Librazhd



Librazhd is the name of a town and district in Albania. It is in the central east of Albania between Elbasan and Pogradec.

Get in

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Librazhd sits between the cities of Elbasan and Pogradec, and is also on the road between Tirana and North Macedonia.

If you are traveling from Tirana to Librazhd you can take the bus or minibus at the South-East Terminal on the way to Elbasan road from 12:15 until 14:00 every day.

It is also possible to travel from Tirana to Librazhd by taking any Korça, Qafë-Thanë, Pogradec, Bilisht, or Erseke-bound bus or minibus. Similarly, to travel to Tirana you can often take minibuses and buses coming from these locations.

Bus rides to Librazhd are 250 lek, while minibus (furgon) rides will cost 400 lek.

View of the town

Get around

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On foot

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Almost everything in the town center is within walking distance. Stroll the quiet streets, visit cafés, and enjoy the riverbank without needing any transport.

Bicycle

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If you have or rent a bike, you’ll love cycling along in Librazhd. The terrain is mostly flat and safe for a relaxed ride.

See

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Map
Map of Librazhd
  • Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park [dead link]. The park contains a number of wild flora and fauna as well as a number of rare and endemic plants and mountains over 2,200 meters.
  • Gezim Hidri, Near the town center, +355 69 39 21 501, . Local artist Gezim Hidri works with mosaics, motifs, oil paintings, sculpture, stone carving, etc. He is working on a mosaic of the Chelsea football club owner Roman Abramovich. Contact Iridion Bahiti at the number above for a free tour of his studio and stone-cutting workshop, or visit the artist's website.
  • Librazhd Ethnographic Museum. In the environment of this museum is presented the economic life of the country's population developed on the basis of the living conditions of the climate and the establishment of settlements. An important place is the family setting as a guest house that reflects the good hospitality tradition and the home of bread. In this environment are located characteristic features of the rural apartment. Librazhd is located in a very favorable geographic position development of different skills such as stone, wood, and metal processing.
  • Koshorishtit Church (Church cave) (The Hermit Cave). Koshorisht Hermit's Church, a unique cultural monument, believed to be a creation of the 9th-12th century AD. It is a unique and historical site. This cave church is on a cliff in height about 70 meters from the river of Qarrishta where Mary and the disciples were painted during a ceremony. It retains its original colours despite the padsing of time. Many of the residents of these areas go to visit a shrine that brings you luck. Many other visitors, local and foreign tourists, remain captivated by its beauty.
  • Bee Rock Cave. Located northwest of the village of Monte Pear Librazhdit district, on the eastern slope of Mount Polis and rocky ravine Bee Rock with height 1409 m.
  • 1 Shebenik lake (Circuses and Shebenik Glacial Lakes). This lake is on the northern slope of Shebenik Peak, at 1800 m altitude, in a large circus glacial complex. Here glacial forms are developed. There are crystal-clear water and cool. During winter freezes on the surface. It stands for rich vibrant world.
  • 2 Polis Mountain. The mountain is about 80 km from Tirana, is between Elbasan and Librazhd in a place called Mirake. There is diverse vegetation which is an attraction for different biologists. 6 months of the year is covered by snow. There can be developed winter tourism, winter sports, horseback riding, skiing, etc.
  • 3 Cave of the Old lady. In Gizavesh Village there is a cave known with the name “Cave of the Old Lady”. Because it is thought and said that before there has lived an old lady. Many years ago, it was thought that this cave connected two villages, Gizavesh and Librazhd Katund, but now this road is blocked. In the entrance there is a water spring and in the cave there are special stones that sparkle. To visit the cave, you must have lighting.
  • 4 Egnatia road route. Street Egnatia, which is also known as “Via Egnatia”, is one of the major roads with importance of the ancient world. It was built in 149-120 BC by the Roman proconsul of Macedonia. Via Egnatia has known trade, historical battles, church preachers, Roman and Ottoman religions. This road is still kept untouched, throughout the upstream of Shkumbin river, particularly in mountainous areas of Librazhd from Miraka to Qukës.
  • 5 Kamara bridge. The object, which was declared "Cultural monument" is about 20 km northeast of Elbasan, 5 km before reaching the town of Librazhd, directly on the Shkumbin river bed. It was built in 1715 by Ahmad from Elbasan, according to the inscription on the plaque of Turkish stone in the bridge, which is now preserved in the museum of Librazhd.

Do

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Librazhd, though small, is surrounded by natural beauty and rich Albanian culture. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, from exploring the serene landscapes to discovering local traditions and art. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or simply relaxing and immersing yourself in local life, Librazhd offers a variety of experiences.

  • Visit the bazaar

Visit the bazaar on Saturdays and Mondays behind the Taçi gas station. You’ll find produce stalls clustered together, dairy and baked goods grouped nearby, and craft vendors with baskets, textiles, and honey toward the edges. Just follow the chatter and aromas—you can’t miss them!

  • Hike in Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

Just northeast of town, this park offers dramatic mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes and dense forests. You can hike to Mt. Maja e Shebenik (over 2,000 m), explore the Ice Cave of Akullit or simply enjoy a picnic by alpine streams.

  • Visit Gezim Hidri's Studio

For art lovers, Gezim Hidri’s studio is a must-see. Known for his mosaics, stone carvings, and paintings, Gezim’s work reflects traditional Albanian culture. His studio is open to visitors, offering a unique insight into local art.

  • Walk Along the Shkumbin River

The peaceful Shkumbin River runs through Librazhd, offering a scenic walking path. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll, with views of nature and the town. It’s a favorite spot for locals, especially in the evening.

  • Attend Local Festivals

Librazhd hosts a variety of cultural festivals, including the Festival of the Shkumbin River and the Harvest Festival. These events showcase traditional music, dance, food, and local crafts. Check with local venues for dates.

Buy

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Librazhd offers a variety of local markets and shops where visitors can purchase traditional Albanian products and experience the town's cultural heritage.

Markets and Grocery Stores

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  • Market Toçka: A vibrant market known for its fresh produce, homemade cheeses, and traditional baked goods. It's an excellent place to engage with local vendors and learn about regional culinary practices. ​
  • Albmarket: A well-stocked grocery store offering a wide array of Albanian culinary products, including fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique snacks. Ideal for those looking to sample the flavors of the region.
  • Market Luani: Market Luani has products from all over Europe and products from the United States at extremely low prices. The owner is extremely friendly and nice and the store has a friendly atmosphere. The store is down the stairs from the Albanian Post Office on the stairs on the left hand side of the building.

Traditional Crafts & Artisanal Products

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  • Handwoven Textiles: Albania is known for its traditional textiles, including embroidered fabrics and handwoven rugs, which make for meaningful souvenirs.
  • Ceramics & Pottery: Artisanal pottery products, such as vases, plates, and bowls, are popular items that showcase Albanian craftsmanship.
  • Silver Filigree Jewelry: Intricate silver jewelry crafted using traditional filigree techniques is a distinctive Albanian art form, offering elegant gift options.

Local Delicacies & Beverages

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  • Bedunica Honey: Sourced from the south of Albania, this honey is renowned for its strong flavor and is used both as food and for medicinal purposes. ​
  • Olive Oil: Albanian olive oil is known for its quality and flavor, making it a great culinary souvenir.
  • Raki: A traditional Albanian alcoholic beverage, raki is often homemade and varies by region. It's a popular item for those looking to experience local flavors.

Cultural & Symbolic Souvenirs

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  • Items Depicting the Albanian Flag: Souvenirs featuring the double-headed eagle emblem, such as T-shirts, mugs, and keychains, are widely available and symbolize national pride. ​
  • Bunker Ashtrays: Reflecting Albania's unique history, miniature ashtrays shaped like military bunkers are quirky and popular keepsakes. ​y
  • Çifteli: This traditional two-stringed instrument is emblematic of Albanian folk music and makes for a unique decorative item or gift.
Memorial to Murdered Poets

Eat

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  • 1 Ura e Lizës, Rruga Elbasan-Librazhd (2 km from Elbasan City Centre), +355 686 195 618. 08:00-22:00. Restaurant serving traditional Albanian food. Inexpensive, family friendly, spacious with ample parking, friendly staff, and warm atmosphere. US$5.
  • 2 Rozafa Fish City, Labinot-Fushë, Elbasan (This place stands between Elbasan and Librazhd.). Rozafa Fish City is a place where you can enjoy a great day. It stands between tow cities of Elbasan and Librazhd. By car, it takes 5 min from Elbasan to Fish City and from Librazhd, it takes nearly 15 minutes. This place offers almost everything. It has a great restaurant serving all types of food: sea food, meat and traditional food of the area. Service is quick. When you walk around the place you seem the place is built on a communism military base that is now turned into an attractive place. It has a playground for kids and families can enjoy their drinks in an open area. Whereas the hotel is pretty luxurious and it costs €50 per night.

Drink

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While Librazhd has a calm nightlife compared to larger cities, visitors can still enjoy a variety of local cafés, bars, and casual spots for a drink.

  • Bar Luani – Located just below the Albanian Post Office, this cozy bar offers imported beers, spirits, and a friendly atmosphere. It's connected to Market Luani, making it a convenient stop.
  • Café Bar Vila – A popular gathering spot for locals, especially in the evenings. Known for good coffee and affordable drinks.
  • Bar Oda e Miqve – Just outside the town center, this bar has a traditional rustic vibe and often serves homemade raki and local wines.
  • Raki – A staple Albanian spirit, often homemade. Ask locals or your guesthouse if they offer their own variety—it’s a cultural experience.
  • Cafés – Librazhd has many small cafés along the main boulevard and in the center, perfect for a relaxed espresso or a cold drink. Most stay open until late evening.

Sleep

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Librazhd offers a mix of town-center guesthouses and peaceful countryside stays. Here are some options with estimated nightly rates:

  • Lindi Kompleks – from ~2,000 ALL/night

Located right in the heart of Librazhd, across from the Town Hall in the main square, Lindi Kompleks is one of the town’s most budget-friendly accommodations. Though simple, it offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including clean rooms, two single beds per room, and complimentary coffee or tea.

  • Home 12 – from ~4,200 ALL/night

Located in the heart of Librazhd on Rruga Shebeniku, Home 12 is a small, family-run guesthouse with modern and comfortable rooms, a quiet garden, and private parking. It's ideal for travelers who want to stay close to shops, cafes, and the town center. Highly rated for cleanliness and hospitality.

  • JOEN Village – from ~7,800 ALL/night

Situated in Fushë-Studen, about 6 km east of Librazhd, JOEN Village is a peaceful eco-resort offering private villas with mountain views and direct access to nature trails. Popular with hikers, bikers, and families, it’s one of the best options near Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park. Bicycle rentals and local meals available on request.

  • Hani i Çepit – from ~5,800 ALL/night

This rural guesthouse in the village of Xhyrë (12 km southeast of Librazhd) offers a warm, traditional Albanian experience with hearty local food, a garden, and a small restaurant/bar. It’s especially suited for those who want to unwind in nature while still being a short drive from town.

Go next

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