Things To Do
in Gjirokastër
Gjirokastër is a picturesque town located in southern Albania, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. The town is perched on the side of a steep hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Gjirokastër is also famous for being the birthplace of former Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha, whose childhood home is now a museum.
Visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, visit the historic castle, and immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of this charming town.
- "Pershendetje" - Hello
- "Faleminderit" - Thank you
- "Si jeni?" - How are you?
- "Mirupafshim" - Goodbye
- "Ju lutem" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gjirokastër Castle. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the valley and the historic architecture of the fortress.
Discover the Ethnographic Museum, housed in the former home of the dictator Enver Hoxha. Learn about the rich history and culture of the region through various exhibits.
Stroll through the old bazaar and shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant enjoying Albanian cuisine.
Visit the Ismail Kadare House to appreciate the life of one of Albania's most famous writers. Explore the quaint surroundings and take in the local architecture.
Take a guided tour of the nearby historic village of Pursive. Experience authentic village life and enjoy a homemade lunch with local families.
Participate in a traditional Albanian dance session. Enjoy a lively evening filled with music, dance, and storytelling.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
- Breathtaking natural scenery, including mountainous landscapes and the Drino River.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site status, attracting tourists and preserving local culture.
- Friendly and welcoming locals who are proud of their heritage.
- A variety of traditional food and local products to experience.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Challenges with transportation access and connectivity.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to fluctuations in business and local economy.
- Some areas may lack modern facilities and services.
- Potential language barrier for non-Albanian speakers, especially in rural areas.
Best Activities in Gjirokastër
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historical Gjirokastër Castle, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Embark on a hike to the beautiful Blue Eye Spring, a natural pool with crystal-clear blue water surrounded by lush greenery.
Take a leisurely stroll through Gjirokastër's Old Bazaar, filled with charming shops, cafes, and traditional architecture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Gjirokastër with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Gjirokastër
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, providing excellent photo opportunities
Historic area with picturesque streets and traditional Ottoman architecture, ideal for capturing the unique atmosphere of Gjirokastër
Beautifully preserved Ottoman-era mansion, featuring a rooftop terrace with stunning views over the old town
Food in Gjirokastër
Gjirokastër Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious savory dish made with lamb and rice, baked with a yogurt and egg mixture. Must-try at Taverna Vasili, located in the heart of Gjirokastër.
Must-Try!
Roast chicken with rice, a traditional Albanian comfort food. Savor this dish at Antigonea Restaurant for an authentic taste.
Tasty rice and egg balls seasoned with herbs, often served with a garlic yogurt sauce. Don't miss trying this at local taverns like Tradita or Kodra.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Gjirokastër better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to discover an array of local produce, dairy, and meats. Don't miss the opportunity to sample freshly prepared börek, a savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
Take a stroll through the old bazaar and indulge in street food delights like byrek, a savory pie filled with various ingredients, or suxhuk, a spicy Albanian sausage grilled to perfection.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gjirokastër, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It's considered polite to address people using their titles and last names.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Gjirokastër. It's expected to use formal language and show deference when speaking to older individuals.
When dining in Gjirokastër, it's common to wait for the oldest person at the table to start eating before beginning your meal. It's also polite to express gratitude to the host for the food and hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Gjirokastër with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Gjirokastër
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gjirokastër, Albania, it is customary to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants and cafes if the service was satisfactory. Tipping in other situations, such as for taxi rides or hotel staff, is not very common.
Payment in Gjirokastër, Albania is mainly done in cash. While some larger establishments may accept credit cards, it's important to have cash on hand for most transactions, especially in smaller shops, markets, and for services like taxi rides.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Gjirokastër.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Gjirokastër as the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and green. The city is less crowded, and you can explore the historical sites without the summer tourist crowds. It's a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying the local festivals.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Gjirokastër, with warm weather and clear skies. It's the best time to explore the traditional Ottoman architecture and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere. The local markets and outdoor cafes are bustling with activity, and there are often cultural events and music festivals taking place.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Gjirokastër, with the changing colors of the leaves creating a picturesque backdrop. The weather is cooler, and the tourist crowds begin to thin out, making it a more peaceful time to explore the city and its surroundings. You can also experience the local harvest festivals and enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine.
Winter is the quietest time in Gjirokastër, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. The city takes on a serene atmosphere, and you can explore the historical sites at a slower pace. The nearby mountains may be dusted with snow, offering a different perspective of the region. It's a great time to experience the local culture and traditions in a more intimate setting.
Gjirokastër at Night
Hiking in Gjirokastër
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the Gjirokastër valley and surrounding mountains. The hike is moderately difficult and rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramas.
A natural spring located in the Saranda region, about an hour's drive from Gjirokastër. The hiking trail leads through scenic landscapes, with crystal-clear waters and rich vegetation along the way.
A picturesque valley that provides various hiking routes. Trekkers can enjoy the lush green landscapes and the rich biodiversity that this area offers.
While a bit further away from Gjirokastër, the Albanian Alps feature some of the most stunning hiking trails in the country, with dramatic mountain scenery and traditional villages to explore.
Famous for its beautiful landscapes and historical stone villages. The hiking trails offer a mix of cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Gjirokastër through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Gjirokastër by plane.
The main international airport of Albania, located about 120 km north of Gjirokastër.
An international airport located on the island of Corfu, Greece, approximately 180 km southwest of Gjirokastër.
An international airport on Kefalonia Island, Greece, located about 200 km southwest of Gjirokastër.
Also known as Lefkada Airport, located approximately 220 km south of Gjirokastër in Greece.
An airport located in Corfu, Greece, around 115 km from Gjirokastër.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Gjirokastër, constituting the largest demographic in the region.
A significant minority, particularly in the surrounding areas, with a rich cultural heritage.
An ethnic Albanian group with historical roots and distinct cultural practices.
A smaller demographic group, known for their nomadic lifestyle and vibrant culture.
Includes smaller groups such as Serbs and various other ethnicities, contributing to the region's diversity.
The Soul of Gjirokastër
Discover the essence of Gjirokastër through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Gjirokastër, with a strong local following and several amateur and youth teams.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth, with local clubs competing in regional leagues.
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively, with both men's and women's teams participating in local events.
Athletics has a dedicated community, with several events and competitions taking place throughout the year.
Handball is a growing sport in Gjirokastër, with clubs forming to compete in local and regional matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gjirokastër.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Albanian cuisine traditionally features hearty meat dishes, many restaurants in Gjirokastër offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options, such as stuffed peppers, eggplant dishes, and fresh salads.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled seafood, yogurt-based soups, and grilled vegetables, which are commonly available in local eateries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Gjirokastër with these cultural adventures.
