• Kruje - Steeped in history and tradition, Kruja is the birthplace of patriots and the heart of Albania’s independence from the Ottoman Empire. It was here that Gjergj Kastriot Skanderbeg, Albania’s most revered national hero, defended the nation against Ottoman invasion. The National Museum, dedicated to this hero, is located within the renowned Kruja Castle and showcases both the legendary hero’s history and the traditional lifestyle of the city’s inhabitants. The city’s renowned bazaar acts as a link between this illustrious past and the present, offering a wide variety of traditional products crafted by local artisans.
• Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjeter) - The Old Bazaar of Kruja is the most renowned bazaar in the country and is a must-visit! In the numerous shops and boutiques lining the streets, traditional craftsmen sell and create their products. Visitors can discover a multitude of traditional functional and artistic items such as carpets, furniture, silverware, copper plates, and ornaments, along with many other souvenirs. Antique dealers and enthusiasts frequent this bazaar as it offers many intriguing objects. The highlight of the experience is that the traders are eager to share the fascinating history of each item!
• Kruja Castle - At the end of the Bazaar, visitors will find a slightly steep road leading to the Castle of Kruja, a symbol of Albanian resistance against the Ottomans. It was here that Skanderbeg first raised the Albanian flag on November 28th, 1443, and where he and his army successfully resisted the Ottoman forces for over 25 years. As one of the country’s most significant landmarks, this part of the visit can be spent leisurely admiring this 5th-century fortress and the museum within it.
• Ethnographic Museum of Kruja - The National Ethnographic Museum is housed in a 19th-century villa, one of the finest examples of the period’s architecture. Additionally, the museum’s expert tour guide provides extensive insights into the lives of the local residents, important artifacts, and memorable features preserved over the centuries.
• Museumi Gjergj Kastrioti (Skenderbeu) - This museum honors the life and battles of Skanderbeg, Albania’s most significant historical figure. It is one of the country’s most esteemed architectural monuments and one of the most visited, as it offers extensive information about the nation’s past. Visitors will find replicas of Skanderbeg’s sword and helmet, with the originals located in Vienna.
• Shkoder - This diverse city boasts a rich artistic heritage and has made a significant contribution to Albanian culture. Shkodra is the birthplace of prominent Albanian poets like Migjeni, painters like Kol Idromeno, and photographers, the Marubi Family. Shkodra is home to the captivating Marubi National Photography Museum, which displays the first photograph ever taken in Albania. A city of myths and legends, the foundations of the famous Castle of Shkodra are said to be supported by the body of Rozafa, the beautiful young mother who sacrificed herself for it. This naturally stunning city is abundant with reflections in the Adriatic Sea, Lake of Shkodra, and the Buna River.
• Rozafa Castle - A symbol of the city, this castle offers breathtaking views over Lake Shkodër and the three rivers that converge below it. Also known as the Castle of Rozafa, it is named after the young woman who was sacrificed and entombed within its walls to ensure its construction. Visitors are encouraged to spend time exploring the ancient and medieval ruins found in this intriguing location. At the Castle’s entrance, turning left reveals the beautiful domes of the Lead Mosque, built in 1773.
• St Stephen’s Catholic Cathedral (Shkoder Cathedral) - One of the grandest in the Balkans, the Cathedral of Shkodra has an extraordinary story of survival.
• Pedonalja - The Promenade in Shkodra captures a European aesthetic with its decorative and intricate designs that pave the historic street of this artistically rich city.

Just shy of 1km in length at 800m, the Promenade in Shkodra is entirely paved with beautifully decorated cobblestones. Recently renovated, this promenade evokes the architecture of bygone eras, when there was arguably a greater appreciation for time and patience in crafting enduring beauty. Consequently, this picturesque promenade reflects the time, beauty, and tranquility of those who walk upon it.

• Marubi National Museum of Photography - Conveniently located along the main promenade of Shkodër, the Marubi National Photography Museum showcases an extensive collection of negatives mounted on glass plates. The meticulously organized and classified collection is arranged by subject and year the photograph was taken, including the first-ever photograph of Albania, captured in 1858! The two-story building houses the studio of renowned photographer Pietro (Pjetër) Marubi, who is credited with starting it all.

• Tour Leader
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• All entry fees mentioned in our itinerary

• Lunch & Snacks
• Souvenris & Tip

This daily tour covers two of Albania’s most historically and culturally significant cities. Kruja, rich in history and tradition, is known as the home of patriots and the epicenter of Albania’s independence from the Ottoman Empire. Shkodra, the birthplace of notable Albanian poets like Migjeni, painters like Kol Idromeno, and the renowned Marubi family of photographers, features the captivating Marubi National Photography Museum, which showcases the first photograph ever taken in Albania.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.