Essential Gjirokastër Travel Guide: What to See & Do

Gjirokastër is one of Albania’s most distinctive historic cities. Rising along the slopes of the Mali i Gjerë mountains above the green Drinos Valley, it is known as the “Silver City” for its pale stone roofs. Its steep lanes and winding stairways have also earned it the nickname “the city of a thousand steps.”

Gjirokastër Castle

At the heart of the city stands the imposing hilltop castle, built above the foundations of the medieval Fortress of Argyro. Expanded over the centuries, the stronghold reflects Gjirokastër’s layered past and the influence of Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Albanian traditions.

Its towers, courtyards, and commanding views make the castle one of the most memorable landmarks to see in Gjirokastër. The clock tower and later additions are also associated with Ali Pasha Tepelena, the powerful nineteenth-century Albanian ruler known for building and enlarging fortresses across the region.

The UNESCO-Recognized Old Town

Gjirokastër’s old town is recognized by UNESCO for its remarkably preserved Ottoman-era architecture. Stone houses with broad roofs, carved details, and elevated positions form a dramatic urban landscape unlike any other in Albania.

Traditional customs, local craftsmanship, and a slower rhythm of daily life remain part of the city’s character. Around it, the mountains and the Drinos River create a striking natural setting.

For travelers researching things to do in Gjirokastër or searching for the best places to visit in Albania, the city offers more than historic monuments. Architecture, folklore, and landscape come together here, making Gjirokastër a compelling destination and an ideal starting point for exploring its enduring appeal.