Gjirokastër

One of the highlights is the Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest in the Balkans. It houses a large collection of captured artillery, a recovered US Air Force "spy plane", and a clock tower. The views of the Drino Valley are unparalleled. Entry is 400 LEK while the museum inside is extra. Be warned, the walk from the Bazaar to the Castle is a steep 30-degree incline

The Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjetër) is the aesthetic heart of the city. While touristy, the intersection of the five main streets is iconic for its stone-paved beauty. Be warned it's now 90% souvenir shops. You will see the same mass-produced magnets and "traditional" rugs over and over. If you want real handicrafts, look for the small woodcarving or lace shops on the fringe streets

Gjirokastër is built on a very steep slope. If you drive, park at the bottom near the newer part of town and walk (or take a taxi) up. The roads in the Old Town are narrow enough to scratch your rental car and steep enough to burn your clutch. The cobblestone can be incredibly slippery, do not wear flip-flops or smooth-soled sneakers

The city is the birthplace of Enver Hoxha (the former communist dictator). His birth house is now the Ethnographic Museum. Skenduli House & Zekate House are the most authentic "Kulla" (tower houses). Skenduli is particularly great because the descendants of the original owners usually give the tours. You’ll see the intricate "wedding rooms" and secret storage areas

If you only do the castle + bazaar, it can be a half-day stop. The town shines most if you sleep one night to enjoy mornings/evenings