Amazing Things to Do in Gjirokaster, Albania

There are Many Amazing Things to Do in Gjirokaster

Gjirokaster, Albania, is known for its beautiful Ottoman architecture and imposing castle. Those who have experienced the city are captivated forever and people planning to visit are in for an incredible surprise. There are so many amazing things to do in Gjirokaster and we outline the very best in this post!

Where is Gjirokaster?

The city of Gjirokaster is in the middle of Gjirokaster County, Albania. The city is surrounded by the beautiful Gjerë Mountains which provide a spectacular backdrop to the ‘Stone city’. Albania’s capital, Tirana, is a 3 hour drive from Gjirokaster and 230km. The nearest major city is Saranda, a port town in the South of Albania. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive the 55km from Saranda to Gjirokaster.

How to get to Gjirokaster

Most visitors to Gjirokaster travel there from Saranda. There are a few options for travel around Albania.

Drive

Many people choose to hire a car to give flexibility and independence. However, driving in the Balkans can be a hair-raising experience, even for seasoned drivers. It is advisable to take out full insurance and plan your route in advance.

Bus

You can also get to Gjirokaster from Saranda by bus. The bus (or furgon) departs from a stop next to the Synagogue remains on Rruga Flamurit approximately every hour. See it on the map HERE. You can buy the tickets on the bus, the ticket will cost 400Lek (about €3.20) for a one-way journey and it takes about 1 – 1.5 hours to get there. There is a timetable available online but it is not often accurate.

Taxi

Taxis are available. However, we did not use one so unsure of the cost.

You can combine your trip to Gjirokaster with a stop at the Blue Eye as it is on the same bus route.

Things to Do in Gjirokaster

There are so many fascinating things to do in Gjirokaster. The city is steeped in history and is bursting with beautiful Ottoman architecture.

Gjirokaster Castle

Reaching the castle in the stifling summer heat is quite a feat – requiring a few drink stops on the way – but very worthwhile. Dating back to the 12th century, the strategic position of the castle provides spectacular views.

Contained within the castle walls is an arms museum, including tanks and antiaircraft guns, and a US fighter plane that was shot down during the war (although the information blurb lays claims to the contrary). There is a prison, historically used mostly by the communist regime, with limited access. You can also visit the tomb of two Bektashi Babas inside the castle walls.

The clock tower within the castle sits at the very summit and was added from 1811 by Ottoman governor Ali Pasha. In the shadow of the tower is now a stage used for the National Folk Festival.

From this elevated point, there are amazing views across Gjirokaster and the Drino valley.

All this history and scenery is well worth the 1.5 Euro entry fee! The castle is open from April to September 09:00 to 19:00 and October to March 09:00 to 17:00.

Hiking in Gjirokaster

There are a few good locations for hiking in Gjirokaster due to its proximity to the mountains.

One really great day hike is the Hard Rock Trail. Starting form Rruga Mufit Reso in the south east of the town, the trek will take up to 5 hours depending on conditions. The hike finishes at a different location and you will arrive back in Gjirokaster at Rruga Hito Lekdushi.

There are some spectacular view points on the way. However, sturdy footwear is advisable as the ground is rocky as you climb towards 1000m (nearly 3000 feet).  The trek is just under 8km (5 miles) and can be tricky in parts, but the views are definitely worth it.

For more of a challenging hike, climb to the summit of Cajupi Mountain for views across the whole Drino Valley. At over 2,100m this is no walk in the park as the ascent is quite steep. The peak is covered in snow from November until March so it is only really accessible in the spring and summer months.

Not many visitors take this hike but there are trails used by local shepherds. For more information on this hike, click HERE.

Gjirokaster Bazaar

The Old Bazaar in Gjirokaster – or “Qafa e Pazarit” – makes up the centre of the old town. It dates back to the 17th century. However, most of it was lost to a fire in the late 19th century before being rebuilt in a style true to the original Bazaar.

Today, the old Bazaar in Gjirokaster still looks similar to how it would have done in the 17^th century. However, the wares being sold are a little different to cater for tourists to the town. There are many shops selling typical Albanian souvenirs, rugs, linens, ceramics, clothing and accessories as well as many great cafes and restaurants. Exploring the old streets of the bazaar is definitely one of the best things to do in Gjirokaster

Gjirokaster is set on the side of a hill so the streets of the bazaar are steep and made of beautiful cobble stones. Most of the shops are open on Monday – Friday from 08:00 – 16:00.

The Ethnographic Museum

This fascinating museum is located in the house of former Dictator Enver Hoxha who was born there in 1908 – although that is irrelevant to the exhibit. The museum has recreated a fine house from the 19th century and exhibits authentic furniture, clothing and cultural items from the period.

The Ethnographic museum is open all year but the opening times vary. From April to September it is open from 08:00 to 12:00 and 16:00 to 19:00 daily and between October to March 08:00 to 16:00 Wednesday to Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday). Admission is 200 Lekë – around €1.60.

Ismail Kadare House

In this house, famous Albanian writer Ismail Kadare was born and spent his younger years. It has now been turned into a museum and is a UNESCO classified monument. There are original objects belonging to Kadare and his family and the rooms are set up as they would have been in the early 1900s.

The house is open daily from 8:30 – 18:00 and entry is 200 Lekë – around €1.60.

Where to Eat in Gjirokaster

There are many great eateries in Gjirokaster serving a mix of traditional food and more modern veggie/vegan options. We loved Restorant Tradicional Odaja because of the delicious food, friendly staff, amazing value and really central location.

For the best coffee in Gjirokaster, try Caramel Café Lounge. The interior is sleek and chic and the coffee is great. The iced coffees in the summer are incredible and really help with the climb up to the castle!

When to visit

The best time to visit Gjirokaster is between April and October when there is no snow. The summer – particularly August – can get scorching hot and very dry (over 40°C). The hottest place we have ever been was standing by the US plane in Gjirokaster Castle at 14:00 on an August day!

If you visit in the summer months, pack sun screen, keep in the shade and drink plenty of fluids. The spring and autumn months are very pleasant weather wise.

Albania is not yet a busy tourist destination so crowds are not a problem. However, many things close in Gjirokaster in the winter.

Where to stay in Gjirokaster

There is a lot of choice for visitors to the Stone City. Here are a few of the best.

Budget – Stone City Hostel. Located in the centre of the Old Town, really great value and the owner often takes guests out in his jeep to explore the surrounding wilderness.

Mid-Range – Hotel Kalemi 2. Located in the centre of the new town and serves a delicious complimentary breakfast

Luxury – Hotel Fantasy. Within walking distance from the old town and has Air Con, amazing in the summer!

Traditional – Boutique Hotel Musee Delightful boutique hotel with traditional Albanian/Ottoman interior as well as all the modern luxuries.

How long to stay in the Stone City

If you would like to experience everything that Gjirokaster has to offer, you will probably need 3 days. However, it is definitely possible to take a day trip from Saranda for an insight into this old Ottoman town. This will give you just enough time to discover a few of the fantastic things to do in Gjirokaster.

How expensive is Gjirokaster

Gjirokaster, and Albania in general, is very cheap compared to western countries. As previously mentioned, the bus from Saranda will cost 400 Leke (€3.20) per person each way.

A substantial meal will cost between €5 and €10 and accommodation between €10 and €50 per night. It is perfectly possible to do Gjirokaster on a very tight budget.

Is Gjirokaster Safe

Yes! Gjirokaster is a very safe and welcoming city. We found people to be very friendly and helpful and even curious about our visit to their country. We had the same experience across Albania.

The only thing to be aware of (and this was our experience) is taxi drivers telling you that the return bus is not coming and you will have to use their taxi. We were told this by a few taxi drivers before our bus back to Saranda showed up at the bus station.

What to bring for a Day Trip to Gjirokaster

We have put together a convenient packing list for your day trip to Gjirokaster.

• Hiking boots or shoes (the cobble stones can be slippy)
• Backpack
• Snacks for the bus
• Book/audiobook for the bus
• Water bottle
• Weather appropriate clothing such as windbreaker, hiking socks, buff/hat, and fleece. Make sure to wear layers to account for the changing conditions if you plan on hiking
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Map or downloaded GPS or map application on your phone
• Phone
• Decent camera with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery

The Albanian Language

Many Albanians in the cities speak a little English but it is useful to learn a few phrases in Albanian. It is certainly not an easy language for English speakers but any attempt is greatly appreciated by the locals. Here are a few words to try out:

Hello Tungjatjeta (toon-jah-TYEH-tah)

Please Ju lutem (yoo LOO-tehm)

Thank you Faleminderit (fah-lehm-meen-DEH-reet)

Yes Po (poh)

No Jo (yoh)

Goodbye Mirupafshim (meer-oo-PAHF-sheem)

Where to go next

Ready for another adventure? Why not try travelling from Tirana, Albania, to Montenegro’s capital Podgorica? There are plenty of mountains, rivers and lakes to discover in beautiful Montenegro.

Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited Gjirokaster or Albania? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

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Things to do in Gjirokaster