Shkodër is a vibrant Albanian city close to the border with Montenegro. It has a relaxed pace of life and an interesting mix of cultures. Of particular note, is Shkodër’s religious harmony, with its main Mosque, Catholic Cathedral and Orthodox Church all being within eyesight of each other. Shkodër is also home to busy pedestrian walkways, beautiful parks and squares as well as the largest lake in the Balkans. Not only that, but some of the top attractions in the city are absolutely free. In this Shkodër travel guide, we’ll show you the 10 best free things to do in Shkodër Albania.
Top free things to do in Shkodër Albania
We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Shkodër Albania.
- Skadar Lake
- Ebu Bekir Mosque
- St Stephen’s Cathedral (Arqipeshkëvia Metropolitane Shkodër Katedralja e Shën Shtjefnit)
- Rruga Kolë Idromeno
- Monument to Mother Teresa (Monument Nene Tereza)
- Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church
- Buna’s Bridge
- Sheshi Isa Boletini
- Shatervani Park
- Mesi Bridge
Keep reading to find out more about each destination.
Best free attraction in Shkodër Albania: Skadar Lake
About Skadar Lake Albania
Skadar Lake, also known as Lake Skadar, Lake Shkodër, Lake Shkodra, and Lake Scutari, is the largest lake in Southern Europe and the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula. The lake straddles the border of Albania and Montenegro. On the Albanian side of the lake, it is designated as a Managed Nature Reserve and is also on the Ramsar list of wetlands of international importance.
Skadar Lake is a freshwater lake and also a karst lake. Notable features of the lake include a number of small islands, a former fortress and prison as well as a well-preserved wreck of the steamboat Skanderbeg, which sunk during World War 2. Skadar Lake is also known for its biodiversity both under the water as well as above. It is one of the largest bird reserves in Europe and is home to 34 native fish species, 7 of which are only found in this lake.
Why visit Skadar Lake
Skadar Lake is one of the most scenic spots near Shkodër. It’s a beautiful freshwater lake that is perfect for swimming or simply admiring from the waters edge. There are some excellent restaurants and cafes dotted along the waterfront where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the views. Be sure to try some fresh fish and seafood direct from the lake. Carp, rainbow trout and eel are excellent choices. The lakeside is also the perfect place to go for a relaxing stroll or to go fishing or birdwatching.
How long to spend at Skadar Lake
We recommend devoting at least a couple of hours to enjoying Skadar Lake and surrounds. The area around the neighbourhood of Shirokë (also spelt Shiroke and Shiroka) is particularly lovely, with waterfront restaurants, scenic views as well as a small beach on the outskirts of the town. Shirokë is 15 minutes by car or a scenic 1 hour and 15 minutes walk from Shkodër.
Opening hours for Skadar Lake
The lake is open at all hours. However if you want to enjoy the views and perhaps go for a swim we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend in Skadar Lake
There are some lovely restaurants in Shiroke which overlook Skadar Lake. We recommend Te Zyda. This is a waterfront restaurant overlooking Skadar Lake. We tried their carp when we were there, which was fresh from the lake and beautifully cooked.
Skadar Lake address
Shkodra Lake, Albania
Main mosque in Shkodër Albania: Ebu Bekir Mosque
About Ebu Bekir Mosque
Ebu Bekir Mosque, commonly known as Great Mosque, is a Sunni Islam mosque in the heart of Shkodër Albania. It is also known by the names Xhamia Ebu Beker, the New Fushë Çela Mosque, Xhamia e re e Fushë Çela, Xhamia e Madhe,Sheik Zamil Abdullah Al-Zamil Mosque and El Zamil. This mosque was inaugurated in 1995 and stands on the site of the old Fushë Çela Mosque which was destroyed during Albania’s Communist period. It was built using donations from Saudi Arabia. This is the main mosque in Shkodër and can accommodate 1,300 people.
Why visit Ebu Bekir Mosque
Ebu Bekir Mosque is a beautiful mosque both inside and out and is a prominent landmark in Shkodër that is well worth a visit. This impressive structure has a 24 metre dome and the minarets are 41.11 metres high. From outside this mosque you can see the Catholic St Stephen’s Cathedral as well as the Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church, which is a testament to the religious harmony of the city. The mosque was built on the site of an 18th century mosque that in its day had a famous Madrasa or religious school which attracted Muslim scholars from around the world. The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate patterns and calligraphy, and there are beautiful chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. The mosque is open to visitors, but it’s important to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
How long to spend at Ebu Bekir Mosque
Ten minutes is plenty of time to admire the mosque. Allow an hour if you are attending for prayers.
Opening hours for Ebu Bekir Mosque
The mosque is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend in Ebu Bekir Mosque
The mosque accepts donations.
Ebu Bekir Mosque address
Rruga Fushë Cele 1, Shkodër, Albania
Catholic Cathedral in Shkodër Albania: St Stephen’s Cathedral
About St Stephen’s Cathedral Shkodër Albania
St Stephen’s Cathedral, also known as Shkodër Cathedral, Katedralja e Shkodrës, Kisha e Madhe and Grand Church is a Catholic cathedral in the heart of Shkodër. From the grounds of the cathedral it is possible to see Ebu Bekir Mosque and Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church, which are two other prominent religious buildings of other faiths.
This Roman Catholic church was consecrated in 1867. The church sustained damage during the 1905 earthquake and it was further damaged by the Montenegrin army during the Siege of Scutari in 1913. In 1967 the church was closed and converted into a Palace of Sports following the Cultural Revolution. In 1990 the cathedral was re-opened and Pope John Paul II visited it in 1993.
The inside of the church features a colourful painted wooden ceiling, stained glass windows, a portrait of Mother Teresa as well as pictures of Albanian Catholics that were persecuted and executed during the Communist era. There is also a small museum with information from Roman times through to the Communist period.
Why visit St Stephen’s Cathedral Shkodër Albania
St Stephen’s Cathedral is a historic church and an interesting place to learn more about Albania’s complex history.
How long to spend at St Stephen’s Cathedral Shkodër Albania
Ten minutes is plenty of time to admire the church. Allow an hour if you are attending for a service.
Opening hours for St Stephen’s Cathedral Shkodër Albania
The church is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend in St Stephen’s Cathedral Shkodër Albania
The cathedral accepts donations.
St Stephen’s Cathedral Shkodër Albania address
Sheshi “Gjon Pali II, Shkodër 4000, Albania
Plus Code: 3G89+6V Shkodër, Albania
Main pedestrian street in Shkodër Albania: Rruga Kolë Idromeno
About Rruga Kolë Idromeno
Rruga Kolë Idromeno or Kole Idromeno Street is the main pedestrian street in Shkodër Albania. Centrally located in the old town, it is always filled with people and has a great atmosphere. It is a pretty street and also a commercial centre with plenty of restaurants, shops and bars. While this street is popular with locals, it is often referred to as a tourist street due to its proximity to the main tourist sites within the city. In particular, Ebu Bekir Mosque, St Stephen’s Cathedral and Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church are all close to here. Most people walk down this street, but cyclists use the street as well.
Why visit Rruga Kolë Idromeno
Rruga Kolë Idromeno is a vibrant pedestrian street lined with great cafes and restaurants as well as shops, museums and other attractions. It has a lively atmosphere and is a great place to go for great food, shopping and to people watch.
How long to spend at Rruga Kolë Idromeno
You can walk from one end of the street to the other in 5 minutes. However we recommend spending an hour or two exploring the restaurants, shops and other attractions lining this street.
Opening hours for Rruga Kolë Idromeno
This street is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend in Rruga Kolë Idromeno
There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and shops all along Rruga Kolë Idromeno.
Rruga Kolë Idromeno address
Rruga G’juhadol 20-22, Shkodër, Albania
Iconic statue in Shkodër Albania: Monument to Mother Teresa
About Monument to Mother Teresa Shkodër Albania
Perhaps the most famous Albanian of all time, Mother Teresa was an Albanian-Indian Catholic nun who worked with the poorest of the poor in India. Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity religious community, which is now present in over 100 countries worldwide. She received numerous accolades for her work, including the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize. In 2016 she was canonised by the Catholic church and became Saint Teresa of Calcutta. Her feast day is 5 September.
The Monument to Mother Teresa is a statue of Mother Teresa, located at the end of the busy pedestrian street Rruga Kolë Idromeno. The statue depicts Mother Teresa (Nënë Tereza) with her arms folded at her chest. The statue was erected in 2006.
Why visit Monument to Mother Teresa Shkodër Albania
This is a beautiful monument to the most prominent Albanian in history.
How long to spend at Monument to Mother Teresa Shkodër Albania
5 minutes is sufficient to admire the statue, take a few photos and pay your respects to this remarkable Albanian.
Opening hours for Monument to Mother Teresa Shkodër Albania
The statue is open at all hours. However it is best seen during the day.
If you have money to spend in Monument to Mother Teresa Shkodër Albania
There are plenty of great restaurants and cafes nearby. You can also honour Mother Teresa by supporting a charity or buy buying flowers to lay at the base of the statue.
Monument to Mother Teresa Shkodër Albania address
Plus Code: 3G87+QHM, Shkodër, Albania
Orthodox church in Shkodër Albania: Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church
About Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church
Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church is an Orthodox church in the heart of Shkodra. The church was consecrated by Archbishop Anastasios on 22 June 2014. It is a beautiful building with a bell tower. From the grounds of the church it is possible to see Ebu Bekir Mosque and St Stephen’s Cathedral, which are two other prominent religious buildings of other faiths.
Why visit Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church
Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church is one of the major landmarks in Shkodër and a beautiful display of architecture. Along with the mosque and the Catholic church, it is a symbol of the religious tolerance in the city.
How long to spend at Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church
Ten minutes is plenty of time to admire the church. Allow an hour if you are attending for a service.
Opening hours for Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church
Unknown
If you have money to spend in Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church
You can buy a candle as an offering in the church. The church also accepts donations.
Nativity of Christ Orthodox Church address
Rruga Hasan Riza Pasha 39, Shkodër, Albania
Plus Code: 3G97+FX Shkodër, Albania
Best scenic bridge in Shkodër Albania: Buna’s Bridge
About Buna’s Bridge
Buna’s Bridge is a narrow bridge that crosses over the Buna River. It is closed to vehicles and can only be crossed by pedestrians and cyclists. It was built in 1889 and provides an access point between Shkodër and the lakeside villages of Siroka and Zogaj.
Why visit Buna’s Bridge
This wooden pedestrian bridge is a beautiful focal point over the Buna River. Crossing this bridge allows you to continue on to the village of Siroka on the banks of Skadar Lake. There are also some lovely views of Rozafa Castle from the bridge.
How long to spend at Buna’s Bridge
Walking across the bridge takes about 5 minutes. Allow about half an hour to view the bridge at different angles and to take plenty of photographs. We particularly recommend also spending time strolling down the nearby pedestrian promenade Shëtitorja e Molos.
Opening hours for Buna’s Bridge
The bridge is open at all hours. However to make the most of the views we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend near Buna’s Bridge
There are some great cafes and restaurants a short walk from Buna’s Bridge, all along the pedestrian street Shëtitorja e Molos. We recommend trying the fishkell from Bar Restaurant Taverna Bexhisteni. This is a traditional Albanian sausage that is absolutely delicious!
Buna’s Bridge address
Plus Code: 3F2R+9F2 Ura e Vjetër e Bunës, Shkodër, Albania
Small central square in Shkodër Albania: Sheshi Isa Boletini
About Sheshi Isa Boletini
Sheshi Isa Boletini, or Isa Bolentini Square in English, is a small square in a central location in Shkodër. The focal point of the square is a statue of Isa Boletini, who was an Albanian revolutionary commander and politician.
Why visit Sheshi Isa Boletini
This is a pleasant square which features a statue of an important Albanian figure. It provides some great photo opportunities.
How long to spend at Sheshi Isa Boletini
5 minutes is enough time to see the square and take some photographs.
Opening hours for Sheshi Isa Boletini
The square is open at all hours. However it is best seen during the day.
If you have money to spend near Sheshi Isa Boletini
There are a few cafes and restaurants a short walk from the square.
Sheshi Sheshi Isa Boletini address
Plus Code: 3G67+HGG, Shkodër, Albania
Scenic park and fountain in Shkodër Albania: Shatervani Park
About Shatervani Park
Shatervani Park is a public park in Shkodër which has a fountain as its focal point.
Why visit Shatervani Park
Shatervani Park is a pleasant park in a central location in Shkodër. It has a pretty fountain, some nice seating areas and an interesting monument. It’s a great place to relax, people watch and enjoy the scenery.
How long to spend at Shatervani Park
Half an hour is a good amount of time to enjoy the park.
Opening hours for Shatervani Park
The park is open at all hours. However to make the most of the area we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend near Shatervani Park
There are some cafes and restaurants a short walk from Shatervani Park.
Shatervani Park address
Plus Code: 3G85+4X4, Shkodër, Albania
Best historic bridge near Shkodër Albania: Mesi Bridge
About Mesi Bridge
Mesi Bridge, or Ura e Mesit in Albanian, means “The bridge in the middle”. It is a bridge in the village of Mes, a short drive from Shkodër. The bridge was constructed around 1770 and crosses over the Khir River. The bridge is of stone construction and consists of 13 arches. It is a very scenic bridge and is one of the longest Ottoman bridges in the area.
Why visit Mesi Bridge
This stone bridge is a beautiful focal point over the vibrant Khir River. It is a unique and stunning piece of architecture from the Ottoman era. It is 5km outside of Shkodër, but is well worth the drive.
How long to spend at Mesi Bridge
Walking across the bridge takes about 5 minutes. Allow about 20 minutes to view the bridge at different angles and to take plenty of photographs.
Opening hours for Mesi Bridge
The bridge is open at all hours. However to make the most of the views we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend near Mesi Bridge
There’s a cafe overlooking the bridge.
Mesi Bridge address
Shqipëri, AL, Mes 4012, Albania
Plus Code: 4H7F+RX Boks, Albania
Where to stay in Shkodër Albania?
We recommend the following accommodation in Shkodër Albania:
- Best hostel in Shkodër Albania – The Wanderers Hostel is a great value hostel right in the middle of Shkodër. The staff are very friendly and helpful and the hostel has a great atmosphere for getting to know your fellow travellers. The dorms are clean and comfortable and the facilities are excellent.
- Best guesthouse in Shkodër Albania – Green Garden Guesthouse is an amazing guesthouse on the outskirts of Shkodër. It is set in a beautiful garden oasis with fruit trees and a vegetable garden. There are also cute pets on the property including turtles. The hosts are very warm and kind people who ensure your stay is special. Breakfasts are plentiful and delicious and the rooms are clean, comfortable and air conditioned.
- Best boutique hotel in Shkodër Albania – Atelier Boutique Hotel is a charming hotel right in the heart of Shkodër. The rooms are spacious and stylishly designed. The hotel has a gorgeous courtyard area and there is also a restaurant onsite. The staff are wonderful and the food is fantastic.
- Best apartment rental in Shkodër Albania – we stayed in this Comfy apartment in Shkoder. We absolutely loved this property! The apartment was brand new when we stayed there and the décor was stylish and modern. Our host provided everything you could possibly want for a comfortable stay. Additionally, the building is perfectly positioned right in the middle of Shkoder.
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