Gjirokaster with Children
Gjirokaster is a town for curious children rather than a place built around children’s attractions. It is steep, stony and best seen on foot, so the plan works best for school-age children who like climbing, castles and animals. This page lists the outings that suit a family and the safety points that matter. Prices are in Albanian lek (ALL), paid in cash.
The old town on foot
The lanes of the old town are steep, polished limestone cobbles that turn slippery when wet. Sturdy shoes with grip matter for every age, and strollers are hard work on the slopes, so a carrier suits babies better. Keep to short stretches with a stop for a drink, and head for Çerçiz Topulli Square for a pause.
The castle ramparts
The castle ticket is about 400 ALL at the gate, with an armaments museum that is often a separate extra of about 200 ALL. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours. The ramparts have steep drops and low walls, so hold hands with younger children and do not let anyone climb on the stone. The ground is uneven and the castle is not suited to strollers. Some interior sections are not for young children, so look at each doorway first and skip what is not suitable. Winter hours are shorter, and the castle may be closed on Mondays, so check locally.
Horse rides
Caravan Horse Riding Albania keeps stables above Asim Zeneli, about 15 minutes from the old town by car. A 2.5-hour lakeside ride is listed at about EUR 50 per person. Riders need to be comfortable on a horse, and some rides have a weight limit of about 90 kg, so say your children’s ages and your own weight when you ask. For a first ride, ask whether a shorter session is on offer.
The Blue Eye boardwalk
The Blue Eye spring is about 35 km from town, a drive of 35 to 60 minutes. Entry is about 50 ALL, parking is 100 to 300 ALL, and the walk from the car park is about 2 km, or take the small train or a scooter at the entrance. Children enjoy the colour of the water, but swimming is forbidden. The water is only about 10 to 13 degrees C, the spring is very deep and the current is strong at the mouth. Stay on the boardwalk and hold small hands near the water.
Viroi Lake spring park
Viroi Lake spring park is about 3 km north of town and has a promenade by the water. Check what is open before you go, and keep children out of the water.
Cooking together
The “Cook Like a Local” class in the Old Bazaar lasts about 2 hours and makes qifqi, the town’s rice, herb and egg balls fried in a cast-iron mould. Ask whether children can take part before you book.
Safety on the road
Road deaths in Albania are among the highest in Europe according to UK government advice. Use child seats in a hired car, and take the hill roads slowly. The UK advice page is the place to check current conditions.
Booking help
Browse family-friendly options on GetYourGuide and check any age limits.
Read more: day trips from town and things to do .