About Shkodër

Shkodër, one of Albania’s oldest and most historic cities, is a vibrant cultural hub nestled between the serene Lake Shkodër—the largest lake in the Balkans—and the majestic Albanian Alps. Known as the “City of Bicycles” due to its extensive bike paths and cycling culture, Shkodër offers a laid-back atmosphere with a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The city is a gateway to the Albanian Alps, making it a perfect base for both academic pursuits and leisure exploration. Shkodër’s compact city center, with its pedestrian-friendly streets like Rruga Kole Idromeno, is lined with trendy cafes, shops, and historic sites, reflecting its rich Ottoman and Venetian influences. As a center of Albanian Catholicism and a model of religious harmony, Shkodër embodies a unique cultural mosaic, making it an inspiring backdrop for AIMS 2025.

Conference Venue: Hotel Rozafa

The AIMS 2025 Conference will be hosted at Hotel Rozafa, a modern and centrally located hotel in Shkodër, just 5 km from the iconic Rozafa Castle and 6 km from Lake Shkodër. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, an on-site restaurant and bar, and facilities well-suited for conferences, including meeting rooms and Wi-Fi. Its central location provides easy access to Shkodër’s main attractions, ensuring convenience for attendees. We have secured a limited number of rooms at Hotel Rozafa at a discounted rate for conference participants. Please visit the conference website and use the booking code AIMS2025 when reserving. Early booking is recommended, especially for the high season in December.

Recommended Accommodations

Shkodër offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences, from boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Below is a curated list of options, all within a short distance of Hotel Rozafa and the city center. We recommend booking early, as December is a popular time to visit Shkodër. Note that many hotels include breakfast, and some offer airport shuttle services or free bike rentals, aligning with the city’s cycling culture.

Luxury & Boutique Hotels

• Çoçja Boutique Hotel (3-star, ~1 km from Hotel Rozafa) Housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era building, this hotel blends historical charm with modern comforts. It features a garden, terrace, restaurant, and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. Ideal for those seeking a stylish and authentic Albanian experience. Airport transfers and bike rentals are available. Price: From ~$60/night (based on Booking.com averages). Booking: Available via Booking.com or the hotel’s website.

• Hotel Colosseo & Spa (4-star, ~1.5 km from Hotel Rozafa) A luxurious option with a spa, fitness center, and swimming pool, perfect for relaxation after conference sessions. The hotel offers airport shuttle services and is pet-friendly. Its central location ensures easy access to Shkodër’s attractions. Price: From ~$80/night. Booking: Check Trip.com or Expedia for deals.

• Grand Hotel Europa (5-star, ~1 km from Hotel Rozafa) This upscale hotel offers premium amenities, including a business center, restaurant, and 24-hour front desk. Its air-conditioned rooms feature modern designs, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout. Ideal for attendees seeking a high-end experience with airport transportation options. Price: From ~$100/night. Booking: Available on Hotels.com or Kayak.

Mid-Range Hotels

• Hotel Kaduku (~0.5 km from Hotel Rozafa) A family-run hotel in the heart of Shkodër, offering cozy rooms with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Guests can use free bikes to explore the city, and the on-site restaurant serves traditional Albanian and international dishes. Its proximity to the pedestrian street Rruga Kole Idromeno makes it a convenient choice. Price: From ~$50/night. Booking: Book via Booking.com or contact the hotel directly.

• Hotel Tradita (~1 km from Hotel Rozafa) A boutique hotel with traditional Albanian decor, offering free bikes, private parking, and a restaurant. It’s pet-friendly and provides airport shuttle services, making it a practical option for conference attendees. Price: From ~$50/night. Booking: Available on Tripadvisor or Agoda.

Budget & Backpacker Options

• The Wanderers Hostel (~1 km from Hotel Rozafa) A favorite among backpackers, this hostel captures Shkodër’s laid-back vibe with a courtyard, free dinners, and social activities. It’s ideal for younger attendees or those seeking a communal atmosphere. Staff can organize trips to the Albanian Alps or bike rentals. Price: Dorm beds from ~$15/night; private rooms from ~$30/night. Booking: Book via Hostelworld or Booking.com.

• Mi Casa es Tu Casa Shkodra Hostel (~0.8 km from Hotel Rozafa) A lively hostel with a home-like atmosphere, offering dorms and private rooms, free Wi-Fi, and bike rentals. Its central location and friendly staff make it a great budget option for networking with fellow attendees. Price: From ~$18/night for dorms. Booking: Available on Booking.com.

Booking Tips: - Many hotels offer fully refundable rates; check Hotels.com or Booking.com for flexible options. - Budget accommodations may require cash payments, while luxury hotels typically accept credit cards. - For group bookings or special requests (e.g., airport shuttles), contact hotels directly and mention the AIMS 2025 Conference.

Things to Do in Shkodër

Shkodër’s rich history, vibrant culture, and proximity to natural wonders make it an ideal destination for conference attendees to explore during downtime. Here are some highlights to enhance your stay:

• Rozafa Castle (5 km from Hotel Rozafa) Perched on a hill, this 14th-century fortress offers panoramic views of Shkodër, Lake Shkodër, and the Albanian Alps. Explore its history and enjoy a coffee at the castle’s café. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM; admission fee applies. A must-visit for its breathtaking vistas and historical significance.

• Lake Shkodër (6 km from city center) The largest lake in Southern Europe, shared with Montenegro, is perfect for a relaxing stroll, boat ride, or bird-watching. Visit the villages of Shiroka or Zogaj for lakeside dining or rent a bike to explore the scenic shoreline.

• Marubi National Museum of Photography (Rruga Kole Idromeno) Discover Albania’s photographic heritage through the works of the Marubi family. Open 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM; admission fee applies. A cultural gem for photography enthusiasts.

• Rruga Kole Idromeno (Pedonale) This pedestrian street in the heart of Shkodër is lined with pastel-colored buildings, cafes, and bars. It’s perfect for an evening stroll or to experience the city’s lively atmosphere.

• Mesi Bridge (8 km from city center) A historic Ottoman-era stone bridge over the Kir River, ideal for a short bike trip or photography excursion.

• Site of Witness and Memory A poignant museum documenting the victims of Albania’s communist regime, housed in a former prison. A meaningful visit for those interested in 20th-century history. Open to the public; check hours before visiting.

• Biking Adventures Shkodër’s nickname, the “Amsterdam of Albania,” reflects its cycling culture. Rent a bike from your hotel or a local shop (e.g., Eko Club) to explore the city or venture to Lake Shkodër. Dedicated bike paths make it safe and enjoyable.

Conference Excursion: We are planning an optional group excursion to Rozafa Castle or Lake Shkodër on December 18, 2025, during a conference break. Details and sign-up will be available on the conference website closer to the event.

Getting to Shkodër from Mother Teresa International Airport (TIA)

Mother Teresa International Airport (TIA), located in Tirana, is the primary gateway to Shkodër, approximately 83 km (51 miles) away, with a travel time of about 1.5-2 hours by road. Below are the main transportation options for conference attendees:

1. Airport Shuttle (Recommended for Convenience)

Several hotels, including Hotel Colosseo & Spa, Hotel Tradita, and NÓS Luxury Rooms, offer airport shuttle services. Contact your hotel in advance to arrange pick-up, typically costing $30-$50 one-way, depending on the number of passengers. Mention the AIMS 2025 Conference for potential group discounts.

2. Private Taxi

Taxis are available at TIA’s arrivals area. A one-way trip to Shkodër costs approximately €60-€80 ($65-$90 USD), depending on negotiation and traffic. Confirm the price before departure. Reputable companies like MerrTaxi or City Taxi Tirana can be booked online or at the airport. Travel time is about 1.5 hours.

3. Bus (Budget Option)

Buses are an affordable way to reach Shkodër, though schedules may vary in December. Follow these steps:

• From TIA to Tirana: Take the Rinas Express shuttle from the airport to Tirana’s city center (behind the National Opera House). Runs hourly from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM; costs ~$3 (300 ALL). Travel time: 30 minutes.

• From Tirana to Shkodër: From Tirana’s North-South Bus Terminal (near Zogu i Zi Square), board a minibus or coach to Shkodër. Buses depart every 30-60 minutes from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; cost ~$5-7 (500-700 ALL). Travel time: 1.5-2 hours. Luggage fees may apply (~€2/bag).

• Arrival in Shkodër: Buses stop at Shkodër’s main bus station, ~1 km from Hotel Rozafa. Taxis or a short walk will get you to your accommodation.

Note: Bus schedules can be irregular; check with your hotel or at the terminal for the latest times.

4. Car Rental

For flexibility, rent a car at TIA from agencies like Europcar, Sixt, or Enterprise (starting at ~$30/day). The drive to Shkodër via the SH1 and SH5 highways is straightforward, with clear signage. Free parking is available at most Shkodër hotels, including Hotel Rozafa. Book in advance for better rates, and ensure you have an international driving permit if required.

5. Conference Shuttle (Pending)

We are exploring the possibility of organizing a group shuttle for AIMS 2025 attendees arriving at TIA on December 14-15, 2025. Details will be updated on the conference website by October 2025. Please indicate your interest in this option when registering for the conference.

Travel Tips: - Currency: Albania uses the Albanian Lek (ALL). Euros are sometimes accepted, but it’s best to exchange currency at TIA or use ATMs in Shkodër. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels but less so in smaller shops or for buses. - Weather in December: Expect cool temperatures (5-12°C / 41-54°F) with possible rain. Pack layers and comfortable shoes for exploring Shkodër’s cobblestone streets. - Visa: Albania is visa-free for citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries for stays up to 90 days. Check the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for specific requirements.

Additional Information

• Local Contact: For assistance with accommodations or travel, contact our local organizer, Elira Curri, at [email protected] or via the conference website’s contact form.

• Sustainability: We encourage eco-friendly travel options, such as buses or biking in Shkodër, to reduce your carbon footprint. Many hotels support sustainable practices, and Shkodër’s bike paths make cycling a practical choice.

• Accessibility: Hotel Rozafa and other recommended accommodations offer accessible rooms. Please inform us of any accessibility needs during registration so we can coordinate with your hotel.

• Cultural Note: Shkodër is known for its warm hospitality and religious diversity. Respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites like the Ebu Bekr Mosque or St. Stephen’s Catholic Cathedral.

Explore Shkodër During AIMS 2025

We invite you to immerse yourself in Shkodër’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty while attending AIMS 2025. Whether you’re networking over coffee on Rruga Kole Idromeno, marveling at the views from Rozafa Castle, or cycling along Lake Shkodër, your time in this charming city will complement the intellectual excitement of the conference. For the latest updates on accommodations, excursions, and travel arrangements, visit the conference website regularly.