Bovilla Lake & Kruja Day Tour from Tirana: Nature, History & Bazaar

Summary

Guided Day Trip to Bovilla Lake and Kruja Castle from Tirana

You’ll hike above Bovilla Lake for mountain views and coffee with locals before wandering Kruja’s bazaar for handmade souvenirs and exploring its ancient castle—all in one easy day from Tirana.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Tirana was still cool when we hopped into the van, heading north toward Bovilla Lake. The drive out of the city felt quick—one moment you’re dodging city traffic, the next you’re winding through green hills. Our guide, Erion, pointed out wildflowers along the roadside and joked about how the lake’s color changes with the weather. When we reached Bovilla, there was a faint smell of pine and damp earth. We hiked up a rocky path—not too steep, but enough to get your heart going—and suddenly the lake opened up below us, all glassy blue and surrounded by mountains. There’s this tiny café perched right at the edge; we grabbed strong Albanian coffee there while watching clouds drift over the water. If you listen closely, you’ll hear goats somewhere nearby.

After soaking in the view (and finishing our coffee), we drove about an hour to Kruja—a town that feels like it’s stepped out of another time. The old bazaar is all cobblestones and wooden stalls; I found a woman weaving carpets by hand, her fingers moving so fast I could barely follow. You can pick up little copper trinkets or hand-embroidered scarves here—honestly, it’s hard not to buy something for friends back home. Our guide shared stories about Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero, whose statue stands tall near the entrance to Kruja Castle.

Walking up to the castle itself is like climbing through layers of history. The stones are worn smooth in places from centuries of footsteps. Inside the walls, there are a couple of restaurants—Erion recommended one tucked away behind an old olive tree where they serve homemade qofte and fresh bread. If you’re hungry after exploring (I was), it hits the spot. By late afternoon, we made our way back to Tirana—tired but with that good kind of tired you get after a day well spent.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bovilla Lake and Kruja City Tour

• Hike and coffee at Bovilla Lake
• Visit Old Bazaar in Kruja
• Tour Kruja Castle and lunch suggestion
• Return to Tirana

Top questions

How difficult is the hike at Bovilla Lake?

The hike isn’t too tough—just a short uphill walk on rocky ground. Most people manage fine with comfy shoes.

Can I buy souvenirs at Kruja Bazaar?

Yes! There are lots of handmade items like carpets and copperware—great for gifts or keepsakes.

Is lunch included in this tour?

Lunch isn’t included but our guide will suggest tasty local spots inside the castle area if you’d like to eat there.

Are pick-up and drop-off included?

Absolutely—we’ll pick you up where you’re staying in Tirana and bring you back after the tour.

What’s included

Your local guide takes care of everything: bottled water, snacks for along the way, all entry fees and taxes covered, comfy air-conditioned ride plus pick-up and drop-off right at your place in Tirana.