Overlooking the Adriatic Sea in Albania’s north-west, Shëngjin is a lively beach resort near the city of Lezhë. In addition to its sandy beaches, the area boasts a fascinating history, with the Illyrians, Venetians and Ottomans all leaving their mark.
Things to do in Shëngjin
Rent a sun lounger or cabana on Shëngjin Beach for a day of swimming and relaxing beside the Adriatic Sea. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and grills backing the sand where you can dine throughout the day, including Restorant Detari, Blu Mare and Cafe del Sol. To watch the luxury yachts coming and going, head to the waterfront Yacht Bar.
Just north of Shëngjin is the Thrown Sand, a large dune that offers magnificent views across the coastline from its top. It’s a particularly popular place to watch the sunset, with sliding down to its base all part of the experience. During the daytime, the beach of Rana e Hedhun offers a quiet spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Shëngjin is an attractive base for visiting Lezhë, which was once an important stronghold of the Labeatai and the Illyrian Kingdom. Dominating the city are the remains of an ancient fortress that was rebuilt by both the Venetians and the Ottomans. In the heart of Lezhë is its magnificent Orthodox Cathedral while the nearby Scanderbeg Memorial preserves the remains of one of Albania’s national heroes.
Getting around Shëngjin
Shëngjin is a 45-minute drive from Shkodër and just over an hour from Tirana. Tirana International Airport is about an hour away and has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Buses connect from nearby Lezhë to Shëngjin while ferries travel across the Adriatic Sea from Brindisi in neighbouring Italy. The centre of Shëngjin can easily be explored on foot.