Castles of Gjirokastra
Bite-sized trip
Day 1 – Arrival in Gjirokastra
Considered by many to be one of the most picturesque towns in Albania, Gjirokastra is a must for travellers, especially those visiting the south. This well-preserved Ottoman-style town became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 and it’s not hard to see why, with its enchanting cobbled streets and unique buildings which also earned it the nickname the City of Stone. Here you’ll stay in one of the small local hotels near the town centre. Packed with character and full of colourful local tapestry, this place will instantly make you feel welcome.
Day 2 – Explore the town with your guide
Gjirokastra is very walkable and doesn’t get quite as many tourists as other towns nearby, but there’s plenty to see and do. To help you make the most of your time here, we’ll arrange a local guide who will walk you through the town’s narrow streets and point out the details you’d have easily missed otherwise. Among other places you’ll visit one of the best preserved buildings in the old town, the Skenduli house, with its colourful stained glass windows and many arches. Stroll through the Bazaar, watch the craftsmen at work and gain the secrets of Albanian carpets weaving from the locals.
Spend the rest of your day wandering through the Old Town, picking up authentic handcrafted gifts, eating delicious local food or sitting back in a bar or café watching the world go by.
Day 3 – Departure from Gjirokastra
All good things come to an end and today after breakfast you’ll wave goodbye to this charming place. It’s time to continue your adventures around Albania and start making your way towards the next destination.
Accommodation
For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options
Cooking class
Today you’ll learn about Albanian culture in the best possible way (in our opinion) – through food! With a lot of Italian, Greek and Ottoman influences, Albanian cuisine is rich in flavours and very diverse, with plenty of local delicacies in each region. Under a careful guidance of a local chef you’ll cook up a feast and learn about the development of the local staple dishes while trying them fresh from the stove.
Horse riding in the countryside
Discover the countryside on a horseback and get to places that walkers and bikers don’t often go to. You’ll also have the best view! After a short briefing from your guide, you’ll jump on your horse and start the journey. Your guide will show you his favourite places around the Deshnica Valley and you’ll have ample time to take in the scenery.
Cold war city tour
Discover the intriguing history of the Cold War during your visit to Gjirokastra, Albania. Embark on a fascinating journey as you explore key sites associated with this historic era. Your tour kicks off at the Cold War Tunnel, constructed in the 1970s as a shelter for leaders in the event of attacks. Next, delve into the past with a visit to the castle’s prison, followed by a stop at Enver Hoxha’s house. Uncover layers of history and gain insight into Albania’s role during this pivotal period.
Upgrade to our In Style accommodation
For a little more comfort, why not upgrade to our In Style accommodation? In Gjirokastra, you’ll be staying in beautiful hotel full of luxurious touches: wood carved ceilings, grand chandeliers and a huge terrace overlooking a tiered swimming pool. The views of the old town are a bonus!
