Departing Tirana at the dawn of 8 o’clock, we shall journey towards Gjirokastra, a place 230 kilometers away, renowned for its remarkable preservation of the Ottoman architecture and its prominent agricultural land. We will traverse through the depths of Southern Albania, admiring the green fields that the countryside has to offer. Along our path, we shall be accompanied by the Vjosa River, one of the few untamed rivers of Albania and the surrounding Balkan region.

Old Bazaar of Gjirokastra – “Qafa e Pazarit”

Once we arrive in the city, you will soon recognize that this metropolis is unlike any other. At the heart of the city lies the main square, proudly named after the renowned Albanian Patriot of the 19th century, Cerciz Topulli. Here, the cobblestone streets culminate in a splendid spectacle, their journey from the castle’s lofty heights finally at an end.
Dating back to the 17th Century, the Ottoman era saw the flourishing of a bustling epicenter that sent its vitality reverberating throughout the city. A hub of economic activity, this was the place where news, gossip and rumors were propagated with remarkable swiftness. All manner of transactions were conducted here, as well as leisurely gatherings over coffee. Countless unions were arranged here, providing the perfect milieu for families to come together prior to the wedding rites.
This day, the city proudly displays its history to all who visit, with a splendid array of souvenirs and stories shared by the affable inhabitants.

Gjirokastra Castle

Majestically, we tread through the bustling Bazaar to reach the grand Gjirokastra Fortress. Upon the hilltop’s natural defenses, it was the first settlement of the city, deeply rooted in the captivating legend of Argjiro, the young princess who sacrificed herself. Thusly, it is commonly referred to as the Crown of the City. Renovated significantly in the 19th Century, it has been used as a fortress and prison by countless regimes and political parties of the past. Undeniably, the Fortress holds great historical significance, yet its stony visage still provides a stunning view of the city, placidly spread along the hills.

Local Heritage House tour

Accompanying the grand tour of Gjirokastra, one is brought to the famous quarter of the city, wherein stand the family house of Enver Hoxha, the venerated Communist Leader, and his neighbor, Ismail Kadare, the renowned modern Albania Writer. Here these two figures, enshrined on the pedestal as the two pillars of Politics and Literature of the 20th century, are held in awe. Before departing for the intriguing “Path of Mad People” and its captivating tale, one may pay a visit to the remarkable house that lies therein.

The city of Saranda
After visiting the heritage city of Gjirokastra we will drive for about an hour to arrive the biggest and most beautiful city of Albanian Riviera , Saranda. We have a short stop in by the sea and walk on the main promenade that offers wonderful view of the sea and the neighboring country of Greece, the island of Corfu.

Butrint National Park

As we make our way through the charming streets of Ksamil, we will soon arrive at the renowned Butrint Archaeological Park, a true gem of Albanian archeology. A visit to this impressive site will offer us a unique opportunity to gain insights into the social organization of ancient civilizations, which thrived over two millennia ago. From the early Albanian tribes to the Greek and Roman societies and the later establishment of an episcopal community, complete with a magnificent Christian Basilica and baptismal font, Butrint evokes a fascinating evolution of human civilization.

Historically significant, the city was frequently mentioned in the works of the esteemed Roman philosopher Cicero, who himself was a resident with a villa near the city. Butrint’s significance, however, extends beyond its rich history, as the surrounding area has remained relatively unaltered, enhancing the authenticity and value of our visit.

We can enjoy a lovely meal in Saranda , the speciality of the city is sea products,  and then return back to Tirana