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 happening.
Positioned within the south of Albania, Gjirokaster is ideally based mostly near one of the best coastal cities and a number of the predominant sights of the nation. When you’re planning a visit to Albania, Gjirokaster ought to undoubtedly be in your checklist of locations to go to.
When you’re questioning what to do in Gjirokaster, then learn on for my checklist of prime issues to see on this stunning city.
Greatest Issues To Do in Gjirokaster
When you want some inspiration for issues to see in Gjirokaster, you’ve come to the appropriate place. Beneath, is my checklist 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 certain to search out one thing on this checklist for you.
1. Discover Gjirokaster on a Strolling Tour
A strolling tour is a tremendous approach to get to know a brand new vacation spot, and this 3-hour strolling tour is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Gjirokaster.
The tour gives a improbable combination of a number of the sights of Gjirokaster, in addition to the chance to go off the crushed observe. You’ll discover the Previous Bazaar which lies beneath the partitions of Gjirokaster citadel and discover attractive cobbled streets and a number of the oldest homes in Gjirokaster.
The tour continues by way of a number 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 citadel. It’s probably the greatest issues to see in Gjirokaster – it’s a powerful piece of engineering.
Be a part of this wonderful day tour while you first arrive in Gjirokaster to get to know your means round and be taught just a little in regards to the historical past of this magical place.
2. Horseback Using in Vjosa Nationwide Park
Vjosa Nationwide Park is without doubt one of the most stunning 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 filled with stunning hills, previous bridges crossing mountain rivers, varied ruins, and the spectacular Lengarica Canyon. My favourite approach to discover this countryside is on horseback, and this fabulous horseback driving tour from close by Permet is without doubt one of the greatest.
You’ll be in a small group of different riders, and the tour guides will alter the tour relying in your capacity. 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 ready so that you can have an unbelievable day in nature.
You’ll uncover why Vjosa Nationwide Park is without doubt one of the greatest locations to go to close to Gjirokaster. It’s a magical journey and certainly one of my favourite issues to do in Gjirokaster. When you have older kids, it’s probably the greatest issues to do in Gjirokaster for households.
3. Take a look at Gjirokaster Museum
If you wish to be taught extra in regards to the historical past of this cobbled city, head to one of the standard vacationer sights in Gjirokaster. At Gjirokaster Museum, you’ll acquire 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 citadel, which could be complicated. It’s a separate 200lek ($1.88) to enter the Museum, and properly price it at that worth.
4. Take a Native Cooking Class
One other of my favourite methods to essentially 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 lessons are very talked-about 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 will likely be your information as she welcomes you into her dwelling and teaches you the right way to make a 3-course Albanian dinner. On the identical time, you’ll pattern native raki made by her husband – an excessive amount of of which makes the cooking just a little harder…
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 prime issues to do in Gjirokaster and is a good way to satisfy new folks, 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 searching over the city, the citadel is without doubt one of the prime locations to go to in Gjirokaster.
Not solely does it boast unbelievable views over Gjirokaster itself and the countryside past, but it surely’s additionally an enchanting look into the historical past of the town. Initially of Ottoman building, it was later used as a jail for political prisoners throughout the Communist Period.
It’s 400lek ($3.76) to enter, and as soon as inside you may 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 citadel.
Because of this, the citadel is an fascinating mixture of Ottoman design and trendy features, because of its use being tailored over time. You may even head to the highest of the citadel for some superb views. Don’t skip Gjirokaster Museum, which is talked about above and located contained in the citadel.
It’s the point of interest of the entire city, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s one of the standard Gjirokaster sights.
6. Go Rafting within the Vjosa River
As Vjosa Nationwide Park is without doubt one of the most stunning locations to see in Gjirokaster, it’s solely proper that it will get a second point out on this checklist.
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 a number of 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 slim passages as you fly alongside on the rapids.
For me, it’s probably the greatest issues to do round Gjirokaster and a very memorable time out.
7. Personal Chilly Warfare Metropolis Tour
When you’re within the Chilly Warfare and within the affect it had on Albania, then this non-public day tour is an outstanding selection.
On this tour, you’ll get to discover non-public Chilly Warfare tunnels beneath the town which can be hardly ever seen by vacationers. You’ll hear first-hand tales from individuals who lived and labored in Albania throughout this troublesome time.
The tour features a tour of the citadel, in addition to a tour of the tunnels, with a vastly educated information who shares the fascinating historical past of Albania throughout the Chilly Warfare.
The tour ends within the Previous Bazaar to see the birthplace of Enver Hoxha, the notorious dictator of Communist Albania. It’s an excellent, insightful tour and probably the greatest 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 approach 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 immediately.
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. In the present day, it’s an uncovered historic metropolis full with an amphitheater, the Nice Basilica, the Venetian Citadel, and rather more.
Subsequent, you’ll head to one of the stunning locations in Gjirokaster; the Blue Eye. This beautiful pure spring boasts a number of the bluest water you’ll ever see. Take a dip or dive from the viewing platform for the proper approach to cool off after the stroll.
This action-packed tour is without doubt one of the most enjoyable issues to do in Gjirokaster and a very good approach 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 not suggest it sufficient.
The Barrels is a small, family-run vineyard simply exterior Gjirokaster. It’s very unassuming from the surface, however you’ll quickly be met by the household, (and certain not less than 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 daily relying on what fruit and greens are in season and almost every little thing is sourced from the winery. There’s a superb selection of veggie choices too.
Paired with the Barrels’ wonderful wine and selfmade raki, the magical setting makes this probably the greatest 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 Previous City
After getting your bearings on a strolling tour, probably the greatest free issues to do in Gjirokaster is to easily stroll across the Previous City.
The cobbled streets and tall, conventional buildings will make it apparent why this metropolis is acknowledged as one of the stunning locations in Albania. The Ottoman-style homes have been remodeled into cool cafes, bars, eating places, and boutique outlets.
Seize a espresso on the pedestrianized streets at Kashahu Kafe or head into the Previous 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 probably the greatest issues to do in Gjirokaster at evening.
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 referred to as the pure lungs of Southern Albania and covers a powerful 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 set up the white water rafting above, and as such, it comes extremely really helpful (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 loosen up after a day of journey earlier than returning dwelling. I really like Hotova; it’s a magical place and is without doubt one of the most stunning locations to go to in Gjirokaster.
12. Strive a Wooden Crafting Expertise
Gjirokaster is known for its artisanal merchandise, so a good way to embrace the native tradition is to show your hand to a standard 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 provide help to craft no matter you want from the supplies offered. You’ll begin off by creating your design on paper earlier than carving it beneath the watchful eye of your trainer.
Have fun your creation with a glass of wine or raki and take one thing dwelling with you that may without end 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 standard right here.
That is the second strolling tour bazaar on this checklist and takes in a number of the hottest sights in Gjirokaster. You’ll head to the Previous Bazaar, which seems like touring again in time. From right here, you’ll discover the citadel and a medieval fortress as you find out about Gjirokaster’s army previous.
A strolling tour is a good way to be taught what to do in Gjirokaster from a neighborhood information, and a very good approach to discover your means round. This selection isn’t any exception and is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Gjirokaster.
14. Have some Cocktails at Hangover Bar
Gjirokaster is dwelling to some wonderful bars and eating places and has a enjoyable social scene after darkish.
One in every of my favourite locations is Hangover Bar, which serves some scrumptious cocktails. Don’t let the title put you off, though one too lots of their superb raki-based cocktails might properly justify that title!
It has a stunning terrace to sit down and have a drink and watch the solar go down. The proper spot after a day of exploring the myriad issues to see in Gjirokaster.
15. Wander across the Ethnographic Museum
Somewhat-known reality about Gjirokaster is that it’s the birthplace of the Albanian Communist Dictator, Enver Hoxha. In the present day, his dwelling has been become 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 powerful assortment and an ideal stop-off throughout a stroll by way of the Previous City. It’s certainly one of my favourite locations to go to in Gjirokaster.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Gjirokaster
If you wish to profit from your time in Gjirokaster, check out my steered itineraries under.
1 Day in Gjirokaster Itinerary
When you’re planning a flying go to, then I undoubtedly suggest taking a strolling tour to cowl as most of the standard issues to do in Gjirokaster as doable. The Argjiro strolling tour above features a journey to the citadel that means you may tick off one other of the preferred issues to do in Gjirokaster.
Within the afternoon, discover the Previous 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 number of the highlights simply exterior Gjirokaster. I counsel 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 historic historical past and nature. For more moderen occasions, take the Personal Chilly Warfare tour.
The place to Keep in Gjirokaster
These are just a few of one of the best neighborhoods in Gjirokaster for vacationers:
The Previous City – Greatest for First-time Guests and Nightlife
Positioned on the prime of the hill, the Previous City is one of the best place to remain in Gjirokaster. Right here, you’ll discover cobbled streets, a number of bars and eating places, and nearly all of the Gjirokaster sights. The aptly named Citadel Lodge is a stunning 3-star resort with a terrace and bar boasting superb views over the town.
New City – Greatest for Households
The choice to the Previous 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 less complicated, and it’s a superb base for visiting the close by sights. Dream’s Lodge gives nice views of the town. Alternatively, Novi’s Condo gives beautiful luxurious and trendy design.
Greatest Eating places in Gjirokaster
The meals scene in Gjirokaster is admittedly standard and listed here are a number of the highlights:
The Barrels
I can not fee 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 admittedly well-thought-out. The household and repair make this my favourite restaurant in Gjirokaster by far.
Taverna Tradicionale Kardhashi
For a standard Albanian restaurant in Gjirokaster itself, head to Taverna Kardhashi. It serves scrumptious, native meals at improbable costs. The stuffed peppers are scrumptious, and the employees 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 sweet, and the costs are wonderful.
Submarine 105
Submarine 105 is positioned within the Previous Bazaar and combines its conventional setting with a contemporary twist. The Albanian dishes are scrumptious and are served in massive parts, all mixed with a superb, and intensive, drinks checklist.
Pizza Me Gusta
When you fancy pizza then head to Pizza Me Gusta. The tremendous pleasant employees will provide help to select, and the pizzas are very well-priced. Skinny and crispy bases with a number of toppings. An excellent pizza spot in Gjirokaster.
Attending to Gjirokaster
Gjirokaster is positioned round 3 hours south of Tirana and an hour from Sarande. To get there from exterior of Albania, you’ll seemingly 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 value you round 1,000lek or $9. The journey takes round 3-4 hours relying on site visitors and departs from the Regional Bus Terminal varied instances a day.
From Sarande, there are common each day buses which value round 400lek or $3.50. They depart from Friendship Park.
Alternatively, you may 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 go to a number of the sights exterior of the town.
Issues To Do in Gjirokaster: FAQs
Listed below are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Gjirokaster:
Gjirokaster is understood for its stunning cobbled streets and Ottoman structure. It’s a stylish and standard vacation spot with a variety of excellent cafes, bars, eating places, and boutique outlets.
The most effective time to go to Gjirokaster is throughout 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 without doubt one of the most stunning cities in Albania. On the identical time, it has some unbelievable nationwide parks and nature on its doorstep. It’s a tremendous place to go to.
I like to recommend not less than 2-3 days to discover Gjirokaster itself. When you keep for longer, you may discover a number of the well-known sights and nationwide parks simply exterior the town too.
Gjirokaster is tremendous protected. It feels actually cozy and pleasant within the Previous 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 citadel is the preferred 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 begin, and trilece (three milk) cake for dessert – each are divine.
In Closing
Gjorikaster isn’t solely a stupendous metropolis, filled with beautiful structure and fairly cobbled streets, but it surely’s additionally a spot of pure magnificence and a vacation spot the place you may actually have an journey! There are such a lot of improbable issues to do in Gjirokaster, you’re spoiled for selection.
I hope this put up helps you intend one of the best journey to Gjirokaster!
