditioning. 2,000 lek for a double room (2013).
Florian's Guest House, shtoj i ri, reparti ushtarak. kodrajt (By car, turn down from E762 road towards Shtoj i Ri. Pass a few local shops, look and for sign on the right hand side of the road.), ☏ +355 682335921, [email protected]. This is a 12-bed B&B/guest house run by Florian and his family, amongst orchards and vineyards. It is outside, but within walking distance, from the centre of Shkoder. Breakfast is included, and lunch and dinner are offered for €4, serving Albanian cuisine made from organic food farmed in the own garden. The family can help to arrange tours of Shkoder and to get into the Albanian Alps or to other cities in the country. €15, breakfast included.
42.13919.474Camping Lake Shkodra Resort. Modern campsite 8 km from Shkodër with restaurant, Wifi and access to the lake, organises tours to Thethi.
42.067219.5126Hotel Kaduku (at Sheshi Demokracia, immediately next to the Rozafa Hotel), ☏ +355 22 242216. Friendly staff, large clean room with A/C, right in the city centre. €50 for double, with breakfast. (updated Sep 2011)
42.062619.51537Hotel Tradita (Tradita G&T), Rruga Edith Durham 25, ☏ +355 22 809 683. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. As close as it gets to being invited to the dining hall, the kitchen and courtyard of the local Ottoman Pasha. €50.
42.057119.503410Hotel Argenti (in the Velipoja area), ☏ +355 22 439 09. This is a modern hotel with comfortable rooms furnished with A/C, TV, bathroom and showers. The restaurant provides traditional Albanian and European cuisine.
Hotel Epoka, Rruga "Hasan Riza Pasha", ☏ +355 68 443 3432, [email protected]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 10:00. Friendly staff, fresh continental breakfast. 50€ for a double room. (updated Apr 2024)
Theth is approximately 72 kilometres away from Shkodra and also with the road trip can take longer around 3 or 4 hours depending on road conditions and traffic
Puke is approximately 47 kilometres away from Shkodra and offers a beautiful blend of mountainous nature.
Lezhë Castle (Kalaja e Lezhës) is a hilltop fortress overlooking the city of Lezhë in northern Albania, about 47 km south of Shkodër. Situated at an elevation of 322 meters, its highest point reaches 186 meters above the surrounding terrain. Originally built as an Illyrian fortification, the castle is linked to early historical events, including the alliance in 385 B.C.E. between the Illyrian king Bardylis and Dionysius I of Syracuse.
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