Gjirokaster or the ‘Stone City’ is a UNESCO old-town in an Albanian mountain. The whole city is made from stone from the roads to the buildings. It is a historical town with a lot of traditional charm and steep hills! Read on for the best things to do in Gjirokaster.
Many people just come to Gjirokaster on a day trip from the south but we think it is worth spending a few days in this historical town. It is the place to learn all about Albania’s history from the home of the previous dictator Enver Hoxha and the famous political prison. As well as being the birthplace of the Albanian writer Ismail Kadare whose name is all over the city. Here are the best things to do in Gjirokaster.
If you are looking for an itinerary for your trip to Albania be sure to check our 10 day Albania itinerary with kids.
1. Stay at Hotel Gjirokastra
Hotel Gjirokaster has the perfect location being situated just above the main bazaar. It is also just below Gjirokaster castle so there is no need for long walks up and down the cobble hills to see everything.
The rooms are simple and traditional but very comfortable with an amazing shower! We had a delicious feast of traditional Albanian food for breakfast each morning. Fresh plum juice from the trees, feta, spinach pie, local donuts and honey, eggs and fresh coffee. The staff are really helpful and knowledgeable about what to do and where to go.
We booked through Booking.com and got a really great rate only 150euros for 3 nights for a large family room with breakfast.
2. Visit Gjirokaster Castle
The main tourist attraction which brings coach loads of day trippers so get there early. The castle opens at 9am so would suggest getting there as early as you can. Be ready for the best views of Gjirokaster from the top.
Entrance fee is only 200lek or £1.43 per adult, kids under 12 are free. It is definitely worth paying an additional 200lek to go into the Castle Museum which is located in the old prison. There is a lot of information about modern Albanian history with lots of photographs and quotes. Additionally, there is a weapons museum and make sure to visit the Prison of the 7 Windows. This prison was home to political prisoners during Enver Hoxha’s reign. It is possible to walk into some of the cells and have a look around there are also a few pictures on the walls.
Outside there is a stage and dome which often holds traditional folk music concerts. The clock tower and American war plane are an interesting sight too.
Wear trainers as the cobbled streets can be slippery. Take water and snacks as there is lots to see so it will take a few hours but nowhere to buy anything when you’re up there. Be prepared to walk uphill, some parts are a little steep but as long as you are of a reasonable fitness it is fine. Our boys were 8 and 6 when we visited and were fine.
Check out this walking tour of Gjirokaster it is a great way to explore the city by foot.
3. Check out the Teddy Bears at the Irish Bar
As soon as you walk down (or up!) into Gjirokaster main bazaar area you will see the Irish Bar up one of the 5 main streets. You will see teddy bears decorating the signs and 2 large teddy bears sat waiting for company.
It is certainly a good tactic to draw people in, along with the cute dog running around attracting customers.
To be honest the bar next door – Babamento 2 is better with cheap drinks, very friendly staff and a good DJ out in the evenings. But stop by and say hi to the Teddy Bears on the way!
4. Have a cocktail at Hangover Bar
The best cocktails we had in Albania (number 1 on Trip Advisor). They have an extensive menu and are really reasonably priced with the most expensive around 700lek or £5ish. There is a small inside area but lots of tables on the terrace, perfect for the evening as the sun is going down.
Try the local Raki cocktails – delicious!
5. Eat Lunch at The Barrels Vineyard
This Vineyard is only about a 10minute drive from Gjirokaster old town. It would be a perfect stop on the way to or from your time at Gjirokaster.
The Barrels Vineyard is a local, family-run vineyard with the most gorgeous puppy running around. There is no menu only whatever they have fresh on that day.
We opted for a plate of traditional bites and some salad and lamb. It was all amazing and we certainly had clean plates by the end. They also make their own wine which was delicious.
It is set in the most beautiful green area with vines, plum trees, pears and strawberries growing. Chickens and Rambo the puppy running around. The most peaceful lunch spot we had in Albania. (Rated number 2 on Trip Adviser of Gjirokaster restaurants).
Read our post for why we think this is the best restaurant Albania.
6. Visit Kodra Hotel Restaurant or Bar for Sunset Views
Hotel Kodra is a big, popular hotel in the town. It has a bar and restaurant offering breathtaking views over Gjirokaster and the mountains in the background.
Views of the silver city are great any time of the day but even better at sunset when you can see the sun falling behind the mountains in the distance. We had a great, cheap meal here – don’t think it will be more pricey because of the views, it is the same as the rest of Gjirokaster.
7. Do a tour of the Cold War Tunnels
The tour only takes about 30minutes but it is really interesting to see how this whole tunnel was built underground in the city. Built as an emergency shelter for government officials towards the end of the communist era which ended in 1990. The tunnels were built under instruction of Enver Hoxha which reflects his paranoia of being under attack after their relationship with the Soviet Union ended.
You will be given a guided tour and shown the 59 rooms, offices and storage areas at nearly 1km long. For anyone interested in history and the communist reign it is worth a visit at only 200lek per person.
8. Visit a traditional Albanian House
Skenduli house is more than 300 years old and still stands tall in the centre of Gjirokaster. It is one of the oldest buildings in the town and has been proudly preserved. The house has been renovated into a museum showing the way that an affluent Albanian would have lived during those times.
Arriving at the house you will pay 200lek and then be given a guided tour from existing members of the Skenduli family. Each room is explained and little stories and tales are given as you go along.
It is a short, yet interesting stop and worth including during your visit to Gjirokaster to learn more about the traditional Albanian way of life.
9. Buy souvenirs at the Bazaar
The bazaar is the hub of Gjirokaster and an area that must be wandered and explored. Admire the traditional souvenirs and wares at the little shops, Albanian clothes, trinkets and gifts to take home. As well as the tourist shops expect to find ice cream stalls, cafes, restaurants of all different cuisines and bars to stop and have a beer.
Check out Viator here for a walking tour of Gjirokaster Bazaar.
10. Eat Meatballs and Pizza at Kashah
Meatballs are on the traditional Albanian menu and should definitely be tried. The meatballs at Kashah restaurant were the best we had in Albania; huge and tasty – give them a go! As well as the meatballs the pizza menu is extensive and the pizzas are gigantic and only 400lek each.
11. Wander Gjirokaster Bazaar at Dusk
Gjirokaster is a town enjoyed any time of the day but it comes to life at dusk. It is wonderful to see the sky change colour over the mountains in the distance. More people arrive and there is a lovely atmosphere. A perfect place to people watch the world going by on the street with a coffee or beer as the lights turn on for evening. We spent a few memorable evenings wandering and stopping and eating and drinking our way around the little streets.
If you enjoyed reading The Best Things to do in Gjirokaster then check out our Guide to Albania and Albanian road trip. For more Albania information then check out Saranda with kids and Dhermi Beach Albania. If you are looking for an Albanian itinerary then check out 10 day Albania itinerary with kids.
If you are looking for other family friendly trips then have a look at 7 Stunning Places to Visit in Oman, Where to go in Thailand and Everything you need to know about Dubai.
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