Visit Gjirokaster with Camper Van – A Slow Travel Gem in Southern Albania
If you’re planning a road trip through Albania, make sure to visit Gjirokaster with camper van — it’s one of those places that quietly steals your heart. Perched on a hillside in the south, this UNESCO-listed stone town is the perfect stop for travelers who love history, slow mornings, and wide-open views. Whether you’re cruising the coast or heading inland, Gjirokastër offers a peaceful break with plenty to explore, all at your own pace.
If you’re traveling through southern Albania, do yourself a favor — visit Gjirokaster with camper van. It’s not the kind of place that shouts for attention. Instead, it kind of whispers, “Slow down. Stay a while.”
And that’s exactly what we did.
A Campsite with a View (and Peace and Quiet)
We parked at Camping Gjirokastër, which sits just above the town. No frills, no stress. Just a clean space, kind hosts, and a wide-open view over the old stone rooftops and the green valley beyond.
Mornings were our favorite — soft light over the city, the smell of coffee brewing from our van kitchen, and no sound except the birds. It was the kind of place where you feel okay doing nothing for a bit.
If you need supplies, the town’s close. You can either walk down the hill or take a quick drive. Either way, it’s an easy base for exploring.
What Makes Gjirokastër So Worth the Stop?
It’s not just about the views — though those are pretty great. Gjirokastër feels like a town that time forgot (in the best way). Stone houses stacked on steep hillsides, narrow cobbled streets, and locals who actually live here, not just cater to tourists.
Here are a few places we checked out and loved:
Gjirokastër Castle – Massive, rugged, and real. It’s perched right over town, and you can wander through old tunnels and look out over the valley.
The Bazaar – A maze of little shops selling rugs, carved wood, local honey, and more. Also a solid spot for a slow espresso.
Skenduli House – A historic family home with original everything. You’ll get a glimpse into how people lived centuries ago.
Viroi Lake – If you need a break from town, it’s just 10 minutes away. We brought snacks and watched the water ripple for a while. Simple and peaceful.
Vanlife Vibes: Why This Town Just Works
Driving here is no problem. The roads are solid, even if you’re in a full-size camper or 4×4 with a rooftop tent. The hill up to the campsite is manageable — just take it slow and enjoy the view as you climb.
What really made it for us, though, was the pace of life. After a string of touristy beach towns, Gjirokastër felt real. It’s the kind of place where nobody’s rushing, and you don’t feel like a visitor — more like a traveler passing through a quiet storybook town.
A Quick Note from the Road
One night, we made dinner next to the van — nothing fancy, just pasta and grilled veggies. The sun dipped behind the hills, the call to prayer echoed from below, and a soft breeze came through the trees. We just sat there, plates in our laps, taking it all in. That’s the moment we’ll remember.
Planning Your GoVan Stop in Gjirokastër
If you’re building a route through southern Albania, don’t skip this town. It’s the perfect stop between Berat and the Riviera. And if you’re chasing those real, unfiltered travel moments — Gjirokastër delivers.
Looking for the right wheels for your trip? At GoVan, we’ve got fully equipped camper vans with beds, kitchens, rooftop tents, and everything else you need for your adventure. No stress, no complicated rentals — just pick up your van and go.
Ready to visit Gjirokaster with camper van?
Book your van with GoVan and start planning your slow travel journey through the heart of Albania.
