Join us in this Day Tour of Gjirokastra and The Blue Eye to explore the secrets behind this Stone City and Castle of Gjirokaster. Part of Albanian UNESCO World Heritage. This Tour brings you nearer to the Unique Architecture, Local life, delicious food, and a stunning water spring. It is a complete guide with the best of what to visit in Gjirokaster, carefully selected by us, along with the last destination being The Blue Eye. Probably it is one of the steepest cities in the world, as Ismail Kadare describes it in his book. Gjirokastra will amaze you with its unique architecture and its dominant castle of Gjirokastra on the top of the hill. It is a city with a rich and glorious history, culture, and delicious local cuisine. Tour of Gjirokaster will start with the Pride of the city, the Castle of Gjirokaster. Walking through the coble stone paths sliding from the castle, you will explore a charming city, strangely attractive, and very Instagramable. While in Gjirokastra, we will explore also most of the Historic city, including some characteristic houses to understand more about how everyday life was organized in the family. Lastly, our final stop will be The Blue Eye water spring, which will leave you speechless and eager to jump in those vibrant blue colors and take a dip. Tour of Gjirokastra The history of the “Stone City” of Gjirokastra dates since the IVth Century AD. Known as Argyrokastro (Silver Castle) it has been an important economic, political and cultural city since the early Byzantine Era. Since 2005 the City is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. In addition, it is known for its highly preserved Ottoman Style Buildings and Architecture. The main components of the unique style are - Stone House Rooftops - Unique “Small Fortes” house style - The old Bazaar Blue Eye The “Blue Eye” is a water spring and a natural phenomenon occurring in a village in Finiq, southern Albania. The clear blue water of the Bistricë River can be seen from a depth of more than 50 meters, which is truly a magical view and makes the Blue Eye one of the most preferred destinations among tourists.

Your tour will start from Saranda and only in an hour and a half, you will reach Gjirokastra. One of the main characteristics of this place is the intensive use of stone in the building of the houses and streets, which is why it earned the nickname “The City Of Stone”. You will also need to walk a lot to get around the city, so that is the reason Gjirokastra is also called as 'the city of a thousand steps'. You will be exploring the main attractions of the city such as the Castle of Gjirokastra, known as the origin of the city, built in the 12th century, following the Museum of Arms, and the historic center. Your tour will continue with the visit to the house of the Zeka’s family (the most magnificent and characteristic building of Gjirokastra), the museum house of Ismail Kadare, one of the most important writers in the country, and to the final visit and the Ethnographic Museum. During the walking tour of the city, you will notice that all the roads lead to the old Bazaar.

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. 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. 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. The remarkable Fortress-style of the houses throughout the city of Gjirokastra has earned it a place amongst the UNESCO Heritage. These unique dwellings are not only aesthetically pleasing, but serve an essential purpose - they are equipped with independent systems of collecting, filtering, and preserving water. The house we are to visit today encapsulates the beauty of the Balkans from long ago, boasting its own "private bunker" in case of any bombardments. Step into this timeless abode and you will be transported to a different era. Last visit : the "Blue Eye" spring - an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon and popular tourist attraction. The river's crystalline depths can be viewed from more than fifty metres below, and the refreshingly clear blue waters are a sight to behold. The journey to the springs is well worth the fifteen-minute walk through nature's finest.

Explore Albania's top attractions in the hands of an expert tour director during a 4-day, 3-night sightseeing tour. Sample authentic Albanian food and visit Unesco World Heritage Sites such as Berat, Gjirokastra, and Butrint. Day 1: Sightseeing tour of Berat via Durres Travel to Berat, stopping in Durres for a short walking tour of the City Walls, Byzantine Forum, Roman Thermal Baths, the Venetian Tower, and the Amphitheater. Transfer to Berat passing through suggestive hills full of olive trees. Then, get settled in the hotel and head out for a guided tour admiring the citadel/castle of Berat with the Red Mosque, recognized by its solitary minaret, and the many Byzantine Churches like the Holy Trinity Church and the St. George Church. Finally, step inside a local home inside the castle of Berat for a coffee, raki, and dessert break. Enjoy the rest of the day wandering in the two main districts of Mangalam and Gorica. Day 2: Sightseeing tour of Gjirokastra After breakfast, admire small villages during your transfer to Gjirokaster. Once you arrive in this “city of a thousand steps,” settle into your hotel before soaking up the rich history of the castle and enjoying the view of the “city of stone” from above. Next, see the Ottoman Bazaar and historic wooden houses. Visit the Gjirokastra Obelisk dedicated to the first school of Gjirokastra and enjoy the 360º view from there. Next, stop for lunch in a small local restaurant for a taste of the city’s authentic dishes. Step into Skenduli house, the nicest Ottoman tower house, and listen to its history and details from the 10th generation of the Skenduli family. Spend a relaxing evening in the streets of Gjirokaster. Day 3: Sightseeing tour of Butrint & the Blue Eye spring Travel to the “Blue Eye” spring. Admire the shades of blue and surrounding nature before heading to Butrint. There, marvel at 2,500 years of history on a guided tour with a local guide. See the highlights, such as the amphitheater, castle, churches, and Lion Gate. Drive to Ksamil and enjoy lunch by the lake at the Mussel House. Spend your afternoon in Ksamil before heading to Saranda via Lekursi Castle, which overlooks the city. Day 4: Tirana via Vlore and Riviera Road En route to the city of Vlore via the scenic Riviera road, and explore the Ali Pasha Castle with your Tour Director. First, head to the Llogara “balcony” for a stunning view of the South Coast beaches before indulging in lunch at Llogara National. Next, visit a park surrounded by pine trees and a fresh mountain breeze. Marvel at the architecture and listen to entertaining legends about the man who built it, Ali Pashe Tepelena. Then, stop for lunch at a rustic local restaurant along Shushica river. After lunch, visit the city of Vlore, the hometown of the National Independence movement. visit Flag Square with its Independence Monument in the center, the Muradie Mosque, and Vlore Lungomare. Transfer to Tirana. (Hotel accommodation in Tirana is not included on the tour).

Our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel in Tirana. Gjirokastra, also known as “The Stone City”, part of UNESCO World heritage is situated in Southern Albania on the eastern side of mountain “Mali i Gjere”. Gjirokastra resembles a fortified city where every single house is like a small fortress. The origin of the city starts with the castle of Gjirokastra, built in IV century A.D., and is considered as one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Balkans. Every five years Gjirokastra becomes the capital of the Albanian folklore and traditional music, where passionate folklore ensembles gather in the “stone city” and perform their traditional music, dances and show off their costumes. Right before entering the castle of Gjirokastra you would have to pass by the medieval bazar. The atmospheric old town cascading down in graceful hill crammed with beautiful narrowed stone decorated streets, where you will be amazed by the wide variety of handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. We will visit one of the best-preserved houses of Gjirokastra, where everything is totally original and authentic. After visiting “The Stone City”, we will drive back to Tirana.

Discover Gjirokastër and its imposing castle on a guided day tour from Tirana. Explore the charming streets of the town, the local bazaar, a typical house in the town, as well as the fortress itself. Begin the day with pickup from your hotel in Tirana and travel by car south towards Gjirokastër. Admire the vast rolling fields in one of the most fertile agricultural regions of Albania, passing along a section of the Vjosa River. Upon arrival in the town, be enchanted by its beautiful stone architecture all around you. Start your tour from Cerciz Topulli Square and stroll along the cobblestone streets which flow from the castle at the elevated heart of the town. Make your way to the buzzing Gjirokastër Bazaar, the traditional hub of all activity in town. Watch locals buy and sell at the many shops and stalls. Spot many local cafés where locals of all ages meet and discuss the latest gossip and news while sipping some coffee. Next, continue towards Gjirokastër Castle, with its fantastic views of the town. Enter the castle and explore the grounds as you hear the legend of Princess Argjiro, the supposed founder of the city. Learn more about the many uses of the castle throughout the years under various regimes and rulers. Afterward, head back down into town to the Palorto District. Explore the most exclusive neighborhoods of the city, which was once home to famous Albanian figures such as Communist Leader, Enver Hoxha, and his neighbor, writer Ismail Kadare. Head along the locally-named "Path of Mad People” and visit a typical house of the neighborhood, Skenduli House, notable for its fortress-style design. Finally, hop back into your transportation for the journey back to Tirana, with drop-off at your hotel.

Gjirokastër gives a special feeling to all the tourists and after visiting it, you won’t need to wonder why. It has been under UNESCO protection since 2005. Located in southern Albania, Gjirokastër is where you will find a perfect mixture of wild territories and archeological sites. You will first visit the old city center where the bazaar is located. At the bazaar you will see the traditional artisan shops and the cafes in the old style. Then you will continue with a visit to Gjirokastër castle. This fortress was an existing building from the 1200 BC and rebuilt XII century by Ali Pashe Tepelena. You will have the possibility to see the defensive towers, the Clock tower, The church, and the Cistern. Inside the castle, are placed the military objects and monuments from the resistance of the Albanian partisans against the German Nazis in a very interesting museum. The rest of the day will be dedicated to visiting the old neighborhoods of Qafe and Bazaar and learn more about it. You shouldn't miss the Skenduli House. Between the ottoman houses, we will also find the house of Ismail Kadare the great Albanian writer, and the house of Enver Hoxha, the Albanian politician who ruled from 1944 to 1985, that is now the ethnographic Museum of Gjirokastër.

Explore the major landmarks, as well as some hidden gems, on a comprehensive walking excursion of the city of Gjirokaster, led by an experienced local guide. Join your guide on an exciting walking journey starting at Cerciz Topulli square, where you'll get information about the tour and have a chance to learn about the history of the city. Move towards the Old Bazaar, stopping at the Neck of the Bazaar to admire the architecture and meet local artisans. Browse through a variety of handmade items made of wool, stone, and wood. You might find the ideal souvenir to take home. Later on, head towards the Argjiro Castle, known for its history, tragedy, and legends. Enjoy breathtaking views of Gjirokaster from 330 meters above sea level. Your last stop of the day will be one of the best-preserved Ottoman-style houses in Albania, the Zekate House, which was built in 1812 and also offers great city views.

Discover a perfect mix of archaeology, history, and natural beauty on this guided tour of Gjirokastër from Durres. See the old city center, castle, and more. Visit the old city center and bazaar and see the traditional artisan shops and cafes constructed in the old style. Visit castle, rebuilt in the 12th century. Learn about Albania's resistance to the Nazis. Spend the rest of the day visiting the old neighborhoods of Qafe and Bazaar, and learning more about them. See historical buildings, including the former residence of Enver Xoxha; Albania's Cold War-era leader.

Day 1 Tirana- Kruje-Shkoder On our way north the first visit would be at the historic city of Kruja where we will visit the old Bazaar , the medieval castle and the museum of the Albanian National Hero Skanderbeg As we set out on our journey from Tirana, we are headed towards the beautiful North of Albania, with the majestic Castle of Rozafa as our first destination Leaving the Castle, we travel down to the vibrant city of Shkoder! With its unique architecture, hilarious sense of humour, and warm hospitality, this city is an essential part of Albania's history Overnight in Shkodra Day 2 Shkodra-Durres-Berat we will be travelling to the coastal city of Durres, a unique blend of culture and nature. Here, we will be able to take a leisurely stroll on the main promenade and witness the serene beauty of the sea, as well as visit the historic amphitheatre which has long been home to the battles of Gladiators. We shall set forth from Durres and make our way to Central South Albania, to the City of Many Windows, Berat. Since 2008, it has been inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list, and continues to be a significant city even today, boasting a remarkable history of over two millennia. Overnight in Berat Day 2 Berat-Gjirokaster-Sarande-Blue Eye-Himare 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. Visiting Old Bazaar, Gjirokastra Castle and Skenduli Heritage House. Visiting Blue Eye One must traverse the verdant parkland to behold the grandeur of the "Blue Eye" spring - an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon and popular tourist attraction. After the Blue eye we drive to the first city of The Albanian Riviera, Saranda. A beautiful picturesque city on the shores of the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea Overnight in Himara Day 4 Himare-Llogara National Park-Zvernec-Tirane You can enjoy some free time on the small coastal city of Himare on the first part of your day. Sunbathing if its hot enough or just to enjoy the nature beauty of the town. We drive through the Albanian Riviera leaving Himara behind and passing by the village of Dhermi . After a stop for photos we head to Llogara National Park , we will have a stop on the same place where paragliders start their flight with some amazing view to enjoy. Zvërnec Island is an island within the Narta Lagoon connected to the mainland by a 270m long wooden bridge. If lucky enough we can have a look on the migrating flamingos calmly occupying the shallow waters. The island contains the well preserved 13th-14th century Byzantine Zvërnec Monastery which we can visit. Return to Tirana