Best hotels and places to stay in Gjirokaster
Why visit?
Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southern Albania, offers tourists a unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its ancient cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and stunning mountain views, Gjirokaster is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. For those looking for the best accommodations, Gjirokaster has a range of hotels to suit every budget and preference.
Where to stay?
Old Town: The Old Town area of Gjirokaster is the heart of the citys historic charm. With its narrow streets and stone houses, it feels like stepping back in time. Staying in the Old Town allows you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, explore the Gjirokaster Castle, and visit the ethnographic museum. There are several charming boutique hotels in this area, such as Hotel Gjirokastra, offering comfortable accommodations with a touch of traditional Albanian design.
Qafa: Located on top of the hill overlooking the Old Town, Qafa is a peaceful and scenic neighborhood. The panoramic views of Gjirokaster and the surrounding landscape are truly breathtaking. Qafa is home to some high-end hotels, including Hotel Kalemi 2, known for its excellent service and luxurious amenities. Staying in Qafa allows you to enjoy a tranquil retreat while still being within easy reach of the city center.
Bazaar: The Bazaar area is another excellent option for tourists looking for a vibrant and lively atmosphere. This district is filled with shops, cafes, and traditional restaurants, offering a taste of local life. Hotel The Stone City is a popular choice in the Bazaar area, offering comfortable rooms and a central location. Staying in this neighborhood allows visitors to easily explore the citys bustling market and sample delicious Albanian cuisine.
What is the price per hotel room per night?
3-star hotels: The average price per night is around $45 to $70.
4-star hotels: The average price per night is around $70 to $100.
5-star hotels: The average price per night is around $100 to $200.
Best value for money:
Hotel B&B Kotoni: This charming hotel located in the Old Town offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. With its friendly staff and convenient location, just steps away from Gjirokaster Castle, Hotel B&B Kotoni provides excellent value for money for travelers on a budget in Gjirokaster.
Hotel Kastro: Situated in the heart of the Old Town, Hotel Kastro is known for its reasonable prices and warm hospitality. The hotel offers clean and cozy rooms with traditional Albanian decor, as well as a delicious breakfast buffet included in the room rate. Hotel Kastro is a smart choice for those seeking affordability without compromising on comfort.
Hotel Argjiro: Located in the Bazaar area, Hotel Argjiro offers a good value for money with its comfortable rooms and convenient location. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast and relax on the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the city. The hotels central location makes it easy to explore the nearby attractions and experience the lively atmosphere of the Bazaar.
Best kids-friendly hotels:
Hotel Shtino: With its spacious family rooms and child-friendly amenities, Hotel Shtino is an excellent choice for families traveling with children. The hotel offers a playground, a garden, and a kids club to keep the little ones entertained. Its central location near the Old Town allows easy access to attractions like the Gjirokaster Castle and the ethnographic museum, making it a family-friendly base for exploration.
Hotel Arxhena: Situated in the heart of Gjirokaster, Hotel Arxhena offers comfortable rooms with family-friendly facilities. The hotel features a childrens playground and a terrace where families can relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. Its proximity to the Old Town and other tourist attractions makes it a convenient choice for families visiting Gjirokaster.
Best hotels for a romantic getaway:
Hotel Lulishte: Nestled in a peaceful area near the Bazaar, Hotel Lulishte provides a romantic setting for couples. The hotel boasts beautiful garden surroundings, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at the hotels restaurant, which serves delicious traditional Albanian cuisine. The attentive staff and serene atmosphere make Hotel Lulishte a perfect choice for a romantic getaway.
Hotel Kotoni: Located in the heart of the Old Town, Hotel Kotoni offers a romantic atmosphere with its traditional Ottoman-style architecture and stunning views of the city. Couples can enjoy a candlelit dinner at the hotels rooftop restaurant, which serves a mix of Albanian and international dishes. The cozy and intimate ambiance of Hotel Kotoni makes it an ideal choice for couples looking for a romantic retreat.
Best for location:
Hotel Kalemi 2: Situated in the picturesque neighborhood of Qafa, Hotel Kalemi 2 offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Its convenient location allows easy access to the Old Town and other attractions. The hotel combines comfort with a beautiful setting, making it a popular choice among tourists seeking a prime location in Gjirokaster.
Hotel The Stone City: Located in the heart of the Bazaar, Hotel The Stone City offers a central location with easy access to the citys vibrant market and historic sites. The hotels traditional stone architecture reflects the citys rich history, adding to the overall charm. With its convenient location and comfortable rooms, Hotel The Stone City is an ideal option for those seeking a central base for exploring Gjirokaster.
Hotel Cameria: Situated in the Old Town, Hotel Cameria offers a prime location for exploring the citys historic attractions. The hotel is housed in a traditional Ottoman-style building and provides comfortable rooms with a touch of local charm. Its proximity to the Gjirokaster Castle and other landmarks makes it a convenient choice for travelers interested in Gjirokasters rich history and cultural heritage.
Best for a short city break:
Hotel Kalemi: Located in the heart of the Old Town, Hotel Kalemi offers a convenient base for a short city break. The hotels cozy rooms and friendly staff ensure a pleasant stay, while its central location allows for easy exploration of the citys main attractions. With its historic ambiance and proximity to key sites, Hotel Kalemi is an excellent choice for a short city break in Gjirokaster.
Hotel Sopoti: Situated in the Bazaar area, Hotel Sopoti provides a comfortable stay for visitors on a short city break. The hotel offers clean and modern rooms, along with a helpful and welcoming staff. Its central location allows easy access to the citys sights and vibrant atmosphere, making Hotel Sopoti a convenient choice for a brief visit to Gjirokaster.
