Mesi Bridge — Attraction in Shkodër Municipality

It was a beautiful experience. We visited it on June 1, 2025.

We went there for a wedding photoshooting and it was worth it. Despite it was the first time ever, we risked going to a place that was beautiful in many pictures we saw, but the whole experience is much better than just the images on instagram :)

The water is crystal clear and there were even people swimming under the bridge :) I wish we could have done the same on that hot sunny day.

It is around 10-12 kilometers from Shkoder City, accessible by car at a very close proximity. There were free parking spaces in the area, but very limited in quantity, so the earlier you go, the luckier you will be to find a free spot, and even enjoy a cooler weather - or better bring your swim suits to crush the temperatures in the cold waters.

The government/local institutions have still a lot of work to do with signaling, touristic info, historical/cultural heritage background, a little more improved infrastructure in the area (we literally had to hike through the bushes and rocks to get near the river).

It is a 5/5 rating, and fully recommendable to both locals and tourists - either as an interesting well-preserved monument, or as a fun place to swim in a clear beautiful river.

And an absolute recommendation for...

Mesi Bridge, or Ura e Mesit, is an 18th-century Ottoman bridge located in the village of Mes, near Shkodër, Albania. Built around 1770 by Kara Mahmud Bushati, it spans 108 meters and features 13 arches, making it one of the longest Ottoman bridges in the region. The bridge connects Shkodër with Drisht and has become a popular tourist attraction due to its unique architectural style and picturesque surroundings. Recent restoration efforts have enhanced its accessibility, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance and stunning views of the Kir River. Interesting Facts About Mesi Bridge • Location: Situated near Shkodër, Albania, in the village of Mes. • Construction: Built around 1770 by Kara Mahmud Bushati during the Ottoman era. • Design: Features 13 arches and spans 108 meters, making it one of the longest Ottoman bridges in the region. • Cultural Significance: Connects Shkodër with Drisht and showcases unique Ottoman architecture. • Tourist Attraction: Recently restored, it offers stunning views of the Kir River and is a popular site for visitors.

It is easy to reach it by car as it is very close to Shkodër.There is a lot of free parking along both banks of the river.Free access to the bridge and around.Fantastic views.Definitely the...

When in Skodar i suggest you rent a bike and visit this bridge. It's beautiful to see and wander up, over and around.

If you visit from Skodar I recommend going to the eastside of the river. This is very easy to do when you leave the city centre of Skodar you go up a small bridge and at the roundabout go right. This way it's more safe, due to less traffic and you'll see a lot more of the riverbed and surroundings. You'll also pass the leaking Waterbridge.

When at the bridge you can walk over but also go under on both sides. Locals will be swimming, relaxing and hanging out there. So you can do it too! But be careful the water is very cold as it comes from the mountains and it's all rocks. Please enjoy yourself, but respect nature and take your trash with you.

You can park your bike or car on the westside of the bridge, there's a small parking.

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