Where is Pogradec Located?

Pogradec is situated in southeastern Albania, on the banks of Lake Ohrid, which is also part of the UNESCO Natural and Cultural Heritage list. It’s known for its picturesque beachside promenade and its rich culture and traditions. 

Pogradec, Albania, is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit would be during the months of May through September, with plenty of things to do in Pogradec. The summers aren’t too hot, but you can definitely enjoy the beach. During July and August, Pogradec is one of the most popular places to visit in Albania, with tourists coming from all over the world. 

Pogradec has a rich history and culture, starting with the mosaics of Lin, dating back to the 6th century BC, and the castle of Pogradec, located on a hill. The word Pogradec is of Slavic origin and means ‘’under the castle,’’ referring to the fact that the town is located under the castle of Pogradec.

How to Get to Pogradec?

You can get to Pogradec either by car, bus, or taxi. 

Where to Stay When Visiting Pogradec

There are many accommodation options in Pogradec, either by the lake or in the city. 

Let’s have a look at some of them:

#1. Hotel Pogradeci

Located along the promenade by the lake, Hotel Pogradec is a great 4-star hotel that guarantees you an amazing stay. Every room has air conditioning, modern furniture, and a balcony, which offers great views of the lake and beach. 

On the ground floor, there’s a restaurant that serves international dishes as well as traditional Albanian food. A night at this hotel costs around €45.

#2. Guesthouse Bimbli

Also situated along the promenade, Guesthouse Bimbli is a welcoming villa owned by a local family. It has a beautiful front garden, a restaurant seating area, and a private beach area. 

A fabulous breakfast is served every day, and you can enjoy it while taking in some great views of the mountains or the lakeside. A room costs about €30 per night.

#3. Hotel Elite

Elite Hotel is also a great option, located close to the main beach. It provides 4-star accommodation and rooms with balconies, giving amazing views of the beach and the city. 

There’s also free parking, a bar, and a restaurant for guests to enjoy. A night at this hotel costs around €55.

#4. Hotel Enkelana

One of the best hotels in Pogradec, Hotel Enkelana, has been welcoming visitors for many years. It’s actually one of the first hotels in the town, making it the starting point of Pogradec tourism. The rooms are amazing and in great condition, and a delicious breakfast is served every morning. 

There’s also a private beach area, along with a gym and a restaurant serving great dishes. It has a great location, just in the center of the city and steps away from the beach. A night at this hotel costs about €50.

10 Best Things to Do in Pogradec

All that being said, let’s dive into some of the best things to do in Pogradec in 2023 to have a most memorable vacation: 

#1. Explore The Magical National Park of Drilon

For many residents and people who’ve visited, when they think of Pogradec, Drilon most probably comes to mind. This fantastic park is one of the most visited spots in the city. You can admire the beautiful nature, enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants inside the park, or take a scenic boat ride along the lake. 

There are many cute ducks and swans that live around the park, along with deer and peacocks. It’s amazing even during the wintertime when the whole park is covered in a beautiful white cloak. 

#2. Hike to Guri I Kamjes

One of the things to do in Pogradec is also hiking for all the adventurous explorers. It’s a very unique rock formation in the shape of a sailing ship. It has a length of about 100 meters and is 70 meters tall, and it holds scientific and cultural value. 

Guri I Kamjes is located near the village of Dardhe, about 1,461 meters above sea level. It’s about 12 kilometers away from the center of Pogradec by car, and 2,7 kilometers are walking trails. 

It’s an overall easy hike, so you don’t have to be an expert to embark on this little adventure. 

#3. Enjoy a Day at the Beach at Lake Ohrid

If there’s anything Pogradec is known for, it’s the beautiful Lake Ohrid. It’s one of the deepest and oldest lakes in Europe, and its cultural heritage is protected by UNESCO. There are beaches stretching all along the lakeside, many of which offer beach chairs and umbrellas. 

You can also rent a boat and enjoy a short ride on the lake. There are countless beach bars and restaurants, so you can have everything you need for the perfect beach day.

#4. Visit Tushemisht and Teto Ollga

Right next to Pogradec, just 10 minutes away by car, is the village of Tushemisht. It’s among the most popular things to do in Pogradec, especially during the summertime, as it’s located by the beach. There are many hotels and guesthouses where you can enjoy your vacation, as well as countless restaurants. 

A very famous Albanian movie was shot in the village of Tushemisht, named “Zonja Nga Qyteti.” The main character is very iconic for her manners and traditions—so iconic that a statue was built in Tushemisht in her honor. 

Teto Ollga welcomes visitors from all over to come and take photos or freshen up at the spring.

#5. Enjoy a Delicious Meal in One of the Many Restaurants

You can’t enjoy your vacation without good food, and Pogradec has got you covered. You can choose from the best restaurants in Pogradec or in the nearby village of Tushemisht to have one of the best meals you’ll ever try. 

Some options are “Rosa e Tymosur,” if you want to try some traditional dishes with a pinch of modern taste; “The Change,” if you feel like eating sushi or other international meat dishes; or “Bujtina Ollga,” for an authentic meal with traditional Albanian food, with byrek, qofte, fёrgesё, and all that good stuff.

#6. Get on a Cycling Tour

Another thing to do in Pogradec is cycling. You can find bikes all along the promenade, available for rent. Grab a bike and ride along the lake, admiring the amazing views and landscape that accompany you during your tour. You can even cycle to Sveti Naum, a small village just across the Macedonian border. 

In recent years, many bicycle lanes have been constructed, so you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

#7. Hike to Pogradec Castle

So, to get something straight, there is no actual castle, just a few ruins on the hill, but the views you’ll be able to see will absolutely be worth it. Pogradec has a long and important history, and it all started with this one castle. 

Pogradec was an important settlement in antiquity, inhabited by the tribes of Illyria, Enkelej, and Desaret. The castle itself had been inhabited since the fifth century BC, and it was equipped with defensive walls all around. In the second century BC, it was tragically destroyed in a powerful fire, which was a consequence of a battle between opposing armies. 

It’s a shame that there are only ruins left, but once you go up to the hill and this historical place, a breathtaking panorama will partially make up for it. 

#8. Go to Kabash and See the Waterfall

Adventures in nature never stop in Pogradec. If you’re up for a hike, pack up and set off for Kabash. It’s about a two-hour hike, passing through amazing greenery and forests. Along the hike, you can visit the church of Kabash, “Shen e Djela,” where you can light a candle and then enjoy a little picnic at the wooden tables. 

Once you get out of the church area, you can resume your hike to the waterfall. Around 30 minutes later, a tall and beautiful waterfall will be in front of you. Some visitors also like to freshen up and dive into the pond at the waterfall. Careful, though; the water is ice cold! 

For this hike, you don’t have to be a professional or anything; all you need is water, snacks, and an adventurous spirit.



#9. Chill Out in Modern Bars and Clubs

Among the things to do in Pogradec is enjoy the Pogradec nightlife, a great asset to its tourism belt. The promenade is full of young people and tourists during the summer evenings, and the bars are all loaded. You can enjoy a refreshing cocktail at Sherlock Bar, Fole Bar, or Garden, which are among the most popular places. 

As for clubs, Oro Bianco holds the number one spot, with famous musicians performing every week to give you amazing nights and memories filled with great music.

#10. Explore the Museum of Pogradec

Near the center, one of the things to do in Pogradec is visit the Museum, where you can learn all about the town’s history and interesting traditions. You can have a look at some traditional clothing, ancient works of art, and so much more. 

Don’t Forget!

So you don’t forget anything important, here are some key takeaways from this article: 

• One of the most welcoming cities in Albania, Pogradec, lies on the shore of Lake Ohrid. You can reach Pogradec by car, bus, or taxi from any town in Albania. 

• There are countless accommodation options in the city, all guaranteeing an amazing and comfortable stay. 

• There are plenty of things to do in Pogradec, and nature is at the heart of any activity. You can go on hikes, bicycle tours, go to the beach, and so much more.