Where to stay in Gjirokastër, Albania: best Ottoman-era stays
January 28, 2026 · by Sébastien Joumel
Gjirokastër — the "city of stone" — tumbles down a hillside in slate-roofed Ottoman houses below a brooding castle. Staying in one of those restored houses, rather than a modern hotel below, is what makes a visit here special. Here's how to choose.
Quick picks
- Best for atmosphere: the old bazaar & stone-house quarter.
- Best for ease: hotels lower down (parking, modern comfort).
- Prices: guesthouses from ~$25; boutique stays modest by EU standards.
The old town (Pazari i Vjetër)
The heart of Gjirokastër is the cobbled old bazaar and the steep lanes of Ottoman mansions around it. Staying here — in a restored stone house with carved wooden ceilings and a view over the rooftops — is the experience. Traditional guesthouses and small boutique hotels (e.g. Hotel Gjirokastra, Stone City guesthouses) put you steps from the bazaar, the castle and the best restaurants.
The trade-off: steep, cobbled streets and limited car access — charming, but pack light and wear good shoes.
Lower town — convenience & parking
Below the old town, modern hotels (such as Kerculla Resort on the hillside) offer easier parking, pools and panoramic views back at the stone city. Choose these for comfort and a car-based trip; choose the old town for immersion.
Gjirokastër FAQ
Is Gjirokastër worth an overnight?
Yes — evenings in the bazaar after the day-trippers leave, and the castle at golden hour, are the highlights. It also pairs well with Berat and the south-coast beaches.
Old town or new town?
Old town for atmosphere and walkability; lower town for parking, pools and modern comfort.
Compare hotels in Gjirokastër
See traditional guesthouses and hotels with live prices across Gjirokastër and our other destinations on our destinations page.