Journey inland to Gjirokastra, Albania's breathtaking UNESCO-listed 'City of Stone' — a perfectly preserved Ottoman hilltop citadel of silver-slate rooftops, towering castle, and cobbled bazaars. Birthplace of Enver Hoxha and novelist Ismail Kadare, this is one of the Balkans' most dramatic and least-visited heritage cities.
What to expect
Your private vehicle heads north-east from Sarande through the dramatic Drino River valley, arriving at Gjirokastra after approximately 90 minutes. A licensed local guide leads you up through the old bazaar — all hand-cut stone, wooden balconies, and artisan workshops — to the colossal hilltop castle, which houses captured American Cold War aircraft in its courtyard. Traditional Albanian lunch is taken in a restored Ottoman house-restaurant with views across the valley. The pace is entirely yours; the guide brings the city's layered Ottoman, fascist, and communist history to vivid life. Return to Sarande in time for all-aboard.
Good to know
Gjirokastra requires a minimum of 6–7 hours — this excursion is best suited to longer port calls (all-aboard of 18:00 or later). Pre-book your private guide and confirm the departure time to allow sufficient buffer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential — the old city's cobblestones are steep and uneven. Book directly through Shore Emotion specifying your ship's all-aboard time.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Sarande — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.