3-Day North Albania: Kruja, Theth, Blue Eye, Shkoder Shala River
Overview
Available languages
72 hours
Mobile ticket
This immersive 3-day tour from Tirana takes you deep into the beauty and history of Northern Albania. Explore the legendary town of Kruja, the cultural charm of Shkoder, and the fairytale alpine village of Theth, home to the stunning Blue Eye spring. Then cruise the breathtaking Komani Lake to reach the hidden paradise of the Shala River. Perfect for travelers who want to experience Albania’s history, nature, and local life—all in one unforgettable adventure.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Breakfast
Alcoholic Beverages and all beverages
2x Lunch
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Tirana – Kruja – Shkoder
Accommodations
Overnight in the city centre of Shkodra
Kruje
Castles, Bazaars & Culture by the Lake We begin the day with a scenic drive from Tirana to the historic hilltop town of Kruja. You’ll stroll through its atmospheric Old Bazaar, where local artisans sell handwoven rugs, copper goods, and traditional souvenirs. Then, step into the mighty Kruja Castle, once the stronghold of national hero Skanderbeg, and explore the museum dedicated to his resistance against the Ottoman Empire.
Shkoder
After lunch, we head north to Shkoder, one of the oldest cities in the Balkans. Visit the legendary Rozafa Castle, dramatically located above the convergence of three rivers and surrounded by myth and history. The day ends with a relaxed walk along the Shkodra Lake promenade and the city’s pedestrian center. ️ Overnight in Shkoder
Shkoder – Theth – Blue Eye – Shkoder
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Theth
Mountain Villages & Hidden Springs Early in the morning, we drive through the Albanian Alps to reach the remote village of Theth, one of the most scenic and traditional destinations in the country. Surrounded by towering peaks and untouched nature, Theth offers a glimpse into highland life. You'll visit the postcard-perfect Theth Church, and the Reconciliation Tower, a symbol of the region’s ancient laws and customs. From there, we begin a moderate hike (approx. 1 hour each way) to the Blue Eye of Theth, a dazzling natural spring set in the forest. Its deep turquoise water and tranquil setting make it one of Albania’s most impressive natural wonders. After time to rest and take photos, we hike back to Theth and return to Shkoder in the afternoon. ️ Overnight in Shkoder
Day 3: Shkoder – Komani Lake – Shala River – Tirana
Shala River
Fjord Boat Ride & River Escape We depart Shkoder at 08:00 and head to Komani Lake (approx. 1h20min drive). From here, we embark on a 1.5-hour boat journey through what is often described as “the fjords of Albania”—a spectacular ride between steep cliffs, lush slopes, and emerald waters. Our destination is the breathtaking Shala River, accessible only by boat and known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic setting. You’ll have 2–3 hours of free time to swim, relax on the white stone beaches, or enjoy a riverside lunch at a traditional wooden guesthouse. In the afternoon, we return by boat to Komani and continue the journey back to Tirana (approx. 3.5 hours), where the tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or the airport.
Options
3-Day North Albania: Kruja, Theth, Blue Eye, Shkoder Shala River
Pickup included
Reviews
11 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience
enxhim2024,
Jun 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great Experience! Highly recommend for all nature and explorer lovers. The guide was very helpful and professional. 5/5 an unforgettable experience 🔥🔥
North Albania
edonaz793,
Jun 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lately we had an amazing tour in Albania with Local Friends. We started in Kruja, where the castle and its history really set the tone for the trip. Afterward, the landscape shifted dramatically as we made our way into Theth, a charming mountain village surrounded by stunning peaks and waterfalls. It felt like stepping into a different world, and the hiking trails were unforgettable. One of the most serene moments was at the Blue Eye – the crystal-clear waters here are mesmerizing, and it’s just the kind of peaceful escape you need. The final stop in Shkoder was the cherry on top. From there, we took a boat ride on the Shala River, which had the most incredible turquoise waters and surrounded us with lush, untouched nature. It felt like a hidden gem, tucked away from the world.
Theth and Lumi in Shalës
502taulanth,
Jun 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic experience. Nice guide who spoke fluent English about the history of Albania and their national hero the one and only Gjergj Kastrioti Skëndërbeu. Otherwise amazing nature, views and delicious food.
Fantastic trip in Theth and Lumi in Shalës
502taulanth,
Jun 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great and nice guide who arranged a 2 day tour. Fluent in English, told a lot about Albania and the history of Skëndërbeg. Otherwise a lot of nice nature, views and fantastic good food.
Theth and Shkoder
snillhest,
May 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Competent and confident driver/guide. Learned a lot about Albania and more. Nice experiences, good views and good food! Thanks for the trip :)
The best tour guide on Albania 🇦🇱
jusufs2025,
Mar 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Nice people 👍🏻, amazing experience, I will come with my friends from Norway and Sweden they'll be amused with this experience!
Exploring Albanians Culture
qamilx2025,
Mar 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I recently took a 2-day tour from Tirana to Theth and Shkoder in December, and it was an unforgettable experience! If you're looking for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and an authentic Albanian adventure, this trip is definitely worth it.We explored Shkoder, visiting Rozafa Castle for stunning views before heading to Theth, a snowy paradise in the Albanian Alps. The road was challenging due to snow, but the scenery made it worth it. Our guesthouse stay was cozy, with delicious traditional food.I highly recommend it!
A very satisfying cultural and geological experience
Lisa P,
Oct 20, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were traveling without a car, but seeking a way to do some day hiking in the mountains in Albania. Our research indicated that Theth was remote and lovely, with a somewhat strenuous hike up to The Blue Eye. And Skhodra, west of Theth was a logical and lovely parallel destination on a two day trip. Our guide, Giulio, was smart, full of Albanian knowledge and history, and also was a great driver, as we needed to get us safely to Theth in a timely manner. The hike to the Blue Eye was beautiful. It was worth every step. The water in the pool below the waterfall was a cold clear aqua - spectacular! Then we traveled with our amazing guide Giulio to Skhodra for the night, an opposite but equally lovely cultural experience, walking along cobblestone streets that resembled old Italian villages, and the next morning, Giulio guided us through Rosafa castle and the excellent Marubi photography museum. The tour gave us just what we wanted, and exceeded our expectations.
A wonderful experience
1orDinARYL,
Aug 25, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A great experience from start to finish! The country was gorgeous as were the people. Skerdi did a great job! Hands up to the team!
Tour in the north
Z3864JJsandya,
Aug 25, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had lovely time on this guided two day tour in the north. We enjoyed our hike to the waterfall in Theth, our guide Skerdi was very helpful and giving us the time we needed in each spot. ? Making stops for us for pictures and was very patient. At night we enjoyed some free time in Shkoder city and one night stay at a good hotel right in the center between bars and restaurants where the night life was vibrant. The next day we had a good breakfast in the hotel and Skerdi toured us and showed us Lake shkoder and the castle. telling us stories about the city and the castle. Ending the trip he gave us some really good advice and recommendation for our stay in Tirana Would totally recommend this tour as it was very smooth and everything went as planned. A perfect getaway ! Thank you to our guide Skerdi for this amazing tour !
From €480.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Chat with us on social
Related Experiences
Operated by Local Friends Albania