Gjirokastër, Albania: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Gjirokastër, Albania? If you're planning to go to Gjirokastër, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Gjirokastër, Albania

Based on the climate and weather in Gjirokastër, Albania, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Gjirokastër, Albania

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Gjirokastër, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Gjirokastër, Albania by month

January

January in Gjirokastër is cold and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you visit Gjirokastër during February, you may find that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you go to Gjirokastër in March, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Gjirokastër is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you are traveling to Gjirokastër in May, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you go to Gjirokastër in June, you will notice that it is hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you visit Gjirokastër during July, you will probably notice that it is consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in this region can be excruciatingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you vacation in Gjirokastër during September, you will probably notice that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Gjirokastër is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

In November, Gjirokastër can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Gjirokastër, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Gjirokastër is cold and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Albania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gjirokastër. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are going to visit the majestic Gjirokaster Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Gjirokastër tourism authority.

If you visit the Ethnographic Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Gjirokastër, Albania

Gjirokastër is a historic city located in southern Albania. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and cultural heritage.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit in Gjirokastër:

1. Gjirokastër Castle: This well-maintained castle is the main attraction of Gjirokastër. Built in the 12th century, it has served as a military stronghold and royal residence. Visitors can wander through the castle and explore its many exhibits, including weapons, armor, and artifacts from various periods.

2. Ethnographic Museum: This building was once the home of Enver Hoxha, Albania's former communist leader. The museum now houses exhibits on traditional Albanian life, including clothing, tools, and furniture from the Ottoman era.

3. Skenduli House: This house is a prime example of Ottoman architecture in Gjirokastër. It was built in the 18th century and has been beautifully restored, complete with traditional furnishings and decorations.

4. Bazaar of Gjirokastra: Located at the foot of the castle, this bustling market offers a wide range of souvenirs, crafts, and traditional Albanian goods. Visitors can sample local food and drinks, listen to music, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

5. Blue Eye: Just outside of Gjirokastër, the Blue Eye is a natural spring with crystal-clear blue water. It is a popular destination for swimming, hiking, and picnicking, and visitors can also learn about its geological history at the nearby museum.

6. St. Nicholas Cathedral: This cathedral is located in the middle of Gjirokastër's old town, and its beautiful Byzantine-style frescoes and paintings are considered some of the best in the Balkans.

7. Zekate House: Another example of Ottoman architecture, this house was built in the late 18th century by a wealthy merchant family. It is now a museum showcasing the family's luxurious lifestyle, complete with elaborate decor and furnishings.

8. Çerçiz Topulli Square: This square is named after a hero of Albanian independence and is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike. It is surrounded by historic buildings and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rooftops.

Gjirokastër is a city rich in history and culture, and these top tourist attractions offer a glimpse into the region's past and present. From castles to natural wonders, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful and fascinating city.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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