Gjirokastër Weekend Getaway: Albania’s Stone City Unraveled

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Escape to Gjirokastër, Albania’s UNESCO-listed "City of Stone," for a 2-day adventure blending Ottoman charm, rugged history, and Drino Valley vistas. Ideal from Saranda (1hr) or Tirana (4hr), this itinerary maximizes top sights, local flavors, and nearby gems. Pack comfy shoes for cobblestone treks; expect ~1,500 Lek in entry fees.

Day 1: Castle, Bazaar & Ottoman Alleys
Morning (9 AM): Gjirokastër Castle (400 Lek). Explore this 13th-century fortress, the Balkans’ second-largest, with sweeping valley views. See WWII U.S. plane wreckage, Ottoman cannons, and Hoxha’s bunker exhibits. Spend 1.5hr.

Midday (11 AM): Old Bazaar. Stroll vibrant lanes with coppersmiths, spice stalls, and rug vendors. Visit the Bazaar Mosque (free, modest dress) for Ottoman serenity. Lunch at Odaja e Sylejmanit—try qifqi (rice balls) or byrek (~600 Lek).

Afternoon (1 PM): Skenduli House Museum (200 Lek). Tour this 1812 kuleta house with carved ceilings and family tales. Wander to Zekate House for more Ottoman opulence.

Evening (5 PM): Sip qahve at a bazaar café, soaking in sunset views. Dinner at Kalemi Restaurant—qofte or tave kosi (~800 Lek).

Day 2: History, Nature & Nearby Wonders
Morning (8 AM): Antigonea Archaeological Park (20min taxi, 300 Lek). Explore this 3rd-century BC Illyrian city with ruins, valley views, and hiking trails. Back by 11 AM.

Midday (11:30 AM): Enver Hoxha Museum (200 Lek). See the dictator’s birthplace, now an ethnographic museum with Ottoman decor and communist relics. Optional: Cold War Tunnel Museum (300 Lek) for 1970s bunker chills.

Afternoon (1 PM): Lunch at Taverna Tradicionale (fërgesë, ~600 Lek). Then, taxi to Ali Pasha Bridge (5km, free)—a stunning 19th-century aqueduct. Hike or snap photos.

Evening (4 PM): Shop bazaar for ceramics or raki bottles. Relax with a drink at Bar Te Pishat overlooking the valley. Depart or dine on local lamb dishes (~800 Lek). Total walking: 10-12km. Gjirokastër delivers history, heart, and hidden trails—perfect for a soulful weekend.
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