Best Hotels in Gjirokaster 2026: Old Town, Boutique and Resort Picks

· 3 min read City Guide
Gjirokaster, Albania

The best hotels in Gjirokaster put you inside a restored Ottoman house, waking to slate rooftops and a full view of the fortress. Location near the Old Bazaar is the single most important variable — it determines whether you can walk straight out into the city’s best streets or need a taxi.

Best overall

Hotel Kalemi 2 (Old Town, €65–95) — The safest all-round choice in Gjirokaster. Consistently strong reviews for location, comfort, and service. Good air-conditioning, reliable WiFi, traditional style with more modern bathrooms. Booking scores the location 9.7/10. Best for first-time visitors and couples.

Hotel Kalemi (Old Town, €45–75) — The classic heritage hotel. Big views, strong breakfast, charming traditional interiors. Best for travellers who care more about mood and architecture than sleek design.

Best near the bazaar

Old Bazaar 1790 (Old Bazaar, €55–85) — Prime location inside the historic core. Mountain views, terrace, family rooms. The best choice for travellers who want to walk straight out into the bazaar at night without needing a taxi.

Hotel Gjirokastra (Old Bazaar, €55–80) — Strong central base, historic atmosphere. A solid mid-range option very close to the main sights.

Best boutique

N’Sokak Boutique Hotel (Old Town, €70–100) — Boutique design, central location, romantic short-stay appeal. The most design-led option in the city.

Hotel Palorto (Palorto, €55–80) — Traditional architecture in a quieter neighbourhood. Free parking and WiFi. Good for drivers and slower travellers who want heritage ambience without the busiest street-level noise.

Best luxury and resort

Kerculla Resort (Hilltop, €110–150) — The splurge option. Panoramic Drino Valley views, standout pool, and parking. Best for couples staying two nights or more; more of a destination stay than a sightseeing base.

Rose Garden Hotel (Near centre, €75–110) — Practical compromise: pool, parking, big views, and a short walk to the old town. Strong for families and road-trippers.

Sharm Hotel Luxury (Near centre, €58–105) — More modern finish and spa-style comfort. Good for travellers who want polish over Ottoman-house romance.

Budget

Stone City Hostel (Old Town, €18–30 dorm / €35–45 private) — The best backpacker base in Gjirokaster. Social, central, strong reputation.

Hotel Bebej Tradicional (Old Town edge, €35–50) — Traditional style, good breakfast, strong value. One of the best budget heritage stays.

Bed & Breakfast Kotoni (Near centre, €45–60) — Merchant-house setting, family-run feel, strong value.

Hotels at a glance

HotelAreaPrice/nightBest for
Hotel Kalemi 2Old Town€65–95First-timers, couples
Old Bazaar 1790Old Bazaar€55–85Maximum bazaar access
Kerculla ResortHilltop€110–150Views, pool, couples
Rose Garden HotelNear centre€75–110Families, drivers
Stone City HostelOld Town€18–45Backpackers
Hotel BebejOld Town edge€35–50Budget with character

Practical notes

  • Message your hotel before arrival about luggage assistance — the uphill approach with bags is real
  • For drivers, Hotel Palorto and Rose Garden Hotel have the easiest parking
  • Book 2–3 months ahead for summer weekends; the best old-town properties have limited rooms
  • Ask for upper-floor or terrace rooms for views; expect more stairs
  • Breakfast is usually included and strong — local cheese, eggs, jams, byrek

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hotel in Gjirokaster?
Hotel Kalemi 2 for the best combination of location, comfort, and reviews. Old Bazaar 1790 for maximum bazaar access.
Which hotels have pools in Gjirokaster?
Kerculla Resort and Rose Garden Hotel are the main pool options.
Which Gjirokaster hotels are best for drivers?
Hotel Palorto and Rose Garden Hotel — parking is easier than in the tight old-town streets.
How much do hotels in Gjirokaster cost in 2026?
Budget from €35–50, mid-range €55–85, upscale €85–150+.

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