Gjirokaster is more than just a scenic hilltop town with stone houses and cobbled streets — it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch. Whether you want to combine a scenic drive, explore ancient ruins, or get hands-on with farm life, this city offers a variety of authentic eating experiences. We’re particularly fond of the Blue Eye Spring and Traditional Lunch Tour, which offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, gentle exercise, and a delicious local meal. It’s a great way to experience Albania’s countryside while enjoying a fresh, locally sourced lunch.
If you’re interested in combining history and culture with your meal, the Saranda: Butrint and Gjirokastra Private Day Trip with Lunch takes you through ancient ruins and Ottoman architecture, topped off with a traditional Albanian meal in Gjirokaster’s old town. For those seeking a more immersive rural experience, the Hands-On Farm Day in Plesat with Traditional Albanian Lunch invites you to harvest fresh produce and enjoy family-friendly farm activities. Alternatively, if adventure is your style, the Zagoria Off-Road 4×4 Adventure with Traditional Lunch whisks you through remote mountain villages, while the Kurvelesh and Peshtura Waterfall: Off-Road Tour with Lunch offers a scenic hike to a stunning waterfall. Keep reading to find your perfect lunch experience in Gjirokaster.
1. From Gjirokastër: Blue Eye Spring and Traditional Lunch Tour
At number one, this Blue Eye Spring and Traditional Lunch Tour offers a delightful balance of nature, culture, and cuisine. The tour begins with a scenic drive from Gjirokaster into the Vlorë County, heading toward the famous Blue Eye Spring. This natural wonder features striking blue waters that seem to sparkle and shimmer as the sunlight hits them. After a peaceful 2 km walk through the countryside, you’ll arrive at the spring, where you can soak in the scenery, take photos, and enjoy some well-earned rest.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to enjoy a fresh fish and local specialty lunch in a traditional Albanian restaurant near the spring. The meal is made with locally sourced ingredients, and it’s served in a relaxed, friendly setting. The guide shares stories about the region, adding context to the stunning natural environment. Reviews highlight the peaceful walk and the exceptional food, with one noting, “The lunch was simple but delicious — it felt like eating with family.” This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a short, scenic trip that combines outdoor activity with authentic Albanian cuisine. Bottom line: a scenic, peaceful, and tasty way to escape the town and enjoy Albania’s countryside.
2. Saranda: Butrint and Gjirokastra Private Day Trip with Lunch
Number two on our list is a full-day exploration that makes for a rewarding cultural and historical experience, ending with a hearty Albanian lunch. The tour kicks off with a transfer from Saranda, heading to the UNESCO-listed Butrint National Park. During the guided tour, you’ll explore ancient ruins that span Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods — an archaeological treasure trove. After the historic site, the tour continues to Gjirokaster, where you’ll visit the Gjirokastra Castle, offering panoramic views of the Drino Valley.
A highlight is the traditional Albanian lunch served in Gjirokaster’s old town, giving you a taste of authentic regional cuisine. The guide points out the Ottoman-style architecture and the House of Zekateve, adding depth to your cultural understanding. The day concludes with sweeping views from Lekuresi Castle, perfect for photo lovers. The tour is well-reviewed for its comprehensive itinerary and knowledgeable guide. It’s best suited for history buffs and those wanting a deep dive into Albania’s cultural landscape. Bottom line: a full-day cultural feast with a satisfying local meal to top it off.
3. Hands-On Farm Day in Plesat with Traditional Albanian Lunch
For travelers craving a true taste of rural Albanian life, this Hands-On Farm Day in Plesat is a standout. The 3-hour experience immerses you in the daily work of a traditional farm. You’ll help harvest seasonal fruits and vegetables, learn about local farming techniques, and engage in family-friendly activities like farm games and birdwatching.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on authenticity. You’ll get to see the everyday life of Albanian farmers and enjoy a homemade, traditional lunch made with ingredients straight from the farm. The relaxed pace and friendly farm hosts make it appealing for families or those simply wanting a break from sightseeing. The experience is ideal if you’re interested in rural culture and don’t mind getting a little dirty. The value is high for the price, and reviews praise the genuine atmosphere. Bottom line: an honest, hands-on taste of Albanian farm life with a delicious meal to match.
4. Zagoria Off-Road 4×4 Adventure with Traditional Lunch
For those craving excitement and stunning mountain scenery, the Zagoria Off-Road 4×4 Adventure is hard to beat. This 11-hour tour takes you through remote villages and rugged landscapes, exploring Albania’s most untouched wilderness. The 4×4 vehicle navigates through valleys, steep slopes, and old stone bridges, revealing views seldom seen by visitors.
Along the way, you’ll visit historic churches and monasteries, soaking in the area’s centuries-old architecture. The tour culminates in a mountain village where you enjoy a traditional Albanian meal, often cooked over an open fire. The guide is knowledgeable about local history and terrain, making it educational as well as fun. The long duration means you’ll need good footwear and a sense of adventure. This tour is perfect for active travelers and mountain lovers. Bottom line: a full-day adrenaline rush with authentic mountain cuisine and breathtaking scenery.
5. Kurvelesh and Peshtura Waterfall: Off-Road Tour with Lunch
Our final pick is the Kurvelesh and Peshtura Waterfall tour, offering a full day of exploration in Albania’s less-traveled regions. Starting from Gjirokaster, the 4×4 adventure ventures through the Kurvelesh Mountains, a landscape that feels very far from tourist crowds. The tour includes visits to remote villages, where you can learn about local traditions and way of life.
The hike to Peshtura Waterfall is a highlight — a relatively short but rewarding trek to a lesser-known, stunning cascade. Along the way, you’ll sample homemade products and enjoy a mountain-style lunch with local specialties. The experience is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in rural culture and scenic hikes. Since it’s a longer day, comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity are recommended. Bottom line: a full immersion in Albania’s natural beauty with a hearty mountain meal to match.
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Gjirokaster
Choosing between these options depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a quick escape into nature with excellent food, the Blue Eye Spring trip offers a relaxing day out. For full culture with a mix of ancient ruins and stunning vistas, the Saranda day trip is ideal—especially if you’re interested in history. If you’re curious about rural Albanian life, the farm experience provides a hands-on, authentic taste of local farming traditions.
For adventure seekers and mountain lovers, the Zagoria 4×4 and Kurvelesh Waterfall tours offer rugged exploration combined with traditional mountain cuisine. Consider your physical activity level, time availability, and interests when making your choice. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Gjirokaster offers a range of memorable lunch experiences that go beyond just eating. From scenic drives and archaeological sites to farm life and mountain adventures, each tour provides a unique window into Albanian culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re after a relaxed meal with stunning views or an active day immersed in rural life, you’ll find a fit among these top picks. For a well-rounded visit, consider booking a couple of options — early planning will guarantee you the best experiences in this historic town.