bigtravelbuzzGjirokastër District is a district located in the southern part of Albania. The district is named after its administrative center, the city of Gjirokastër, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture.
Gjirokastër District has a population of approximately 72,000 people, and it covers an area of 1,025 square kilometers. The district is home to several other towns and villages, including Tepelena, Memaliaj, and Dropull.
The district is known for its natural beauty, including mountains, rivers, and thermal baths. The Vjosa River, one of Europe’s last wild rivers, flows through the district and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as rafting and kayaking. The district is also home to the Benja Thermal Baths, a series of hot springs located in a stunning natural setting.
In addition to its natural beauty, Gjirokastër District is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The district has several museums and historic sites, including the Gjirokastër Castle, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Zekate House, a well-preserved Ottoman-era house that has been converted into a museum.
Overall, Gjirokastër District is a fascinating destination for travelers who are interested in history, culture, and nature.
Places to Visit in Gjirokastër District
Gjirokastër District is a beautiful and historically rich area of Albania, with plenty of interesting places to visit. Here are some of the top attractions to see in Gjirokastër District:
Gjirokastër Castle: This castle is one of the most important landmarks in the region, perched on a hill overlooking the city of Gjirokastër. It was built in the 12th century and has been used as a military fortress, a prison, and a residence for the ruling families of the region. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction with a museum inside.
Blue Eye: The Blue Eye is a natural spring located in the south of the district, near the village of Muzinë. The water is crystal clear and has an intense blue color, surrounded by lush greenery. It is a popular destination for swimming and picnics.
Ethnographic Museum: Located in the city of Gjirokastër, this museum is housed in a traditional Ottoman-era house and showcases the region’s cultural heritage. It has exhibits on traditional clothing, tools, and crafts, as well as a display of historical photographs.
Skenduli House: This is another well-preserved Ottoman-era house in the city of Gjirokastër, which has been turned into a museum. It offers a glimpse into the life of an affluent family in the 18th century.
Benja Thermal Baths: These natural hot springs are located near the town of Përmet and offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience. The hot water flows down from the mountains and forms several small pools, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Mesopotam Monastery: This ancient Orthodox monastery is located in the small village of Mesopotam and dates back to the 13th century. It is situated in a beautiful and peaceful setting, surrounded by forests and mountains.
Butrint National Park: While technically outside of Gjirokastër District, Butrint National Park is only a short distance away and is well worth a visit. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains well-preserved ruins of an ancient Greek and Roman city.
These are just a few of the many interesting places to visit in Gjirokastër District. The area is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, and there is plenty to explore for visitors of all interests.
Best Time To Visit Gjirokastër District
The best time to visit Gjirokastër District is during the spring and autumn months, from April to June and September to November, respectively. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices than the peak summer months.
The summer months of July and August can be very hot, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F), and the region can get crowded with tourists. However, if you enjoy swimming and sunbathing, this is the best time to visit the coastal areas of the district, such as Saranda and Butrint.
The winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold and rainy, with some snow in the mountainous areas. While this may not be the best time for outdoor activities, the winter months can be a good time to explore the indoor attractions, such as museums and historic sites, without the crowds.
Overall, the best time to visit Gjirokastër District depends on your interests and preferences. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy mild weather, then the spring and autumn months are ideal. However, if you want to enjoy the beaches and warm weather, then the summer months are the best choice.
Things to Do in Gjirokastër District
Gjirokastër District is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, with plenty of things to do for visitors of all interests. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Gjirokastër District:
Visit Gjirokastër Castle: This historic castle is one of the main attractions in the region and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It also houses a museum with exhibits on the castle’s history and the region’s culture.
Explore the Ottoman-era architecture: The city of Gjirokastër is known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era buildings, including traditional houses, mosques, and bazaars. Take a walk through the historic center and admire the architecture and craftsmanship.
Swim in the Blue Eye: The Blue Eye is a natural spring located in the south of the district, with crystal-clear blue water surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a popular spot for swimming and picnics.
Relax in the Benja Thermal Baths: These natural hot springs are located near the town of Përmet and offer a relaxing and therapeutic experience. The hot water flows down from the mountains and forms several small pools, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Visit the Ethnographic Museum: This museum in Gjirokastër showcases the region’s cultural heritage, with exhibits on traditional clothing, tools, and crafts, as well as a display of historical photographs.
Explore Butrint National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains well-preserved ruins of an ancient Greek and Roman city, as well as beautiful natural scenery and wildlife.
Hike in the mountains: The region is home to several mountain ranges, including the Nemërçka Mountains, which offer spectacular hiking trails and breathtaking views.
Try traditional Albanian food: Sample the delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes such as qofte, a type of meatball, and byrek, a savory pastry filled with cheese or meat.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Gjirokastër District. The area offers a rich cultural and natural experience, with plenty of activities to keep visitors busy and entertained.
How to get around in Gjirokastër District
There are several ways to get around in Gjirokastër District:
By car: The most convenient way to explore the region is by car, as it offers the most flexibility and freedom. There are several car rental agencies in Gjirokastër and other towns in the district, and the roads are generally well-maintained.
By bus: There are regular bus services that connect the major towns and villages in the district, as well as other parts of Albania. The buses are inexpensive and comfortable, but the schedules can be irregular and the routes may not cover all areas.
By taxi: Taxis are widely available in the region and can be a convenient way to get around, especially for shorter distances. However, it’s important to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi, as prices can vary.
By bicycle or on foot: Cycling or hiking can be a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region, and there are several scenic trails and routes to choose from. Walking is also a good option for exploring the historic center of Gjirokastër and other towns.
It’s worth noting that public transportation in rural areas of the district can be limited, so it’s best to plan ahead and be prepared to hire a car or take a taxi if necessary. Additionally, road conditions in some areas can be challenging, so it’s important to drive carefully and be aware of potential hazards.
Where to eat in Gjirokastër District
Gjirokastër District offers a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional Albanian cuisine to international dishes. Here are some of the best places to eat in the district:
Era Restaurant: This restaurant in the historic center of Gjirokastër offers a range of Albanian and Mediterranean dishes, with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.
Hotel Kalemi Restaurant: Located in the Hotel Kalemi in Gjirokastër, this restaurant offers a mix of traditional Albanian and international cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The setting is elegant and the service is attentive.
Tradita Gegë & Toskë: This family-run restaurant in the town of Krujë offers a wide selection of traditional Albanian dishes, as well as some Mediterranean and international options. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable.
Pasho’s Bar & Restaurant: This restaurant in the village of Qeparo serves up fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes, with stunning views of the sea and mountains. The atmosphere is casual and the service is friendly.
Shtepia e Librit & Kafe Muzeum: This cozy cafe and bookstore in the historic center of Gjirokastër offers a range of coffee and tea drinks, as well as light snacks and desserts. The atmosphere is relaxed and the setting is unique, with shelves of books lining the walls.
These are just a few of the many dining options in Gjirokastër District. Wherever you choose to eat, be sure to sample some of the delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes such as qofte, byrek, and tavë kosi (a baked dish made with yogurt and lamb).
Famous street stalls in Gjirokastër District
Gjirokastër District is known for its traditional street food, which can be found in the bustling markets and on the busy streets of the towns and villages. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in the district:
Përsheshi i Zhitos: This street vendor in the town of Permet is famous for its grilled meat dishes, including qofte (meatballs), shish kebab, and tavë kosi (baked lamb and yogurt).
Byrekçi Selim: This popular street stall in Gjirokastër serves up a variety of savory byrek (burek) pastries, filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. The pastries are crispy and delicious, and make a great snack or light meal.
Qofte Qepe: Located in the town of Tepelena, this street vendor is known for its flavorful qofte (meatballs) made with a mix of beef and lamb, served with grilled onions and bread.
Lakrori i Mires: This street stall in the town of Libohove specializes in lakror (a savory pie filled with vegetables or meat), which is baked to perfection and served hot and crispy.
Pite e Elbasanit: This traditional street food vendor in the town of Memaliaj serves up delicious pite (a savory pastry filled with meat or cheese), which is a local specialty in the Elbasan region.
These street stalls are just a few of the many food options in Gjirokastër District, and are a great way to sample the local cuisine and experience the vibrant street culture of the region.
Where to stay in Gjirokastër District
Luxury accommodation
Gjirokastër District offers a range of luxury accommodation options, from elegant hotels to historic guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in the district:
Hotel Kalemi: This boutique hotel in the heart of Gjirokastër is housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman-era building, and offers luxurious rooms and suites with traditional Albanian decor. The hotel also has a restaurant and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
Hotel Kodra: This modern hotel in the town of Tepelena offers spacious rooms and suites with contemporary decor, as well as a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool. The hotel is surrounded by lush gardens and has a peaceful, secluded atmosphere.
Hotel Alvero: Located in the town of Memaliaj, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with mountain views, as well as a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center. The hotel is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Mrizi i Zanave: This eco-friendly guesthouse and farm-to-table restaurant in the village of Fishte is set on a picturesque hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with rustic decor, as well as a range of activities such as hiking, cooking classes, and farm tours.
Guesthouse “Rita”: This family-run guesthouse in the village of Dhoksat offers comfortable rooms with traditional Albanian decor, as well as a restaurant serving homemade Albanian cuisine. The guesthouse is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a peaceful, authentic Albanian experience.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodation options in Gjirokastër District. Whether you’re looking for a historic guesthouse or a modern hotel, there are plenty of options to choose from that will make your stay in the district comfortable and memorable.
Where to stay in Gjirokastër District
Budget accommodation
Gjirokastër District has a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers on a budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in the district that won’t break the bank:
Hotel The First: This budget-friendly hotel in the center of Gjirokastër offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel also has a restaurant and a bar, and is within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions.
Bujtina Rupi: This guesthouse in the village of Rrajca offers simple but comfortable rooms with traditional Albanian decor, as well as a restaurant serving local cuisine. The guesthouse is a great base for hiking and exploring the surrounding mountains.
Vila Sharm: This guesthouse in the village of Lazarat offers budget-friendly rooms and apartments with mountain views, as well as a restaurant and a terrace. The guesthouse is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Castle Hotel: This budget hotel in the town of Tepelena offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices, as well as a restaurant and a bar. The hotel is located in a historic building and offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history.
Guesthouse Arben Elezi: This budget-friendly guesthouse in the village of Sheper offers simple but comfortable rooms with traditional Albanian decor, as well as a restaurant serving homemade Albanian cuisine. The guesthouse is a great base for exploring the surrounding mountains and traditional villages.
These are just a few of the many budget-friendly accommodation options in Gjirokastër District. Whether you’re looking for a simple guesthouse or a budget hotel, there are plenty of options to choose from that will allow you to enjoy the beauty and history of the district without breaking the bank.
Travel Tips Gjirokastër District
Here are some travel tips for visiting Gjirokastër District:
Bring comfortable walking shoes: Gjirokastër District is full of historic sites and natural beauty, but many of the attractions require walking on uneven terrain or steep inclines. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the area without discomfort.
Learn a few words of Albanian: While many people in Gjirokastër District speak English, knowing a few words of Albanian can go a long way in making connections with locals and showing respect for their culture.
Respect local customs and traditions: Albania is a conservative country with many traditions and customs that may differ from what you are used to. Be respectful of local customs, such as dressing modestly when visiting mosques and churches, and removing shoes before entering someone’s home.
Try the local cuisine: Albanian cuisine is delicious and often incorporates fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as burek (a savory pastry), tavë kosi (baked lamb and yogurt), and byrek me gjize (a type of cheese-filled pastry).
Be mindful of the weather: Gjirokastër District can be quite hot in the summer months and experience heavy rainfall in the winter. Be sure to check the weather before your trip and pack accordingly.
Explore beyond the main tourist attractions: While the historic center of Gjirokastër is a must-visit, don’t be afraid to explore some of the lesser-known villages and natural areas in the district. You’ll discover stunning scenery and a slower pace of life that is quintessentially Albanian.
Use public transportation or rent a car: While it is possible to explore Gjirokastër District on foot or by taxi, renting a car or using public transportation can give you more flexibility to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
By following these travel tips, you’ll be able to have a more authentic and rewarding experience exploring the beauty and culture of Gjirokastër District.