Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra Guide
Date of Inscription: 2005
Selection criteria:
(III) to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared
(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
Overview: Visiting Gjirokastra is like stepping back in time to a world of ancient castles, narrow cobbled streets, and traditional Ottoman houses. Gjirokastra is a beautiful and historic city in southern Albania that is known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and stunning scenery.
Prominent Features:
Fun Fact: Gjirokastra is known as the "City of Stone" because of its unique architecture, which features buildings made of local stone that have been preserved for centuries.
Entry Fees:
How to Reach It: By car: Gjirokastra is approximately a 3-hour drive from Tirana and a 1-hour drive from the coastal city of Saranda.
By bus from Tirana the capital:
From Berat it's partnered UNESCO site there are a few daily bus services from Berat to Gjirokastra, operated by companies such as Tomi Tours and Trans Bujqesore.
From Saranda the gateway to Butrint:
It's worth noting that bus schedules and prices can vary, especially during peak tourist season, so it's a good idea to check with the bus company or local tourism office for up-to-date information.
Selection criteria:
(III) to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared
(iv) to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
Overview: Visiting Gjirokastra is like stepping back in time to a world of ancient castles, narrow cobbled streets, and traditional Ottoman houses. Gjirokastra is a beautiful and historic city in southern Albania that is known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and stunning scenery.
Prominent Features:
- Gjirokastra Castle: This ancient castle dates back to the 12th century. It is perched on a hilltop overlooking the city and features a museum, a clock tower, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Old Bazaar: This is a charming area of the city that is filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional shops and restaurants. It is a great place to wander and soak up the local atmosphere.
- Ethnographic Museum: This museum is housed in a traditional Ottoman house and features exhibits on the history and culture of the city and its people.
Fun Fact: Gjirokastra is known as the "City of Stone" because of its unique architecture, which features buildings made of local stone that have been preserved for centuries.
Entry Fees:
- Gjirokastra Castle: The entry fee for the castle is 500 lekë for adults and 200 lekë for children.
- Ethnographic Museum: The entry fee for the museum is 200 lekë for adults and 50 lekë for children.
How to Reach It: By car: Gjirokastra is approximately a 3-hour drive from Tirana and a 1-hour drive from the coastal city of Saranda.
By bus from Tirana the capital:
- There are several daily bus services from Tirana to Gjirokastra, operated by companies such as Rruga e Arberit and Basha Tours.
- The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken.
- The cost of a one-way ticket is around 700-800 lekë.
From Berat it's partnered UNESCO site there are a few daily bus services from Berat to Gjirokastra, operated by companies such as Tomi Tours and Trans Bujqesore.
- The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken.
- The cost of a one-way ticket is around 500-600 lekë.
From Saranda the gateway to Butrint:
- There are several daily bus services from Saranda to Gjirokastra, operated by companies such as Saranda Tours and Nako Travel.
- The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken.
- The cost of a one-way ticket is around 400-500 lekë.
It's worth noting that bus schedules and prices can vary, especially during peak tourist season, so it's a good idea to check with the bus company or local tourism office for up-to-date information.