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Pogradec may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of Albania, but it’s a charming destination that many people choose to visit either for a relaxing getaway or even as a place to relocate.
The city and its surroundings are recognised by UNESCO as part of the World Heritage Site that protects the natural and cultural treasures of the Ohrid region.
Even though Pogradec is a small city, there’s plenty to do if you plan on staying for a few days, and a lot of interesting facts to explore that you probably haven’t heard of.
In this blog, I’ll share some of the best activities to do around the city, along with tips on where to stay, where to eat, as well as some interesting activities coming up. Let’s go!
How to Get to Pogradec From Tirana
One of the easiest ways to get to Pogradec from Tirana is by bus. The trip takes around two and a half hours on average, with daily departures at different times. Whether you want to head out early in the morning or travel later in the evening, the schedule has an option that fits.
(Pictures of the beautiful sky on my way back to Tirana 😍)
For a more comfortable trip, I suggest renting a car. This way, you can enjoy the road at your own pace and even stop along the way to take some pictures.
How’s the Climate There
Pogradec has a mix of warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. In summer, you can expect clear skies and daytime temperatures that usually reach the high 70s to low 80s °F (around 25–27°C). Winter, on the other hand, gets quite chilly, with snow and temperatures often dipping below freezing.
What to Visit in and Around Pogradec
1-Tushemisht
If you’re into cosy country vibes with a sprinkle of nostalgia, Tushemisht is your spot. It’s this adorable little village just outside Pogradec, where a classic Albanian comedy, The Lady from the City (Zonja nga Qyteti), was filmed back in 1976.
The statue of Teto Ollga (the main character of the movie) is there, and it’s basically a local icon. The film follows her journey from city life to the rustic charm of Tushemisht, as she reluctantly settles in with her daughter (a nurse sent there under the socialist system) and eventually ends up fitting right in, running around as the village cook and melting hearts along the way.
I’d say visiting Tushemisht is like walking into one of those scenic film scenes. Canals criss-cross the village, gardens burst with homegrown goodies, and every corner feels warm and lived-in.
And if you’re up for it, stay in one of the traditional homes to get the most out of your experience.
2-Castle of Pogradec
If you want the best view of Pogradec and Lake Ohrid, you have to head up to the Castle of Pogradec.
Well, to be fair, it’s mostly ruins now, but the walk up is totally worth it. From the top, you get a panoramic view of the lake, the city, and even across to North Macedonia on a clear day.
The castle itself dates back to the 5th century BC and was once an important Illyrian fortress. Today, people mostly go for the views and the quiet atmosphere. You can sit there for a while, watch the sunset, and really take in how peaceful Pogradec feels compared to Albania’s bigger cities.
3-Driloni National Park
Drilon National Park is like nature’s little heaven in Pogradec, and honestly, it’s a must-visit while you’re here. The park is fed by the waters of Lake Ohrid, and you’ll find calm canals, swans gliding around, and plenty of greenery that makes it feel almost like a fairytale.
You can hop on a small boat to explore the canals (when the weather is appropriate) or just take a slow walk along the paths if that’s more your style. Either way, it’s the perfect place to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the peaceful side of Pogradec.
4-Lin – The Oldest Settlement in Europe!
Just a short 25–30 minute drive from Pogradec, you’ll find the little village of Lin. It’s small, peaceful, and surrounded by nature (truly looks like a postcard!), but what makes this village so special is its history. Lin is believed to be the oldest settlement in Europe!
Here you can also visit the remains of a Byzantine church, which is a Cultural Monument of Albania and part of the wider UNESCO-protected Ohrid Region. The church is especially famous for its mosaics, which date back to the 6th century. Even if you’re not a history buff, the setting is stunning, and the mix of lake views, quiet village life, and ancient culture makes Lin worth the trip.
5-Cycle Along Lake Ohrid
If you’re up for a relaxed but scenic adventure, cycling along the lakeshore is a total win. There’s a lovely, smooth route that hugs Lake Ohrid and stretches toward the North Macedonian border. It’s easy, beautiful, and you get to discover the area at your own pace, just you, the road, and those gorgeous lake views.
6-Hike to Guri i Kamjes
If you’re up for a little adventure, take a hike to Guri i Kamjes, a huge rock formation that looks almost like a ship rising out of the hills. It’s about an hour’s walk once you get near the starting point, and the views from the top are incredible.
On a clear day, you can see Lake Ohrid, the mountains around Pogradec, and even further into the national parks. It’s one of those spots that makes you stop and just take it all in.
7-Day Trips From Pogradec
One of the best things about staying in Pogradec is how close it is to other amazing spots. If you have a little extra time, here are two day trips worth making:
Korçë –> Just 40 minutes away, Korçë is often called the “little Paris of Albania.” It’s got a lively bazaar, plenty of cafes, and a brewery that locals are proud of. The city also has a warm, artsy vibe that feels completely different from Pogradec, so it’s fun to see both in the same trip.
Saint Naum Monastery –> Cross the border into North Macedonia (it’s very close to Pogradec) and you’ll find this 1,000-year-old monastery perched right on the lake. The setting is stunning: clear springs, peacocks roaming around, and a church decorated with colourful frescoes. It’s peaceful, spiritual, and very photogenic; totally worth the quick trip.
8-Try Traditional Food
When you’re in Pogradec, eating fish by the lake is almost a tradition. The most famous one is the Koran trout, a species unique to Lake Ohrid. It’s usually served grilled or baked, and locals will tell you there’s nothing quite like the flavour.
Another common dish is belushka, a smaller lake fish that’s just as tasty and often fried or cooked simply with fresh herbs.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Pogradec
Taverna Eransi – ⭐ 5.0 (68 reviews) · Traditional, lakeside dining
Oborri Familjar – ⭐ 5.0 (211 reviews) · Cosy, family-style restaurant
Piceri Rinia – ⭐ 4.9 (36 reviews) · Pizza & casual dining
Restorant Zgara Familjare – ⭐ 4.8 (550 reviews) · Grilled dishes, Albanian specialities
Restaurant Bizantin – ⭐ 4.8 (308 reviews) · Mediterranean, Italian, steakhouse
Taverna KOÇO (Tushemisht) – ⭐ 4.8 (803 reviews) · Traditional Albanian, popular in the village nearby
Restorant Rosa e Tymosur – ⭐ 4.6 (773 reviews) – Fresh and homemade food
Events and Activities You Can Do
Festa e Koranit
If you happen to visit Pogradec in August, you might catch one of its most beloved traditions: the Festa e Koranit (The Festival of the Koran Trout). Held every year, this event celebrates the city’s most famous fish, the Koran. It usually takes place at the Odeon by the lake and combines everything locals love: food, music, and community.
Open Sky Cinema
During the summer, the city hosts Open Sky Cinema. For just 300 lek per ticket, you can watch films outdoors, right across from Hotel Kalaja, with the lake breeze in the background.
Swimming Marathon “Agron Ruvina”
If you’re in Pogradec in late August, you might catch one of the city’s biggest annual sports events: the “Agron Ruvina” Swimming Marathon. Held right on Lake Ohrid, this marathon brings together swimmers of all ages, from kids and local amateurs to professional athletes from across the region.
Want to Relocate to Pogradec?
If Pogradec feels like the place you’d love to call home, we’re here to make that move easier. Relocating to a new country can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team offers professional relocation support, from visas and residency paperwork to finding the right accommodation and settling in smoothly.
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