8 BEST Hotels In Gjirokaster For Exploring The Old Town 2026
Looking for the best hotels in Gjirokaster Old Town? We’ve got you covered.
After spending a month exploring Albania from high to low, Gjirokaster was one of our favourite places. With some of the best hotels in Gjirokaster lining the UNESCO World Heritage Old Bazaar, you’ll only ever be a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle.
With so many incredible places to stay, we’ve rounded up the 9 best hotels in Gjirokaster for every budget, all conveniently located to explore the best of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.
Where To Stay If You’re On A Budget
Gjirokaster is an incredibly affordable destination, so if you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of options for you! Here’s where we recommend:
Just a short walk from Gjirokaster Castle and the Old Bazaar, Manga Guest House could not be more conveniently located for exploring Gjirokaster. The hosts are the friendliest people, and they cook up an incredible breakfast. Their homemade doughnuts and jam compote are to die for.
The rooms are spacious and decorated to a beautiful modern standard. The thing we love most about this guest house is the sunny rooftop terrace with views over Gjirokaster Castle.
Ahmetaj Guest House is decorated in a very traditional style, really bringing the concept of “the stone city” to life. They have a variety of rooms on offer, including twin and double rooms, making it ideal if you’re travelling with friends.
It is in a convenient location for exploring the old town, just a short walk from everything you could need. The owners are lovely and can help with finding a parking spot on the narrow Gjirokaster streets. The breakfast is traditional, made with local fresh ingredients, and is delicious.
Best Apartments In Gjirokaster
If you prefer self-catered accommodation, these are the best apartments in Gjirokaster, all located within walking distance of all the main attractions
Located just a short walk from the Old Bazaar, Jani Studio Apartments are stylishly decorated. The owners are lovely, and you might be so lucky as to find a plate of cookies and a bottle of wine waiting for you on arrival!
Despite being completely self-contained, Jani Studio Apartments really feel like a hotel, with exceptional service, and a similar luxurious vibe. The bath robes and towels are as soft as the high-end hotels!
The saying “you get what you pay for” doesn’t really apply here, as we believe you get so much more. A modern luxurious apartment, without the luxury price tag!
If you’re travelling as a family or larger group, Melodia is perfect for you. This two-bedroom apartment is spacious, spread over two floors, with two bathrooms and a fully-equipped kitchen.
It is a very beautiful and traditional building, located just a two-minute walk from the Old Bazaar. The thing that makes Melodia stand out is the wonderful hosts, who almost feel more like friends. They regularly leave their guests fresh fruit, bread and treats, and are so helpful if you have any questions about Gjiroakster.
Best Hotels In Gjirokaster
Hotel Kalemi 2 is one of the best mid-range hotels in Gjirkaster. The rooms are spacious and traditional, giving you a really authentic experience. Make sure you look up, as the traditional stone walls are topped with ornate carved-wood ceilings and details that you won’t get anywhere else.
Despite being located right in the centre of the old town, Hotel Kalemi 2 doesn’t receive much street noise. It is in such a good location for exploring, especially if this is your first time in Gjirokaster.
Parking is right outside of the hotel, which is incredibly convenient for your stay. The hotel staff are truly lovely and will make this stay a memorable one.
Located in a beautiful, traditional white stone building in the middle of Gjirokaster old town, Stone Sky Hotel ensures you can explore at ease. Everything you could want to visit will be right on your doorstep.
The traditional white stone walls show through into the recently-renovated rooms, with traditional carpets and throws making it the perfect blend of old and new.
Breakfast is served on the hotel’s terrace, offering incredible views over Gjirokaster. You’ll be able to sample a mix of fruit, eggs, and traditional Albanian delicacies, making sure you won’t go hungry.
If you’re after somewhere with a more slick and modern design, Hotel Fantasy is the best hotel in Gjirokaster for you! The thing that sets this hotel apart is it’s convenient location just a two-minute walk from both the Old Bazaar and Gjirokaster Castle. This means that almost everything you’ll want to see will be within a short walk.
Many of the rooms come with a view over the whole of the castle, and the outdoor patio area is just perfect for your morning coffee. The on-site restaurant uses only fresh local ingredients, producing mouthwatering meals.
And honestly, the Deluxe Suite is just something else entirely. Spacious, elegantly decorated, incredible views, and even a bath to relax in after a long day of exploring. It doesn’t get much better than that!
Best Luxury Resort In Gjirokaster
Kerculla Resort is the best place to stay in Gjirokaster to spoil yourself with a little luxury, whilst maintaining an affordable price tag.
The best part about Kerculla Resort has to be the incredible view over the whole of Gjirokaster. Located in the hills just above the old town (though still within walking distance), you could spend hours sat on the terrace admiring the views.
Oh, and did we mention it has a pool?!
Despite being one of the best hotels in Gjirokaster, Kerculla Resort maintains a traditional design, with a touch of elegance, and the staff treat you like you’re the only guests there. Their thoughtfulness and kindness really go a long way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have some questions about your stay? Dive into our FAQ section where we’ve tried to answer some of the questions we get asked all the time!
How Long Should I Spend In Gjirokaster?
Gjirokaster is an incredible town and we’d recommend spending a minimum of 3 nights there in order to get a feel for the place and visit the main attractions. This includes the Old Bazaar, Gjirokaster Castle, Ali Pasha Bridge, and some of the city’s museums.
You could also spend a morning visiting the nearby Blue Eye, located just a 35-minute drive away.
If you’re short on time, we wouldn’t recommend spending any less than 2 nights in the city. There’s so much to do, we wouldn’t want you to miss out!
What Is There To Do In Gjirokaster?
Gjirokaster has so many amazing things to do! Here’s our recommend top 5 things to do:
Read More: Best Things To Do In Gjirokaster
Is Gjirokaster Safe?
We never once felt unsafe in Gjirokaster, or in Albania as a whole, and found the locals to be the most kindhearted, welcoming individuals we’ve ever met.
We’ve never heard of anyone having any issues in Gjirokaster, however, like in any destination, it’s advisable to exercise common travel precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, take care of your belongings, and stay informed about local conditions.
Do I Need A Car To Explore Gjirokaster?
Nope! Gjirokaster is a perfectly walkable city, and in fact it can be difficult to drive down the narrow cobblestone paths anyway. If you’re hiring a car to drive in Albania, we would recommend leaving it at your hotel and walking once you’ve arrived.
Read More: Is Albania Worth Visiting?
What Currency Do They Use In Albania?
The currency in Albania is the Albanian Leke. 100 ALL is equivalent to approximately £0.84 / €0.97 / $1.06. Many places will also accept Euros, at the exchange rate of 100 ALL = €1.
It is worth noting, the majority of places in Albania are cash only!! This includes shops, restaurants, hotels, museums, and most other tourist activities.
The only bank that allows free cash withdrawal is Credins Bank, which can be found in most larger cities. There is a Credins Bank in the newer part of Gjirokaster, around a 30-minute walk from the old town.
Is Albania Worth Visiting?
Yes!! Albania is an absolutely stunning country with so much to do. From quaint old cities to the vibrant capital city, mountains, and beaches, there really is something for everyone.
The locals are the friendliest people we’ve ever encountered on our travels to date and will make your visit to their country better than you could ever imagine.
The food is delicious, the prices are low compared to the rest of Europe, and there are far fewer tourists than most other Mediterranean countries.
Read More: Is Albania Worth Visiting?
When Is The Best Time To Visit Gjirokaster?
Gjirokaster is best enjoyed in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly mild, prices are lower, and there are far fewer tourists around.
Read More: Best Time To Visit Albania
Wrap Up
Gjirokaster is one of the most beautiful places in Albania. If you’re looking for the best hotels in Gjirokaster for exploring the old town, you really are spoiled for choice.
From the luxurious rooms at Kerculla Resort, to the stunning views from Stone Sky Hotel, and the friendships you’ll make staying at Stone City Hostel, there’s something to suit everyone.
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