Day Trip to Gjirokastër & Butrint – Explore Albania’s UNESCO Sites

Gjirokastër – The Stone City of Albania

Your day begins in Gjirokastër, also known as the “City of Stone”. Recognized by UNESCO for its unique Ottoman architecture, the city is perched on the slopes of the Drino Valley and offers an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.

Gjirokastër Castle

The first visit takes you to the Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest fortresses in the Balkans. Built in the 12th century and expanded by Ali Pasha of Tepelena in the 19th century, the castle dominates the city skyline. From its ramparts, you will enjoy panoramic views across the Drino Valley and towards the surrounding mountains. Inside, you can explore:

The Armaments Museum, showcasing weapons from different eras, including WWII.

The old prison cells, once used by the communist regime.

The legendary American airplane displayed in the courtyard, a relic from the Cold War period.

This fortress is not only a military stronghold but also a living chronicle of Albania’s turbulent past.

Old Town and Bazaar

After the castle, your guide will lead you into the Old Bazaar, where cobblestone streets wind between traditional stone houses and artisan workshops. Here, you can browse handmade souvenirs, silver jewelry, and woodwork — trades that have been passed down for generations.
Walking through the Old Town, you’ll see why Gjirokastër is called a “museum city.” The Ottoman-era tower houses with their stone roofs and wooden balconies tell stories of wealthy merchant families from centuries ago. A visit inside one of these homes (such as the Zekate House) reveals elegant interiors, frescoed ceilings, and the lifestyle of the local elite during the Ottoman period.

Fun fact: Gjirokastër is also the birthplace of Albania’s most famous writer, Ismail Kadare, whose works vividly describe the city’s atmosphere.

Butrint – A Journey Through Civilizations

From Gjirokastër, the journey continues south toward the coast, where the Butrint National Park awaits. Just a short drive from Sarandë, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is Albania’s most important archaeological treasure.

Ancient Theatre and Forum

Upon entering the site, you’ll walk through shaded paths surrounded by rich greenery until you reach the Ancient Theatre, dating back to the 3rd century BC. It was once the cultural heart of Butrint, hosting plays and gatherings for up to 2,500 spectators. Close by, the remains of the Roman Forum and public baths give a glimpse into daily life during the Roman Empire.

The Baptistery and Basilica

Next, you’ll visit the Great Basilica and the Baptistery, one of the largest early-Christian baptisteries in the Mediterranean. Its mosaic floor, with intricate patterns of animals and symbols, is a highlight of the site (covered most of the year for preservation). These ruins testify to Butrint’s importance as a religious center in late antiquity.

Lion Gate and Venetian Tower

As you wander further, you’ll pass through the Lion Gate, decorated with a carving of a lion devouring a bull, symbolizing strength and protection. The Venetian Tower and fortress walls tell the story of later occupations, when Butrint was a strategic stronghold guarding the Vivari Channel.

Nature and Scenery

What makes Butrint special is its setting within a lush national park. Surrounded by wetlands, lagoons, and the Ionian Sea, the site offers a rare mix of history and biodiversity. Birds, turtles, and Mediterranean flora make the walk as enjoyable as the ruins themselves.

Fun fact: According to legend, Butrint was founded by survivors of Troy, linking its history to Homer’s epics.