Castle of Gjirokastra: A Stone Sentinel
Explore the imposing Castle of Gjirokastra, a Balkan fortress with centuries of history, panoramic views, and captivating museum exhibits.
The Castle of Gjirokastra, a massive stone fortress, dominates the city's skyline, offering a glimpse into Albania's rich history. With origins dating back to the 12th century, the castle has served as a defensive stronghold, a prison, and now a museum, showcasing artifacts from different periods.
A brief summary to Castle of Gjirokastra
- Rruga Elvia Celebi, Gjirokastër, AL
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the castle grounds involve a lot of walking on uneven, cobblestone surfaces.
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Bring cash, as card payments may not be accepted for entrance tickets and small purchases within the castle.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the castle grounds and museums.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Old Bazaar, follow the steep, cobbled street uphill towards the castle entrance. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes and offers scenic views of the city. Be prepared for a strenuous climb. Alternatively, from the new town, you can walk, although it is a longer and steeper route. Follow signs directing you towards the 'Kalaja' (Castle).
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Public Transport
Local buses connect the new town and the old town, reducing the uphill walk. Take a bus from Bulevardi 18 Shtatori in the new town towards the old town. Check local bus schedules for timings. From the bus stop in the old town, follow the signs to the castle, which involves a short uphill walk. Bus fare is approximately 30 LEK.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastra and can take you directly to the castle entrance. A taxi ride from the new town to the castle costs approximately 300-500 LEK. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Taxis can also be found at the River Bridge (Ura e Lumit) and along '18 Shtatori' Boulevard.
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Driving
If driving, follow the main road uphill from the new town towards the castle. Be aware that the road is steep and narrow with oncoming traffic. Limited free parking is available near the castle entrance. Alternatively, park in the underground parking garage at Çerçiz Square in the new town and take a taxi or bus to the castle. Parking at the garage costs approximately 2 EUR for 3 hours.
Discover more about Castle of Gjirokastra
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bashteja e Teqesë
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Vojsava Restaurant
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Taverna Murgana
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Gjirokastra Old Town
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Xhamia e Pazarit
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Gjirokastra Bazaar
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Hangover Cocktail Bar
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Mapo Restaurant
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1790
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Hotel Old Bazaar 1970
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Submarine 105
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Girokastra
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Corner of Bazaar
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Gjirokastër Obelisk
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Çerçiz Topulli Square
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gjirokastër Museum
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Muzeu i Armëve
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Nostagia Tunnel
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View point
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Qafa e Pazarit
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Tunel
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Skena e Festivalit Folklorik Gjirokastër
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The cold war tunnel
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Kulla e Sahatit
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GJIROKASTER, Skënduli House
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Rruga Sokaku i te Mareve
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Ismail Kadare's House
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Rruga Palorto
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Ethnographic Museum
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Zekate house & outdoor cozy bar
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Tradicional Odaja
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Furra Restaurant & Rooms
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Restorant La Famiglia
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Grill House 13
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Checkin-Restaurant & Pizzeri
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SIMPLE RESTAURANT
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Restaurant Gjoça Tradicional
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Taverna Panorama Zhuli
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Taverna Kuka
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Restaurant Çajupi
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Rumors Restaurant Lounge
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“Castle View” Grill
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Restaurant "The Park"
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Sofra Bar Restaurant
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Restorant Tradicional Urat
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Soni Photo Video
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Mozaik Antik Gjirokaster
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Edua Gjirokaster
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Jona Souvenir
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Artisan Shop
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Kodra Sweet hill
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Aquila Liquori A&N GLAUK
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Elinikon
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Souvenir Gjirokastra
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Bonna Design
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Take a memory
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Lulu’s Spot
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Alma Souvenir
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SOUVENIR AL KETA
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Fast Food Sara
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Grey Stone Bar
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Old Town 13
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Bar Cafè Kotoni
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Bar cafe çoçoli
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Komiteti Bar - Gjirokastër
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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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Oazi Bar
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Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mystic Night Club
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RoofTop
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Tipsy drinks and more
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Orange Club Sarande
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City Lounge
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New Space
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Cocktail Bar Rei
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Demi Lounge
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Difi Live Music
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Nightclub STIL
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Bar Grand
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Factory Night Club
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Pallati i Policave
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Mango Club
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