Gjirokastra Wander Tour

Total Duration

• 6 Hours

Full description

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Gjirokastra Wander Tour – an immersive exploration of local life, rich in experiences and tantalizing tastes. Delve into the stories that have shaped the city’s history, uncovering its traditions, rites, and captivating legends that permeate every alley.

This unique tour goes beyond mere dates and facts, immersing you in the realm of local folklore, rare events, and the vibrant management of traditions by the community.

The adventure begins in the bustling Gjirokastra Bazaar, once ravaged by fire 300 years ago and now known as the New Bazaar. Here, you can wander through its diverse shops, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and mingling with the locals.

The next stop on your journey is the majestic Castle, a symbol of city life and a guardian shrouded in mystery and legends. Within the castle walls, you will visit the iconic Clock Tower, the awe-inspiring cannon’s gallery, the historic Prince’s Church, and two Bektashi cult objects. Immerse yourself in the legend of Argjiro and explore the historical periods that have left indelible marks on the castle and the city, including the era of Ali Pasha and the influence of communism.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Skenduli House, a remarkable example of a tower-type house built in 1700. Marvel at its authentic architectural style, reflecting the patriarchal family structure of the late medieval period. Explore the various rooms, from guest quarters to winter chambers, nursing corners to food storage rooms, and gain insights into the organization of daily life within a traditional family.

Then, it’s time to choose your favorite experience, tailored to create a truly memorable and personalized moment. You can don a traditional costume and capture a cherished photo souvenir, or engage in wood carving or stone carving, taking home your own handcrafted masterpiece. Whichever option you choose, it will provide a local sensation, immersing you in the region’s rich artistic heritage and craftsmanship.

Throughout the tour, you will discover the elements of traditional decor and motifs, unraveling their meanings and symbolism, often rooted in religious or pagan traditions.

Finally, indulge in a delightful cooking class, hosted in a cozy restaurant within the Bazaar. This culinary experience will tantalize your taste buds, allowing you to savor the essence of Gjirokastra. Not only will you create lasting memories as you participate in the cooking process, but you will also receive a secret recipe to recreate the flavors of Gjirokastra at home. To culminate the tour, indulge in a tasting of three local qifqi flavors, paired with an array of aromatic local herbs.

Prepare to be captivated by the magic of Gjirokastra, as you immerse yourself in its stories, traditions, architectural wonders, and delectable flavors.

Includes

• Entrance fee to the castle and to Skenduli house, one experience and the cooking class tasting

• Tour language : English, Italian, Greek, French, Spanish and Albanian.

Limitations

• To book this tour you must contact us at least one day in advance
• Minimum 1 Participant
• Maximum 10 Participants

Itinerary

• Starting Time 16:00
• Ending Time 22:00

Meeting point

Cancellation Policy - Flexible

• Whenever you cancel 4 days or earlier than the confirmed activity starting date, your fee will be refunded for the entire activity charge.
• In case of cancellation within 48 and 96 hours before the scheduled activity starting date, you'll get 50% reimbursed.
• Those who cancel 48 hours or beyond are considered last-minute cancellations. There will be no refunds