From Tirana: Private Bovilla Lake Preza Castle, Private Guide/Car

Tirana , Albania

From Tirana: Private Bovilla Lake Preza Castle, Private Guide/Car

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About this experience

The Bovilla Lake & Preza Castle Full-Day Tour from Tirana combines two hidden gems near Tirana.

In the morning, you will visit the stunning Lake of Bovilla. The Lake of Bovilla is a beautiful lake in between two mountain ranges. You will be driven to the Mount Gamti Balcony and hike for about 10 minutes to the viewing point. From the balcony, you will have the most impressive view of the Lake & the wild and untouched nature surrounding the Lake.

Then in the afternoon, you will visit the Preza Village & the Castle of Preza. Preza is an authentic Albanian village with a very "romantic" and "Italian feel". You will drive up the narrow winding road. Along the road, you will see beautiful natural stone houses and lovely floral gardens. On the top of the hill, you will enter Preza Castle, which has a breathtaking, panoramic view of the surrounding villages, mountains & lakes.

Available options

From Tirana: Private Bovilla Lake Preza Castle, Private Guide/Car

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Private Tour Guide

Entrance fees

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Bovilla Lake is a stunning natural spot near Tirana. The lake of Bovilla is located in the North-East of Tirana and it is set in between two mountain ranges.

This beautiful water reservoir is surrounded by wild and untouched nature. It is one of the hidden gems of Albania and a spot only the locals know about.

You will be picked up from your hotel in Tirana, after which you will go on a short drive to Lake Bovilla. You will be driven to the Mount Gamti Balcony and hike for about 10 minutes to the viewing point.

Once you reach Mount Gamti Balcony, you will have a spectacular view of Lake Bovilla. The entire lake is surrounded by beautiful wild nature and undisturbed greenery. You have stunning views of the peaks and hills surrounding the Lake.

The Mount Gamti Balcony is a great spot for a picnic lunch, so be sure to bring some food along on your trip or you can try the local specialities in the restaurant on the balcony (own expense).

Preza is one of the most beautiful villages near Tirana. If you are staying in Tirana city and you would like to visit an authentic Albanian village, then you should absolutely go to Preze village.

When you enter the Preza village, you will drive up a narrow turning and twisting road. The road passes by beautiful stone houses with flower gardens and local restaurants.

At the top of the road, you can visit Preza Castle. Although the castle itself is mostly in ruins, it has the most amazing view.

When you arriva at the top of the hill, you have a breathtaking view towards the mountains, the valley, Tirana city and Kruje city. You can climb up the staircase to the Castle of Preze, from where you can see a beautiful natural mountain lake in the hills.

One of the best spots in the castle is the tower, which is located on top of the little cafe. You can sit down in the tower, order a coffee and take in the panoramic view.

The Castle of Preza was originally built in the 14th century by the local Thopias family. However, it was in the 15th century that the castle became famous in Albania. Because the castle was used by Albania's national hero Skanderbeg in his resistance against the Ottoman invasion.

Inside the castle, you can consume some drinks from the cafe inside the castle walls. There is also a lovely stone restaurant on site, which serves Albanian specialities.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

EN NL

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Tirana

Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, is a city where Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences blend to create a unique urban tapestry. Known for its colorful buildings, lively cafes, and rich history, Tirana offers a dynamic mix of old and new that captivates visitors.

Top Attractions

Bunk'Art 2

A Cold War-era bunker turned museum, Bunk'Art 2 offers a fascinating look into Albania's communist past. The museum features exhibits on the history of communism, the secret police, and the Cold War.

Historical 1-2 hours €5

Blloku

Blloku is Tirana's most vibrant district, known for its lively nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. Once the exclusive residential area of communist leaders, it has transformed into the city's entertainment hub.

Entertainment Evening or full day Free to explore, varies by venue

Dajti National Park

Dajti National Park offers stunning views of Tirana and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike, enjoy nature, or take the cable car for panoramic views.

Nature Half day or full day €5 for cable car, free for hiking

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb and rice, topped with a yogurt and egg sauce.

Main Dish Contains dairy and meat

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, baked until golden and flaky.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Fërgesë

A hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Dajti National Park Mountain biking in the surrounding hills Paragliding near Tirana Visiting Blloku for cafes and people-watching Enjoying a spa day at a local wellness center Relaxing at a traditional hammam (Turkish bath) Exploring Bunk'Art 2 and other museums Attending a performance at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring Tirana, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. The city is in full bloom during spring, while autumn provides a warm, pleasant climate.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Italian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tirana is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas.

Getting there

By air

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza • 20 km from city center

By bus

Tirana Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Tirana. The system is affordable and covers most major areas, though it can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: TaksiTirana, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Blloku Pazari i Ri Kamza

Day trips

Berat

120 km from Tirana • Full day

Berat, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Windows,' is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore Ottoman-era houses, churches, and the Berat Castle.

Durrës

35 km from Tirana • Half day or full day

Durrës is Albania's largest beach resort, offering a mix of relaxation and history. Visitors can enjoy the beach, explore the Roman amphitheater, and visit the Archaeological Museum.

Krujë

30 km from Tirana • Half day or full day

Krujë is a historic town known for its medieval castle, bazaar, and the Ethnographic Museum. It's a popular day trip from Tirana, offering a glimpse into Albania's medieval past.

Festivals

Tirana International Film Festival • November Tirana Jazz Festival • November Tirana Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Bunk'Art 2 for a fascinating look into Albania's communist past.
Explore the vibrant Blloku district for nightlife, dining, and shopping.
Take a day trip to Berat or Durrës for a mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation.
Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek at traditional restaurants and cafes.
Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and reduce your carbon footprint.