Hotels near Gjirokëster Day Trip

Inland from Saranda, Gjirokester is a UNESCO-listed Ottoman town of steep cobbled streets and distinctive stone houses with silvery slate roofs, earning it the nickname the city of stone. It makes the finest full-day trip from the coast.

A vast hilltop castle crowns the town, housing a collection of weaponry and giving huge views over the Drino valley, while the well-preserved Ottoman mansions and the old bazaar below reward a wander. It is also the birthplace of the writer Ismail Kadare, and feels a world away from the beaches.

Pro Tip: It is about 1.5 hours by car or furgon from Saranda, and can be combined with the Blue Eye, which lies on the way. Wear good shoes for the steep, slippery cobbles.