If you crave adventure, wild landscapes, and the thrill of discovery, Northern Albania is your playground. Here’s how you can squeeze the best of this untamed region into four unforgettable days—designed for hikers, photographers, and nature seekers who want every moment to count.
🎥 Visual Itinerary (TikTok): Watch the 4-day trip breakdown here – perfect for getting inspired before your journey.
Day 1: Shkodra – The Cultural Gateway
Morning
- Arrive in Shkodra, Albania’s northern capital, from Tirana (approx. 2 hours by bus or car; bus fare: 5–8€).
- Recommended bus companies: Albus or Genti Tours, departing from Tirana’s North Bus Station.
Afternoon
- Visit Rozafa Castle for panoramic views and local legend. Entry: ~400 lek (4€).
- Explore Shkodra’s Old Town and Pedonalja, where Venetian-style buildings meet vibrant cafés and artisan shops.
- Optional stop: Marubi National Photography Museum (~500 lek/5€) for a deep dive into Albania’s visual history.
Evening
- Overnight in a guesthouse or boutique hotel (20–40€/night). Expect warm hospitality and local stories.
“Skadar/Shkodra Lake has become the main focus of transboundary collaboration between Albania and Montenegro…”
Strategic Action Plan for Skadar-Shkodra Lake
Day 2: Komani Lake → Valbona Valley
Early Morning
- Depart Shkodra by shuttle or private transfer to Komani Lake (10–15€ shuttle, 60–90€ private).
- Use services like Berisha Ferry or Komani Lake Ferry.
09:00 – Ferry from Komani to Fierza
- Duration: ~2.5 hours
- Cost: 8–10€
- The journey is often described as “one of the most scenic in Europe”.
Midday
- Arrive in Fierza, transfer by shared van or 4x4 to Valbona (1–1.5 hours, 5–10€).
Afternoon & Evening
- Stay in a traditional guesthouse in Valbona (20–35€/night, often includes dinner).
- Optional: light hike along the Valbona River or relax surrounded by the Alps.
Day 3: Hike Valbona to Theth
The Classic Albanian Alps Traverse
- Distance: ~17 km
- Duration: 6–8 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (steep sections but accessible to active travelers)
- Start early: 07:00–08:00 recommended
What to Bring
- 1.5–2L water, snacks, sun protection, hat, layered clothes, sturdy shoes
- Optional: mule for luggage (~50€), guide (~40–60€)
Evening
- Arrive in Theth, known for its stone towers, church, and authentic Albanian mountain culture.
- Overnight in a local guesthouse (25–40€/night).
“Spring water is drinkable almost everywhere,”
Shkodra Management Plan
Day 4: Theth & Return
Morning Activities
- Walk to Grunas Waterfall (easy, ~45 min round trip)
- Visit Theth’s church and the Lock-in Tower (Kulla e Ngujimit)
- Optional: trek to Blue Eye of Theth (~3-hour hike) or take a 4x4 (~30€/person)
Afternoon
- Shared van to Shkodra or Tirana (10–15€, ~4–5 hours). The road is mostly paved, but still scenic and winding.
Practical Tips & Costs
- Estimated Budget: 140–250€ per person (transport, lodging, meals, extras)
- Best Time to Go: Late May to mid-October (when trails and ferries are accessible)
- Bring Cash: No ATMs in Valbona or Theth
- Weather Prep: Dress in layers, and check local forecasts
- Connectivity: Little to no mobile signal in the mountains—download maps in advance
- Pack Light: Leave suitcases in Shkodra and use a backpack for the Alps
“...to improve the environmental management and support sustainable economic use of the natural resources of Skadar/Shkodra Lake…”
Strategic Action Plan for Skadar-Shkodra Lake
Why This Route Works
You’ll experience the full spectrum of Northern Albania: the cultural energy of Shkodra, the raw beauty of Komani Lake, the rewarding hike from Valbona to Theth, and the unique stillness of Albania’s mountain heart.
This is not just an itinerary—it’s a journey through time, terrain, and tradition.