Gjirokastra is not just a city — it’s a time of travel. Cobblestone streets, stone roofs, and a castle overlooking the Drino Valley make this UNESCO city one of the most beautiful destinations in the Balkans. But how do you get there, how do you explore it, and how do you organize it stress-free? The answer is simple: by rental car from Tirana .
This guide tells you everything — from the route and travel time, to parking, highlights, and practical tips that many tourists only learn after they arrive.
How Long is the Road from Tirana to Gjirokastra?
The distance from Tirana to Gjirokastra is about 230 km and takes 3 to 3.5 hours by car on good roads. The road passes through Fier, Tepelena and the Drino Valley — one of the most stunning natural panoramas in Albania.
It is recommended to leave early in the morning (before 8:00 AM) to avoid Tirana traffic and have enough time to explore the city during the day.
Recommended route:
- Tirana → A3 Highway → Fier → Tepelena → Gjirokastra
- Alternative: Via Vlora — a little longer but passes by the Llogara Pass , transforming the trip into a coastal adventure
Why Choose a Rental Car and Not a Bus?
Gjirokastra has public transportation, but the bus drops you off in the lower city center — away from the historic neighborhoods and the castle. With a rental car you have total freedom of movement and can stop anywhere: at historic Tepelena, at Viroi (the lake near the city), or continue to Saranda and Buthroti on the same day.
If you’re not sure which car category suits your itinerary, check out our guide to choosing the right rental car before booking.
Parking in Gjirokastra: What You Need to Know
Lower Town (Modern Center):
- Free parking around the market and main road
- Easily accessible by any type of car
Historic Neighborhood (Old Bazaar & Castle):
- The roads are very narrow — large cars are not recommended.
- Park at the entrance to the neighborhood and continue on foot (5–10 minutes)
- There are parking signs near the Old Bazaar.
Tip: If you’ve booked an SUV, leave it in the lower city parking lot. Compact cars like the Skoda Fabia or Hyundai i20 easily maneuver through the narrow streets.
What to Visit in Gjirokastra
1. Gjirokastra Castle
Built in the 12th–13th centuries, this fortress houses the National Weapons Museum , a downed American plane during the Cold War, and panoramic views over the Drino Valley. Hours: Monday–Sunday, 09:00–17:00 | Price: ~300 lekë
2. Old Bazaar
Cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and traditional cafes. Taste the Gjirokastrian pie — a specialty made with cottage cheese and eggs that you won’t find everywhere.
3. Ethnographic Museum
Housed in a 19th century minaret house, it shows traditional Gjirokaster life. Admission is free or for a symbolic price.
4. Enver Hoxha’s House
Despite its controversial history, the house is an outstanding example of kulla architecture — the traditional style of stone houses of Gjirokastra.
Combine Gjirokastra with Other Destinations
With a rental car, Gjirokastra becomes the perfect base to explore the entire south:
| DESTINATION | distances | time |
|---|---|---|
| Saranda + Ksamil + Butrint | ~60–75 km | ~1–1.15 hours |
| Blue Eye | ~55 km | ~50 minutes |
| How to get to Ksamil | ~70 km | ~1 hour |
| Permet | ~65 km | ~1 hour |
If you plan to stay 2–3 days, the Gjirokastra → Saranda → Ksamil itinerary is the classic and complete combination of southern Albania.
What Machine to Choose?
The Tirana–Gjirokastra road is mostly good highways and national roads — you don’t need an SUV . See the full price list and fleet availability before booking.
Our recommendations:
- City tour: Skoda Fabia, Hyundai i10, Seat Ibiza
- Mountain expedition around Gjirokastra: Dacia Duster, Nissan Qashqai
If you want an automatic car, read is an automatic car worth it in Albania — a useful article especially for winding roads.
Practical Tips Before Departure
- Fuel: Fill up in Tirana or Fier
- Documents: Check what documents are needed before departure
- Rules of the road: If you are a foreign visitor, read the traffic rules in Albania
- Price: See our current offers — there are often discounts for long-term bookings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a toll road to Gjirokastra? There is currently no mandatory payment method.
Can I go from Gjirokastra to Greece by rental car? See the terms and conditions of the contract or contact us — we offer border crossing options with proper documentation.
What is the best season? Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October): pleasant temperatures, lower tourist traffic.
Gjirokastra is one of those destinations that stays in your mind for a long time. Reserve your car today and discover Albania from the car window.