Things to Do in Gjirokaster

Seasonal Osumi Canyon adventure: rafting in spring, tubing in summer. Waterfalls, swims, photo stops, and optional small jumps — guided by locals.

Embark on an unforgettable journey with expert guides, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling adventures. Enjoy unique insights, safe and exciting activities, and create lasting memories that stand out from the rest!

Visit Albania's top attractions on this daily trip: medieval Gjirokaster City, the stunning Blue Eye and Lekuresi castel. Discover the charming streets and Ottoman-era houses of Gjirokaster.

Our tour offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty that sets it apart from others. Here’s what makes our tour special: Exclusive 4x4 Off-Road Experience: We provide top-notch 4x4 vehicles that are perfect for tackling the rugged terrain around the Vjora River. This ensures a safe and thrilling adventure for all participants. Scenic Vjora River Route: Our tour includes a picturesque route along the Vjora River, known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. You'll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Expert Guides: Our guides are highly knowledgeable about the area and its history, adding depth to your journey with insights and stories that enhance the experience. Customer Satisfaction: We prioritize your satisfaction and safety throughout the tour, ensuring that every aspect of your adventure is well-planned and enjoyable.

Experience the best of southern Albania in one day, from the UNESCO-listed old town of Gjirokastër to the turquoise beaches of Saranda and Ksamil. A perfect mix of history, scenery & seaside time.

Experience the best Vjosa River rafting in Albania on Europe’s last wild river. Join our professional guides for an unforgettable adventure through crystal-clear waters, fun rapids, deep canyons, and breathtaking scenery near Përmet. This rafting tour is perfect for beginners, families, couples, and adventure lovers looking for excitement and nature together. We provide certified guides, premium safety equipment, helmets, life jackets, wetsuits, and full instructions before the trip. Paddle through the stunning Vjosa National Park, swim in fresh river pools, and enjoy one of the top outdoor activities in Albania. Our Vjosa rafting tours combine safety, adrenaline, and amazing landscapes for a truly unique experience. Easy booking, friendly local team, and memorable moments guaranteed. Choose the best rafting in Vjosa River for your Albania holiday and discover why travelers rate this adventure as a must-do experience near Përmet.

Discover Gjirokastër, UNESCO’s City of Stone, then in Përmet relax & swim in natural Benja Thermal Baths, explore wild Vjosa River and stunning canyons—magic found only on this tour.

Rafting on the Vjosë River in Përmet offers a unique experience, combining adventure with breathtaking natural scenery. Our professional, trained guides ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure, navigating through the river’s currents. Besides the thrills of rafting, you’ll also get to explore charming villages and immerse yourself in the rich local culture and traditions. We offer customized packages for groups, families, or individuals, also providing opportunities to relax and unwind in our cozy, welcoming accommodations. This activity is perfect for those seeking adventure as well as those wanting a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Experience a day trip from Berat exploring the historic Berat Castle, wandering the charming Mangalem Quarter, and savoring traditional Albanian cuisine, followed by the serene beauty of Lake Belsh.

We will explore the unknown part of Gjirokaster, the magic of the town that every tourist skips. We start from “Cerciz Topulli Square” and head towards The “Old Bazaar”. It is the first neighborhood outside the castle and lies along beneath the its walls. The characteristic cobblestone the orthodox church and some of the oldest houses are the most beautiful elements. After passing the stream of Nanxa (where they are building a new street), we reach the neighborhood of “Cfaka”. Here we will pass by some first monument category houses, a rebuild mosque and then reach the last neighborhood “Dunavat” where we will find a tekke of the Bektashi Order. It is a beautiful combination of Nature and old houses before arriving to “Ali Pasha Bridge”, a remaining of the aqueduct build more than 200 years ago to bring water to the castle. It takes approximately 3 hrs and you should be prepared to walk on a not so comfortable terrain. So put on your sneakers and join us to this back in time trip.

Admire stunning views from the Castle of Lekursi, gaze into the crystal-clear depths of the Blue Eye Spring, and visit the castle and old bazaar in Gjirokastra on this day trip by van from Sarande.

Float freely down the crystal-clear waters of the Vjosa River with our self-guided tubing rental in the heart of Vjosa River National Park, Përmet! This relaxing adventure is perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers looking to cool off and enjoy nature at their own pace. You'll get a high-quality river tube, life vest, and dry bag, plus a safety briefing and route guidance. Drift through stunning mountain scenery, stop to swim or sunbathe, and let the river do the work. Optional shuttle service available. Fun, safe, and unforgettable – book your tubing experience today and create your own wild river memory!

Join six pleaces a daily tour from Saranda to Lekursi,visiting the Blue Eye,Mesopotam Monastery,Ottoman Bridge & Bunkers, explore UNESCO listed city of Gjirokastra,enjoy a traditional lunch-extra cost

Unlike standard tours, this activity delivers a real adrenaline experience with professional supervision, modern safety equipment, and personalized instruction, making it ideal for first-time shooters looking for something unique

Explore the historic Kruja Castle, one of Albania's most significant landmarks. Discover the country's largest bazaar and browse local handicrafts, and enjoy the Sari Salltik mountain viewpoint.

Paddle your own sit-on-top kayak while a raft with a guide stays alongside for safety and support. Beginner-friendly, scenic, and unique to Përmet. Photos included.

GOLDEN HOUR ARE WAITING FOR YOU. CASTLE fee is 500L for person on EVENT’s day. PICK UP IN KSAMIL 20 minutes before activities start .

Be among the first to taste Përmet’s boutique wines in an intimate setting! Join our small group wine tasting for 12–15 guests, featuring 3–5 glasses of local wines paired with traditional bites like byrek and mini meatballs. Learn the stories behind our wines, vineyards, and traditional winemaking methods. Perfect for travelers seeking a real local experience in Përmet. Take home your favorite bottles and enjoy the authentic taste of Përmet anytime!

Travel to Osumi Canyon and be drawn into a 3-million-year-old realm of ancient wonders. Paddle through a spectacular canyon carved 150 meters deep surrounded by 8 stunning waterfalls.

Navigate the stunning waters of Vjosa National Park on a thrilling kayaking adventure from Përmet. This 2.5-hour experience allows you to paddle through Albania's pristine landscapes, surrounded by breathtaking nature. With a guide and support raft by your side, you’ll explore the river's unique ecosystems while utilizing top-notch safety gear and kayaks. Perfect for those with a moderate fitness level, this activity promises an engaging way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

Join our 1-day tour from Sarandë and Ksamil to St. Nicholas Monastery Church, Blue Eye, the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastër and Lëkurësi Castle.Travel in air-conditioned comfort between locations

We offer an exclusive experience to the visitors of our city that choose us to get their tour with and enjoy it the most and get in the mood of a medieval era.

Explore Gjirokastër on a walking tour. Visit the Old Bazaar, Skenduli House, Zekate House, and Gjirokastër Castle.

We offer rafting in the VJOSA river, which from March 13, 2023 is a national park, the last remaining wild river in Europe. Rafting is a group adventure sport. A normal tour has a length of 8.7 km with a duration of about 3 hours depending on the water level in the river. Together we will learn the rules of navigation, enjoy the waves of the Vjosa river, swim in the fresh water and jump from the cliffs. We hope that it will be a great experience for you as it has been for many others before.

Visit the most significant and picturesque natural and historical sites of Gjirokastra County, blending rich history and culture with the stunning beauty of nature. Enjoy complimentary hotel pickup.

This Albanian cooking class in Gjirokaster is perfect for food lovers, travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience, and anyone interested in learning to cook traditional Albanian recipes in a fun, hands-on environment. Join a hands-on Albanian cooking class on a terrace in historic Gjirokaster. Learn to prepare three traditional dishes using simple, beginner-friendly recipes. Cook local favorites like Gjirokaster rice balls, cornbread, and halva. Enjoy a warm, communal atmosphere and interactive atmosphere. Sit down together for a shared meal and taste the dishes you’ve created, served with a glass of raki or wine.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or colleagues, this immersive tour promises a nice experience, all within a time frame of approximately 3 hours.

Explore the enchanting town of Permet, known for its stunning nature and rich culture, on this unforgettable day trip from Tirana or Durres. Your adventure starts with a convenient pick-up and a scenic drive, showcasing the beauty of the Vjosa River and its national park. Delve into local traditions as you wander the charming town center, then unwind in the therapeutic waters of the Benja Natural Hot Baths. Marvel at the breathtaking Permet Canyon and its picturesque landscapes, including the Grunas and Langarica canyons. With a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the area's history and ecology, this tour promises a memorable journey through Albania's hidden gems. - Convenient pick-up from Tirana or Durres for easy access - Relax in the mineral-rich waters of Benja Natural Hot Baths - Explore the stunning Permet Canyon and its natural beauty - Insightful commentary from a knowledgeable guide throughout the day

Benje Thermal Baths and Langarica Canyon near Përmet, are among the most beautiful natural spots in the Balkans.Here’s a deeper look at why it’s such a great place to visit, especially for a day trip:

Funky Guest House and Adventures believes that traveling is the best investment and to make your holiday enjoyable and unforgettable, they organize various 4x4 Safari trips around national park in the region of Përmet. This is the most adventures and fun way to visit the natural beauties, the cultural monuments, the characteristic villages, and meet amazing people. The region of Përmet is blessed because of the landscape, historical and cultural heritage - as is surrounded by high mountains, blue rivers, green hills, amazing national parks, beautiful canyons, hot thermal baths, characteristic villages, old churches, wonderful stone bridges, friendly people, and delicious organic food. We also will visit the Kamincka & Lengarica canyon and thermal waters - one of the most visited attractions in the south of Albania. After the trip, you can enjoy the thermal baths, relax in the pools and explore the canyon. An experience that you will take with you...

Discover Osumi Canyon and find yourself surrounded by his breathtaking 2-3 million years old rock formations that go 100m tall, 8 waterfalls, panoramic landscapes and a lot of good memories.

Passionate traveler and local guide with years of experience sharing hidden gems and authentic cultural experiences. I love helping visitors discover the stories, flavors, and traditions that make this destination special.

Discover the Ancient Art of Albanian Stone-Ground Coffee at the GjiroArt Center in Gjirokastra

This is not just another rafting tour — it’s a river journey guided by experience. Guided by Rico – Not Just a Guide, a River Insider With years of hands-on experience on the Vjosa Rico knows this river in all seasons and moods. Expect expert navigation, real-time coaching, and stories only a local guide can share. Adventure with Personality From playful rapids to calm, glassy stretches, this route balances excitement and relaxation. You won’t just float downstream — you’ll understand the river, how to read it, and how to enjoy it safely. Moments Worth Remembering Hidden swimming spots, dramatic canyon views, and perfect photo stops are built into the experience — not rushed, not scripted. A Connection Beyond the Paddle This journey is also about slowing down and tuning in — fresh mountain air, untouched nature, and a deep respect for Europe’s last wild river.

Starting from Sarande, discover the Mesopotam Monastery, Blue Eye, Gjirokastër, and Lëkurësi Castle with breathtaking Saranda Bay View on a 8 hour tour lead by guidebooks in 5 different languages.

This is not just a jeep ride. It is a guided, immersive experience where every stop has meaning and is explained by someone who lives and breathes this territory every day. Duration: approximately 6–7 hours.

Experience the natural beauty of Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall with our exclusive guided tour. This tour is a combination of sightseeing, hiking, and swimming. Learn about the history of the area.

This electric bike tour alongside the majestic Vjosa River grants cyclists a panoramic view of the river's splendor as it meanders gracefully toward the Kaluth Village Bridge, Cycling enthusiasts will relish this stretch, immersed in the serene ambiance alongside the flowing waters of the Vjosa. Permet boasts a mountain biking route renowned for its breathtaking scenery and distinctive segments, offering a captivating cycling adventure. This remarkable journey with electric Bike comprises three distinct sections, each showcasing the region's natural beauty and historical charm.

Explore the ancient ruins of Butrint on a 3-hour guided tour from Saranda. Visit the Roman theatre, city walls, and mosaics in this UNESCO site. Available with 3 daily departures.

Learn the secrets behind your favorite dishes of Gjirokaster with this 2-hour cooking class in Gjirokastra. Led by your local guide, step inside a traditional tavern, sip on a glass of raki or homemade wine and try your hand at some traditional food, using fresh, local ingredients. Then sit down to savor the fruits of your labor with your fellow chef.

Depart in a private air-conditioned vehicle,van with your driver-guide and travel to Permet to explore the city. Continue on to the Thermal Baths and take time to soak in the naturally heated water.

Funky Guest House and Adventures believes that traveling is the best investment and to make your holiday enjoyable and unforgettable, we organize various horse riding trips in the Vjosa national park and valley. This is the most perfect, ecological way to visit the natural beauties, the cultural monuments, the characteristic villages and experience the local tradition. The region of Përmet is blessed because of the landscape, historical and cultural heritage - as is surrounded by high mountains, blue rivers, green hills, amazing national parks, beautiful canyons, hot thermal baths, characteristic stone villages, old churches, wonderful stone bridges, friendly people and delicious organic food. Funky Guest House and Adventures is not just a destination but an experience that you will take with you. We welcome you this holiday season and we promise you will fall in love with this amazing experience, our town and Albania too! What are you waiting for

Raft in the wild Vjosa River National Park in Përmet. Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided adventure with swimming, cliff jumping, free photos, and transfers. Perfect for any level and nature lovers.

Rafting Vjosa in Permet Albania is unique because it takes place on Europe’s last wild river, where the Vjosa River flows freely through untouched landscapes. Unlike regulated rivers, rafting Vjosa offers a natural and authentic experience, making rafting in Permet one of the most special outdoor activities in Albania. Operating since 2012, we are the first rafting company in the Vjosa Valley, providing a well-organized and safe rafting Vjosa experience with certified local guides, modern equipment, and a dedicated rafting center in Permet.

Visit two of Albania's top attractions on this daily trip: medieval Gjirokaster City, the stunning Blue Eye and Lekuresi castel . Discover the charming streets and Ottoman-era houses of Gjirokaster.

Vjosa Wild River... First Europe's National Park, is a must do, at least once in life, happiness rafting experience! Offers a unique combination between exciting rapids and majestic mountains views! Our team mission is to transmit the local life experience, gifting a memorable day in one of the last wild rivers remained in Europe, the best adventure and fun! A special tour accompanied by fidelity, professionalism, security and details that you will never forget! With much love and dedication, you will have all the needed suggestions to help you hear all the Vjosa's "voices": her warm hugs, lovely waves, "angry thrusts", finesse and tranquility she transmits, her joyful rapids & much more, that you would want to come back again and again...

We'll start with a refreshing stop at the famous Uji i Ftohtë springs, explore historic Gjirokastër, and marvel at the stunning Blue Eye — a perfect day of nature, culture, and adventure!

Rafting in the crystal clean waters of the Vjosa River will give you an unforgettable and very unique experience at the last wild river in Europe. Enjoying the landscape of the national park from the boat, swimming and jumping from the rocks for an amazing experience.

Explore the ancient city of Antigonea with a departure from Sarandë. Walk through ruins, learn history, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes along two different panoramic routes.

We meet at Cerciz Topulli square, where you join with your host and walk over to one of the oldest neighbourhoods, “Pazar i Vjeter” to meet Marjeta and her husband. We begin the class with a glass of raki or a soft drink while chatting with your group mates. The food we are going to prepare is a vegetarian menu, and under the guidance of Marjeta we will learn three dishes. The first one is called “Qofte bobollaqe” consisting mainly on yogurt, the traditional “Qifqis” found only in Gjirokaster and consisting mainly on rice and the desert called “Hasude”. All these three are accompanied by the salad of the season Marjeta has already prepared for you. After all the hard work, sit down with your group to savor each of your dishes. Pair your menu with a complimentary glass of wine, raki, or a soft drink and have a nice chat while you eat. Your cooking class will conclude after the meal. Cheers and Bon appetite!