Gjirokastër

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Gjirokastër's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Gjirokastr
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

Stroll through the old bazaar and shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant enjoying Albanian cuisine.

day 2
History and Culture
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the nearby historic village of Pursive. Experience authentic village life and enjoy a homemade lunch with local families.

evening
:

Participate in a traditional Albanian dance session. Enjoy a lively evening filled with music, dance, and storytelling.

day 3
Nature Excursion
morning
:

Head to the nearby Blue Eye Spring for a morning hike. Marvel at the crystal-clear water and surrounding natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Relax with a picnic by the spring and take photos of the stunning landscapes. Consider a swim if the weather permits.

evening
:

Return to Gjirokastër and dine at a restaurant with a view of the sunset. Enjoy a quiet evening reflecting on the beauty of nature.

day 4
Cultural Discovery
morning
:

Visit the local mosque, views of the 20th-century architecture are captivating. Feel the spiritual ambiance while learning about Islamic traditions in Albania.

afternoon
:

Explore the local arts scene by visiting artisan workshops. You may find pottery, weaving, and other crafts being made on-site.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant offering cultural performances. Experience traditional music and folklore as you enjoy your meal.

day 5
Adventure Time
morning
:

Start with a guided hiking tour to the nearby Ali Baba Cave. Enjoy the thrill of adventure and the beautiful landscape along the way.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a mountain viewpoint before returning to the town. Capture amazing photos of the surrounding hills and valleys.

evening
:

Relax at a cozy café back in Gjirokastër. Share stories of your adventure over a hot beverage.

day 6
Wine Tasting Experience
morning
:

Travel to a local vineyard to learn about Albanian wine production. Tour the vineyard and see the various grape types grown in the region.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a wine tasting session paired with local cheeses. Savor the rich flavors and learn about the wine-making process.

evening
:

Return to Gjirokastër for a nicely arranged dinner featuring local ingredients. Reflect on the day while enjoying the delightful dishes.

day 7
Photography Tour
morning
:

Join a photography tour to capture the stunning sunrises over Gjirokastër. Explore lesser-known viewpoints for unique shots.

afternoon
:

Visit the picturesque houses and narrow streets for some idyllic urban photography. Interact with locals and capture candid moments.

evening
:

End your day by uploading your favorite photos while enjoying the city lights. Share your experiences with fellow photography enthusiasts.

day 8
Art and Creativity
morning
:

Participate in a local art workshop that explores Albanian creative traditions. Get your hands dirty and learn techniques from local artists.

afternoon
:

Visit art galleries featuring contemporary and traditional Albanian art. Appreciate and discuss the narratives portrayed in the artworks.

evening
:

Showcase your created art piece in a casual exhibition atmosphere. Enjoy light refreshments while mingling with fellow art lovers.

day 9
City Walk
morning
:

Take a walking tour of the historic center of Gjirokastër. Learn about the UNESCO World Heritage site's evolution over the centuries.

afternoon
:

Visit landmarks like the Cold War Museum and the local churches to appreciate the diverse history. Take time to stop at scenic viewpoints.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. Savor traditional dishes while watching the sunset over the valley.

day 10
Flavors of Gjirokastr
morning
:

Start your culinary journey with a cooking class focused on traditional Albanian recipes. Learn from a local chef in an interactive environment.

afternoon
:

Prepare and enjoy a delicious lunch made of traditional dishes you helped create. Share stories and tips with fellow cooking enthusiasts.

evening
:

Take a leisurely stroll through Gjirokastër, stopping by local eateries. Sample various street food options to round off your culinary day.

Discover Gjirokastër

Read more in our Gjirokastër 2024 Travel Guide.

Gjirokastër Travel Guide