Gjirokastër
Save22 hand-picked places in 9 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See a ready-made day plan ↓9 places on the map
Top 10
- 1
Vast Ottoman-era fortress dominating the stone town
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Allow two hours
- Wear sturdy shoes
📷 Photos
- 2
Restored Ottoman market street with craft shops and cafes
- Tip: At night
3 tips
- Try local sweets and raki
- Best in the evening
- Cobbles are slippery when wet
📷 Photos
- 3
Reconstructed traditional house on the site of an earlier family home
3 tips
- Small entry fee
- Allow an hour
- Look for the traditional hearth rooms
📷 Photos
- 4
Grand 19th-century Ottoman tower house with a distinctive facade
3 tips
- Reached by a short uphill walk
- Check opening hours
- Great for photographs of the exterior
📷 Photos
- 5
Traditional Gjirokastër house museum with period interiors
3 tips
- Ask about guided visits
- Allow 30 minutes
- Entry is inexpensive
📷 Photos
- 6
Underground bunker network beneath the old bazaar
3 tips
- Guided tour is recommended
- It is cool and damp, bring a layer
- Short visit of about 30 minutes
📷 Photos
- 7
Deep blue karst spring surrounded by forest
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- About 25 km south, needs a car or taxi
- Water is cold, swimming is prohibited
📷 Photos
- 8
Weapons and military history exhibited inside the castle
3 tips
- Included in the castle visit
- Look for the captured US aircraft
- Allow 45 minutes
📷 Photos
- 9
Childhood home of the Albanian novelist Ismail Kadare
3 tips
- Check opening hours
- Books and photographs displayed
- Short visit
📷 Photos
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Before you go: Gjirokastër tips
Transportation
- Take a bus or furgon: Buses and shared minibuses link Gjirokastër with Tirana, Saranda and other towns; departures are more frequent in the morning.
- Walk the old town: The historic centre is compact but steep, so walking is the best way to explore.
- Use taxis for the climb: The old town sits above the new town and bus stops, so a short taxi ride helps with heavy luggage.
Security
- Watch your footing: The polished stone streets can be very slippery, especially when wet, so wear shoes with good grip.
- Drive carefully: Roads in the region can be narrow and winding, with livestock and potholes.
- Be cautious with stray dogs: Stray dogs are common; most are harmless, but keep your distance.
Saving
- Carry cash: Many small guesthouses and restaurants prefer cash in Albanian lek, and ATMs are available in town.
- Eat at local tavernas: Traditional restaurants offer hearty, affordable meals with local specialities.
- Stay in guesthouses: Family-run guesthouses in traditional stone houses are affordable and atmospheric.
Weather/Clothing
- Dress for hot summers: Summers are hot and sunny, so bring light clothing, sunscreen and a hat.
- Bring warm layers in winter: Winters are cold and wet in the mountains, so pack a warm jacket.
- Wear sturdy shoes: Steep cobbled streets require comfortable shoes with good traction.
Cultural
- Try qifqi: These rice and herb balls are a local speciality of Gjirokastër, often served at traditional restaurants.
- Accept hospitality: Albanians are known for hospitality; accepting coffee or raki from hosts is a friendly gesture.
- Learn about local history: Visit the Skenduli House and Zekate House to see traditional Ottoman-era architecture.
Local Hacks
- Explore the castle: The hilltop fortress has a military museum, sweeping views and hosts the national folklore festival.
- Visit the Cold War Tunnel: This underground bunker built during the communist era offers a fascinating glimpse into Albania's past.
- Day trip to the Blue Eye: The striking natural spring is on the road towards Saranda, an easy detour by car or taxi.
1-day itineraries in Gjirokastër
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.