Nižepole to Gjirokaster

Gjirokaster: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Albania

Gjirokaster is a city in southern Albania, known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and its stunning location on a hillside overlooking the Drino Valley. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of Albania's most popular tourist destinations.

Language

The official language of Albania is Albanian, but English is also widely spoken in Gjirokaster.

Currency

The currency of Albania is the Albanian lek (ALL). 1 USD is approximately equal to 100 ALL.

Distance

Gjirokaster is approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) southeast of Tirana, the capital of Albania. The drive from Tirana to Gjirokaster takes about 4 hours.

How to Reach

There are a few different ways to reach Gjirokaster:

• By bus: There are regular bus services from Tirana to Gjirokaster. The journey takes about 4 hours and costs around 10 USD.
• By car: If you are driving from Tirana, take the SH4 highway south. The drive takes about 4 hours.
• By train: There is no direct train service from Tirana to Gjirokaster. However, you can take a train from Tirana to Vlorë and then take a bus to Gjirokaster.

Expenses

Gjirokaster is a relatively inexpensive city to visit. Here are some approximate costs:

Item	Cost
Hostel bed	10-15 USD per night
Double room in a guesthouse	20-30 USD per night
Meal at a restaurant	5-10 USD
Public transportation	1-2 USD per ride
Entrance fee to Gjirokaster Castle	4 USD

Best time to go

The best time to visit Gjirokaster is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the city is also beautiful in the winter, when the snow-capped mountains provide a stunning backdrop.

What to Eat

Gjirokaster is known for its delicious cuisine. Here are some of the local dishes that you should try:

• Byrek: A savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables
• Tavë kosi: Lamb or goat stew with yogurt and rice
• Fërgesë: A lamb dish cooked in a tomato and pepper sauce
• Qifqi: A cornmeal bread

Where to Go

Here are some of the must-see places in Gjirokaster:

• Gjirokaster Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle is a must-see for any visitor to Gjirokaster.
• The Ethnographic Museum: This museum houses a collection of traditional Albanian artifacts.
• The Zekate House: A 17th-century Ottoman building that is now a museum.
• The Old Bazaar: A vibrant marketplace where you can find souvenirs and local products.
• The Drino Valley: A beautiful valley that is perfect for hiking and biking.

FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Gjirokaster:

• Is Gjirokaster safe to visit?
• Yes, Gjirokaster is a safe city to visit. The crime rate is low and the people are friendly.
• Do I need a visa to visit Gjirokaster?
• No, citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Albania for up to 90 days.
• What is the currency of Gjirokaster?
• The currency of Gjirokaster is the Albanian lek (ALL).
• What is the best time to visit Gjirokaster?
• The best time to visit Gjirokaster is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant.