Things to Do in Gjirokaster

Explore 6 places in southern Albania on this full day tour with visits to Gjirokaster,Blue Eye,Lekuresi Castle,Mesopotam Monastery,Ottoman bridge,and Bunkers.Discover history,nature and stunning views

Embark on an unforgettable journey with expert guides, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling adventures. Enjoy unique insights, safe and exciting activities, and create lasting memories that stand out from the rest!

Explore the historic Kruja Castle, one of Albania's most significant landmarks. Discover the country's largest bazaar and browse local handicrafts, and enjoy the Sari Salltik mountain viewpoint.

We will explore the unknown part of Gjirokaster, the magic of the town that every tourist skips. We start from “Cerciz Topulli Square” and head towards The “Old Bazaar”. It is the first neighborhood outside the castle and lies along beneath the its walls. The characteristic cobblestone the orthodox church and some of the oldest houses are the most beautiful elements. After passing the stream of Nanxa (where they are building a new street), we reach the neighborhood of “Cfaka”. Here we will pass by some first monument category houses, a rebuild mosque and then reach the last neighborhood “Dunavat” where we will find a tekke of the Bektashi Order. It is a beautiful combination of Nature and old houses before arriving to “Ali Pasha Bridge”, a remaining of the aqueduct build more than 200 years ago to bring water to the castle. It takes approximately 3 hrs and you should be prepared to walk on a not so comfortable terrain. So put on your sneakers and join us to this back in time trip.

Join on our daily trip from Sarandë and Ksamil to St. Nicholas Monastery Church, Blue Eye, the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastër and Lëkurësi Castle.Travel in air-conditioned comfort between locations

Rafting on the Vjosë River in Përmet offers a unique experience, combining adventure with breathtaking natural scenery. Our professional, trained guides ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure, navigating through the river’s currents. Besides the thrills of rafting, you’ll also get to explore charming villages and immerse yourself in the rich local culture and traditions. We offer customized packages for groups, families, or individuals, also providing opportunities to relax and unwind in our cozy, welcoming accommodations. This activity is perfect for those seeking adventure as well as those wanting a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Travel to Osumi Canyon and be drawn into a 3-million-year-old realm of ancient wonders. Enjoy round-trip transfers from Berat and refuel with a lunch at restaurant after your rafting adventure.

Our multi-day trips offer a blend of exploration and relaxation. Using top-quality, stable NRS canoes, embark on an expedition that allows you to delve deep into the heart of the Vjosa. With overnight stops at riverside camps accessible by 4x4 vehicles, indulge in delicious meals prepared over a campfire, ensuring a fulfilling and authentic outdoor experience.Accompanied by experienced guides, our trips ensure your safety and comfort. A small raft accompanies the journey, carrying essential supplies and allowing flexibility in equipment and provisions for your expedition.Picture yourself camping in lush forests alongside the Vjosa River, embraced by nature's serenity. Our campsites, strategically located along the riverside, provide a perfect setting for unwinding under the stars. Whether it's a peaceful night by the crackling fire or the cozy shelter of a tent amidst the sounds of nature.

Discover Osumi Canyon and find yourself surrounded by his breathtaking 2-3 million years old rock formations that go 100m tall, 8 waterfalls, panoramic landscapes and a lot of good memories.

We offer an exclusive experience to the visitors of our city that choose us to get their tour with and enjoy it the most and get in the mood of a medieval era.

Explore Gjirokastra on a day trip from Tirana, visiting its historic castle, old bazaar, and Skenduli House. Enjoy a scenic drive, hilltop spot coffee break, and authentic Albanian cuisine.

Learn the secrets behind your favorite dishes of Gjirokaster with this 2-hour cooking class in Gjirokastra. Led by your local guide, step inside a traditional tavern, sip on a glass of raki or homemade wine and try your hand at some traditional food, using fresh, local ingredients. Then sit down to savor the fruits of your labor with your fellow chef.

Navigate through stunning landscapes, exhilarating rapids, and immerse yourself in the beauty of one of Europe's last wild rivers. Embark on this 2.5-hour rafting tour in Vjosa River National Park.

This electric bike tour alongside the majestic Vjosa River grants cyclists a panoramic view of the river's splendor as it meanders gracefully toward the Kaluth Village Bridge, Cycling enthusiasts will relish this stretch, immersed in the serene ambiance alongside the flowing waters of the Vjosa. Permet boasts a mountain biking route renowned for its breathtaking scenery and distinctive segments, offering a captivating cycling adventure. This remarkable journey with electric Bike comprises three distinct sections, each showcasing the region's natural beauty and historical charm.

Experience the natural beauty of Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall with our exclusive guided tour. This tour is a combination of sightseeing, hiking, and swimming. Learn about the history of the area.

Funky Guest House and Adventures believes that traveling is the best investment and to make your holiday enjoyable and unforgettable, they organize various 4x4 Safari trips around national park in the region of Përmet. This is the most adventures and fun way to visit the natural beauties, the cultural monuments, the characteristic villages, and meet amazing people. The region of Përmet is blessed because of the landscape, historical and cultural heritage - as is surrounded by high mountains, blue rivers, green hills, amazing national parks, beautiful canyons, hot thermal baths, characteristic villages, old churches, wonderful stone bridges, friendly people, and delicious organic food. We also will visit the Kamincka & Lengarica canyon and thermal waters - one of the most visited attractions in the south of Albania. After the trip, you can enjoy the thermal baths, relax in the pools and explore the canyon. An experience that you will take with you...

Admire stunning views from the Castle of Lekursi, gaze into the crystal-clear depths of the Blue Eye Spring, and visit the castle and old bazaar in Gjirokastra on this day trip by van from Sarande.

Unearth Gjirokastër, Albania's stone city nestled in the rugged south. A UNESCO gem, it echoes with history, cultural treasures, and a majestic castle. Walk cobbled streets with stories, visit the castle, old bazaar, Skenduli house, and ethnographic museum. Taste authentic local cuisine in this enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visit the most significant and picturesque natural and historical sites of Gjirokastra County, blending rich history and culture with the stunning beauty of nature. Enjoy complimentary hotel pickup.

Funky Guest House and Adventures believes that traveling is the best investment and to make your holiday enjoyable and unforgettable, we organize various horse riding trips in the Vjosa national park and valley. This is the most perfect, ecological way to visit the natural beauties, the cultural monuments, the characteristic villages and experience the local tradition. The region of Përmet is blessed because of the landscape, historical and cultural heritage - as is surrounded by high mountains, blue rivers, green hills, amazing national parks, beautiful canyons, hot thermal baths, characteristic stone villages, old churches, wonderful stone bridges, friendly people and delicious organic food. Funky Guest House and Adventures is not just a destination but an experience that you will take with you. We welcome you this holiday season and we promise you will fall in love with this amazing experience, our town and Albania too! What are you waiting for

Embark on a journey from Gjirokastër to the Ionian coast. Visit the Skotini Cave, the Blue Eye spring, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint.

Vjosa Wild River... First Europe's National Park, is a must do, at least once in life, happiness rafting experience! Offers a unique combination between exciting rapids and majestic mountains views! Our team mission is to transmit the local life experience, gifting a memorable day in one of the last wild rivers remained in Europe, the best adventure and fun! A special tour accompanied by fidelity, professionalism, security and details that you will never forget! With much love and dedication, you will have all the needed suggestions to help you hear all the Vjosa's "voices": her warm hugs, lovely waves, "angry thrusts", finesse and tranquility she transmits, her joyful rapids & much more, that you would want to come back again and again...

Discover Gjirokastra's UNESCO architecture. Explore the old bazaar, Argjiro Castle, and historic 1700s houses. Enjoy lively bars, the Blue Eye's clear waters, stunning views, and nearby restaurants.

Rafting in the crystal clean waters of the Vjosa River will give you an unforgettable and very unique experience at the last wild river in Europe. Enjoying the landscape of the national park from the boat, swimming and jumping from the rocks for an amazing experience.

Experience Authentic Village Cooking in Lazarat! Join Lori and Her Family

We meet at Cerciz Topulli square, where you join with your host and walk over to one of the oldest neighbourhoods, “Pazar i Vjeter” to meet Marjeta and her husband. We begin the class with a glass of raki or a soft drink while chatting with your group mates. The food we are going to prepare is a vegetarian menu, and under the guidance of Marjeta we will learn three dishes. The first one is called “Qofte bobollaqe” consisting mainly on yogurt, the traditional “Qifqis” found only in Gjirokaster and consisting mainly on rice and the desert called “Hasude”. All these three are accompanied by the salad of the season Marjeta has already prepared for you. After all the hard work, sit down with your group to savor each of your dishes. Pair your menu with a complimentary glass of wine, raki, or a soft drink and have a nice chat while you eat. Your cooking class will conclude after the meal. Cheers and Bon appetite!

How about you explore in one go two scenic water-spots and immerse yourself in the nature that comes alive at every step you take? This is the right activity to choose!

Albania Rafting offer the best albanian trip on the Vjosa River, one of Europe’s last free-flowing rivers, is a class II rafting with some rapids of class III . Prepare for waves up to four feet and narrow passages that send the boat shimmying and water gushing over the sides. Vjosa river’s entire 270km course is wild and untamed and adorned with beautiful canyons, braided river sections, islands and oxbows. Meeting point in our Vjosa Albania Rafting Base After the wearings of all the rafting equipments our minivan will pick you up and bring in the starting point onli 35 min from our base. Length of rafting trip Transportation from Rafting Base to starting point 35 min Preparation, instructions and downriver 2,5 - 3 hours Optional tour Kayaking in Vjosa

If you are wondering what to see in Albania, it is good that you mark the source of the Blue Eye on your agenda, which is located a few kilometers from Saranda.

Design and create your own piece of art in wood and take it home as a souvenir or a gift for your loved ones!

Discover some of the magic of the city on this guided walking experience. Visit the medieval Bazaar, the legendary Argjiro Castle, and one of the best-preserved traditional houses, the Zekate House.

It is one of the best ways to get into touch with the culinary of this town, important part of the intangible heritage of this town. It is a hands on experience and Teta Marjeta and the guide will make this an unforgettable experience for you?

Discover the Tepelena Castle, Ali Pasha Bridge, and Waterfalls of Peshtura on a day trip from Gjirokaster. Enjoy a delicious lunch with a view you'll never forget.

In this trip we will explore the unknown part of Gjirokaster, the magic of the town that every tourist skips. We start from the center of the old town the “Cerciz Topulli Square” and head towards The “Old Bazaar” which is not a Bazaar anymore. This is the first neighborhood outside the walls of the castle and lies along beneath the Castle walls. The characteristic cobblestone and some of the oldest houses are the most beautiful elements of this neighborhood. After passing the “Zerzebili” bridge, we reach another ancient neighborhood in town called “Cfaka”. Here we will pass some old houses which are first monument category and also a tekke which belongs to the Bektashi Order. It is a beautiful combination of Nature, many sheep on top of hills, and old houses to arrive in our last destination, the “Ali Pasha Bridge”.

Depart in a private air-conditioned vehicle with your driver-guide and travel to Permet to explore the city.Continue on to the Benja Thermal Baths and take time to soak in the naturally heated water.

During the tour you will have an one of a kind time travelling experience. It will be focused on the less visible sides to visitors. True stories, facts and confenssions will take you to the most dark times of the Albanian history. It will be possible to explain the main concepts that were created and that were strongly injected into the population, such as “The concept of the young man” and whatever this means in the concept of Albanian society, the dictatorship of the proletariat, the ideology of school and art, the way of life of people in the city and in the village. We will have an explanation of how these concepts were applied by the regime of the time in Albania. All these will be taken from photos preserved as facts and taken from the archives of Gjirokastra families.

Discover the stunning Shala River on a day trip from Tirana. Enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Komani Lake with a local guide and dive into the refreshing waters of the river.

You can not speak about Gjirokastra without enjoying its traditional typical food. It will be a unique experience making your mouth water and bringing back your appetite. Their tastes are similar to the preparation of centuries-old recipes which you will find and prepare instantly while you are in Gjirokastra, in addition you will taste a meal that you have just learnt to prepare.

Travel back in time on this walking tour of the Ottoman Old Town of Gjirokaster. Visit the Old Bazaar and Cfaka neighborhoods and marvel at the architecture of the Ali Pasha Bridge.

You will find the landscape very interesting, changing and a bit challenging. It mixes small hills with wide valleys, waters, rare vegetation, livestock atmosphere and the charm of the rural life. Cold war bunkers can be seen along the way. Cini's lake will be an attractive stop for pictures and for the storytelling about this area. You should book this tour to meet a special horse. The horses used on this ride (Albanian horses) are a local breed, a mix of Tarpan and Arab horses. They are small but perfectly suited to the rocky terrain, being surefooted and accustomed to trekking long mountainous routes, allowing riders to feel confident, relaxed and free to enjoy the stunning views. Our horses are easy to ride and are used to riders from all over the world, in long and shorter trails. You can book this tour for the adventure, the rhythm and adrenaline, so intermediate riding level is required. Our professional guides are aiming to keep the harmony among humans, horses and nature.

Dive into southern Albania's gems: ancient Gjirokastër & the stunning Blue Eye. Start from your hotel: Tirana/Durrës, enjoy scenic views, and learn from a friendly guide. Unforgettable sights!

In this tour, you will discover the magic of the city by visiting the medieval Bazaar, the highlight of the city Argjiro Castle, and one of the best-preserved houses, the Zekate House. Starting at Cerciz Topulli Square with our local guide, we continue toward the Old Bazaar, stopping at the Neck of Bazaar, where we meet artisans working with old methods, and head toward the Castle. The 2.5-hectare castle, full of history, tragedy, and legends, will be explained by the guide. You’ll be 330 meters above sea level, enjoying breathtaking views of Gjirokastra, the typical tower houses covered with grey stone, usually two or three floors. The last stop is the Zekate House, a gift by Ali Pasha Tepelena to his accountant, Beqir Zeko. This tour aims to let you experience the unique, magical, and friendly atmosphere of Gjirokastra, not just visit popular attractions. Entrance: 400 ALL/Castle 300 ALL/Zekate.

On this tour, we dive into the vibrant nightlife of Tirana, where dazzling lights, lively streets, and an electric atmosphere create an unforgettable evening full of magic and excitement.

Experience a captivating journey from the historic streets of Gjirokastër to the mesmerizing coastal beauty of Butrint. Begin your adventure on old mountain roads, winding through an Orthodox region.As you descend toward the coast, feel the transformation around you. The crisp mountain breeze gradually gives way to the warmer, salt-tinged air of the sea. The vegetation shifts from hardy alpine flora to lush Mediterranean greenery. Stop for a delightful lunch at the serene Butrint Lake, where the flavors of fresh, locally sourced dishes perfectly complement the tranquil waters. Afterward, immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history and myth. Conclude your day at the enchanting Blue Eye, a natural spring of unmatched clarity and beauty Let the ever-changing landscapes, scents, and climates guide you through a truly unique exploration of Albania’s natural and cultural treasures.

Discover the hillside town of Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye on a private tour from Saranda. Explore the medieval castle, roads, and houses of Gjirokastra, and visit the Blue Eye, a natural spring.

Join us for a day of discovery, connection, and appreciation for the beauty of rural Albania Get a taste of freshly made animal farm products, showcasing the flavors of the region. Savor homemade cheese, bread, and other delicacies, all lovingly prepared by our hosts. After the meal, take a leisurely stroll through the lush surroundings, collecting aromatic herbs such as oregano, thyme, and sage. Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the extraordinary with our Shepherd's Hut Experience. Book now and embark on a journey that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come.

Depart from Saranda and step into Gjirokastër's cobbled alleys and historic charm. Explore the grand castle, quaint shops, and savor traditional flavors on this full day adventure.

Bukowski Tours provides personalized transportation experiences with a focus on cultural immersion. They offer small-group experiences, allowing travelers to interact with knowledgeable guides and fellow adventurers. Their commitment to sustainability ensures a transformative journey filled with memorable experiences. One such tour is the Natural Park of Zagoria, a picturesque region in southern Albania. The park offers breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and traditional cultural experiences. Visitors can explore Zagoria Valley, the charming village of Sheper, the historic village of Nivan, and the Selckë Waterfall. The park is home to numerous endemic species, traditional Ottoman-era stone bridges, and historic religious sites. The tour offers a unique and enriching experience for nature lovers, hikers, and cultural enthusiasts.

Visit two of Albania's top attractions on this private tour: medieval Gjirokaster City and the stunning Blue Eye. Discover the charming streets and Ottoman-era houses of Gjirokaster.

Gjirokaster walking tour is the best way to explore the town with local certified guides During the tour we will show you the amazing stone city of Gjirokaster focusing on it's history, culture, architecture, traditions, and local histories. We will see the most interesting parts of the city like the Bazzar area or areas where are located the most beautiful Gjirokaster style houses like Scenduli house or some of houses of local famous people like the house of the dictator Enver Hoxha or the house of Ismail Kadare the most famous Albanian writer. We will visit also the castle but we will not visit the castle inside as it has a price for tickets and we want to let people choose if visiting or no or when visiting and how much time they want to spent there. Anyway the tour ends near the castle entry so you can go inside right after the tour if you want. During our tour we will also pass by the best panoramic spots for amazing views and have possiblity to take beautiful panoramic pictures