Gjirokastra Old Town: A Stone-Woven Tapestry of History
Explore Gjirokastra Old Town: a UNESCO gem with stone houses, a vibrant bazaar, and a historic castle, offering a unique Albanian experience.
Gjirokastra Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a captivating maze of cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era stone houses. Known as the 'City of Stone,' it offers a glimpse into Albania's rich past with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant bazaar.
A brief summary to Gjirokastra Old Town
- 34FQ+JGJ, Rruga Gjin Bue Shpata, Gjirokaster, AL
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets are steep and can be slippery.
- Visit the Gjirokastra Castle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding valley.
- Explore the Old Bazaar (Qafa e Pazarit) for local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Albanian cuisine.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Try local specialties like Qifqi (rice balls with herbs) and Sarma (stuffed vine leaves) for an authentic culinary experience.
Getting There
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Walking
Gjirokastra Old Town is best explored on foot due to its narrow, winding streets. From the city center, head towards Rruga Gjin Bue Shpata, which leads directly into the heart of the Old Town. Be prepared for steep inclines and uneven cobblestone surfaces. Once in the Old Town, follow signs to key landmarks like the Gjirokastra Castle and the Ethnographic Museum. Note that some routes may be pedestrian-only.
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Public Transport
If arriving in Gjirokastra's new town, a public bus circuit connects to the old town. Look for bus stops along 'Bulevardi 18 Shtatori'. A single fare costs approximately 30 Lekë. The bus will drop you off near the entrance to the Old Town, from where you can explore on foot.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastra and can be found at the River Bridge (Ura e Lumit) and along 'Bulevardi 18 Shtatori'. A short taxi ride from the new town to the Old Town costs around 200 Lekë. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxis can drop you off at the edge of the Old Town, as private vehicles are restricted from entering the narrow streets.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available in the new town. An underground parking garage near the Old Town costs approximately €2 for 3 hours. Private parking in the old town costs 1000 lek per day. Be aware that streets in the Old Town are narrow and steep, making driving challenging. It's recommended to park outside the Old Town and explore on foot.
Discover more about Gjirokastra Old Town
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vojsava Restaurant
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Submarine 105
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Visit Gjirokastra DMC
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Bashteja e Teqesë
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Taverna Murgana
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Mapo Restaurant
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Corner of Bazaar
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Girokastra
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Hotel Kastro
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1790
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1970
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Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster
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Tourist Information Center
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Stone City Hostel
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Qafa e Pazarit
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Nostagia Tunnel
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Xhamia e Pazarit
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Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Lokid T-33
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Çerçiz Topulli Square
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Castle of Gjirokastra
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Tunel
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Muzeu i Armëve
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Gjirokastër Museum
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The cold war tunnel
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Skena e Festivalit Folklorik Gjirokastër
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View point
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Kulla e Sahatit
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Essential places to dine
Grill House 13
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Furra Restaurant & Rooms
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Restaurant Gjoça Tradicional
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Restaurant Tradicional Odaja
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SIMPLE RESTAURANT
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Kujtimi Restaurant
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Restorant La Famiglia
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Restaurant "The Park"
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Sofra Bar Restaurant
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Restaurant Çajupi
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Rumors Restaurant Lounge
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Checkin-Restaurant & Pizzeri
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Rrapi Restaurant
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Taverna Kuka
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Bon Appetit
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Edua Gjirokaster
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Artisan Shop
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Jona Souvenir
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Aquila Liquori A&N GLAUK
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Elinikon
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Lulu’s Spot
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Alma Souvenir
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Handmade Eva
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Mini market Pazar
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SOUVENIR AL KETA
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Bonna Design
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Souvenir Gjirokastra
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Mozaik Antik Gjirokaster
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Take a memory
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Tobacco One
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Old Town 13
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Grey Stone Bar
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Bar Cafè Kotoni
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Komiteti Bar - Gjirokastër
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Bar cafe çoçoli
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Gallery Irish Pub
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The Black Rose Pub
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Babameto 2 - Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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O’clock
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Classic Coffee Bar
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Kastro bar
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Bar Center
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Bar Shtaka
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Bar Restorant Gjirokaster Rapi
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Oazi Bar
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