Gjirokastër Old Town: A Stone Citadel of History
Explore Gjirokastër's Old Town: a UNESCO-listed 'City of Stone' with Ottoman architecture, a hilltop castle, and a vibrant bazaar.
Step back in time in Gjirokastër's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the 'City of Stone'. Wander through cobblestone streets, admire Ottoman-era architecture, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic Albanian gem.
A brief summary to Old town
- 34FM+M7G, Street Bashkim Kokona, Gjirokaster, 6001, AL
- +355693753398
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Visit the Gjirokastër Castle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding valley.
- Explore the Old Bazaar for souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional Albanian cuisine.
- Consider a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of Gjirokastër.
- Visit the Cold War Tunnel for a glimpse into Albania's communist past.
Getting There
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Walking
The Old Town of Gjirokastër is best explored on foot due to its pedestrian-friendly zone. From the Tourist Information Center in the Old Bazaar, most attractions, including the Gjirokastër Fortress, Ethnographic Museum, and Skenduli House, are within walking distance. Be prepared for steep, cobblestone streets.
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Public Transport
Local buses connect the New Town with the Old Town. You can catch a bus from 'Bulevardi 18 Shtatori' in the New Town to the Old Town. The cost is minimal, approximately 30-50 Lek. From the bus stop in the Old Town, it's a short walk to the main attractions.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Gjirokastër and can be a convenient option to reach the Old Town from the New Town or the bus station. A short taxi ride from the New Town to the Old Town costs approximately 300-500 Lek. Taxis can be found at the River Bridge (Ura e Lumit) and along 'Bulevardi 18 Shtatori'.
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Parking
If arriving by car, parking is available near the Old Town, including an underground parking garage. Expect to pay around €2 for 3 hours. Some limited free parking is available closer to the Gjirokastër Castle, but the road is steep and narrow. Private parking is also available for 1000 Lek per day.
Discover more about Old town
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old town
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Explore Gjirokastër's Old Town: a UNESCO-listed 'City of Stone' with Ottoman architecture, a hilltop castle, and a vibrant bazaar.
Zekate House
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Explore the enchanting Zekate House in Gjirokaster, a historical landmark that embodies Albania's rich cultural heritage and stunning Ottoman architecture.
Resort Kerculla
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Escape to Resort Kerculla in Gjirokaster: Experience tranquility, explore history, and indulge in Albanian hospitality. Your perfect getaway awaits!
Palorto Hotel
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Experience comfort and Albanian hospitality at Palorto Hotel, your serene base for exploring the historic Stone City of Gjirokastër.
Silver Hill Guesthouse
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Kore Guest House
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1970
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1790
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Shtepia e Ficove Gjirokaster
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Girokastra
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Taverna Murgana
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Bashteja e Teqesë
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Taverna Lani
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Submarine 105
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ethnographic Museum
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Skënduli House
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GJIROKASTER, Skënduli House
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Rruga Palorto
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Rruga Sokaku i te Mareve
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Ismail Kadare's House
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Discover the literary heritage of Albania at Ismail Kadare's House in Gjirokaster, a historical museum showcasing the life of a literary giant.
Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Xhamia e Pazarit
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View point
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Qafa e Pazarit
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Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Gjirokastra Old Town
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Nostagia Tunnel
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Castle of Gjirokastra
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Caravan Horse Riding Albania
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Essential places to dine
ETNO
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Taverna Kuka
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Rumors Restaurant Lounge
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Checkin-Restaurant & Pizzeri
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Restorant La Famiglia
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SIMPLE RESTAURANT
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Te Kalaja Restaurant & Rooms
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Kujtimi Restaurant
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Furra Restaurant & Rooms
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Grill House 13
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Rrapi Restaurant
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Restorant Tradicional Urat
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Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI
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Restaurant Gjoça Tradicional
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Bon Appetit
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Antigonea 2000
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Antique Shop
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Fast Food Sara
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Pirpiri
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Kodra Sweet hill
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Take a memory
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Souvenir Gjirokastra
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SOUVENIR AL KETA
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Mano handmade
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Jona Souvenir
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Aquila Liquori A&N GLAUK
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Artisan Shop
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Alma Souvenir
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Handmade Eva
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Lulu’s Spot
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar cafe çoçoli
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Gallery Irish Pub
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Bar Cafè Kotoni
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Babameto 2 - Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
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Komiteti Bar - Gjirokastër
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Old Town 13
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Grey Stone Bar
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The Black Rose Pub
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O’clock
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Kastro bar
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Classic Coffee Bar
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Bar Shtaka
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Bar Center
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Bar Restorant Gjirokaster Rapi
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Oazi Bar
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