Discover Northern Albania's Hidden Gems: A 5-Day Offbeat Itinerary Staying in Two Charming Towns

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Shkodra, Albania on June 12, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Tradita Geg & Tosk

Enjoy a traditional Albanian breakfast with local pastries and tea in a cozy ambiance; perfect for starting your day immersed in local culture.

EUR5, 1h0m

10:30am

Rozafa Castle Visit

Explore this historical fortress overlooking Shkodra Lake, offering panoramic views and intriguing legends from the Illyrian and medieval periods. Easy walking paths are available around the site.

EUR3, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mrizi i Zanave

Savor farm-to-table Albanian cuisine crafted with fresh local ingredients in a rustic, eco-friendly setting — a perfect way to taste the flavors of northern Albania without the crowds.

EUR15, 1h30m

3:00pm

Marubi National Museum of Photography

Discover Albania's photographic heritage in this unique museum housing the Marubi family's vast collection of images, providing insight into northern Albania’s cultural and social history.

EUR4, 1h30m

5:00pm

Stroll along the Shkodra Lake promenade

Enjoy a gentle walk along the shores of Shkodra Lake, taking in the tranquil scenery and vibrant local life as the sun begins to set.

Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Forza Café

Dine on a wide selection of Albanian and Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with a view of the city’s lively streets.

EUR10, 1h30m

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Day 2: Museum and Village Culture

Shkodra, Albania on June 13, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mon Chéri Patisserie

Start your day with exquisite pastries and fresh coffee in this charming bakery known for its delightful ambience.

EUR4, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Historical Villages: Vrakë and Grlaj

Take short transfers to these nearby lesser-known villages, where you can enjoy gentle strolls through traditional architecture and meet warm local inhabitants.

EUR10 (transport), 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Vila Bekteshi

Taste home-style Albanian dishes such as qofte and tave kosi in this family-run restaurant known for authentic recipes and warm hospitality.

EUR12, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit the Historical Museum of Shkodra

Explore Shkodra’s rich history focusing on regional artifacts and displays that offer further insight on northern Albania’s past.

EUR3, 1h30m

6:00pm

Leisure time in Shkodra Old Town

Enjoy relaxed walking around the narrow streets, visiting local shops, cafes, or simply sitting at a café soaking in the atmosphere.

Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Tradition Restaurant

Savor traditional northern Albanian cuisine in an intimate atmosphere that celebrates local culinary heritage.

EUR15, 1h30m

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Day 3: Transfer and Relaxation

Drive Shkodra to Theth, Albania on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before the scenic drive to Theth.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Shkodra to Theth

Travel through picturesque northern Albania countryside to Theth, approximately 2.5 to 3 hours with stops to admire rural landscapes and local life. Roads are well maintained for comfort.

EUR40, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at E Shehzeri Theth Restaurant

Taste traditional mountain dishes like homemade cheese and fresh bread in a welcoming mountain village setting.

EUR12, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Theth National Park Center & easy walk to Theth Church

Learn about the local flora, fauna, and cultural heritage at the park center, then take a gentle 15-minute walk to see the beautiful 18th-century Theth Church surrounded by stunning nature.

Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Accommodation

Enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere of Theth and rest before dinner.

Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Panorama Restaurant

Indulge in locally sourced dishes with breathtaking views of the Albanian Alps — a perfect way to end your day.

EUR15, 1h30m

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Day 4: Relaxed Village Exploration

Theth, Albania on June 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a wholesome mountain breakfast with fresh local ingredients.

Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Theth Waterfall by an easy 20-minute walk

Take a gentle and picturesque walk to the beautiful waterfall, ideal for nature lovers without strenuous hiking. Rest areas along the path make it comfortable.

Free, 3h0m