Gjirokastra & Bylis Illyrian City Day tour Tirana/Durres/Golem
Overview
Available languages
11 hours
Mobile ticket
This tour combines UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër with the ancient Illyrian city of Bylis in one well-paced day, starting with an off-the-beaten-path archaeological site offering spectacular panoramic views over the Vjosa Valley. Led by a certified professional guide and experienced local driver, the experience focuses on quality over quantity, allowing enough time to explore without rushing. Designed as a small-group or private tour, it offers flexibility, authentic local insight, and recommendations that go beyond standard sightseeing.
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
Shared option : The guide will contact you directly on Whatsapp for the exact time and location a day prior . He might ask you to get to a closer meeting point ( short walkable distance ) .
The shared option has a minimum capacity to start so the tour is not garantueed unles the minimum of 3 persons is achieved
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Bylis
Our journey begins with a stop at Bylis, one of the most important ancient Illyrian cities in Albania, founded in the 4th century BC. Strategically positioned on a hilltop, Bylis later became a significant urban center during the Roman period, with remains of city walls, theaters, and public buildings still visible today. Beyond its history, Bylis offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in southern Albania, overlooking the Vjosa River valley and the surrounding hills. This scenic viewpoint provides an excellent introduction to the region and a perfect first stop before continuing our journey towards UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër.
Gjirokaster
Arrival in Gjirokastër – UNESCO World Heritage Site We then continue toward Gjirokastër, one of Albania’s most important cultural destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gjirokastër earned its UNESCO status due to its exceptionally well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, distinctive stone houses with slate roofs, and its role as a living example of a historic Balkan town that has maintained its original character for centuries.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea
Entrance Tickets to Bylis Archeological Park
Entrance Tickets to Gjirokastra Castle
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Private day tour
Pickup included
Shared /Min capacity needed
Shared Tour : Small group shared tour perfect option for solo travellers
Pickup included
Shared/ min capacity needed
Shared/min capacity needed
Pickup included
Reviews
36 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
History and nature in one day from Tirana
myoptikam,,Jun 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We 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
5.00Guillio 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
5.00I 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
5.00Would 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
5.00Absolutely 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
2.00The 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
5.00From 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
5.00A 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
4.00Young & 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
5.00Our 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.
Related Experiences
Operated by Local Friends Albania