Looking for the best day trips from Shkoder? This is my comprehensive guide for what to do near this awesome city in northern Albania.
Shkoder Albania is located in an amazing location since it’s right on the largest lake in the Balkans (Shkodra Lake), 30 minutes away from the Adriatic seaside, and at the footstep of the glorious Albanian Alps!
There are tons of fun Shkoder day trips but most people don’t know about them because tourism is just now kicking off in the north.
Since I’ve been living in Albania, specifically Shkoder city, I wanted to give you the full rundown of possibilities. There are so many off-the-beaten-path places just begging for some attention. Here are the 10 best day trips from Shkoder.
Most Popular Day Trips From Shkoder
Visiting the mountain village of Theth and the beautiful Shala River are two of the most popular day trips from Shkoder! A lot of this has to do with social media since these places are all over Instagram.
Even though they are well known, arranging a day trip from Shkoder is the easiest option for budget travelers or those who don’t want to rent a car or hitchhike.
There are 4 organized day trips from Shkoder that you can book, some of them are way more off the beaten path (if that’s what you’re looking for). These are the Shkoder day tours: Albanian Highlands, Albanian Alps, Shkoder Canyon, and the Shkoder Lake & Castle. These are operated by Shkodra Hostel, you can reserve on WhatsApp – +355 69 217 6200.
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1. Theth
Theth is a picturesque mountain village located in the northern part of Albania and makes for an excellent day trip from Shkoder.
It’s probably the most visited place in northern Albania and definitely one of the biggest tourist attractions in the whole country.
It’s well displayed on social media which means it can be very crowded, make sure to check out all of my tips and things to know before going to Theth!
Theth is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by rugged mountains, it is settled in a lush valley with a pristine, icey blue river.
It offers a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is situated within the Theth National Park, which is part of the larger Balkan Peace Park Project.
Don't miss my guide on the best things to do in Shkoder!
The park is a haven for hikers and adventure seekers, boasting numerous hiking trails, including the famous path to the Blue Eye waterfall – a mesmerizing natural spring with crystal-clear waters.
In Albanian, it is called “Syri i Kalter”, but there are two in Albania, so this one is referred to as the one in the north – the other is in Saranda in the south. It’s a popular spot for a refreshing swim and provides a fun photo opportunity.
Theth is also known for preserving the traditional customs and architecture of Ghegaria (northern Albania). Visitors can see the charming stone houses in the traditional mountain style.
While it’s possible to visit Theth in a day, many visitors choose to stay overnight to fully experience the village’s tranquility. There are guesthouses and traditional inns where you can enjoy warm Albanian hospitality and some great organic, mountain cuisine.
You can do mostly outdoor activities, like hiking, swimming, and exploring the historical Lock-in Tower. It’s a great opportunity to take in the serene atmosphere and appreciate the slower pace of life in the Albanian Alps.
Getting There: Theth can be reached from Shkoder by road, and the journey itself offers scenic views. It’s approximately a 2 hour drive.
You can take the bus to Theth, they leave early in the morning (around 7AM) but return to Shkoder from Theth at 11AM. There is basically one bus a day, so there is no way to do a day trip via public transport.
The alternative is to drive but you should make sure to rent the appropriate car as it can be a challenging road with lots of zig zags. The weather can change for the worse quickly in the mountains so check conditions before setting out.
You can also do an organized day trip to Theth which helps to alleviate any driving stress! If you are short on time, I’d highly recommend it. You can also find day tours leaving from Tirana.
2. Lumi i Shales & Komani Lake
Visiting Lumi i Shales (Shala River) is a great idea for a day trip from Shkoder. Whether you’re interested in boat tours, swimming, or simply enjoying the picturesque surroundings, Shala River promises a day filled with natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Lumi i Shales, also known as Shala River, is a beautiful waterway that meanders through the dramatic Albanian Alps. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding landscapes make it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The river’s inviting but freezing waters provide an excellent opportunity for swimming and relaxation. Its purity and refreshing coolness make it a perfect spot to unwind on a hot day.
The journey along the Shala River is not just about the water; it’s also about the stunning scenery. The river has impressive canyons and rock formations. Towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and the sense of being completely surrounded by remote nature is an amazing experience.
After enjoying the river, you can eat at some of the local guesthouses and have fish caught in the river, along with other sides like bean soup, fresh salad, local cheese, etc.
Beyond the river, the Shala Valley offers opportunities for hiking and exploration. You can trek through the nearby mountains or visit nearby villages to get a deeper sense of the region’s culture.
Getting There: Shala River is accessible by road from Shkoder to the Koman port. From there you then need to take a boat trip through Komani Lake and before turning onto Shala River. The journey itself offers glimpses of northern Albania’s isolation and scenic beauty.
Lumi i Shales is a captivating natural wonder in northern Albania that you can’t miss, making for a fun day trip from Shkoder! Check out this organized overnight trip, if you’d prefer to spend more time.
If you decide to stay in the capital, you can still do a day trip from Tirana to Shala River.
Other Awesome Day Trips From Shkoder
There are plenty of amazing options for Shkoder day trips, but unfortunately, you can’t rely on public transport to reach these places. My suggestion is to rent a car at Tirana Airport so you can make sure to purchase legitimate insurance coverage.
The only consistent bus you could take for a Shkoder day trip is going to the beach town of Velipoje. Technically they are furgons (small vans) that go at sporadic times – usually when the furgon fills up or if the driver decides to go.
You can count on these in the summer since it is high season but after that, it’s unlikely to have many going in a day. You’ll also need to ask before you leave when the last bus back to Shkoder is.
3. Thrown Sands / Rana e Hedhun
Rana e Hedhun, also known as Thrown Sands, is a unique natural wonder located near Shengjin, Albania. It’s renowned for its extraordinary geological formation where a a large sand dune goes from the top of a cliff to the seaside.
It is an excellent place to relax and soak up the sun. This large, sandy beach provides comfortable spots for sunbathing and plenty of room for beach activities.
Rana e Hedhun is easily accessible from Shkoder and other nearby towns. It’s a relatively short drive, making it a convenient day trip option for those looking to escape the city and explore Albania’s beautiful coastal landscapes.
Nearby Shengjin offers a variety of seafood restaurants where you can savor fresh catch-of-the-day dishes. Enjoying a delicious seafood meal by the sea is a delightful way to complete your day trip from Shkoder.
Try Restorant Detari, it’s my favorite. If you google the restaurant, the wrong location comes up so I’ve tagged the right one here.
4. Prekal Canyon
Located only 30 minutes driving away from Shkoder city center is the canyon of Prekal with the River Kiri running through it. It is also known as Kanione i Prekal and Kanione i Ures se Shtrejte – most locals just call it ‘Prekal’.
This is a popular swimming spot for locals in the summer. Unlike going to the beaches in Albania where you normally have to pay for a sunbed, going to Prekal is more cost-friendly for families.
It also has more adventure to it because it is a very deep canyon so it’s common to cliff jump into the water from different heights.
You can check out my Prekal day trip YouTube video to see what I’m talking about. It’s a really fun place to swim, have a picnic, and enjoy the beautiful mountains of northern Albania.
Wondering where to go swimming near Shkoder? Check out this awesome sand dune beach - Rana e Hedhun or the crystal clear water at Shala River!
5. Razem & Boge
About 1-hour drive from Shkoder city center, you can reach the charming mountain villages of Razem and Boge. To reach Razem, you need to turn right off of SH21.
If you continue on SH21, you’ll reach the village of Boge. Both are beautiful areas where you can hike and have a picnic. In Razem there is also a large, level soccer/football field that you could play sports on too.
There are guesthouses in each village where you can eat, have a coffee and stay overnight. If you are visiting during the off-season (anytime besides June – August) some things could be closed.
In Razem, there are some restaurants/hotels that stay open so you can count on that when visiting. It didn’t seem like much was open when I visited Boge in the off-season.
Is Shkoder Safe? Here's what you need to know!
6. Malesia e Madhe / SH20
Malesia e Madhe, which translates to “Great Highlands,” is a picturesque region located in the northern part of Albania. It is characterized by its stunning natural landscapes, including rugged mountains, lush valleys, and pristine rivers. The area’s untouched beauty is a major draw for nature enthusiasts.
Malesia e Madhe offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and mountain biking. The region is home to numerous trails that cater to varying skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the wilderness and take in breathtaking views.
It is easily accessible from Shkoder, making it a convenient day trip destination. The drive itself has scenic routes through the countryside for about 40 minutes before you start ascending into the highlands.
Driving on the SH20 road through the mountains is part of the fun, there are lookouts to stop at on your way. I wrote a lot more about visiting Malesia e Madhe in my 10-day Albania itinerary guide, make sure to check it out for more details.
On the way back, you can stop at Bar Restaurant Syri i Sheganit for beautiful views of Lake Shkodra.
7. Ulza Regional Nature Park
Ulza Regional Nature Park is a beautiful natural area known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a great Shkoder day trip if you’re a nature lover.
There’s a lake and the park offers a few hiking trails to explore its natural wonders. Ulza Park has numerous bird species inhabiting the area. It’s a great place to spot various avian species in their natural habitat.
It’s conveniently located, so It’s easily accessible for a day trip from Shkoder or Tirana. On your way back to Shkoder, stop at Restaurant Bezhi for some excellent grilled meat.
8. Cape Of Rodon / Lagoon of Patok
The Cape of Rodon has natural beauty that you’ll appreciate if you love the outdoors. It has some dramatic cliffs and beaches to swim at too, perfect for a fun, outdoorsy day trip from Shkoder. The area around the cape offers excellent hiking and exploration opportunities.
Some trails lead to various viewpoints where you can admire the coastal vistas. You can also see old communist bunkers, the Church of Mamica and explore the ruins of the ancient Rodoni Castle. The Cape of Rodon holds significant historical importance in Albania.
PSsst don't forget to cover yourself with travel insurance, my favorite is SafetyWing ✔️
It is associated with the legendary Albanian hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, who led the resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. The cape is said to be one of Skanderbeg’s strongholds.
On the way back to Shkoder, stop at the coastal Lagoon of Patok for sunset. You can have some fresh seafood on cute, over-water bungalows there. If you’re in Tirana, you can visit with an organized tour to the Cape of Rodon with a wine tasting.
9. Kruja
Kruje (also seen as Kruja) is one of Albania’s most historically significant towns, known as the hometown of the national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. Skanderbeg led a resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century, and Kruje was his stronghold.
Visiting Kruje allows you to delve into Albania’s rich history and learn about Skanderbeg’s legacy. Kruje Castle (Kalaja e Krujes) is perched atop a hill with commanding views of the surrounding area. The castle houses a museum dedicated to Skanderbeg and the history of the resistance.
Exploring the castle and its museum is a must for history enthusiasts. In addition to the Skanderbeg Museum, Kruje also boasts an Ethnographic Museum (Muzeu Etnografik) where you can explore Albanian traditions, clothing, and daily life through various exhibits.
Kruje’s Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjeter) is a bustling market where you can shop for traditional Albanian crafts, souvenirs, and local products. Kruje often hosts cultural events and festivals that provide insights into Albanian traditions, music, and dance. Check if any events are scheduled during your visit to enhance your cultural experience.
Kruje is a great day trip from Shkoder because it’s conveniently located within a relatively short drive from Shkoder, about an hour and a half. If you end up staying in Tirana, you can also visit from there with this organized day trip to Kruje and Sari Salltik Cave.
10. Qafshtama National Park
Qafshtama is similar to Ulza but a much larger park that is located on the same road going to Kruja but much deeper into the mountains. It takes about 45 minutes from Kruja.
You might recognize this particular name as it’s on water bottles all over Albania – the company and water source are in this park.
Shkoder Day Trips Final Thoughts
Shkoder offers a fantastic base for exploring various attractions – from picturesque mountain villages to breathtaking river valleys. I hope these Shkoder day trips gave you inspiration for planning your own trip. Make sure to check out the best hostels and best hotels in Shkoder.
If you are considering staying in the capital instead, check out the best hostels in Tirana and the best day trips from Tirana!