This charming town in southern Albania lies in a valley between the Gjerë Mountains and the Drino. One of the country’s oldest cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its Ottoman-style old town features cobblestone streets, historic houses, and a vibrant bazaar. Towering above is the iconic castle, while the steep streets full of stone houses give the city its nickname – the City of Stones and Stairs.
a love letter to gjirokastër
Gjirokastër is located in southern Albania around 220 kilometers from Tirana, tucked into the Drino valley and surrounded by rugged mountains. You can reach it on a scenic drive from the Greek border or from the coastal city of Sarandë, making it a perfect stop on a southern Albania adventure.
You can wander through the cobbled streets, explore the castle, and still have time to visit nearby villages and enjoy the stunning countryside. Gjirokastër feels timeless and remote, yet surprisingly easy to reach, giving you a true taste of Albania’s history and culture.
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There are several buses from Tirana every day. By car it takes around 3 hours. You can also take the ferry from Corfu to Saranda and from there take the bus to Gjiorkastër, which takes around 1 hour.
The best time to visit Gjirokastër is spring or autumn. The temperatures are more pleasant than in summer and it is usually not as crowded as in high season.
Gjirokastër is one of the more affordable travel destinations in Europe and is ideal for budget travelers. Food, accommodation, and activities are significantly cheaper here than in coastal towns like Saranda, Vlorë, or Tirana. A traditional dish usually costs 4–8€, and a full dinner rarely more than 10–15€ per person. Good coffee is often available from 1–2€, and wine is also inexpensive. Depending on your choice of accommodation, you should expect to pay around 60–80€ for a good double room. Therefore, you should budget between 50–70€ per person.
You can spend 1-2 days exploring this beautiful town. We definitely recommend spending at least one night in Gjirokastër.
During your visit to the city of stone, you simply must see Gjirokastër Castle. It sits majestically above the old town and is one of Albania’s most important landmarks. With its imposing stone walls, it offers insights into Ottoman history, houses an arms museum, and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the valley. The stunning sunsets from the castle are another highlight, bathing the houses and landscape in a golden light – a must-see for photographers and culture enthusiasts alike.
The bazaar of Gjirokastër is the heart of the old town and a vibrant place brimming with tradition, color, local crafts, restaurants and cafés. Here you’ll find carpets, ceramics, souvenirs, traditional clothing, and much more. The cobblestone streets and old Ottoman houses create an authentic atmosphere—perfect for souvenir shopping, street photography, and taking a break in small cafes nestled among the stalls. A stroll through the bazaar is an immersive experience of Albanian culture and way of life.
The old town of Gjirokastër is famous for its Ottoman architecture, steep cobblestone streets, and characteristic stone houses. These historic buildings have earned the city the nickname “City of Stone.” Here you can stroll leisurely through the narrow streets and discover traditional courtyards, small shops, cafes, and museums. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old town offers fantastic photo opportunities at every turn. It’s a wonderful place to immerse yourself in Albanian history.
The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) isn’t located directly in Gjirokastër, but it’s only about 20 kilometers from the city. This spring is one of Albania’s most impressive natural attractions, boasting turquoise, crystal-clear water that bubbles up from underground karst springs, creating an almost magical atmosphere. The place is ideal for relaxing, photography, short walks, and experiencing nature. A visit is particularly worthwhile early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the water’s vibrant colors. We went there on our first trip to Albania, and it was truly beautiful! The second time, it was simply too crowded. Therefore, it’s best to go in the morning.
The Fico House, with its yellow facade, is one of the most beautiful traditional stone houses in Gjirokastër and a true highlight for architecture and history enthusiasts. From here, you have a stunning view over the old town. A visit to the Fico House offers an authentic glimpse into the life of a wealthy Albanian family from centuries past. Less well-known than the Skenduli or Zekate Houses, the building is a real insider tip for those who want to experience Gjirokastër away from the crowds.
Gjirokastër offers a variety of authentic and charming accommodations. If you are looking for a cultural and historical stay, then this is the perfect place for you. You can book unique tower houses (kullas) or traditional guesthouses in the old town to fully experience the city’s stone architecture and Ottoman charm. We each spent a night at the charming little N’SOKAK Boutique Hotel and the Kerculla Resort. Highly recommended! Clean, friendly, great breakfast and beautiful views from both.
The *N’SOKAK Boutique Hotel is a cozy spot right in the heart of the old town. Its charming rooms and central location make it perfect for wandering the cobbled streets and soaking up the city’s historic atmosphere. Very friendly guys over here, tasty little breakfast and some nice views from the balcony.
We also spent time at *Kerculla Resort, a peaceful retreat with stunning views over the valley and castle. It’s ideal if you want to relax, enjoy the scenery, and still be just a short drive from the town center. So super friendly, clean, good cuisine and cozy rooms.
Gjirokastër isn’t just about sightseeing, stone houses and beautiful views. It’s also a fantastic place to sample traditional Albanian cuisine – hearty, fresh and often homemade. Whether in the many charming family restaurants or the small eateries in the old town around the bazaar, culinary delights await discovery on every corner. Popular spots include traditional tavernas where you can enjoy freshly cooked home-style meals – often at very reasonable prices. Don’t miss the small sweet shops and bakeries either, as they offer authentic, regional treats and, above all, excellent coffee.
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