Gjirokaster is located on the hillside in the south of Albania overlooking a stunning river valley. It is known for its ancient history, adermin style architecture and imposing castle which is one of the biggest in the Balkans. From the first moment that you set foot in the cobble streets you will be enchanted by this place. This UNESCO World Heritage town has a diverse mix of things to do.
1.Stroll around the old bazaar.
The old bazaar is the most picturesque area in Gjirokaster and strolling around it is an unique experience. There are many souvenir shops, traditional cafes restaurants and some beautiful ottoman area houses.
2.Visit the castle
Dominating the town the castle is the most visited tourist attraction in dear customer for a good reason. It is still unclear when this fortification was built but there is no doubt that its wetness the tripulant history of the region across centuries. Inside the castle you can see the clock tower an artillery gallery under US air force plane that made an emergency landing in Albania during the Cold War. The castle museum it’s also a must do when you are inside. It displays archaeological objects alongside an explanation of the history of Gjirokaster and the region.
3.Walk too Ali Pasha bridge
Another great thing to do in Gjirokaster is to hike to the Ali Pasha bridge. It is not a bridge even though it is commonly referred to that way. It’s a small portion of an aqueduct. They used to channel water to Gjirokaster’s castle system from the mountain springs at the beginning of the 19th century. It takes about 45 minutes of uphill walking to reach the aqueduct from the castle but if you have a rental car might be easier to drive the first part which is a mostly paved road.
4. Visit the Cold War tunnels
When travelling around Albania you’ll discover many bunkers that were built during the Cold War. Gjirokaster has its own version of a bunker which sits underneath the castle. The Cold War tunnel was a secret 800-meter-long tunnel bunker that has been transformed into a small museum. A guided entrance will take you through the assembly rooms which were built in fear of a nuclear attack. They were never actually used and today it serves as a reminder of former communist times in Albania.
