Gjirokaster is a small city located on the southern slopes of the Drino River valley in southern Albania. There are plenty of guesthouses and hotels in Gjirokaster that will suit any travelers budget and style. A visit here is an experience that transports visitors to another time and place, as if they are living in some kind of medieval wonderland.
The Old Town of Gjirokaster is particularly inviting and beautiful. It is Albania’s second World Heritage Site (Berat being the first) that has preserved its old-world charm and is listed among the most authentically preserved medieval towns in the world.
Narrow cobbled streets flow through a maze of Turkish-style white-washed houses and there’s a striking castle looming over the Old Town. The city is small enough that you can explore it easily on foot but prepare to walk a lot of hills, it is called the ‘City of a Thousand Stairs’ after all.
Most hotels in Gjirokaster include breakfast in the cost of the room so having a hotel with a nice terrace is always a plus. The price will more than likely be quoted in euros although the currency of Albania is the Lek (ALL).
I’d also like to add that you can reserve many hotels or guesthouses online but you will you will likely have to pay cash at the property when you arrive, especially for budget properties. If you are staying at a more luxurious Gjirokaster hotel, credit cards are usually accepted.
If you are traveling to Gjirokaster during busy season, it is best to book a hotel in advance as accommodations fill up quick and are double the price as off season. If you are traveling Albania in the off season then you can book as you go, a night or two before.
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In this post I’ll go over the best hotels in Gjirokaster, Albania, list accommodation options for every budget and at the end of the post, I’ll add any useful tips that will aid you in a trip to Gjirokaster. But first, are you in a hurry? Below I have listed where to stay in Gjirokaster and the reason to stay for easy booking if you don’t have time to read the whole article or need a hotel in Gjirokaster to book tonight.
- Top Pick of Where to Stay in Gjirokaster – Hotel Kalemi 2
- Best Budget Hotel in Gjirokaster – Hotel Bebej Tradicional
- Best Hotel in Gjirokaster for the Views – Hotel Kalemi
- Where to Stay in Gjirokaster for Luxury – Rose Garden Hotel
- The Most Unique Place to Stay in Gjirokaster – Hotel Gjirokastra
Keep scrolling for the best hotels in Gjirokaster.
9 Charming Hotels in Gjirokaster, Albania
Hotel Bebej Tradicional
- Price: $
- Highlights: Albanian Hospitality at its Finest
Starting off our best hotels in Gjirokaster list is Hotel Bebej Tradicional. The hotel features variety of rooms to choose from including, single, double and family rooms, as well as suites.
All rooms come with air-conditioning and modern amenities. Hotel Bebej Tradicional also offers a variety of services designed to make your stay comfortable, including free breakfast and an amazing host.
Boutique Hotel Musée
- Price: $$
- Highlights: Comfort, Beauty & Location
Boutique Hotel Musée is an ideal location for travelers looking for an experiential stay in one of the most unique and historical corners of the world. Guests of this delightful boutique hotel will enjoy immediate access to the town’s best shopping at the old bazaar, dining and the castle.
With its traditional architecture, boasting a combination of Mediterranean-Ottoman styles, the hotel offers impeccable hospitality amid an old-world atmosphere. The rooms are meticulously decorated with artifacts and wood carved by one of the elderly in the family.
There are free parking spaces and a large paid parking lot near the hotel if you are arriving in Gjirokaster via automobile. Highlights include a free breakfast on the patio overseeing the castle and the city.
Hotel Kalemi
- Price: $$
- Highlights: Authentic Charm & Views
Hotel Kalemi is a charming and cozy Gjirokaster hotel located in the heart of the historic city. With its traditional stone architecture, the hotel blends seamlessly with the surrounding historic buildings, creating a truly authentic and picturesque experience. The rooms at Hotel Kalemi are comfortable and tatstefully decorated with carved wood ceilings and doors.
Like many of the hotels in Gjirokaster mentioned in this article, one of the highlights of staying at this hotel is its convenient location. Situated just steps away from Gjirokaster’s main attractions, such as Gjirokaster Castle and the Old Bazaar, guests can easily explore the city’s history.
Hotel Kalemi 2
- Price: $$$
- Highlights: Atmosphere, Location & Style
One of the best hotels in Gjirokaster for a bit more luxury is Hotel Kalemi 2. This 16 room boutique hotel is has a central location, making it the perfect base for exploring the city.
Each room is tastefully decorated with a mix of traditional Albanian and contemporary design elements, creating a unique and cozy ambience. One of the standout features of Hotel Kalemi 2 is its rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. Staying at this Gjirokaster hotel will sure to leave a lasting impression.
Stone Sky Hotel
- Price: $$
- Highlights: Location, Breakfast, Views
The Stone Sky Hotel in Gjirokaster offers a unique and unforgettable stay in this historic city. The stone architecture of the hotel gives it an authentic and charming ambiance, inviting guests to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich history of the area.
The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring modern amenities and traditional Albanian decor. The Stone Sky Hotel offers more than just comfortable accommodations – it also provides a rooftop terrace with panoramic views and free (and tasty) breakfast.
Hotel SS KEKEZI
- Price: $$
- Highlights: Breakfast and Location
Another Gjirokaster accommodation centrally located in the historic city is Hotel SS KEKEZI. The hotel is situated in a traditional Ottoman-style house, giving guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and heritage.
The rooms are elegantly decorated with harmonious blend of modern furnishings and traditional Albanian elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In addition to comfortable accommodations, this Gjirokaster hotel offers a delicious breakfast made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients to start the day off right.
Rose Garden Hotel
- Price: $$$
- Highlights: Swimming Pool & Luxury Feels
Nestled in a tranquil garden, the Rose Garden Hotel is where to stay in Gjirokaster for Luxury. This is one of the only few hotels in Gjirokaster with a pool which is a welcomed break from exploring the hilly landscape in the heat.
Each room is tastefully decorated with a blend of modern amenities and traditional Albanian touches, creating a unique and cozy ambience. Another one of the highlights of the Rose Garden Hotel is the terrace, offering panoramic views of the city and the nearby Gjirokaster Castle.
With its attentive and friendly staff, comfortable accommodations and beautiful surroundings, this is an ideal choice for travels looking for a peaceful and memorable stay in Gjirokaster. Let the hotel take care of all your needs and treat yourself to the unique history, culture and tradition of the city.
Hotel Gjirokastra
- Price: $$
- Highlights: Location & Home away from Home
Hotel Gjirokastra is an exceptional accommodation option for travelers visiting the historic city of Gjirokaster. This charming Gjirokaster hotel located in the heart of the city, offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience and authentic Albanian hospitality.
The hotel’s traditional architecture preserves the city’s historic charm, while the modern amenities ensure that you’ll have a comfortable stay. The rooms are tastefully decorated, with a focus on traditional Albanian elements and modern comforts. With its convenient location, welcoming atmosphere and comfortable rooms, this hotel is an excellent choice for those visiting Gjirokaster.
Stone Rooms 1850
- Price: $
- Highlights: Location & Cozy Atmosphere
Another budget friendly accommodation in Gjirokaster is the Stone Rooms 1850. Housed within a historic stone building, the rooms are cozy and equipped with modern amenities such as comfortable beds and private bathrooms.
The central location of this hotel is an added advantage, providing easy access to the city’s main attractions such as the Gjirokaster Castle and Ethnographic Museum. The family-run hotel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel right at home.
Honorable Mentions | Best Hotels in Gjirokaster
Below are a few accommodations in Gjirokaster that didn’t make the top hotels in Gjirokaster list but still deserve an honorable mention in this article.
- Hotel Cajupi – $$$ Location.
- Trigona Hostel – $ for travelers on a backpacker budget.
- Guest House Salaria – $ for breakfast views and travelers who don’t mind hiking up huge hills.
Things to do in Gjirokaster
There are enough things to do in Gjirokaster that spending a day or two in this medieval town will be enough to see it all. Check out the post below for a detailed guide of the best things to do in Gjirokaster.
- Explore Gjirokaster Castle
- Tour the Cold War Tunnel
- Wander the Old Bazaar
- Day Trip to the Blue Eye
- Zekate House
📖 Read Full Post: 15 Things to do in Gjirokaster
How to Get Around Gjirokaster
Gjirokaster is a pretty compact and walkable city. Prepare for lots of walking and if you are staying at a Gjirokaster hotel that is on a hill, prepare for some steep walks home. Some of the cobblestone streets are uneven so exploring in a pair of comfortable walking shoes would be a good idea.
What to Pack for Gjirokaster
- Backpack – I wear this pack on days we’re exploring as there are compartments to keep our drone and extra lenses safe and secure in the bottom. Plus it packs well into my bigger Travel Pack.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Water Bottle
- Scarf
- Sunglasses.
- Rain Jacket
- Headphones for bus journeys.
- Biodegradable Wet Wipes
- Purchase Travel insurance before you go
- Pack a Universal Adapter
Onward Travel in Albania
Albania is a pretty small country and if you rented a car you’ll be able to cover a lot of ground. If you are relying on public transportation, the bus system has good connections throughout the county.
- Press north to Berat, Albania’s other UNESCO city.
- Head up to the lively capital of Tirana.
- Go trekking in the Accursed mountains on the Valbona Theth trek.
- Explore Shkoder – Gateway to Valbona National Park and Theth National Park.
- Head to the southern coast and explore the Albanian Riviera.
- Step back in time in Kruja – Albania’s historic town just north of Tirana.
- Road Trip through the Balkans and explore bordering countries such as North Macedonia, Montenegro or Greece.
Albania Travel Tips
📍Plan your Trip:
🗺 How long to travel Albania? 3-6 Day Albanian Alps Hiking Itinerary
🛂 Visas: Up to 90 Days on arrival for most countries.
☔️ Best Time to Visit: Peak season = July & August. May, June, September & October = Less crowds & costs.
💰 Average Daily Budget: Expect to pay 50 USD’s a day for basic accommodations, sit down meals at a cafe and entrance fees.
⛺️ Albania accommodation Guides:
🪂 Highlights
- Tirana's Coffee Culture
- Berat - a Town of a Thousand Windows
- Trekking Valbona to Theth N.P.
- Gjirokaster Castle
- The Albanian Riviera
- Shkoder - the Gateway to the Albanian Alps
- Theth National Park
- Lake Komani
- Valbona Valley National Park
- Peak of the Balkans for the experienced Trekker
🧳 What to Pack: What to Pack for Albania
🎥 Watch our Albania Series on YouTube
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Have you stayed in any of these hotels in Gjirokaster? Let fellow travelers know in the comments below ↓
Balkans Travel Guides ↓
Planning a trip to the Balkans? Check out these guides for more tips & inspiration.
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