• Rozafa Castle - Rozafa Castle is a grand fortress perched atop a hill near the city of Shkoder. It offers breathtaking, panoramic views of Shkoder city and Lake Shkodra. Originally established by the Illyrians in ancient times, the castle was later reconstructed by the Venetians and the Ottoman Turks.

A well-known legend surrounds the castle. It is said that three brothers built the castle by day, but the walls would collapse at night. An old man advised them that a human sacrifice was necessary to keep the walls standing. The brothers agreed that the wife who brought lunch the next day would be sacrificed. The two elder brothers informed their wives, but the youngest brother’s wife, Rozafa, was not told and was sacrificed. She consented on the condition that her foot, hand, and breast remain exposed so she could care for her infant. A statue of Rozafa can be seen at the entrance of the castle’s museum.

• Venice Art Mask Factory - The Venice Art Mask Factory is both a factory and exhibition space for Venetian masks. Founded in 1997 by Edmond Angoni, an Albanian who spent considerable time in Venice, the factory has grown into a global enterprise. It operates eight shops in Venice and one in Las Vegas, with masks also available in luxury stores in Dubai and Australia.

At the Venice Art Mask Factory, visitors can admire a collection of 1,700 unique art masks. Each mask is crafted by a team of 12 or 13 professionals who handle molding, papier-mâché, painting, and decoration. The factory produces over 30,000 masks annually. Browsing through the exquisite collection is a delightful experience, and each mask is a unique piece of art. With a range of prices, visitors might find a special souvenir to take home.

• Marubi National Museum of Photography - The Marubi National Photography Museum houses a collection of photographs taken by three generations of photographers. In 1850, Pietro Marubi, an Italian painter and photographer, fled to Shkoder for political reasons and established a photography business called Foto Marubi. He trained Kel Kodheli, who succeeded him and adopted the name Kel Marubi. Later, Kel’s son, Gege Marubi, continued the family tradition.

The museum features a collection of 400,000 photographs that chronicle Albania’s history. The Marubi family captured significant national events and everyday life in Albania, including portraits of tribal leaders, highland uprisings, and notable figures like Edith Durham.

• Mesi Bridge - The Mesi Bridge is a cultural monument located northeast of Shkoder city. This historic bridge was constructed in the 18th century during the Ottoman Empire’s rule over Albania.

Today, it stands as the largest surviving bridge from the Ottoman era in Albania. A popular tourist attraction, it was voted the top bridge to visit in Albania by TripAdvisor. The bridge spans 108 meters and features 13 small arches, set against a backdrop of stunning mountains.

• Rruga Kole Idromeno (улица Коль Идромено) - Kole Idromeno Street is a renowned pedestrian street in the heart of Shkoder city. This charming boulevard, designed by local architect and painter Kole Idromeno, who studied in Venice, exudes an Italian ambiance. It boasts decorative elements such as beautiful stones and romantic lighting, making it an ideal spot for strolling, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying a pleasant afternoon on a terrace.
• Shkoder - In the afternoon, there is free time to explore the city center of Shkoder. Visitors can choose to visit the Ebu Bekr Mosque, St. Stephen’s Catholic Cathedral, or the Orthodox Cathedral of the Nativity. Alternatively, they can enjoy a leisurely walk through the city’s picturesque historical streets.
• Shkodra Lake - For those who love nature, an afternoon visit to Shkodra Lake is an option. As the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula, it straddles the border between Albania and Montenegro. The area is serene and refreshing, with opportunities to drive along the road to Shiroka and visit the Buna River delta. The lake’s crystal-clear waters make it a stunning location.

• Private tour guide in Shkoder
• Private transport with a/c vehicle
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Tirana
• Entrance fee to Rozafa Castle
• Entrance fee to Marubi National Museum of Photography
• Entrance fee to Venice Art Mask Factory

• Lunch
• Gratuities

Shkoder is among the most picturesque cities in Albania. In the morning, visitors will explore Rozafa Castle, perched atop a mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Shkoder city and Shkoder Lake.

Following this, there is an opportunity to visit the Venice Art Mask Factory, home to a collection of distinctive Venetian Masks. A stop at the Marubi National Museum of Photography is also included, showcasing unique Albanian photographs dating back to 1850. Additionally, the Mesi Bridge, a beautiful stone bridge constructed during the Turkish Ottoman empire, can be admired.

In the afternoon, there is free time to discover the Venetian-style boulevard, the historic city center, or Shkodra Lake. Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Tirana are included, as well as all entrance fees to the mentioned museums.

• Please wear comfortable walking shoes

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