There are such a lot of improbable issues to do in Gjirokaster, it’s one of the underrated locations in Albania. It’s a small city, and whereas it’s fairly and quaint, there’s lots occurring.
Positioned within the south of Albania, Gjirokaster is ideally primarily based near the most effective coastal cities and a few of the predominant sights of the nation. In case you’re planning a visit to Albania, Gjirokaster ought to undoubtedly be in your record of locations to go to.
In case you’re questioning what to do in Gjirokaster, then learn on for my record of high issues to see on this lovely city.
Greatest Issues To Do in Gjirokaster
In case you want some inspiration for issues to see in Gjirokaster, you’ve come to the proper place. Beneath, is my record of essentially the most enjoyable issues I did throughout my time there. Whether or not you like historical past, nature, meals, drink, or absorbing a brand new tradition, you’re positive to seek out one thing on this record for you.
1. Discover Gjirokaster on a Strolling Tour
A strolling tour is a tremendous option to get to know a brand new vacation spot, and this 3-hour strolling tour is among the greatest issues to do in Gjirokaster.
The tour presents a improbable combination of a few of the sights of Gjirokaster, in addition to the chance to move off the overwhelmed observe. You’ll discover the Outdated Bazaar which lies beneath the partitions of Gjirokaster fortress and discover beautiful cobbled streets and a few of the oldest homes in Gjirokaster.
The tour continues by way of a few of the oldest neighborhoods within the city earlier than heading to the well-known Ali Pasha bridge. This 200-year-old viaduct introduced water all the way in which up the mountain to the fortress. It’s among the finest issues to see in Gjirokaster – it’s a formidable piece of engineering.
Be part of this glorious day tour once you first arrive in Gjirokaster to get to know your manner round and be taught just a little in regards to the historical past of this magical place.
2. Horseback Driving in Vjosa Nationwide Park
Vjosa Nationwide Park is among the most lovely locations to go to in Gjirokaster. It’s centered across the Vjosa River, which is the final wild river in Europe.
Vjosa Nationwide Park is stuffed with lovely hills, previous bridges crossing mountain rivers, numerous ruins, and the spectacular Lengarica Canyon. My favourite option to discover this countryside is on horseback, and this fabulous horseback using tour from close by Permet is among the greatest.
You’ll be in a small group of different riders, and the tour guides will regulate the tour relying in your means. So, whether or not you’ve by no means been on a horse earlier than, otherwise you’ve ridden your complete life, the scene is about so that you can have an unbelievable day in nature.
You’ll uncover why Vjosa Nationwide Park is among the greatest locations to go to close to Gjirokaster. It’s a magical journey and one among my favourite issues to do in Gjirokaster. When you have older youngsters, it’s among the finest issues to do in Gjirokaster for households.
3. Try Gjirokaster Museum
If you wish to be taught extra in regards to the historical past of this cobbled city, head to one of the widespread vacationer sights in Gjirokaster. At Gjirokaster Museum, you’ll achieve an perception into conventional, Albanian life by way of the ages.
Some well-known historic characters have fascinating hyperlinks to Gjirokaster. These embrace Enver Hoxha, (extra on his hyperlink under), and even Lord Bryon.
The Museum is hidden inside the Citadel, which is one other of my favourite issues to do in Gjirokaster (extra on that one later). It’s not included within the entrance payment for the fortress, which will be complicated. It’s a separate 200lek ($1.88) to enter the Museum, and nicely price it at that worth.
4. Take a Native Cooking Class
One other of my favourite methods to actually get to know a brand new tradition is by attempting to make some conventional meals of the nation.
Gjirokaster is known for its conventional, culinary scene and so cooking courses are extremely popular right here. This explicit cooking course is my favourite because it’s led by a neighborhood and focuses on small teams and conventional dishes.
Teta Marjeta shall be your information as she welcomes you into her dwelling and teaches you methods to make a 3-course Albanian dinner. On the similar time, you’ll pattern native raki made by her husband – an excessive amount of of which makes the cooking just a little tougher…
After you’ve accomplished your dishes, you’ll sit all the way down to benefit from the fruits of your labor with a glass of wine. It’s one of many high issues to do in Gjirokaster and is an effective way to satisfy new individuals, be taught extra in regards to the tradition of Albania, and have a enjoyable afternoon.
5. Head as much as Gjirokaster Citadel
Sat on the highest of the hill and looking out over the city, the fortress is among the high locations to go to in Gjirokaster.
Not solely does it boast unbelievable views over Gjirokaster itself and the countryside past, nevertheless it’s additionally an enchanting look into the historical past of town. Initially of Ottoman building, it was later used as a jail for political prisoners through the Communist Period.
It’s 400lek ($3.76) to enter, and as soon as inside you possibly can stroll by way of the assorted rooms and tunnels at your leisure. There are many info boards round that can assist you be taught extra in regards to the fortress.
Consequently, the fortress is an fascinating mixture of Ottoman design and fashionable features, due to its use being tailored through the years. You may even head to the highest of the fortress for some superb views. Don’t skip Gjirokaster Museum, which is talked about above and located contained in the fortress.
It’s the focus of the entire city, and it’s simple to see why it’s one of the widespread Gjirokaster sights.
6. Go Rafting within the Vjosa River
As Vjosa Nationwide Park is among the most lovely locations to see in Gjirokaster, it’s solely proper that it will get a second point out on this record.
This time, it’s one for the adrenaline junkies. This sensible white water rafting day journey will see you crashing over rapids on the final free-flowing river in Europe. The expertise is categorized as class II rafting with some class III rapids in there. All I do know is that it’s numerous enjoyable!
The river itself runs for some 270 kilometers by way of beautiful canyons, islands, and oxbows. After some preliminary coaching and preparation, you’ll discover a part of this majestic river over 3 hours of rafting. You’ll expertise 4-foot waves and squeeze by way of slender passages as you fly alongside on the rapids.
For me, it’s among the finest issues to do round Gjirokaster and a extremely memorable time out.
7. Non-public Chilly Struggle Metropolis Tour
In case you’re within the Chilly Struggle and within the affect it had on Albania, then this non-public day tour is an excellent alternative.
On this tour, you’ll get to discover non-public Chilly Struggle tunnels beneath town which are not often seen by vacationers. You’ll hear first-hand tales from individuals who lived and labored in Albania throughout this tough time.
The tour features a tour of the fortress, in addition to a tour of the tunnels, with a massively educated information who shares the fascinating historical past of Albania through the Chilly Struggle.
The tour ends within the Outdated Bazaar to see the birthplace of Enver Hoxha, the notorious dictator of Communist Albania. It’s an excellent, insightful tour and among the finest issues to do in Gjirokaster.
8. Butrint Nationwide Park and the Blue Eye
The south of Albania is blessed with some fascinating historical past and beautiful surroundings, so there are some superb issues to do close to Gjirokaster.
Two of my favourite locations close to Gjirokaster are Butrint Nationwide Park and the Blue Eye. And what higher option to mix them each than on this adventurous day tour from Gjirokaster? You’ll head off over unmade roads in 4x4s the place the journey will get began right away.
First up is Butrint Nationwide Park. Butrint is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site that’s been dwelling to the Romans and Venetians amongst others throughout its lengthy historical past. At this time, it’s an uncovered historic metropolis full with an amphitheater, the Nice Basilica, the Venetian Citadel, and way more.
Subsequent, you’ll head to one of the lovely locations in Gjirokaster; the Blue Eye. This beautiful pure spring boasts a few of the bluest water you’ll ever see. Take a dip or dive from the viewing platform for the right option to cool off after the stroll.
This action-packed tour is among the most enjoyable issues to do in Gjirokaster and a very good option to discover the encompassing space.
9. Have Dinner on the Barrels
Discovering this little gem was completely one of many highlights of my time in Albania – I can’t advocate it sufficient.
The Barrels is a small, family-run vineyard simply exterior Gjirokaster. It’s very unassuming from the skin, however you’ll quickly be met by the household, (and sure at the least one of many pets), earlier than being taken across the again to the backyard and vineyards past.
Right here, you’ll discover quite a few tables arrange beneath tremendous cute arches that look out onto the vineyards. The menu adjustments from day after day relying on what fruit and greens are in season and practically every little thing is sourced from the winery. There’s a superb alternative of veggie choices too.
Paired with the Barrels’ glorious wine and selfmade raki, the magical setting makes this among the finest issues to do in Gjirokaster for {couples}.
And whereas the meals and wine is excellent, it’s the household that makes this expertise so particular. They’re pleasant, and welcoming, and are a pleasure to be round.
10. Wander the UNESCO Outdated City
After getting your bearings on a strolling tour, among the finest free issues to do in Gjirokaster is to easily stroll across the Outdated City.
The cobbled streets and tall, conventional buildings will make it apparent why this metropolis is acknowledged as one of the lovely locations in Albania. The Ottoman-style homes have been reworked into cool cafes, bars, eating places, and boutique outlets.
Seize a espresso on the pedestrianized streets at Kashahu Kafe or head into the Outdated City after darkish for a drink and a few meals and benefit from the magical feeling of the lights on the cobbled streets and historic facades. It’s among the finest issues to do in Gjirokaster at night time.
11. Leap on a Safari Day Tour
One other of the superb nationwide parks and locations to go to in Gjirokaster is Fir of Hotova Nationwide Park. It’s generally known as the pure lungs of Southern Albania and covers a formidable 34,000 hectares.
The easiest way to discover this unbelievable space is on a jeep safari from close by Permet. It’s run by the identical guys that arrange the white water rafting above, and as such, it comes extremely beneficial (and never simply from me).
On at the present time safari, you’ll bump by way of the park in a 4×4, visiting the gorgeous Saint Maria Church of Leuse earlier than going wildlife recognizing within the park itself. At an altitude of round 900 meters, the temperature is cooler right here, and also you’ll be surrounded by lush forest and wildlife.
Lastly, you’ll head to Benja Thermal Baths to chill out after a day of journey earlier than returning dwelling. I like Hotova; it’s a magical place and is among the most lovely locations to go to in Gjirokaster.
12. Strive a Wooden Crafting Expertise
Gjirokaster is known for its artisanal merchandise, so an effective way to embrace the native tradition is to show your hand to a conventional craft.
This 3-hour wooden crafting expertise is hosted in a neighborhood woodwork workshop the place you’ll be taught by an skilled native, who will assist you craft no matter you want from the supplies supplied. You’ll begin off by creating your design on paper earlier than carving it beneath the watchful eye of your trainer.
Have a good time your creation with a glass of wine or raki and take one thing dwelling with you that can endlessly remind you of your journey.
13. Discover Argjiro Citadel on a Strolling Tour
Gjirokaster’s cobbled streets and pedestrianized zones are excellent for exploring on foot, and so strolling excursions are tremendous widespread right here.
That is the second strolling tour bazaar on this record and takes in a few of the hottest sights in Gjirokaster. You’ll head to the Outdated Bazaar, which seems like touring again in time. From right here, you’ll discover the fortress and a medieval fortress as you find out about Gjirokaster’s army previous.
A strolling tour is an effective way to be taught what to do in Gjirokaster from a neighborhood information, and a very good option to discover your manner round. This feature is not any exception and is among the greatest issues to do in Gjirokaster.
14. Have some Cocktails at Hangover Bar
Gjirokaster is dwelling to some glorious bars and eating places and has a enjoyable social scene after darkish.
Certainly one of my favourite locations is Hangover Bar, which serves some scrumptious cocktails. Don’t let the identify put you off, though one too lots of their superb raki-based cocktails might nicely justify that identify!
It has a stunning terrace to sit down and have a drink and watch the solar go down. The right spot after a day of exploring the myriad issues to see in Gjirokaster.
15. Wander across the Ethnographic Museum
A bit-known reality about Gjirokaster is that it’s the birthplace of the Albanian Communist Dictator, Enver Hoxha. At this time, his dwelling has been changed into an fascinating museum, showcasing an array of native garments and wares from each day life in historic Gjirokaster.
The Ethnographic Museum is a stupendous and conventional Ottoman home that provides an fascinating view into what life regarded like on this a part of the Balkans by way of the ages.
It’s a formidable assortment and a terrific stop-off throughout a stroll by way of the Outdated City. It’s one among my favourite locations to go to in Gjirokaster.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Gjirokaster
If you wish to take advantage of your time in Gjirokaster, check out my recommended itineraries under.
1 Day in Gjirokaster Itinerary
In case you’re planning a flying go to, then I undoubtedly advocate taking a strolling tour to cowl as lots of the widespread issues to do in Gjirokaster as doable. The Argjiro strolling tour above features a journey to the fortress that means you possibly can tick off one other of the most well-liked issues to do in Gjirokaster.
Within the afternoon, discover the Outdated City and cease in Hangover Bar for a cooling drink. Have dinner out at the Barrels to finish a tremendous day.
2-3 Days in Gjirokaster Itinerary
When you have just a little longer on the town, then mix the 1-day itinerary above with a few of the highlights simply exterior Gjirokaster. I recommend exploring Vjosa Nationwide Park, both on horseback or on a rafting tour.
On the third day, make a journey out to Butrint Nationwide Park and the Blue Eye for much more historical historical past and nature. For newer occasions, take the Non-public Chilly Struggle tour.
The place to Keep in Gjirokaster
These are a number of of the most effective neighborhoods in Gjirokaster for vacationers:
The Outdated City – Greatest for First-time Guests and Nightlife
Positioned on the high of the hill, the Outdated City is the most effective place to remain in Gjirokaster. Right here, you’ll discover cobbled streets, plenty of bars and eating places, and nearly all of the Gjirokaster sights. The aptly named Citadel Lodge is a stunning 3-star lodge with a terrace and bar boasting superb views over town.
New City – Greatest for Households
The choice to the Outdated City is the newer a part of city on the backside of the hill. This can be a improbable spot for households or those who have pushed to Gjirokaster as parking is simpler, and it’s base for visiting the close by sights. Dream’s Lodge presents nice views of town. Alternatively, Novi’s House presents beautiful luxurious and fashionable design.
Greatest Eating places in Gjirokaster
The meals scene in Gjirokaster is basically widespread and listed here are a few of the highlights:
The Barrels
I can’t charge the Barrels extremely sufficient. From the superbly selfmade meals, scrumptious wine, and superb views, this place is really particular. The seasonal menu, with vegetarian highlights, is basically well-thought-out. The household and repair make this my favourite restaurant in Gjirokaster by far.
Taverna Tradicionale Kardhashi
For a conventional Albanian restaurant in Gjirokaster itself, head to Taverna Kardhashi. It serves scrumptious, native meals at improbable costs. The stuffed peppers are scrumptious, and the workers is tremendous pleasant. A very welcoming, native restaurant.
Kujtimi
One other conventional, Albanian restaurant with a cute terrace for some alfresco eating. At Kujtimi, the meals is tasty, the wine is nice, and the costs are glorious.
Submarine 105
Submarine 105 is situated within the Outdated Bazaar and combines its conventional setting with a contemporary twist. The Albanian dishes are scrumptious and are served in giant parts, all mixed with a superb, and in depth, drinks record.
Pizza Me Gusta
In case you fancy pizza then head to Pizza Me Gusta. The tremendous pleasant workers will assist you select, and the pizzas are very well-priced. Skinny and crispy bases with plenty of toppings. A fantastic pizza spot in Gjirokaster.
Attending to Gjirokaster
Gjirokaster is situated round 3 hours south of Tirana and an hour from Sarande. To get there from exterior of Albania, you’ll doubtless land in Tirana or cross on the Corfu to Sarande ferry.
You may catch a direct bus from Tirana to Gjirokaster which is able to price you round 1,000lek or $9. The journey takes round 3-4 hours relying on site visitors and departs from the Regional Bus Terminal numerous occasions a day.
From Sarande, there are common each day buses which price round 400lek or $3.50. They depart from Friendship Park.
Alternatively, you possibly can take taxis from both metropolis to Gjirokaster. When you arrive, you’ll be capable of stroll across the metropolis itself. You may take taxis or soar on a tour to move to a few of the sights exterior of town.
Issues To Do in Gjirokaster: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Gjirokaster:
Gjirokaster is understood for its lovely cobbled streets and Ottoman structure. It’s a classy and widespread vacation spot with a variety of fine cafes, bars, eating places, and boutique outlets.
The most effective time to go to Gjirokaster is through the shoulder seasons between April and June or September to October when the temperatures aren’t at their peak however are heat sufficient to sit down exterior and luxuriate in a chilly drink within the solar.
Completely. Gjirokaster is among the most lovely cities in Albania. On the similar time, it has some unbelievable nationwide parks and nature on its doorstep. It’s a tremendous place to go to.
I like to recommend at the least 2-3 days to discover Gjirokaster itself. In case you keep for longer, you possibly can discover a few of the well-known sights and nationwide parks simply exterior town too.
Gjirokaster is tremendous secure. It feels actually cozy and pleasant within the Outdated City, with its cobbled streets and plentiful bars and outlets. I’ve by no means heard of any points with security in Gjirokaster.
Visiting the fortress is the most well-liked factor to do in Gjirokaster because it dominates the skyline and boasts some unbelievable views. After that, doing nothing may be very extremely rated. Sit down at a restaurant on the streets and watch the world go by.
Gjirokaster has a proud historical past of scrumptious meals. Strive stuffed peppers to start out, and trilece (three milk) cake for dessert – each are divine.
In Closing
Gjorikaster is just not solely a stupendous metropolis, stuffed with beautiful structure and fairly cobbled streets, nevertheless it’s additionally a spot of pure magnificence and a vacation spot the place you possibly can actually have an journey! There are such a lot of improbable issues to do in Gjirokaster, you’re spoiled for alternative.
I hope this put up helps you propose the most effective journey to Gjirokaster!
