Gjirokaster: City Highlights Walking Tour in Gjirokaster

Are you planning a visit to Gjirokaster and looking for a walking tour that will give you an excitingly different and comprehensive look at the city? If yes, then this is the place for you! In this guide, you will learn all about the City Highlights Walking Tour in Gjirokaster and find out why it is one of the best tours available to explore this beautiful Balkan city.

A look at Gjirokaster

Gjirokastër is a historic city located in southern Albania, in the Drino Valley. It was founded in the 6th century and was a major stronghold throughout the country’s turbulent history of Ottoman rule. Today, it is one of the most visited destinations in all of Albania, both for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. It is also the birthplace of former Albanian Prime Minister Enver Hoxha.

The city is divided into two main areas, the old town and the modern area. In the old town, you can find cobblestone streets lined with traditional Ottoman-style houses, peaceful parks and shrines, churches, mosques and rustic taverns.

The modern area has recently been revitalized and now features beautiful parks, cultural institutions, cafes, shops and modern hotels. In addition, Gjirokaster is also home to a thriving arts scene, with many talented local painters and sculptors.

Sights to See During the City Highlights Walking Tour

The City Highlights Walking Tour in Gjirokaster is an excellent way to explore this intriguingly beautiful city. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and covers some of the city’s most striking sights. Here are just some of the highlights that you’ll get to experience:

Old Town

You’ll begin your tour at the old town, where you’ll get to wander its cobblestone streets and marvel at its traditional Ottoman-style houses. Admire the charming mosaics adorning the walls of the old homes, get lost in its winding alleys, and savor some delicious Turkish coffee while taking in breathtaking views over the Drino Valley.

The Ancient Castle

As you continue your tour, you will make your way to one of Gjirokaster’s most recognized landmarks: the ancient castle. Perched atop a hill, the castle overlooks the entire city and is a magnificent reminder of Albania’s medieval past. You’ll get to explore its fortress grounds and discover hidden courtyards, secret passageways, and ancient ruins.

Charcoal Bazaar

After enjoying some stunning views from atop the castle walls, you’ll make your way to one of Gjirokaster’s liveliest spots: the Charcoal Bazaar. Here you’ll get to explore some of the oldest shops in town while haggling with merchants over price and bargaining for exquisite local handicrafts—a truly unforgettable experience!

The Fortress Museum

No tour of Gjirokaster would be complete without visiting its most important cultural attraction—the Fortress Museum. Here you’ll get to explore this historic site and learn all about Albania’s history, from the Ottoman Empire to Communism and more. You’ll also get to admire its collection of ancient artifacts, including swords and armor dating back centuries.

The Benefits of Taking a City Highlights Walking Tour

Taking a City Highlights Walking Tour in Gjirokaster is a great way to explore this unique city and learn all about its history and culture. Here are just some of the benefits of taking this particular tour:

• Experienced guides who know the city inside-out
• A chance to explore some of Gjirokaster’s hidden gems
• Unforgettable local insights
• Beautiful views over the Drina Valley
• An opportunity to shop at one of the oldest bazaars in town
• Glimpse into Albania’s turbulent past

A Personal Opinion

One of my favorite parts of taking this tour was being able to explore some of the city’s hidden gems that I otherwise wouldn’t have known about. The guide was extremely knowledgeable about Gjirokaster’s history and culture and was able to provide us with interesting facts and anecdotes along the way that really enriched our experience. I also thoroughly enjoyed haggling with merchants at the Charcoal Bazaar—a fun challenge that resulted in securing genuine handicrafts at great prices! All in all, the City Highlights Walking Tour in Gjirokaster was one of the best tours I’ve taken while traveling in Albania, and if you are visiting this gorgeous Balkan city it is definitely one not to be missed.

  If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Gjirokaster and want to discover this beautiful city like no other, why not check out GetYourGuide for an exciting City Highlights Walking Tour? Just click here to discover why this tour is one of Gjirokaster’s top attractions.