Tag: Shkodra Lake

Shkodër is a North Albanian city beside Lake Shkodra, Southern Europe’s largest lake which Albania shares with Montenegro (where it's called Skadar). It’s around two hours’ drive from Tirana and considered the gateway to the Albanian Alps. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Shkodër, including a couple of hidden gems of our own - we are, after all, Undiscovered Balkans. And Shkodër (aka Shkodra) is certainly “undiscovered” as most travellers pass through it on their way to hike the Valbona pass or to visit Komani Lake. So, what can you expect from a stay in Shkodër? Once the ancient Illyrian capital, Shkodër is Albania’s fifth most populated city with a history spanning 2,200 years. Compared to Tirana, it’s very laid back and it has a somewhat Adriatic vibe, particularly in the pedestrianised old town along Kole Idromeno which is flanked by boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops. The beauty of Shkodër is you can tick off most of its top sights by foot as they’re concentrated around the old town. It’s equally a great city to explore by bike, earning it the title of Albania’s cycling city. Read our other Balkan city guides and find more travel tips and inspiration on the blog. Things to do in Shkodër Rozafa Castle Rozafa Castle - aka Shkodër Castle - is a must do when visiting the area and with it towering over the city from 130m above, it’s hard to miss. A limestone fortress built in stages since the 3rd century BC, it’s remarkably preserved. Rozafa Castle offers an unbeatable view over Shkodër and from the back of the fortress, you can see the Drini, Kir and Buna rivers converging and feeding into Lake Shkodra. Be sure to visit the statue of Rozafa which is said to