About

2024 winner of the award 'Best Hostel in Albania' for the 4th time in a row.

Stone City Hostel is situated in an monumental house at the start of the bazar. It has a shaded garden with fruit trees, a huge roof terrace and brilliant views of the castle. Inside there's a big common room with a fully equipped kitchen and nice places to chill out. There are three dorms and one double room, all with air-conditioning and custom made beds with large lockers underneath. We have fast free Wi-Fi, free use of computers, and a bar full of cold drinks. We provide a nutritious breakfast so you're ready for a great 'Gjiro-experience'. There's lots to see and do in Gjirokaster and its surroundings. The area has been inhabited for millenia and is blessed with both natural and cultural wonders. We've explored it thoroughly and like to show you the best sites. We organise 4WD and walking trips in the area. If you like to organise your own trip we are happy to give you suggestions and useful maps!

The hostel is run by American sweetheart Brenna, crazy Dutchman Walter and a mix of well travelled locals and foreigners. We want to make sure you feel right at home here and we organize lots of free activities, including swim-trips, city walks and board game nights. Come relax, explore, hike and discover with us and if you stay long enough you might just try one of Brenna's famous cakes....

House Rules

Check In

14:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until 0:00

Taxes Included

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Facilities

Free Breakfast
Free City Maps
Free WiFi
Bicycle Parking
Luggage Storage
Tours/Travel Desk
Housekeeping
Card Phones

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Reviews

9.9Superb(1211)

Value for Money
9.9
Security
10.0
Atmosphere
9.9
Cleanliness
10.0
Staff
9.9
Location
10.0
Facilities
9.8

Summary of traveller reviews

Stone City Hostel in Gjirokaster offers a wonderfully social and homely atmosphere, perfect for solo travellers and groups. Guests praise the exceptionally clean facilities, comfortable beds, and the delicious breakfast. The owner and staff are frequently highlighted for their friendliness and helpfulness, with many recommending the insightful walking tours. It's ideal for those seeking a welcoming community vibe.

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Stayed in Aug 2026

Anonymous

Female, 41+, Ireland

Highly, highly recommend. Super clean, beautifully decorated hostel ideally located close to the bazaar. Breakfast is provided which includes homemade cakes made by the owner’s wife. The owner and all the staff are really helpful and really want every guest to get the most out of their stay in Gjirokaster. The owner’s walking tour was a great introduction to Gjirokaster. Stayed in a dorm and the private room. You’ll end up staying longer but won’t regret it.

Stayed in Aug 2026

Cameron

Male, 18-24, Canada

This might be the single best hostel I’ve ever stayed in. The atmosphere was amazing and the hostel felt like a super cozy home. The included breakfast was amazing, the staff were incredible, and Walter might genuinely be the goat. I highly recommend this hostel. If you go, ask if you can feed his turtle.

Stayed in Aug 2026

Jayampath

Male, 41+, Singapore

Great hostel. The big dining table area just made it feel like home. Everything worked well. I slept in a 10 bed mixed dorm for the first time in ~20 years. It was super comfortable and I slept like a baby. Walter (Dutch owner) has curated an amazing experience for people young (mainly) and older (exceptions such as me). Lily, Christina and Kristi are awesome. Enjoyed my time here and the people.

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