Gjirokaster is a city bursting with character, history, and unique experiences. Unlike many destinations, its charm lies not just in its UNESCO-listed old town or its fortress, but in the way its stories and traditions are still alive today. We love the private walking tours that explore the city’s lesser-known corners, like the Gjirokaster: Old Bazaar and Castle Private Walking Tour, which lets you uncover hidden alleys and local secrets. Plus, the scenic excursions—such as rafting through Osumi Canyon—bring Albania’s wild side right to your feet, offering unforgettable natural beauty. For those interested in local crafts, the Wood Crafting Class provides a hands-on way to take home a piece of Gjirokaster.
Gjirokaster’s diverse range of tours includes cultural walking explorations, culinary classes, adventurous river trips, and historical site visits. These experiences highlight the city’s architecture, traditional crafts, delicious food, and rugged landscapes. Now, let’s walk through each of our top picks to see what makes them special.
1. Sarandë: Tour Gjirokaster, Blue Eye & Lekursi Castle
At number 1, this private day trip combines the medieval charm of Gjirokaster with the spectacular scenery of the Blue Eye. The tour includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage town, where winding streets and Ottoman houses tell stories of the past. The Blue Eye, a natural spring with vivid turquoise waters, is a highlight, offering a chance to see one of Albania’s most surreal sights. The trip also takes in Lekuresi Castle, perched high above the town with panoramic views of the Drina Valley. Guests consistently praise the flexibility of this private experience, with reviews highlighting how guides like Joan and Kevin make history and nature come alive. This is perfect for travelers seeking a full day of cultural and natural highlights with personalized attention.
Bottom line: An all-in-one tour for those who want a seamless, private experience of Gjirokaster’s highlights plus a visit to the Blue Eye.
2. Gjirokastër: Traditional Albanian Vegetarian Cooking Class
Number 2 on our list is a delightful cooking experience, perfect for food lovers and those curious about Albanian cuisine. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll learn to prepare traditional vegetarian dishes like Qifqi and Hasude while tasting local raki or wine. The class is held in a welcoming setting where the host guides you through each step, making it accessible for all cooking levels. Guests rave about the infectious enthusiasm of Marijta and the delicious results—they leave with new recipes and a deeper appreciation for Albanian flavors. This hands-on activity offers a chance to connect with local culture through food, making it ideal for those who enjoy culinary experiences or want a unique souvenir of their trip.
Bottom line: Great for foodies or anyone interested in authentic Albanian home cooking; memorable, tasty, and fun.
3. Gjirokaster: Wood Crafting Class
Taking the third spot is a craftsmanship workshop that lets you create your own wooden souvenir in just three hours. Led by a master craftsman, this session provides insight into Gjirokaster’s traditional woodwork, a craft that’s been part of the city for centuries. You’ll use simple tools to carve and craft your personal keepsake, with guidance from an expert. Guests mention how Viktor and Klarissa make the process enjoyable and educational, and many come away with a tangible memory of their visit. The class offers a blend of history, hands-on work, and local culture, making it perfect for those interested in craftsmanship or looking for a meaningful travel memento.
Bottom line: An engaging activity suited for creative travelers wanting a personalized keepsake and understanding of local craft traditions.
4. Walking Tour – The Old Bazaar, Cfake, Dunavat, Ali Pasha Bridge
Number 4 presents a guided stroll through parts of Gjirokaster many overlook. Starting at Cerciz Topulli Square, you’ll wander through the Old Bazaar, with its cobblestone streets and historic houses, and then cross the Zerzebili Bridge to explore the Cfaka neighborhood and the Ali Pasha Bridge. This tour uncovers the city’s lesser-known gems and shares stories of its past, from Ottoman architecture to communist monuments like the Obelisk. Guides like Marco and Viki are highly praised for their detailed, engaging narration. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace with local insights, especially if you’re interested in seeing the everyday life behind Gjirokaster’s tourist spots.
Bottom line: A charming, authentic walk for those eager to see Gjirokaster beyond its main sights.
5. Vegetarian Cooking Class @Teta Marjeta
Number 5 offers a personalized cooking class in a cozy setting, focusing on vegetarian Albanian dishes. Meeting in Cerciz Topulli Square, you’ll learn to prepare dishes like Qofte bobollaqe while enjoying raki or soft drinks. Marjeta and her team make the experience warm and fun, with clear instructions suitable for beginners. Guests love the friendly atmosphere and the chance to chat with locals about food and tradition. The class lasts about 2½ hours, culminating in sharing a meal of your own creations. It’s perfect for those who want to deepen their cultural understanding through cooking and enjoy a relaxed, intimate environment.
Bottom line: A relaxed, engaging way to learn Gjirokaster’s culinary secrets with a friendly host.
6. Osumi Canyon Rafting Adventure
For adventure seekers, number 6 offers a rafting trip through Albania’s most scenic canyon. The guided tour spans 3 to 6 hours, passing waterfalls, narrow passages, and cliffs, with no experience necessary. It’s a safe option suitable for beginners and families. The itinerary includes two boat trips—one at the start and another at the end—totaling around 2 hours of active paddling. Reviewers mention how the scenery is breathtaking and the guides are professional, ensuring a fun, safe adventure. If you love being on the water and want to see Albania’s rugged landscape from a different perspective, this is your choice.
Bottom line: A thrilling yet accessible way to experience Albania’s natural beauty from the water.
7. Gjirokaster: Old Bazaar and Castle Private Walking Tour
Number 7 features a private tour focusing on Gjirokaster’s key historic sites. Over two hours, you’ll visit the Old Bazaar, the Gjirokaster Castle, and the Bazaar Mosque from 1600. Your guide provides insights into the city’s architecture, significance, and how it has evolved over centuries. Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the opportunity to ask questions. This tour is great for those who want a concise but immersive experience with local context, especially if you’re pressed for time but still want a meaningful introduction to the city’s core sites.
Bottom line: An efficient, personalized introduction to Gjirokaster’s most iconic landmarks.
8. From Koman Dam: Shala River and Komani Lake Boat Trip
Number 8 offers a scenic boat ride starting at Koman Dam, crossing Komani Lake and exploring the Shala River. The journey lasts about 5.5 hours and includes sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on a boat. It’s considered one of Albania’s most beautiful natural spots, with crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. Reviewers mention the experience as an excellent way to experience Albania’s outdoors. Expect a peaceful journey with plenty of photo opportunities, making it ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom line: A relaxing, picturesque boat trip perfect for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
9. Vlora, Llogara & Dhermi: Albanian Riviera from Durres/Golem
Number 9 is a full-day tour exploring the highlights of southern Albania’s coast. It includes a stop in Vlora, the city of Albanian independence, and drives through the Llogara Pass with its panoramic views. The itinerary also features free time at Dhermi Beach, with its white pebbles and turquoise waters. Guides like Viki and Arli provide detailed commentary, and reviews mention the comfort of private transport. This tour suits travelers who want a mix of cultural stops and beach relaxation, with enough flexibility to enjoy the scenery.
Bottom line: A comprehensive day for those wanting a taste of Albania’s coast, history, and natural beauty.
10. Durrës/Golem: Day Trip to Dhermi, Llogara & Vlorë
Number 10 offers a long scenic day exploring Albania’s Riviera. Starting from Durrës or Golem, you’ll visit Vlorë, enjoy the Llogara Pass, and relax at Dhermi Beach. The trip includes multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and photo opportunities. The tour emphasizes comfort, with private transport and flexible schedules. Reviewers find it a fantastic way to maximize a day trip, especially if you prefer a mix of sightseeing and relaxing by the sea.
Bottom line: An all-in-one coastal adventure that balances scenic driving and beach time.
11. RED LINE: VIP Daily Tour with SUV: Vlore-Gjirokaster-Permet
Number 11 is a luxury, private SUV tour covering southern Albania’s highlights. It includes UNESCO-listed Gjirokaster, the Benje Thermal Baths, and Kelcyre’s traditional lunch. The route also visits the Church of Saint Mary in Leusa and the Permet thermal area. The small group size makes for a personalized experience, and reviews mention knowledgeable guides like Blerim. This tour is suited for travelers wanting comfort, flexibility, and a mix of cultural and natural sites.
Bottom line: A premium, flexible day trip ideal for those who prefer private transport and tailored experiences.
12. Walking Tour – The Bazaar, Argjiro Castle, Zekate House
Number 12 is a three-hour guided walk through Gjirokaster’s most famous sites. Starting at the Bazaar, you’ll visit the Argjiro Castle and the historic Zekate House. Guides like Bieren and Arli make the stories come alive, sharing local history and architecture. Reviewers highlight the tour’s engaging narration and the opportunity to buy local crafts. It’s perfect for visitors who want a relaxed but comprehensive introduction to the city’s heritage.
Bottom line: Ideal for first-time visitors who want a friendly, informative overview of Gjirokaster.
13. Gjirokastra Private Half-Day Walking Tour
Number 13 is a personalized half-day exploring the Cold War Tunnel, the UNESCO bazaar, and Argjiro Castle. The guide’s detailed explanations and relaxed pace make it a favorite among travelers. Guests appreciate the in-depth stories and the chance to see the city’s contrasts—from ancient fortress to Cold War relics. This tour suits travelers with limited time who want an immersive experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a deep dive into Gjirokaster’s layered history without rushing.
14. Gjirokaster: City Highlights Walking Tour
Number 14 features a three-hour walking tour that covers the Castle, the Bazaar, and Zekate House. Guides like Blerim and Arli bring the city’s stories to life, focusing on architecture, legends, and local life. Reviewers find this tour “very interesting and informative,” making it a good choice if you want a compact, well-rounded introduction.
Bottom line: A solid choice for visitors wanting a quick, insightful overview.
15. Cooking Class
Our final pick is a two-hour cooking class that teaches you how to prepare two traditional Gjirokaster dishes and a dessert. Led by a local instructor, it offers a hands-on experience with personalized attention. Guests mention how much they enjoyed learning about local ingredients and sitting down to enjoy their meal afterward. It’s ideal for foodies wanting an authentic, interactive cultural activity during their stay.
Bottom line: An engaging, tasty way to connect with Gjirokaster’s culinary traditions.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting the perfect tour in Gjirokaster, consider your interests—whether it’s history, food, adventure, or crafts—as well as your schedule and budget. For a comprehensive exploration of the city plus a visit to the Blue Eye, the Sarandë: Tour Gjirokaster, Blue Eye & Lekursi Castle is hard to beat. If you’re a foodie, the Vegetarian Albanian Cooking Class and the Cooking Class offer authentic, hands-on culture.
For thrill-seekers, the Osumi Canyon Rafting combines adventure with scenery, while those wanting to explore local craftsmanship will find the Wood Crafting Class particularly rewarding. Meanwhile, if your time is limited, the Gjirokaster: Old Bazaar and Castle Private Walking Tour offers a concise yet immersive taste of the city’s highlights.
Final Thoughts
Gjirokaster offers a variety of tours tailored to different interests and travel styles. Whether you prefer exploring historic sites, engaging in local crafts, or experiencing outdoor adventure, there’s something for all. For first-time visitors, a guided walking tour combined with a culinary experience can provide a well-rounded introduction. For those with more time or a taste for adventure, rafting or full-day scenic tours will satisfy your curiosity about Albania’s wild beauty.
Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular experiences. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour that makes your visit to Gjirokaster a memorable part of your Albanian journey.
