Name
Bashkia Gjirokastër
Description
Nearby attractions
Castle of GjirokastraSkënduli HouseGjirokastra Old TownGjirokastra BazaarZekate house & outdoor cozy barCold War TunnelAli Pasha BridgeThe Castle of BorshUjëvara e Peshturës ProgonatEthnographic MuseumNearby restaurants
Corner of BazaarNearby localities
LecceTiranaGallipoliOtrantoMunicipal Unit of LefkadaMunicipal Unit of ApollonioiIoanninaOhridVeria MunicipalityUgentoRelated posts
Keywords
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Basic Info
Bashkia Gjirokastër
Bashkia Gjirokastër, Southern Albania, Albania
Ratings & Description
Info
attractions: Castle of Gjirokastra, Skënduli House, Gjirokastra Old Town, Gjirokastra Bazaar, Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar, Cold War Tunnel, Ali Pasha Bridge, The Castle of Borsh, Ujëvara e Peshturës Progonat, Ethnographic Museum, restaurants: Corner of Bazaar
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Things to Do in Bashkia Gjirokastër, Southern Albania, Albania - Bashkia Gjirokastër Attractions & Activities
Attractions of Bashkia Gjirokastër
Castle of Gjirokastra
Skënduli House
Gjirokastra Old Town
Gjirokastra Bazaar
Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar
Cold War Tunnel
Ali Pasha Bridge
The Castle of Borsh
Ujëvara e Peshturës Progonat
Ethnographic Museum
Castle of Gjirokastra
4.6
(4.2K)
Closed
Click for details
Skënduli House
4.6
(345)
Closed
Click for details
Gjirokastra Old Town
4.7
(353)
Click for details
Gjirokastra Bazaar
4.6
(320)
Closed
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Restaurants of Bashkia Gjirokastër
Corner of Bazaar
Corner of Bazaar
4.9
(491)
Closed
Click for details
Castle of Gjirokastra
Castle of Gjirokastra
4.6Castle
poullasomewherepoullasomewhere
خطة سياحة كاملة لألبانيا 🇦🇱✈️
تيرانا (Tirana):
ميدان سكاندينافيا (Skanderbeg Square)
القلعة الألبانية (Tirana Castle)
مسجد إتيم بك (Et'hem Bey Mosque)
برج الساعة التيرانا (Tirana Clock Tower)
متحف بروفاشي (Bunk'Art Museum)
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جيجال (Gjirokastër):
قلعة جيجال (Gjirokastër Castle)
متحف الأسلحة (Gjirokastër Arms Museum)
البيوت الحجرية التقليدية في المدينة القديمة
متحف إيسمايل تولي (Ismail Kadare House)
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ساراندا (Saranda):
الشاطئ والبحر الأيوني الرائع
قلعة ليكورا (Lëkurësi Castle)
كهوف سيروكاليا (Syri i Kalter - Blue Eye)
جزيرة كساميل (Ksamil Island)
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فلورا (Fier):
مسرح أبولونيا (Apollonia Ancient Theatre)
متحف أبولونيا (Apollonia Archaeological Museum)
كنيسة سانت ماري (St. Mary's Church)
برج فلورا (Fier Fortress)
#السفر #البانيا #مصر #السعودية #الامارات #اوروبا
شهر عسل - البانيا - اوروبا - السياحة
our.traveltreatsour.traveltreats
🇬🇧 Travel itinerary for 7 days in Albania
Don‘t forget to save this post and follow @our.traveltreats for more travel itineraries ☺️🫶
Day 1️⃣ & 2️⃣: Hiking in Theth. Make sure to check the hike to Valbona Peak & to the Blue eye (don‘t mistake the Blue Eye in Theth with the Blue Eye near Sarandë). And don‘t miss the Church of Theth, called Kisha e Thethit.
Day 3️⃣: Exploring one of the oldest traditional bazaars in Krujë
Day 4️⃣: Exploring Berat aka the city of 1000 windows
Day 5️⃣: Gjirokaster & arriving in Himarë
Day 6️⃣: Beach day in Himarë
Day 7️⃣: Dhermi: Beach Day & exploring the old town
Optional: If you have 2 more days we recommend to spend your time at Lake Komani. It’s quite a journey to get there but so worth it, especially if you‘re looking for some peace and quiet.
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🇩🇪 Reiseroute für 7 Tage in Albanien
Vergesst nicht den Beitrag zu speichern und folgt @our.traveltreats für weitere Reiserouten dieser Art ☺️🫶
Tag 1️⃣ & 2️⃣: Wandern in Theth. Schaut euch unbedingt die Wanderung zum Valbona-Gipfel und zum Blue eye an (Achtung es gibt auch ein Blue Eye in Sarandë). Und schaut außerdem bei der Kirche von Theth, Kisha e Thethit, vorbei.
Tag 3️⃣: Erkundung eines der ältesten traditionellen Basare in Krujë
Tag 4️⃣: Erkundung von Berat, auch bekannt als die Stadt der 1000 Fenster
Tag 5️⃣: Gjirokaster & Ankunft in Himarë
Tag 6️⃣: Strandtag in Himarë
Tag 7️⃣: Strandtag in Dhermi und wenn ihr eine Pause vom Strand braucht, schlendert durch die idyllische historische Altstadt von Dhërmi
Optional: Wenn ihr noch 2 weitere Tage Zeit habt, nutzt diese unbedingt um an den Koman See zu fahren. Der Weg dorthin ist weit, aber es lohnt sich auf alle Fälle und ganz besonders, wenn ihr Ruhe und Abgeschiedenheit sucht.
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#travelitinerary #visitalbania #travelalbania
JinkyJinky
The Castle of Gjirokastra is an absolute stunner. Perched majestically overlooking the beautiful city, it's a truly breathtaking sight and an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Albania. I’ve seen a fair few castles in my time, but this one has something truly special about it.
From the moment you begin the ascent, you’re transported back in time. The views on the way up are simply spectacular, offering a tantalising glimpse of what awaits. The walk itself is a bit of a climb, mind you, so wear comfortable shoes! But trust me, it's well worth the effort.
Once you reach the castle itself, you're immediately struck by its sheer scale and grandeur. It’s a massive, imposing structure, steeped in history and brimming with stories. Walking through the courtyards and exploring the various rooms and chambers is like stepping back through centuries. You can almost feel the presence of the soldiers who once defended its walls.
The views from the top are, quite simply, unparalleled. You get a panoramic vista of the entire city of Gjirokastra, as well as the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's the perfect spot to take some stunning photos and soak in the beauty of Albania. On a clear day, the visibility is incredible.
What I particularly appreciated was the wealth of information available. There are informative plaques dotted around the castle, providing fascinating details about its history and architecture. It really helped to bring the castle to life and understand its significance. The museum within the castle is also well worth a visit, showcasing a collection of artefacts and exhibits that shed further light on the castle's past.
The castle's history is rich and complex, and the way it’s been preserved is truly remarkable. You can see the layers of different eras, from the Ottoman period to the Communist era. It’s a powerful reminder of Albania's turbulent past and its resilience.
The atmosphere of the castle is simply captivating. There's a certain magic in the air, a sense of timelessness that's hard to describe. It's a place where you can truly escape the modern world and immerse yourself in history and beauty. I found myself completely lost in thought as I wandered through its ancient walls.
Honestly, I can't recommend the Castle of Gjirokastra highly enough. It's a truly remarkable landmark that should be on every traveller's itinerary. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a breathtaking view, this castle has something to offer everyone. Don't miss out on this incredible experience! It's a true jewel in the Albanian crown and well worth the trip. Just remember to bring your camera and your walking shoes! A truly unforgettable experience. Brilliant!
Mohammed DaimiMohammed Daimi
High above the quaint Albanian town of Gjirokaster, a formidable presence casts its shadow. Gjirokaster Castle, a behemoth of stone and time, isn't just a historic landmark; it's a poem etched in battlements and whispers carried on the wind.
The castle's origins remain shrouded in a pleasing mystery. Archaeological whispers suggest a settlement perched here as early as the 4th-5th centuries. Fast forward a millennium, and the 12th-13th centuries saw the first walls rise, a response, some say, to the fall of Hadrianopolis.
As centuries turned their pages, the castle transformed itself to echo the ruling powers. The Ottomans, arriving in 1419, left their mark with expansions and the iconic clock tower, a silent sentinel keeping time with the rhythm of the Muslim prayers (though the hands remain stubbornly frozen, perhaps a quiet rebellion against the Communist regime's secularism).
Ali Pasha, the ruthless yet charismatic Ottoman ruler, stands as a pivotal figure. His reign saw the castle reach its present majesty, its sprawling form resembling a monolithic ship made of stone. Legend weaves itself into the narrative, too, with the tale of Princess Argyro who chose a tragic leap over surrendering to the Ottomans, her name forever linked to the castle's identity.
Today, Gjirokaster Castle beckons the explorer within. Wander through its labyrinthine alleys, each turn revealing a new vista. Climb the clock tower for a panoramic view that will leave you breathless. Delve into the echoing halls that once housed weaponry, now repurposed into museums showcasing the Albanian spirit of resistance, both against the Nazis and the West.
A particular curiosity awaits: a captured US Air Force jet, a silent testament to the complexities of the Cold War. Its presence sparks the imagination, prompting questions about allegiance and the ever-shifting tides of geopolitics.
But Gjirokaster Castle transcends the realm of exhibits. It's a place to feel the weight of history. Imagine the clang of swords, the murmur of strategizing soldiers, the panicked cries during sieges. Feel the cool caress of stone worn smooth by countless footsteps. Let the wind whisper stories of bygone eras.
Gjirokaster Castle isn't just a tourist destination; it's an experience. It's a chance to commune with the past, to stand where empires rose and fell, and to appreciate the enduring strength of stone and spirit. So, come, dear traveler, ascend the hill, and let Gjirokaster Castle weave its magic on you.
Lee-Ann FieldstedLee-Ann Fieldsted
I didn’t know anything about the castle when we decided to go out there.
When we went, there was construction on the road to the castle, so we had to park in a parking lot under the construction site, then walk up the stairs into Old Town. I don’t recall rates being posted anywhere, and I can’t remember what I paid but it was reasonable. Maybe 300 - 500 lek for 3-4 hours.
Be prepared to go up a couple of stone paved hilly streets through Old Town, lined with artisan shops with lovely handmade goods of jewelry, leather handbags, ceramics and soaps.
After that, comes the stairs of dread! That’s what I’m calling it anyway! It’s a foot path of upward ascending stone steps with two way foot traffic, switchback hills and repeat. I think it’s about a 30 minute walk or longer up the stairs, then a stone paved road to reach the castle.
The castles last reputation was as a prison from 1944-1970 during the communist reign in Albania. Prior to that it was a fortress that housed the inhabitants of Gjirokaster. I prefer remembering it that way.
Entry fees in June 2024 was 400 lek for adults. It says seniors are 200 lek but that only applies to Albanian senior citizens.
The fortress was abandoned in 1800s but the stone buildings are still sturdy. I can even imagine the time and toil it took to place the stones for the roads and pathways. Some of them are worn smooth in areas and can be slippery. The signs are quite funny. Don’t slip on the walls, so take note and don’t climb the walls! 😜. In all seriousness, take care walking on the stones.
There is a bit of walking so if you’re not mobile, this could be very taxing. I took my 77yo mum up here. She made it to the castle and even went inside and toured it, but she was pretty tired when we came down. What goes up must come down !
There are steep stairs descending to stone ovens that I didn’t attempt to see. But others I did go down which ended up being a treat. If you can get a guide, that would be a good way to learn about the history of the castle. We did a self guided tour, which I’m sorry to say, was figure it out. I did end up talking to a local guide and she kindly gave me some historical background about the castle and recommendations on what to eat in Gjirokaster.
1. Rice balls
2. Meat balls with sauce.
We ate at Odaja restaurant which is on the right as you enter back into old town from the castle. Those meatballs were amazing !!
Great day in Gjirokaster.
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Skënduli House
Skënduli House
4.6History Museum
Nikson BuzhalaNikson Buzhala
Skenduli House was build during the Ottoman Empire in 1823. This house is preserved how the Skenduli family used to live in Gjirokastra during the 19th century. This house is open for visitors, furthermore the descendant of the House is Nasip Skenduli and the owner of the house. If you want to visit a beautiful house with the architecture of the 19 century you are in the right place. The house of Skenduli is not the only house in Gjirokaster that has this architecture, so all the houses in this city they have the same architectural structure. The architectural style of the houses of Gjirokastra and the whole city is under UNESCO world heritage since 2005.
I highly suggest to see the beautiful houses and cultural sites, and Gjirokaster Fortress which is also under Unesco.
MelissaMelissa
We didn’t get a tour guide like other reviews mentioned. We arrived and someone outside collected our money and said we can look around on our own and that we will be given a tour only on the wedding room. There was only one information plaque on the first floor and basically every bedroom of the 3 floors looked the same without any new information. We could hear a lady giving a full house tour to a group of Italians and felt like we didn’t get our money’s worth by having no tour guide. In the end, we got information on the wedding room (no photos allowed) which seemed random when we barely learned about the history of the house. Wish there was more information posted or wait for a group to form so every visitor receives a house tour.
Mohammed AhmedMohammed Ahmed
My woman of 12 years wanted to go visit this place because this is her homeland and we live in the United States. While visiting this place, we went to the most special room called the wedding room, and the tour guide explained to us that this is the room man and a woman were married. So I decided to get on my knee right then I’m there and ask her to marry me (she said yes 🥰). Photos are not allowed in this room, but he was kind enough to film it and let us take photos which we will keep private out of respect for him and the facility, but that was the most thoughtful thing. So kudos to him and thank you for making this a wonderful experience.
Keval PatelKeval Patel
This is another one of the famous houses in Gjirokaster which is well preserved from the time of its use. I would say you should definitely wait until they run a guided tour as it provides a lot of extra information and the experience would be much less informative without it. The guided tour cost is included in the ticket cost which is great. Our guide was actually the daughter of the man who used to live in the house and she gave us an in depth account of life at the time, even though she was interrupted by a few phone calls, it was still a fantastic visit.
Sher-Ann McDSher-Ann McD
Loved it. Beautiful house, the tour guide really helped us in imagining and realizing the worth and value of this traditional and authentic Albanian home. Guide was knowledgeable and quite informed about the house and it's rooms, their purposes and the role each room played in the Albanian history back then.
I truly appreciated the history lesson and learnt a lot. I do hope that the house is maintained in it's capacity and that the story keeps being told. Our guide was awesome.
The view from the house was breathtaking and beautiful. I truly loved it.
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Gjirokastra Old Town
Gjirokastra Old Town
4.7Historical Place
Tanvi DeshmukhTanvi Deshmukh
Gjirokastër Old Town is like walking through a storybook. The cobblestone streets, Ottoman-style houses, and quiet charm make it one of the most authentic places I’ve visited in Albania.
It’s peaceful, historic, and beautifully preserved. Perfect for slow walks, local shopping, and soaking in mountain views. A must-visit if you're in southern Albania.
There’s plenty to see: the traditional houses like Zekate House and Skenduli House, the Old Bazaar, the mosques, artisan stores selling local goods, and little restaurants where the food is homemade and the raki is strong. Prices are affordable, and the hospitality is warm.
Kristine DavalosKristine Davalos
Very nice town , similar to Berat. I would recommend to park outside the old town instead of entering. Streets are tipped and it might be challenging to get out if you are not sure of the way ( google map shows some rute that are just for pedestrians). When you get in, there’s a Monastery and underneath there’s a small family business ( coffee shop, I believe the name is Te Kubé but not 100% sure) very warm welcome, attentive service and she also gave us some watermelon for free! I defo recommend to come here. Omelette is hugely recommended! Their homemade jam is just.. ugghh!!
Irina BosinIrina Bosin
A small, charming old town with just a few streets. There are interesting souvenir shops and plenty to see. The colorful cafés are delightful, many of which are adorned with rugs and cushions. Parking on the streets is challenging, but there is an underground parking garage for 2 euros for up to 3 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the town. We didn’t visit the castle; after seeing photos of it, we decided it wasn’t particularly special, and the weather was very hot.
Juliette TJuliette T
The most beautiful old city in Albania! I fell in love with it! "City of Stone" or "City of Thousand steps" - it is how they call it. Ottoman houses and narrow streets and even roofs are made of stones - this is a unique thing of Gjirokaster. Old city is situated on the high hills - walking here you are always climbing up and down, finding a lot of unexpected streetscapes!
Steven WebbSteven Webb
Pretty cute old town, just below the castle. Do the castle for sure, then visit the town. Super touristy, but lots of cute tourist shops and cafes. There is no place to park, so be patient. Find a cafe with a view of the castle and mountains. The town is ok but not as interesting as Berat up north or Kruje. Still, if you're down here, you might as well visit.
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