What to See in Gjirokaster: A Complete Traveler’s Guide
You know that feeling when you walk into a place and it just gets you? That’s Gjirokaster. Tucked between the mountains of southern Albania, this stone-built city feels like stepping back in time—without the crowds or chaos. It's charming in a rough-around-the-edges way, and honestly, that’s part of its magic.
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Wander Through Gjirokaster Castle
The first thing you’ll notice? The castle looming over the city like it’s watching everything unfold below. Gjirokaster Castle isn’t just old—it’s epic. Walk the walls, peek inside the old prison cells, and if you time it right, catch a performance in the massive open-air theater inside. The views from the top? Kind of jaw-dropping (especially at golden hour).
Explore the Arms Museum (Even If You're Not a Museum Person)
I’ll be honest—arms museums aren’t always at the top of my list. But this one inside the castle is actually pretty cool. It’s packed with historical weapons, war memorabilia, and a strange-but-fascinating vibe. And the way it’s laid out? It makes you think about Albania’s complicated past in a totally different way.
Roam the Cobbled Streets of the Old Bazaar
Down the hill from the castle, the Old Bazaar is where Gjirokaster comes alive. The streets curve and twist (wear good shoes), and every turn brings another handcrafted item or quirky little shop. You’ll find old men selling antiques, women weaving, and cafes tucked into centuries-old buildings. Stop for coffee. Chat with the shopkeepers. You’ll want to stay longer than you planned.
Step Inside the Zekate House
If you’ve ever wondered what an Ottoman-era mansion looks like from the inside, the Zekate House is your answer. This three-story stone house was built in the 1800s, and it’s all wood ceilings, painted walls, and hidden doors. There’s a quiet stillness here that’s oddly calming. Plus, the views from the top floor—wow.
Try a Local Lunch (It’ll Be the Best Thing You Eat All Day)
Let’s talk food for a sec. Gjirokaster has its own little spin on Albanian cuisine—slow-cooked meats, byrek filled with wild greens, and homemade raki that’ll warm you up real quick. Whether you're dining in a family-run guesthouse or a tucked-away restaurant, the meals here aren’t fancy—but they’re ridiculously tasty.
Visit the Ethnographic Museum (a.k.a. Enver Hoxha’s Birthplace)
This museum used to be the home of Albania’s former dictator, but now it showcases traditional Albanian life—clothes, tools, crafts, and old-school household setups. It’s oddly cozy for a museum and gives you a glimpse of what daily life looked like before electricity and Instagram.
Catch the Sunset from the Clock Tower
It’s a bit of a climb, but if you make your way up to the clock tower just before dusk, you’ll be rewarded. The light hits the stone rooftops just right, and the valley below glows. It’s one of those quiet moments you’ll remember long after you’ve left.
Spot the US Air Force Plane (Yep, That’s Real)
This part always surprises people. There's an American spy plane from the 1950s just... sitting in the castle courtyard. No joke. Albania captured it during the Cold War and decided to keep it on display. It's weird, random, and oddly perfect for a town as layered as this one.
Why Gjirokaster Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary
When most people talk about the top 10 things to do in Albania, places like Saranda or Berat usually steal the spotlight. But Gjirokaster? It quietly holds its own—with fewer tourists and a deeper sense of character. Whether you’re a history nerd, foodie, or just someone who loves offbeat cities with a story to tell, this place won’t disappoint.
One of Albania’s Hidden Gems—Literally
Not everyone makes it to Gjirokaster, and that’s part of the appeal. It’s one of those Albania hidden gems that hasn’t been overrun by Instagram tours or busloads of tourists (yet). So go now—before everyone else catches on.
Final Thoughts
Gjirokaster doesn’t try to impress you—it just is what it is. Honest, old, a little rough in places, and totally worth exploring. You’ll leave with stories, full memory cards, and probably a handmade copper item or two. Trust me, it’s the kind of town that sticks with you.
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