Shkodra, the Capital of Northern Albania and the Gateway to the Albanian Alps

The city of Shkodra, one of the oldest in Albania, has a history spanning thousands of years of habitation. Its geostrategic position as the main axis connecting Albania with Montenegro and other regional countries makes Shkodra the capital of Northern Albania.

Located about 90 km from Tirana, the capital of Albania, Shkodra lies in the northwest of the country amidst a varied landscape of plains, hills, and mountains, near the Adriatic Sea and Lake Shkodra, which define its Mediterranean climate.

Shkodra is a city of beautiful urban traditions where various cultures have coexisted harmoniously for centuries. The city’s main tourist attraction is the Rozafa Castle, a millennia-old monument set atop a rocky hill at the entrance to the city, surrounded by the rivers Buna and Drin.

As an important cultural heritage destination, visitors can explore the Marubi National Museum of Photography, renowned for its rare collection of photographs depicting Albanian history, the Lead Mosque, ancient churches, stroll along the “Kolë Idromeno” promenade, which is the old center of Shkodra, reminiscent of Mediterranean Venetian buildings, and discover unique attractions like the English Tower.

Lake Shkodra is one of the most beautiful destinations in Shkodra, where traditional local dishes can be enjoyed during walks.

The picturesque villages of Shiroka and Zogaj are two of the closest tourist spots to the city.

In Shkodra, you will find extraordinarily beautiful landscapes in the surrounding areas, such as the National Park of the Albanian Alps, Theth National Park, Shala and Kir rivers, Razma about 42 km from the city, Boga approximately 48 km away, and Velipoja Beach, 32 km from the city.

Mesi Bridge, located 8 km from the city of Shkodra, is a symbol of ancient civilization and a first-category cultural monument. Shkodra is blessed with numerous natural monuments such as Theth Waterfall, Lake Jezercë, and 13 peaks of the Albanian Alps, all waiting to be explored.