Staying overnight in Gjirokastër is essential to fully appreciate the authentic vibe of this quaint mountain town. Once the day-trippers have departed, you can experience this exceptional destination in tranquility, leisurely wandering through its picturesque streets. Additionally, Gjirokastër serves as an excellent starting point for exploring other notable sites in Albania, making it a perfect base to further discover the country.
For your stay, we recommend choosing accommodations in the heart of the historic center, where you can find everything from cozy hostels to beautiful boutique hotels and luxurious accommodations. Why not consider staying in an authentic Ottoman-era mansion for a truly immersive experience? During our visit to Gjirokastër, we discovered several hidden gems that we’re excited to share with you. Keep reading this blog to find out about the best places to stay!
Booking.comWhere is Gjirokastër located in Albania?
Gjirokastër is nestled inland in the historic region of Epirus, situated in the southern part of Albania, close to the Greek border.
About 230 kilometers south of the capital city, Tirana, Gjirokastër is conveniently accessible by car or public transport. Nearby, you’ll encounter more of Albania’s famous attractions such as the natural Blue Eye spring (Syri i Kaltër), the lush mountain town of Përmet, and the hot springs at Kadiut Bridge. This makes it an excellent hub for exploring the rest of Southern Albania.
Why Gjirokastër is worth visiting
Gjirokastër is certainly worth visiting for its unique mix of history, culture, and architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage City, Gjirokastër offers a window into the past with its exquisitely preserved Ottoman houses and the impressive castle that offers panoramic views over the city. Wandering through the old town and visiting several of the historical museum houses are among the best activities in Gjirokastër.
How many days do you need for Gjirokastër?
We suggest spending at least two days in Gjirokastër to thoroughly explore the city, with an additional day for each nearby attraction you wish to visit in Southern Albania.
Gjirokastër itself may be small, with the old center comprising just a few streets, but there’s no shortage of things to see and do. It’s not a place you can fully appreciate in just an hour. Each corner is worth a photo stop, not just for its beauty but also for the numerous attractions in Gjirokaster. Ensure you have sufficient time to explore the castle and at least one of the historic homes where you can step inside and experience history first-hand.
The Best Hotels in Gjirokastër
Staying overnight in the historic center of Gjirokastër is crucial if you want to fully experience the authentic charm of this hillside town. The historic center is where you’ll find all the key attractions and immerse yourself in the historical ambiance for which the town is renowned.
It’s worth noting that Gjirokastër is situated on a hill. If you opt to stay further from the center, near the river, be prepared for a steep climb to reach the town’s main attractions. While accommodations further from the center are generally cheaper, overall, hotels in Albania tend to be reasonably priced. Therefore, we recommend staying in or near the historic center to make the most of your visit.
The best hotels in Gjirokastër:
#1 The Stone Sky Hotel stands out as one of the best-rated hotels in Gjirokastër. This hotel offers stunning mountain views and features a garden, a shared lounge, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests will enjoy rooms decorated in a modern, cozy style with large, comfortable beds.
#2 Hotel Fantasy provides modern, bright, and airy rooms that boast excellent views of the city. The location is exceptional. Even if you don’t stay here, the hotel welcomes non-guests to enjoy a snack or a drink in its garden. While we didn’t stay overnight, we visited to enjoy a coffee with a magnificent view.
#3 Hotel SS KEKEZI enjoys a prime location right in the heart of the old center. Here, guests are treated to a charming blend of traditional and modern amenities in rooms that feature wooden ceilings and large, comfy beds. The hotel and its terrace offer beautiful city views, adding to the allure of the accommodation
#4 Sharm Hotel Luxury is a luxury hotel situated outside the center of Gjirokastër. Despite its location, we recommend this hotel for those seeking an opulent stay, as it offers stylish comfort and top-notch facilities.
Unique Stays in Traditional Ottoman Mansions
Gjirokastër is celebrated for its traditional Ottoman architecture, which you can also enjoy by staying in one of the beautifully renovated traditional mansions now serving as hotels. You don’t need to visit a museum to feel the city’s historic vibe; you can live it by staying in one of these authentic accommodations.
The best traditional hotels in Gjirokastër:
#5 Rose Garden Hotel not only occupies an Ottoman building but also features the luxury of an outdoor pool, available seasonally. Note that during our visit in December, swimming wasn’t an option, but the beautiful garden and the intricate architectural details make this hotel a standout choice.
#6 Old Bazaar 1790 provides an authentic lodging experience in an original Ottoman house. This hotel is distinguished by its carved wooden ceilings and receives high marks for hospitality and atmosphere in guest reviews.
#7 Boutique Hotel Musée is another genuine Ottoman residence turned hotel. The interior showcases extensive use of wood, unique ceiling designs, and meticulous detailing. This hotel is particularly special because it is managed by the family who lovingly restored the building to its former glory.
#8 Hotel Kalemi offers authentically decorated hotel rooms in an original building. A significant highlight is the delightful inner courtyard, where guests can enjoy an extensive breakfast during the summer months, accompanied by panoramic views of the city and the castle.
Should these top choices be fully booked, the city boasts numerous other traditional hotels housed in Ottoman buildings that offer fantastic reviews and provide a deeply authentic experience.
