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Day Tour from Tirana: Gjirokastra & Ardenica monastery

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Overview

Available languages

English

11 hours

Mobile ticket

Enjoy a scenic journey from Tirana to Ardenica Monastery and onward to Gjirokastra, the UNESCO “Stone City” famed for its Ottoman architecture, cobbled streets, and hilltop castle. Traveling along the picturesque Vjosa River, you’ll explore the old bazaar, the castle, and its Armaments Museum, all with the insight of a passionate local guide. With small groups and personal attention, you’ll experience Gjirokastra not as a tourist, but as a welcomed guest.

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel Time is included in the total duration of the tour

The castle in Gjirokaster might be closed on Mondays in winter time so instead we will visit Skenduli House

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Private transportation

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Coffee and/or Tea

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

What To Expect

1

Ardenica Monastery

Ardenica Monastery, founded in the 13th century by the Byzantine Emperor Andronikos II, is one of Albania’s most important Orthodox monasteries still preserved in excellent condition. Surrounded by olive groves and countryside views, the complex includes the Church of St. Mary, famous for its beautifully painted 18th-century frescoes created by the renowned Albanian iconographers Kostandin and Athanas Zografi. The monastery has long been a spiritual and cultural center, and it is also traditionally linked to the wedding of the national hero Skanderbeg, adding to its historical significance.

1 hour • Admission Included
2

Gjirokastra Bazaar

Gjirokastra Main Square Arrive in Gjirokastra and explore Cerciz Topulli Square, named after the 19th-century Albanian patriot. Dating back to the 17th century, this Ottoman-era hub was a center of commerce, social gatherings, and family life. Today, its cobblestone streets, lively shops, and local stories offer a rich glimpse into the city’s vibrant history and culture.

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

Shared /Min capacity needed

Shared Tour : Small group shared tour perfect option for solo travellers
Pickup included

Private day tour

Pickup included

Shared/ min capacity needed

Shared/min capacity needed
Pickup included

Reviews

4.83

36 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

33
1
1
1
0

  • History and nature in one day from Tirana

    myoptikam,

    Jun 6, 2025

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    We had a great time visiting the Nivica Canyons and the Waterfall. Gjirokastra was an museum city indeed . A beautiful combination of historical sites and wonderful nature in just one day

  • Excellent tour

    Elaine C,

    May 18, 2024

    - Review from Viator

    5.00

    Guillio was an excellent tour guide. He is from the Gjirokaster area originally so gave us really interesting insight into what it was like growing up there and what family life was like. He is very knowledgeable about history and provided an interesting tour of the castle and the Gjirokaster bazaar. We had a good lunch in a local restaurant sampling local specialties before heading to the Blue Eye. It was quite a long drive to/from Gjirokaster but Guillio made it seem much shorter chatting away too us.

  • Excellent tour !

    Nahoko U,

    Mar 22, 2024

    - Review from Viator

    5.00

    I really enjoyed this tour , blue eyes were so beautiful and Gjirokastra was interesting. The guide was friendly and knowledgeable, made our day great . Highly recommend this tour .

  • Memorable day spent with the best guides!

    216saketp,

    Mar 15, 2024

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    Would 1000% recommend local friends Albania. Their planning, local in depth knowledge and patience is commendable. Skerdi and Albie were extremely knowledgeable, professional and friendly. They were willing to answer all questions, take us to the best places, even made us hear local songs and took us to good restaurant!

  • Amazing private tour of Gjirokaster

    133pranavn,

    Dec 21, 2023

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    Absolutely amazing private trip to Gjirokaster with Zeni. He was on time for pickup and went above and beyond to make our trip comfortable. He was knowledgeable and provided good details about the castle and the blue eye.

  • Disappointing

    Excursion39720453483,

    Sep 21, 2023

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    2.00

    The boy who accompanied us was very attentive, but he was not a professional guide and could not give us much historical information during the visit. Despite what is stated, the car was old and did not have air conditioning. The trip became long and uncomfortable.

  • Amazing tour

    568xhuljanab,

    Aug 9, 2023

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    From my first inquiry to the post-tour follow-up, the customer service provided by Local Friends. They promptly addressed all my queries, customized aspects of the tour to my preferences, and ensured I felt valued and heard throughout the entire process.

  • Wonderful Day wonderful guide

    Didare S,

    Jul 28, 2023

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    5.00

    A wonderful trip to the historical city of Gjirokastra learning so much about the culture and also enjoying the fresh waters and nature of the blue Eye. 100%reccomend!

  • A day to taste both human heritage & mother nature

    Maps14283996091,

    Jul 14, 2023

    - Review from Tripadvisor

    4.00

    Young & humble tour guide who shares every topic. A definite gain by spending a day out. The sweetness of spring water is unforgettable.

  • A very personal tour of southern Albania. We loved it. Dennis & Jerome from the US.

    Jerome K,

    Jul 9, 2023

    - Review from Viator

    5.00

    Our tour guide Skerdi was excellent. Not only vey knowledgeable of Albanian history, but Skerdi gave us a personal insight into Albania today through sharing many perspectives from a younger generation. Skerdi personalized our trip back along the Riviera coast since he grew up there. A lover of Albanian polyphonic folk singing, we ended up driving back to Tirana singing along with a recording of his neighborhood choir. He was fun, genuine and gave us a feel for authentic Albania. Also, Skerdi was an excellent driver which we appreciated.

From €75.00

4.83
36 reviews
Check availability

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