Gjirokaster stands out as one of Albania’s most captivating towns, especially when it comes to exploring via city tours. Its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets, and fortress dominating the skyline make it a perfect setting for walking and thematic tours. We particularly enjoy the Gjirokaster: City Highlights Walking Tour, which offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and local flavor—all in just three hours. Whether you’re interested in medieval castles, traditional houses, or artisan shops, Gjirokaster’s compact size makes it ideal for immersive, walkable adventures. For those looking to combine history with a taste of Albania’s communist past, the Cold War City Tour offers an eye-opening look into the city’s underground tunnels and former regime sites.
Gjirokaster’s tours cater to a range of interests—from casual sightseeing to in-depth historical exploration. To help you choose the right experience, we’ve compiled a list of the top seven city tours, each offering something unique. Read on to find detailed descriptions, pros and cons, and who each tour is best suited for.
1. Gjirokaster: City Highlights Walking Tour
At number 1, this City Highlights Walking Tour is a great way to get an overview of Gjirokaster’s most iconic sites in three hours. It’s perfect if you prefer a manageable pace and want to see the city’s top sights without feeling rushed. The tour covers the medieval Bazaar, the legendary Argjiro Castle, and one of the best-preserved traditional houses—the Zekate House. Your guide will share stories about the city’s past, adding context to the stunning views and historic structures.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic experiences—like buying a souvenir from a local artisan shop or exploring the castle’s ramparts. With a 4.5-star rating from 13 reviews, guests praise its informativeness and the friendly, caring guide that makes history come alive. It strikes a good balance between sightseeing and culture, especially for first-time visitors. The main drawback is the limited time, which may not satisfy those wanting a deep dive into every corner of Gjirokaster.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a solid introduction to Gjirokaster’s highlights with a friendly guide and some local flavor.
2. Gjirokaster – The Stone City of UNESCO, Private Tour from Tirana
For those with a day to spare, number 2 on our list is a comprehensive private day trip from Tirana. Starting early, this 11-12 hour tour takes you from Albania’s capital to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gjirokaster, with plenty of time to soak in the sights. The journey itself is scenic, passing through the Albanian countryside, and upon arrival, you’ll explore cobbled streets, the castle, the Old Bazaar, and notable houses like the Skenduli House, which offers a glimpse into traditional Ottoman life.
What makes this tour stand out is its in-depth itinerary, including a visit to the ethnographic museum and sampling authentic local cuisine. The guide’s local expertise shines, providing rich stories and answering questions along the way. It’s perfect if you want a full-day immersion without the hassle of planning. The price ($179.58 per person) is reasonable given the extensive sights covered, though it’s only ideal if you’re comfortable with a long day trip.
Bottom line: A great option for travelers eager to combine culture, history, and scenic views on a well-organized private tour.
$179.58 per person
3. Cold War City Tour: Secrets of Communist Gjirokastra
At number 3, the Cold War City Tour offers an intriguing look into Gjirokaster’s more recent past. This three-hour experience takes you underground to an anti-atomic bunker, through the former communist prison, and past memorials dedicated to the Cold War era. Led by a guide knowledgeable about Albania’s communist history, you’ll learn about the city’s role in the regime’s security apparatus and what daily life was like under dictatorship.
Guests appreciate the chance to explore Enver Hoxha’s former residence and see firsthand the remnants of Albania’s secretive past. The tour is priced at $106 per person, making it a compelling option for history buffs or anyone curious about Albania’s recent political history. The underground bunker visit is a highlight and adds a tangible, almost spooky element to the experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for those interested in Cold War history or Albania’s communist era, looking for a short but intense tour.
$106 per person
4. From Coast to Mountains: Albania’s Seven-City Tour
Number 4 is the From Coast to Mountains: Albania’s Seven-City Tour, a seven-day journey across Albania’s most diverse regions. Starting in Vlorë and ending in Theth, it includes stops in Gjirokastër, Berat, Sarandë, Ksamil, and Theth. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience a broad sweep of Albanian culture, scenery, and history.
In Gjirokastër, you’ll stroll the Old Bazaar, visit the castle, and enjoy traditional dishes, all part of a carefully curated itinerary. The trip offers a mix of seaside charm, mountain adventure, and historical sights—ideal for those with flexible schedules and a sense of adventure. The cost is higher, but it covers multiple destinations, accommodation, and guided exploration, offering excellent value for an extended trip.
Bottom line: Designed for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Albania over several days, combining city and nature experiences.
5. From Tirana to Gjirokaster: Day Trip in the Enchanting City
Number 5 is a popular Tirana to Gjirokaster day trip, perfect if you’re short on time but want to see Albania’s UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour lasts about one day, with a scenic drive, a guided walk through the Old Bazaar, and a visit to Gjirokaster Castle.
Guests love the smooth logistics and the opportunity to see the city’s highlights in a manageable timeframe. The tour includes a stop for traditional food and gives a good overview of the city’s layout and key sights. The guided tour and photo stops make it an excellent option for those wanting a structured experience without a long commitment. It’s ideal for travelers with tight schedules but a desire for depth over breadth.
Bottom line: A good choice for a quick, well-organized visit, especially if your time is limited but you want to see the essentials.
6. Gjirokastra: City Guided Tour
Coming in at number 6, this 6-hour guided tour offers a deeper dive into Gjirokaster’s historic core. It includes visits to the Castle, the Ethnographic Museum, and exploration of the Old Town. This tour balances guided commentary with free time, allowing you to pause for photos or a quick coffee.
The guide’s local insights help you grasp the city’s layered history, from its Ottoman roots to modern times. The 4.7-star rating reflects satisfied travelers who appreciated the comprehensive experience without feeling overwhelmed. It’s suited for those who want a thorough exploration but prefer a shorter, more flexible schedule.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a detailed overview in half a day, with enough time to explore on your own afterward.
7. Gjirokastra: Guided City Tour with Castle and Skenduli House
Finally, the Guided City Tour with Castle and Skenduli House offers a focused, three-hour exploration of Gjirokaster’s essential sights. Starting at the Bazaar, you’ll walk through cobblestone streets, visit the castle for panoramic views, and step inside the Skenduli House, an Ottoman-era residence.
This tour is excellent for travelers who want a concise yet engaging experience. The guide shares captivating stories about the city’s history, architecture, and families that shaped Gjirokaster. It’s rated 4.7 out of 5, with positive comments about the knowledgeable guide and the well-curated stops. Its short duration makes it ideal for those with limited time but a genuine interest in the city’s history.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a quick, immersive introduction to Gjirokaster’s cultural treasures.
How to Choose the Right Gjirokaster Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. For a quick overview, the Gjirokaster City Highlights Walking Tour offers excellent value and covers the essentials. If you want a full-day adventure, the Private Tour from Tirana is highly recommended for its depth and flexibility.
History buffs interested in Albania’s Cold War past should choose the Cold War Tour. For travelers with a week or more, the Seven-City Tour offers a comprehensive experience, blending city, mountain, and coast. Those with limited time yet a desire for a structured visit will find the Day Trip from Tirana perfect.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots on the most popular tours. Be clear about your interests—whether it’s history, architecture, or local culture—to choose the best fit.
Gjirokaster offers a variety of ways to explore its charm, from quick highlights to in-depth historical journeys. Whether you prefer a casual walk or a detailed thematic experience, there’s a tour to match your pace and curiosity. With these options, you’re sure to discover why this city remains one of Albania’s true highlights.