Gjirokastra: 6 things to know as a tourist

Gjirokastra is a city in southern Albania that is rich in history and natural beauty. Located in the Albanian Alps, it is home to stunning landscapes and a wealth of cultural and historical sites. In this blog post, you will all the information you need to visit the city of Gjirokastra. From its ancient history to things to do, places to stay, and traditional food.

1. History of Gjirokastra

Gjirokastra has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The city was first settled by the Illyrians and later became a Roman one. In the Middle Ages, it was under the rule of the Byzantine Empire and later the Ottoman Empire. Today, the city is a symbol of Albanian resistance, as it was the birthplace of the leader of the Communist Party, Enver Hoxha. According to the legend, during the siege of the city by the Turks, Princess Argjiro jumped from the walls of the castle together with her son in order not to fall alive into the hands of the enemy. This is where the name “Fortress of Argjiro” came from.

2. Things to do in Gjirokastra

• Visit the Gjirokastra Castle: This medieval fortress is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Explore the Old Bazaar: This historic marketplace is the heart of Gjirokastra’s cultural and social life and is a great place to find souvenirs and local handicrafts.
• Museums. You should visit the Weapons Museum, Ethnographic Museum, and the characteristic houses of Zakates, Skendulates, Babametos, Kadares, etc.
• Walk through the Stone Town: The city’s unique architecture, with buildings made of stone and wood, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for visitors.
• For nature enthusiasts, the most valuable are the natural parks such as Viroit, Sotires, Ujit te Ftohte in Tepelena, etc.

3. How to get to Gjirokastra from Tirana?

The best way to get to Gjirokastra from Tirana is by bus or car. The journey takes approximately 6 hours by bus, and the route passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Albania. The ticket price is around $15. If you’re driving, the route takes approximately 4 hours and is a scenic journey through the Albanian Alps. Albania has also an Uber-like app where you can book a taxi, called VrapOn Taxi.

4. The Best Time to visit

Gjirokastra can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the summer. In this period the city is full of tourists and the atmosphere is very vivid. In this part of the year, you also can combine your visit with Saranda beaches.

5. Places to stay

Currently, in the city, HORECA is developing rapidly. There are a variety of accommodation options in Gjirokastra, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some of the top-rated places to stay include Hotel Kerculla, Hotel Gjirokastra, and Hotel the First. We highly recommend booking a room in Hotel Kerculla if you are by car or can afford a taxi. The panorama over there is unique and relaxing.

6. Food and drink

Gjirokastra is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as roasted lamb, stuffed peppers, and homemade cheese. Do not forget to taste traditional meatballs called “qifqi”. Some of the top restaurants in the city include Taverna Traditional Kardhashi, Taverna Kula, Restaurant Vojsava, and Restaurant Traditional Odaja. Please do not leave the city without visiting Kalimera Patisserie.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gjirokastra is a city that offers history, culture, beautiful landscapes, and nature. Whether you’re a history lover, an adventure-seeker, or just looking for a relaxing weekend, Gjirokastra has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and head to this beautiful city to experience all it has to offer!