An informative blog about travel and gastronomy

Gjirokastër: Discover the jewel of Albania

Gjirokastër, also known as "the city of a thousand stairs", is a charming city located in the south of Albania. With its stunning Ottoman architecture and rich history, this place is a must-see tourist destination for lovers of culture and history.

Gjirokastër Castle

One of the main attractions of Gjirokastër is its imposing castle, which stands on top of a hill. Built in the 12th century, this castle offers stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Inside, visitors can explore the National Armament Museum, which houses an interesting collection of ancient weapons.

The old town of Gjirokastër

The old town of Gjirokastër is another tourist attraction that you cannot miss. Its cobbled streets and traditional stone houses will transport you to bygone times. Here you will find numerous museums, such as the Ethnographic Museum, which shows daily life in the region over the centuries.

The Gjirokastër Mosque

The Gjirokastër Mosque, built in the 18th century, is another important tourist attraction. Its Ottoman architecture and beautiful minaret make it a stunning place to visit. Although no longer used as a place of worship, the mosque remains a symbol of the city's history and culture.

The Gjirokastër Bazaar

Gjirokastër Bazaar is a perfect place for shopping and gastronomy lovers. Here you will find a wide variety of shops selling local products, such as crafts, textiles and food products. In addition, you can enjoy delicious Albanian cuisine in the numerous restaurants.urants and cafes found in this area.

The surroundings of Gjirokastër

If you have time, we recommend exploring the surroundings of Gjirokastër. A few kilometers from the city, you will find the Gjirokastër National Park, a perfect place for hiking and enjoying nature. You can also visit the Labova e Kryqit Monastery, a 14th century Orthodox monastery located about 10 kilometers from the city.

In short, Gjirokastër is a fascinating tourist destination in Albania. Its Ottoman architecture, rich history and traditional charm make this city a unique place to visit. Don't miss the opportunity to explore its cobbled streets, visit its castle and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. We assure you that you will not regret it!

Gjirokastër gastronomic products

Qifqi

Qifqi is a traditional Gjirokastër dish consisting of small rice and herb dumplings. These meatballs are fried until golden and crispy on the outside, but soft and tender on the inside. Qifqi is served as an appetizer or as an accompaniment to other main dishes.
Tavë Kosi

Tavë kosi is a baked lamb dish with a yogurt and egg sauce. The lamb is slowly cooked in the oven with spices and then topped with a yogurt and egg mixture before being baked again until golden and creamy. The result is a juicy and tasty dish that is very popular in Gjirokastër.
Bakllava

Bakllava is a traditional Albanian dessert found throughout the Gjirokastër region. It consists of layers of filo dough filled with crushed walnuts and dipped in a sweet honey-lemon syrup. Bakllava is a sweet and sticky dessert served on special occasions and holidays.

Gjirokastër Food Spotlights

Gjirokastër, a charming city in southern Albania, offers a wide variety of places to enjoy its delicious cuisine. Below, we present some of the best restaurants and taverns in the area:

Traditional Restaurant Gjirokastra

Located in the heart of the city, Gjirokastra Traditional Restaurant is known for its authentic Albanian cuisine. Here you can taste traditional dishes such as tave kosi (baked lamb with yogurt sauce), byrek (pie filled with cheese or meat) and baklava (puff pastry and walnut dessert). In addition, the cozy atmosphere and friendly service make this place a perfect option to enjoy a typical meal of the region.

Tavern Çerçiz Topulli

If you are looking for a place with charm and good prices, the Çerçiz Topulli Tavern is an excellent option. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of Albanian dishes, such as fërgesë (meat and vegetable stew), qofte (meatballs) and pilaf (rice with meat and spices). In addition, you can enjoy a selection of local wines to accompany your favorite dishes.

Panorama Restaurant

Located on top of a hill, Panorama Restaurant offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Here you can enjoy delicious Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes such as peshk (fresh fish), qofte të fërguara (stuffed meatballs) and bakllava (puff pastry and walnut dessert). Plus, the calm atmosphere and attentive service make this place an ideal choice for a romantic dinner or a special meal.

Sports Activities in Gjirokastër, Albania

Hiking and Trekking

Gjirokastër is famous for its mountainous landscapes and hiking trails. You can explore the National Park "Bredhi i Hotovës" or the mountain trail "Lunxhëri".

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Mountain biking

The mountains and hills around Gjirokastër offer challenging routes for mountain biking. It is a great way to enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

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Paragliding

For adrenaline lovers, paragliding is a popular activity in Gjirokastër. Fly over the city and enjoy stunning aerial views of the ancient city and Gjirokastër Castle.

Climbing

The rocky mountains around Gjirokastër are ideal for climbing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, you will find routes suitable for your skill level.

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Places near Gjirokastër (Albania)

If you are in Gjirokastër and want to explore a little further, here are some nearby towns and villages that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Butrint

Butrint, a hidden treasure in Albania, transports you to ancient Rome with its impressive ruins. In addition, you can enjoy the delicious local cuisine, with traditional dishes such as baklava and qofte. A unique experience for lovers of history and good food.

Sarandë

Sarandë, a coastal paradise in Albania, will captivate you with its crystal-clear beaches and its rich gastronomic offer. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood dishes while marveling at the stunning views of the Ionian Sea. A perfect destination for lovers of sun and good food!

Berat

Berat, the "City of a Thousand Windows", captivates with its impressive Ottoman architecture and cobblestone streets. In addition to its rich history, it offers delicious traditional cuisine, where dishes such as byrek and qifqi will make you taste authentic Albanian culture.