bigtravelbuzzGjirokastër County is a county located in southern Albania. Its administrative center is the city of Gjirokastër, which is also one of the most important cultural and historical cities in Albania. The county is bordered by the counties of Vlorë to the west, Fier to the north, Berat to the northeast, and Korçë to the east, as well as by Greece to the south.
Gjirokastër County covers an area of approximately 2,884 square kilometers and has a population of around 72,000 people. The county is known for its natural beauty, including the Vjosë-Nartë Protected Landscape, as well as its rich cultural heritage, which includes historic landmarks such as Gjirokastër Castle, the Old Bazaar, and the birthplace of the former Albanian communist leader Enver Hoxha.
Places to Visit in Gjirokastër County
Gjirokastër County has many interesting places to visit. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Gjirokastër Castle: This castle is the most iconic landmark of the city and the county. It dates back to the 12th century and has served as a military fortress, a prison, and now a museum. The castle has a fascinating history, and it offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Blue Eye: The Blue Eye is a natural spring located in the southeastern part of the county. The spring is known for its crystal-clear blue water, which is a popular swimming spot during the summer months.
The Old Bazaar: The Old Bazaar is a well-preserved Ottoman-era marketplace in the heart of Gjirokastër. It features narrow streets and alleys lined with shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Albanian products.
Skenduli House: The Skenduli House is a well-preserved example of Ottoman-era architecture. It was built in the 18th century and is now a museum open to the public.
Benja Thermal Baths: The Benja Thermal Baths are natural hot springs located in the southwestern part of the county. The area is known for its beautiful landscape and is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
Mesopotam Monastery: The Mesopotam Monastery is a historic Orthodox Christian monastery located near the city of Tepelenë. It was founded in the 13th century and is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in the region.
Vjosa River: The Vjosa River is the largest and longest river in Albania. It runs through Gjirokastër County and offers beautiful scenery for kayaking, rafting, and fishing.
These are just a few of the many interesting places to visit in Gjirokastër County.
Best Time To Visit Gjirokastër County
The best time to visit Gjirokastër County is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) months. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the landscapes are green and lush. Temperatures typically range from 15-25°C (59-77°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring.
Summer (July to August) can be quite hot, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 30°C (86°F). This can make it uncomfortable to be outdoors during the day, but the evenings are often cooler and more pleasant. Summer is also the peak tourist season, so the city and its attractions can be quite crowded.
Winter (December to February) is the coldest season, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). The region can receive snowfall, which can create beautiful winter landscapes but may also make it difficult to travel around the area.
Overall, the spring and fall months are the best time to visit Gjirokastër County due to the pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Things to Do in Gjirokastër County
There are many things to do in Gjirokastër County, Albania. Here are some suggestions:
Visit the Castle: Gjirokastër Castle is a must-visit attraction in the county. You can explore the castle’s history and enjoy beautiful views of the city.
Explore the Old Bazaar: The Old Bazaar is an Ottoman-era marketplace with narrow streets and alleys lined with shops selling traditional Albanian products.
Discover Ottoman-era architecture: Gjirokastër has many beautiful examples of Ottoman-era architecture, including houses, mosques, and bridges.
Relax at the Thermal Baths: The Benja Thermal Baths are natural hot springs located in the southwestern part of the county. The area is known for its beautiful landscape and is a popular destination for relaxation and enjoying nature.
Enjoy nature: Gjirokastër County has beautiful natural scenery that can be enjoyed through hiking, trekking, and other outdoor activities. The Vjosa River, the Blue Eye spring, and the surrounding mountains offer beautiful views and great opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Visit Mesopotam Monastery: The Mesopotam Monastery is a historic Orthodox Christian monastery located near the city of Tepelenë. It was founded in the 13th century and is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in the region.
Taste the local cuisine: Gjirokastër is known for its delicious traditional Albanian food, such as byrek (a savory pastry) and fërgesë (a dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese).
Attend cultural events: The city and county host many cultural events throughout the year, such as festivals, concerts, and exhibitions. Check the local events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Gjirokastër County.
How to get around in Gjirokastër County
There are several ways to get around in Gjirokastër County, Albania:
By Car: The most convenient way to get around the county is by car. You can rent a car in the city or at the airport, and there are several car rental companies to choose from. However, the roads in Albania can be narrow and winding, so driving can be challenging.
By Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Gjirokastër city and other major towns in the county. Taxis are reasonably priced, and it’s best to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
By Public Bus: There is a local bus network in Gjirokastër County, which connects the city to other towns and villages in the area. Buses are inexpensive, but they can be infrequent, and schedules can be unreliable.
By Shared Minibus: Shared minibusses or “furgons” are a popular means of transport in Albania. These minibusses run between cities and towns, and you can find them at bus stations or main squares. They can be crowded and uncomfortable, but they are an inexpensive way to travel.
By Foot: Gjirokastër city is compact and walkable, and many attractions can be reached on foot. However, some attractions outside the city require transportation, and walking can be challenging due to the hilly terrain.
Overall, the most convenient way to get around Gjirokastër County is by car, but other options like taxis and public transportation are also available.
Where to eat in Gjirokastër County
Gjirokastër County in Albania offers a wide variety of dining options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some suggestions for where to eat:
Cerciz Topulli Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the heart of the city and offers traditional Albanian dishes such as lamb, chicken, and seafood. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere and is known for its great service.
Kotoni Restaurant: This restaurant is located in a historic building in the Old Bazaar and serves traditional Albanian cuisine, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. The restaurant has a lovely outdoor seating area and a charming interior.
Era Restaurant: This restaurant is located outside the city and is known for its stunning views of the valley below. Era offers traditional Albanian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and the restaurant’s wine list is also impressive.
Bar Restaurant Çerçizli: This restaurant is located in the nearby town of Çerçiz Topulli and offers delicious traditional Albanian food at affordable prices. The menu includes grilled meats, fresh salads, and homemade bread.
Cafe Restaurant Arasta: This cafe-restaurant is located in the heart of the Old Bazaar and offers a wide selection of Albanian and international dishes. The restaurant has a lovely terrace overlooking the bazaar and a cozy interior.
These are just a few suggestions for where to eat in Gjirokastër County. There are many other great restaurants, cafes, and eateries to explore throughout the county.
Famous street stalls in Gjirokastër County
There are many street stalls in Gjirokastër County, Albania, where you can try delicious local food and snacks. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in the area:
Byrek Stand: Byrek is a popular Albanian savory pastry made with filo dough and stuffed with cheese, spinach, or meat. You can find many byrek stands in Gjirokastër city and other towns throughout the county. One of the most famous byrek stalls is located in the Old Bazaar in Gjirokastër city, where you can try freshly baked byrek made with local ingredients.
Qofte Stand: Qofte is a traditional Albanian meatball made with minced meat, onions, and spices. You can find qofte stands in many places in Gjirokastër County, where you can try this tasty snack cooked on a charcoal grill. One of the most famous qofte stalls is located near the castle in Gjirokastër city.
Fried Food Stand: Fried food stalls are also popular in Gjirokastër County, where you can try fried doughnuts, pastries, and other snacks. One of the most famous fried food stands is located in the center of Gjirokastër city, where you can try hot and crispy doughnuts with sugar or honey.
Grilled Meat Stand: Grilled meat stands are also common in Gjirokastër County, where you can try freshly grilled meats such as lamb, chicken, or pork. You can find many of these stands on the roadside or in the town squares. One of the most famous grilled meat stands is located near the Benja Thermal Baths, where you can enjoy delicious grilled meat with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
These are just a few of the most famous street stalls in Gjirokastër County. You can find many more stalls throughout the county, offering a wide range of tasty local snacks and treats.
Where to stay in Gjirokastër County
Luxury accommodation
Gjirokastër County in Albania offers several options for luxury accommodation, including:
Hotel Kalemi 2: This hotel is located in the historic center of Gjirokastër city, and it offers luxurious rooms with traditional Albanian decor. The hotel has a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city, an indoor swimming pool, and a spa.
Hotel Kotoni: This hotel is housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era building in the heart of Gjirokastër city. The hotel offers elegant rooms with antique furnishings, a restaurant serving Albanian and international cuisine, and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.
Çajupi Hotel & SPA: This hotel is located outside the city, surrounded by the beautiful countryside of Gjirokastër County. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, a spa with a sauna and Turkish bath, and an outdoor swimming pool with stunning views of the valley.
Hotel Kerculla Resort: This hotel is located near the Benja Thermal Baths and offers luxurious rooms and suites with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel has a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine, an outdoor swimming pool, and a spa.
Palace Hotel & SPA: This hotel is located in the nearby town of Permet and offers luxurious rooms and suites with mountain views. The hotel has a restaurant serving Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine, an outdoor swimming pool, and a spa.
These are just a few of the luxury accommodation options available in Gjirokastër County. There are many other high-end hotels, resorts, and villas to choose from throughout the county.
Where to stay in Gjirokastër County
Budget accommodation
Gjirokastër County in Albania offers several options for budget accommodation, including:
Hanim Lounge & Studios: This guesthouse is located in the historic center of Gjirokastër city, and it offers budget-friendly rooms and studios with traditional Albanian decor. The guesthouse has a shared kitchen and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.
B&B Kotoni: This bed and breakfast is housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era building in the heart of Gjirokastër city. The B&B offers budget-friendly rooms with antique furnishings and a restaurant serving Albanian and international cuisine.
The Wanderer’s Hostel: This hostel is located in the center of Gjirokastër city, and it offers budget-friendly dormitory beds and private rooms. The hostel has a shared kitchen and a common area for guests to relax.
Guesthouse Era: This guesthouse is located in the nearby town of Tepelena, and it offers budget-friendly rooms with mountain views. The guesthouse has a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine and a garden with outdoor seating.
Hotel Pilo Lala: This hotel is located outside the city, near the Benja Thermal Baths, and it offers budget-friendly rooms with mountain views. The hotel has a restaurant serving Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine, an outdoor swimming pool, and a garden with outdoor seating.
These are just a few of the budget accommodation options available in Gjirokastër County. There are many other guesthouses, hostels, and budget-friendly hotels to choose from throughout the county.
Travel Tips Gjirokastër County
Here are some travel tips for visiting Gjirokastër County in Albania:
Bring cash: While some places do accept credit cards, many businesses in Gjirokastër County only accept cash. Be sure to bring enough cash with you to cover your expenses.
Dress appropriately: Gjirokastër is a conservative city, and it is important to dress modestly. Both men and women should avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing.
Learn some Albanian: While many people in Gjirokastër County speak English, it is always helpful to learn some basic Albanian phrases to communicate with locals.
Try the local cuisine: Albanian cuisine is delicious and varied, and there are many local dishes to try in Gjirokastër County. Be sure to sample some traditional Albanian food, including byrek (a savory pastry), qofte (meatballs), and tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt).
Explore the countryside: Gjirokastër County is home to stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and thermal baths. Be sure to explore the countryside and take in the beautiful scenery.
Respect local customs: Albanians are known for their hospitality, but it is important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
Visit in the shoulder season: The best time to visit Gjirokastër County is in the shoulder season (April to June and September to October) when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
Be prepared for hilly terrain: Gjirokastër is a hilly city, and there are many steep cobblestone streets. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uphill walking.
Be mindful of your belongings: Like any other tourist destination, it is important to be mindful of your belongings and keep an eye on your valuables to prevent theft.
Be open-minded and friendly: Albanians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and a smile and a friendly attitude can go a long way in making connections with locals and having a great travel experience.