Gjirokastër

Travel Guide

A cobblestone street lined with historic buildings, a clear blue sky, and a tram track overhead.
A town nestled in a valley with mountains in the background.
A hillside village with traditional stone houses and a backdrop of mountains.
A cobblestone street lined with historic buildings, a yellow awning, and a clear blue sky.
A hillside village with traditional architecture and lush greenery.

Where to stay in Gjirokastër

Find the best Gjirokastër areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Gjirokastër
Learn more about Gjirokastër
Kerculla Resort

Kerculla Resort

3 out of 5
Rr.Bashkim Kokona Gjirokastër Gjirokastër County
$117 nightly
The price is $131 total per night from Sep 18 to Sep 19
$131 total
Sep 18 - Sep 19
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Gjirokastër. Enjoy free parking, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Skenduli House and Ethnographic Museum are ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (70 reviews)
"The staff was exceptionally friendly and helpful. The breakfast is superb and the pools are fantastic. Everywhere you look the views are breathtaking. The room was very comfortable."

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2026

Kerculla Resort
Bougainville Bay Hotel

Bougainville Bay Hotel

4 out of 5
Rr. Butrinti Sarandë Vlorë County
$68 nightly
The price is $76 total per night from Sep 23 to Sep 24
$76 total
Sep 23 - Sep 24
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Sarandë. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Castle of Lëkurësit and Mango Beach are ...
7.6/10 Good! (188 reviews)
"Good"

Reviewed on Sep 1, 2026

Bougainville Bay Hotel
DREAM HOTEL SARANDA

DREAM HOTEL SARANDA

3.5 out of 5
rruga e Arbrit Sarandë Albania
$78 nightly
The price is $84 total per night from Oct 1 to Oct 2
$84 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Sarandë. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and an attached winery. Popular attractions Port of Sarandë and Sarande ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (124 reviews)
"Do not hesitate to book this place! It’s modern. It’s clean and our room with the view of the sea was perfect! It was very centrally located next to a great swim spot just one block away and about a five minute walk from the promenade. They had on-site parking, which was very convenient at no ..."

Reviewed on Sep 4, 2026

DREAM HOTEL SARANDA
See all 1,141 properties in Gjirokastër
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Dream Apartments Saranda

Dream Apartments Saranda

4.5 out of 5
Rruga Arbrit Sarandë Qarku i Vlorës
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Sarandë. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 7 beach bars. Popular attractions Port of Sarandë and Sarande Ferry Terminal ...
Dream Apartments Saranda
Hotel Vila Alvin & Apartments

Hotel Vila Alvin & Apartments

3 out of 5
Guri Nazifi No 29 Sarandë Vlora County
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Sarandë. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Port of Sarandë and Sarande Ferry ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (24 reviews)
Bring ear plugs!
"this hotel has the potential of being a nice quiet, studio apt by the water except for the neighborhood barking dogs. there are 2 nearby residences that allow their dogs to bark day and night.the 1 starts barking and it gets the others going. so you have several dogs barking constantly. if it weren't ..."

Reviewed on Oct 3, 2025

Hotel Vila Alvin & Apartments
Apart-Hotel Lili2

Apart-Hotel Lili2

4 out of 5
Rruga Butrinti Sarandë Vlorë County
Stay at this aparthotel in Sarandë. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Castle of Lëkurësit and Mango Beach are located ...
Apart-Hotel Lili2
See all properties in Gjirokastër
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Gjirokastër attractions

Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra

9.6/10 (14 reviews)
Learn about the local history of Gjirokastër with a stop at Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra. Amble around the area's lakeside or visit its churches.
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Things to do

Explore Blue Eye- The Monument of Nature

Blue Eye Spring Tour- pickup from Saranda & Ksamil

$22
per adult
Blue Eye Spring Tour- pickup from Saranda & Ksamil
Gjirokastra- The Stone City & Blue Eye- The monument of Nature.

Gjirokaster and Blue Eye, Small-Group Tour from Saranda & Ksamil

$46
per adult
Gjirokaster and Blue Eye, Small-Group Tour from Saranda & Ksamil
1-Day Tour: Blue Eye, Monastery, Gjirokastër &Lekursi Castle

1-Day Tour: Blue Eye, Monastery, Gjirokastër &Lekursi Castle

$37
per adult
1-Day Tour: Blue Eye, Monastery, Gjirokastër &Lekursi Castle
Blue Eye Experience & Lekursi Castle Sunset from Saranda

Blue Eye Experience & Lekursi Castle Sunset from Saranda

$33
per adult
Blue Eye Experience & Lekursi Castle Sunset from Saranda
Blue Eye E-Bike Tour with Local Guide

Sarandë: Blue Eye Countryside E-Bike Tour with Kayak Option

$35
per adult
Sarandë: Blue Eye Countryside E-Bike Tour with Kayak Option
From Saranda:Permet Thermal Baths&Langarica Canyon Adventure

From Saranda:Permet Thermal Baths&Langarica Canyon Adventure

$51
per adult
From Saranda:Permet Thermal Baths&Langarica Canyon Adventure
See all activities in Gjirokastër

Frequently asked questions

Is Gjirokastër worth visiting?
Gjirokastër is worth visiting for its rich history and cultural heritage, highlighted by Gjirokastra Castle and the Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra. Travelers can also enjoy diverse European and Italian dining, with options ranging from classic pasta dishes to other regional specialties.
When is the best time to visit Gjirokastër?
The best time to visit Gjirokastër is from May through September, when the climate is most favorable for exploring. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering a cooler experience.
What is Gjirokastër known for?
Gjirokastër is known for Gjirokastra Castle, a significant landmark in this Albanian city. Travelers can also explore the Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Gjirokaster Mosque, reflecting the area's deep history and cultural heritage.
What is a good itinerary length for Gjirokastër?
A good itinerary length for Gjirokastër is two to three days to explore Gjirokastra Castle, Gjirokaster Mosque, and the Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can also enjoy a 2-Day Semi/Private South Albania Riviera & 2 UNESCO Sites tour or a day trip to Permet for thermal baths and Langarica Canyon. See Gjirokastër Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Gjirokastër?
Gjirokastër offers travelers a journey through history and culture, with unique landmarks and regional adventures:

  • Visit Gjirokastra Castle, a historic landmark offering panoramic views.
  • Explore Ismail Kadare's House, a significant cultural point of interest.
  • See the Gjirokaster Mosque, an important local landmark.
  • Take a 4x4 tour to Blue Eye and the Old Bazaar, combining natural beauty with local shopping.
  • Swim in the thermal baths and Langarica Canyon near Permet, for a relaxing day trip.

How do I plan a trip to Gjirokastër?
To plan your trip to Gjirokastër, search for places to stay on Expedia. Book your flights, rental car, and activities like a 2-Day South Albania Riviera tour or a trip to Permet's thermal baths in advance. When planning outdoor activities, like visiting Gjirokastra Castle, prepare for weather changes with indoor backup options.
What cuisines can you find in Gjirokastër?
In Gjirokastër you can find Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, fresh salads, and grilled meats. Travelers also have options for Italian fare like pasta and pizza, Middle Eastern flavors including kebabs and falafel, and a good selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Gjirokastër?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Gjirokastër by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Gjirokastër with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Gjirokastër trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Gjirokastër?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Gjirokastër can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Gjirokastër trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Gjirokastër trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Gjirokastër trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Gjirokastër trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Gjirokastër?
If it's your first trip to Gjirokastër, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Gjirokastër hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Gjirokastër hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.