Staying overnight in Krujë is not absolutely essential to fully experience this quaint town in northern Albania. Located less than 1.5 hours’ drive from Tirana, it’s perfectly feasible to explore all it has to offer during a day trip. However, we recommend spending at least one night in Krujë.
Staying overnight allows you to visit the old bazaar and the historic castle without the usual crowds of day-trippers. Plus, Krujë is an excellent stopover on your journey from the capital city of Tirana to the stunning Albanian Alps. We chose to spend a night here and highly recommend that you consider doing the same. In this blog, we provide tips for finding the best guesthouses and hotels in Krujë, advising you to look beyond some of the more dated accommodations to discover the true gems.
Tip: The cost of accommodation in Albania is relatively low. This offers you the opportunity to stay in some of the finest hotels for the same price—or even less—than you would pay for a standard hotel room in the Netherlands.
Booking.comWhere is Krujë located in Albania?
Positioned at the base of the Albanian Alps in the northern part of the country, Krujë proved to be an ideal pit stop for us in our camper van journey from Valbona to Tirana.
The city is conveniently reachable for a day trip from Tirana, located just under an hour and a half away by car. Consequently, it is a favored spot for day excursions. The coastal town of Durrës, famed for its beaches, is also close by. It’s about a 50-minute drive from Krujë to Durrës.
Why Krujë is worth visiting
Krujë is a historic mountain village that captivates visitors with its rich history and stunning vistas. The village holds great historical significance for Albanians, as it was a focal point for resistance against the Ottomans.
Dominating the town’s skyline is Krujë Castle, a bastion of Albanian resistance led by the national hero, Skanderbeg. Inside the castle, you can explore the Skanderbeg Museum, which offers a deep dive into his life and the broader struggle for Albanian independence.
Just a short walk from the castle, the Old Bazaar invites visitors to immerse themselves in a traditional market setting where authentic Albanian handicrafts and souvenirs are sold. Though it is the oldest bazaar in Albania and primarily caters to tourists today, it retains a genuine charm that enchants every visitor.
With its historical depth and charming market, combined with breathtaking panoramic views, Krujë is undoubtedly worth adding to your Albanian itinerary. Being less than an hour and a half’s drive from the capital, Tirana, it is also an accessible destination to enhance your travel experience.
How many days to spend in Krujë?
Even though Krujë is a popular destination and boasts an enticing array of attractions, it is actually quite a small town. You can comfortably visit all its sights in just one day. If you decide to skip the Skanderbeg Museum and the Ethnographic Museum, you might find that even half a day is enough. Your visit could simply involve a leisurely walk through the narrow street of the Old Bazaar up to the castle, where you can soak in the spectacular views.
However, we highly recommend spending at least one night in Krujë to truly appreciate the town. An overnight stay gives you the opportunity to explore Krujë early in the morning before the day visitors arrive, allowing you to experience the town almost to yourself. We stopped here on our journey from Valbona in the Albanian Alps to the capital city of Tirana, and continued our travels in the afternoon. This is something we suggest you consider doing too.
Best hotels in Kruje
It’s best to stay right in the heart of Krujë, as close as possible to the Old Bazaar and the castle. We opted for accommodation just outside the town center. Although it was still within walking distance of the main attractions, we found the walk a bit more challenging than anticipated. This is often the case in mountain villages, especially if you’re navigating steep inclines, which can be a bit more demanding.
In summary, the ideal place to stay in Krujë is right in the old town center, where you are closest to the main sights.
The best hotels in Krujë Old Town:
#1 Hotel Panorama is the most popular hotel in the village. As its name suggests, it offers magnificent views over the surrounding countryside, the ancient town, and the castle of Krujë. The hotel’s outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers is the perfect place to relax and take in the scenic surroundings.
#2 Kruja Albergo Diffuso boasts a superb location within the historic castle walls. This hotel is highly praised for its modern rooms that blend authentic touches with contemporary comfort, the building’s traditional charm, its stunning views, and exceptional hospitality.
#3 Vila HK occupies a traditional Ottoman-style building. The hotel receives consistently high reviews thanks to its warm hospitality, spacious rooms, and excellent location. To make the most of your stay, book a room with a view of the city, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of Krujë right from your hotel room.
