Toubkal Trekking

Day Trip to Shkodra Ulcinj Montenegro from Tirana

Most people think of a fast excursion to the coast or perhaps a leisurely walk around Kruja when someone says, “day trip from Tirana.” However, one daring tourist chose to boost the ante on the day vacation by embarking on a border-hopping, castle-climbing, beach-chilling expedition into two countries—yes, TWO—all in one day. How? By heading north from Tirana to Shkodra, then skipping across the border into Ulcinj, Montenegro. It’s part cultural crash course, part Balkan road movie, and part “where’s the nearest toilet?” adventure. Day Trip to Shkodra Ulcinj Montenegro from Tirana is really worth it!

Shkodra: Bikes, Bunkers, and a Big Ol’ Castle

The day kicks off with a drive out of Tirana, where traffic etiquette is more of a suggestion than a rule. About two hours later, the first stop: Shkodra, a northern Albanian gem that loves its bicycles more than Amsterdam does.

Here, the traveler is greeted by Rozafa Castle, which is as dramatic as the legend behind it—a woman supposedly walled into the fortress to keep it standing. That’s medieval engineering with a dark twist. The castle overlooks the blue waters of Lake Shkodra, with Montenegro winking flirtatiously from across the lake.

After snapping some castle-top selfies, the traveler grabs a quick espresso (because in Albania, espresso isn’t coffee—it’s oxygen) and maybe a slice of byrek to fuel the next leg of the journey: the border crossing.

Crossing Into Montenegro: GPS Confusion Guaranteed

Let’s talk about Balkan border crossings. They are part bureaucratic tango, part Google Maps roulette. One minute you’re cruising through Albanian farmland, the next you’re explaining to a Montenegrin border guard why you’re only staying for five hours. Pro tip: bring your passport and a winning smile. Or at least a snack to keep you friendly while waiting in line behind a German tour bus.

Once across the border, the scenery shifts. Montenegro goes full Mediterranean mode, and soon the traveler is winding into Ulcinj, the southernmost beach town in the country.

Ulcinj: Sun, Sand, and a Side of Ottoman Charm

Ulcinj is where the Adriatic gets playful. The beach is long, the sun is hot, and the gelato stands are suspiciously good. The town has an Ottoman heart, with a compact old town that feels like a Game of Thrones set minus the dragons (and plus a few souvenir shops).

Legend has it that Miguel de Cervantes—yes, Don Quixote’s dad—was imprisoned in Ulcinj by pirates. So of course, our traveler makes a beeline for the castle walls to channel their inner literary hostage.

After a dip in the sea, and perhaps a grilled fish lunch that costs less than a latte back home, it’s time to hit the road again—returning to Albania with sandy feet, castle pics, and a growing addiction to Balkan bakeries.

Final Thoughts: Two Countries, One Day, Zero Regrets

Is it ambitious? Yes. Is it slightly exhausting? Also yes. But is it absolutely worth it to see Shkodra’s charm and Ulcinj’s beachy magic all in one whirlwind day? Oh, 100%.

Just don’t forget your passport, your patience, and maybe an extra phone charger. Because telling this story on Instagram? That’s half the fun.