Gjirokastër Old Town

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Explore Gjirokastër's Old Town: a UNESCO site with Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets, and a hilltop fortress offering stunning views.

Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Gjirokastër, a captivating 'City of Stone' known for its Ottoman-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and historical significance. Explore its bazaar, traditional houses, and the imposing Gjirokastër Fortress perched high above, offering panoramic views.

A brief summary to Old town

34FM+M7G, Street Bashkim Kokona, Gjirokaster, 6001, AL
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Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the steep, cobblestone streets of the Old Town.
Visit the Gjirokastër Fortress for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Explore the Old Bazaar for local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Albanian products.
Consider a guided tour to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of Gjirokastër.

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Getting There

Walking

From the city center, the Old Town is easily accessible on foot. Be prepared for a steep walk uphill on cobblestone streets. Follow the signs towards the Gjirokastër Fortress and Old Bazaar. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your starting point.
Public Transport

Local buses connect the new town with the Old Town. Look for the public bus circuit that serves the historic center. A single fare costs around 30 LEK. Check local schedules for up-to-date information.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Gjirokastër. A short taxi ride from the new town to the Old Town costs approximately 300-500 LEK. Negotiate the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is running. A taxi from Tirana to Gjirokaster costs between 121 and 158 euros.
Parking

If driving, note that parking in the Old Town is limited. There is an underground parking garage near the Old Town, costing approximately €2 for 3 hours. Consider parking here and walking to explore the area. Private parking is also available for around 1000 LEK per day.

Discover more about Old town

Gjirokastër's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a mesmerizing journey into Albania's past. Known as the 'City of Stone,' its unique architecture showcases Ottoman influences, with distinctive stone houses climbing the slopes of the Gjerë mountains. The cobblestone streets wind through a historic bazaar, offering local crafts and traditional Albanian life.The town's history stretches back to the 4th century AD, with its peak in the 17th century. Conquered by the Ottoman army in 1417, Gjirokastër flourished as a center of the Sanjak of Albania. The Old Town features 'kullë' houses, traditional stone dwellings with tiled roofs and carved wooden windows, some dating back to the 18th century.Dominating the skyline is the Gjirokastër Fortress, one of the largest in the Balkans. This historic castle has served various roles throughout history, including a military stronghold and a prison during the communist regime. Today, it houses the Gjirokastër Museum and offers stunning views of the Drino Valley. The Ethnographic Museum, located in the Palorto district, provides a glimpse into 19th-century Albanian life.