Gjirokaster is a fantastic place to learn about Albanian cuisine, thanks to its rich culinary traditions and friendly locals eager to share their recipes. The city’s small size and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to dive into hands-on cooking experiences that go beyond just tasting food — you get to prepare and share meals in authentic settings. Among the options, we especially like the vegetarian class with Marjeta for its warmth and focus on local flavors, and the private Gjirokaster class for its personalized attention and in-depth learnings. If you’re after a family-style experience, there’s also a charming homemade class with local hospitality, offering more than just cooking.
Gjirokaster combines a scenic setting with a genuine culinary scene, making it the perfect spot to roll up your sleeves and learn some Albanian cooking techniques. Whether you want a vegetarian meal, a non-veg feast, or a private class that feels like visiting a friend’s kitchen, this list covers the best options to suit different tastes and schedules.
Quick Overview
Our list features five top-rated cooking experiences: from vegetarian classes, private lessons, to family-led dinners. They range from 2 to 2.5 hours, with prices between $53 and $82 per person, and all offer the chance to learn traditional Albanian dishes. Some focus on vegetarian fare, others on non-vegetarian specialties, and a couple provide a more intimate, family-style atmosphere. To help you decide which fits your style, read on for detailed descriptions of each tour.
1. Gjirokastër: Traditional Albanian Vegetarian Cooking Class
This vegetarian cooking class offers an authentic taste of Albanian cuisine with a focus on vegetarian dishes like “Qifqi” and “Hasude,” both local favorites. Led by Marjeta, who makes the experience feel like cooking with a friend, you’ll prepare these dishes step-by-step, learning about local ingredients and cooking techniques. The class lasts about 2.5 hours, and you’ll be invited to enjoy a glass of raki or wine while chatting with your host and fellow travelers. The reviews highlight how much fun and warmth this class provides — “Marjeta is amazing and the dishes are delicious,” one reviewer says, emphasizing its friendly, relaxed vibe.
What makes this class stand out is its focus on vegetarian Albanian food, which is less common but equally rich in flavor. The instructor’s patience and the opportunity to chat casually about local culinary traditions make this a memorable experience. If you prefer a relaxed, plant-based meal with a local touch, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for vegetarians or anyone wanting to explore Albanian flavors in a friendly setting, with high praise for the instructor and the authentic dishes.
2. Cooking Class
At number 2, this private cooking experience focuses on traditional Gjirokaster dishes, including two main courses and a dessert. The class lasts around 2 hours, and you’re guided personally by a local instructor who walks you through each step. The tour is held at a convenient spot in town near public transportation, making it easy to find.
Participants love the personalized attention and the chance to familiarize themselves with local spices and herbs. After cooking, you get to sit down and enjoy the meal you prepared, which enhances the feeling of having truly participated rather than just observed. Reviewers mention the value in learning specific techniques and enjoying a delicious meal afterward. One even notes that the location was hard to find initially, so contacting the host beforehand is recommended.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want an intimate, hands-on class without a large group, plus the opportunity to learn specific Albanian recipes they can recreate at home.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who value personalized instruction and want to bring home authentic recipes, with the convenience of an easy-to-find location.
3. Gjirokastra: Friends, Family & Fun – Cooking Class
For those seeking a more immersive, family-like experience, this non-vegetarian cooking class offers a warm, homey atmosphere on a quiet neighborhood terrace. Over about 2.5 hours, you’ll learn to cook traditional Albanian non-veg dishes with local family hosts. The setting provides castle views and a chance to connect with local hospitality while preparing authentic recipes from scratch.
This tour is distinguished by its small, family-led setting and focus on real Albanian flavors. After cooking together, you’ll share a homemade meal with local drinks, making it more than just a cooking lesson — it’s an experience of genuine Albanian hospitality. Reviewers mention enjoying “authentic flavors” and the “warm family atmosphere,” which makes this a perfect pick for travelers craving a deep cultural connection.
If you prefer a more personal, intimate experience that combines cooking with cultural exchange, this class offers an unforgettable evening.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers wanting family-style hospitality and a full immersion into Albanian culinary traditions.
4. Gjirokastra: Friends, Family & Fun—Vegetarian Cooking Class
This vegetarian version of the family-style class invites you to cook on a peaceful terrace with stunning castle views. The focus is on traditional vegetarian dishes unique to Gjirokaster, with an emphasis on warm family atmosphere and small group intimacy. The class lasts about 2.5 hours and is perfect for those who want to learn recipes that are both flavorful and representative of local vegetarian Albanian cuisine.
Participants love the relaxed, cozy environment and the chance to take home printed recipes. The experience caters to all levels, and no prior cooking experience is necessary — just curiosity and appetite. The warmth of the family setting helps you feel like you’re cooking alongside new friends.
This class is best suited for travelers who want a lighthearted, authentic experience with a focus on vegetarian dishes in a charming setting.
Bottom Line: Great for vegetarians or small groups looking for a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and a taste of local recipes.
5. Cook Like a Local – Authentic Cooking Class in Gjirokastra
This 2-hour class offers a straightforward, hands-on introduction to Gjirokastrian dishes like Qifqi and lamb with pasta, all prepared in the vibrant Old Bazaar area. Led by a local expert, you’ll learn not just recipes but culinary traditions, folklore, and family secrets that make Albanian cuisine special. The class culminates in a full meal with drinks, giving you the chance to enjoy your creations in an authentic setting.
Participants receive recipe cards to relive the experience at home, and reviews mention the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The class is well-suited for travelers interested in deep culinary immersion and authentic flavors in a lively neighborhood.
While only rated by two reviews, the value for money is clear, with the inclusion of drinks and recipes making it a solid choice for those eager to learn and taste in a short period.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those looking for a compact, authentic experience with a local expert, plus take-home recipes.
How to Choose the Best Cooking Class for You
When selecting a Gjirokaster cooking class, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re vegetarian, the vegetarian classes deliver both flavor and warmth. Want a more personalized experience? The private class is excellent. For a family-style, culture, the non-veg experience offers a memorable evening. If you prefer a small group with a relaxed vibe, the vegetarian family class fits the bill. And for a quick, comprehensive lesson in local dishes, the authentic Gjirokastra class provides a focused experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and time.
Final Thoughts
Gjirokaster’s cooking classes offer a fascinating way to connect with Albanian culture through food. Options range from vegetarian to non-veg, private to small group, and simple to family-led. For a warm, casual experience, the vegetarian class with Marjeta is hard to beat. For those seeking an immersive, authentic evening, the family-hosted non-veg class provides genuine hospitality and flavors. And if you want a focused introduction to local recipes, the class in Old Bazaar is a solid choice.
No matter which you pick, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these flavorful lessons. These classes are more than just cooking; they’re a chance to taste, learn, and connect — making your trip to Gjirokaster even richer.