Gjirokastër

Gjirokastra: What to Do on Your Own

Give a day to the bazaar, the fortress and the stone houses of the old town. You can explore them on your own. If you want context from a guide, there is an English-language free tour that starts in the town.

Stone rooftops of the historic centre of Gjirokastra
Stone rooftops of the historic centre of Gjirokastra · Jocelyn777

Tours and guided visits

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Stone rooftops of the historic centre of Gjirokastra

Gjirokastër Free Tour

Guide in English

9.4/10 204 reviews 2 h

Departure · Gjirokastra

Free booking · Tip at your discretion

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A walk between the bazaar and the castle

Start at the crossing of the old bazaar and climb to the fortress. From the top you can see the Drino valley. On the way down, pick one of the historic houses on the slope.

Getting to the old town

The historic area is on a slope. If you arrive by bus, find the stop in the lower part and leave time to reach your accommodation or meeting point.

On the five-day route · Day3

Berat → Gjirokastra

If the Berat departure is not confirmed, use Tirana as your base on night 2 and set off from there on day 3. Check that departure for your date too.

Frequently asked questions

What makes Gjirokastra special?

Its historic centre, listed with Berat as a UNESCO site, preserves Ottoman stone houses and a layout adapted to the hillside.

Do I need to book a day trip from Tirana?

You can get there on your own and spend a night, especially if you are continuing to Saranda.

Can I explore on foot?

The centre is easy to cover on foot. For an intercity trip, check separately how to reach the starting point.

How do I confirm the transport?

Check the terminal and the return with the operator running the trip. Save the name of the stop and a reference point nearby.

Where do I confirm the details of the guided tour?

Check the activity page for the language, the meeting point and what is included on the date you choose.